Updated July 21, 2022. A brew with a view? With the summer sun heating up the region, a rooftop restaurant or lounge is an even more appealing place to get a little loose. Here are some of our favorite elevated places for a tipple or two, all with food you’ll crave.
Denim & Pearls
A specialty whiskey enjoyed above ground level can’t help but buoy you, but a Rhubarb Collins will really make you feel uplifted. That cocktail contains Botanist Gin, homemade rhuarb sour mix, and soda. A Minty Melon Mule contains fresh watermelon and mint. Pair your drink with shrimp and grits for a real taste of place. 29 Main St., Warrenton
The Lost Fox Hideaway
You don’t have to wait until sundown for the Phuket, a cocktail that combines elderflower liqueur with lemongrass–kaffir lime syrup and Tito’s vodka. A charcuterie board completes the pretty picture. Or take in some live music on Sunday or Thursday, when local artists share their work with drinkers and diners. Pro tip: Sunset Sundays and Mondays bring half-off bottles of wine. 20374 Exchange St., Ashburn
Buena Vida Gastrolounge
Bottomless brunch with 99-cent margaritas is just the ticket to a Sunday Funday (or, heck, why not a Saturday one?). Prefer to dine at night? Listen to the live DJs while you crunch chips that come with a flavor-packed salsa sampler. 2900 Wilson Blvd., Ste. 103, Arlington
Wilson Hardware
City views are on the menu at this beloved institution. Have a draft cocktail like the Permit Denied, made with tequila, watermelon, lime, agave, and mint, and go with a trio of short-rib sliders. In the summer months, you can’t do better than finding a shady spot and settling in for one of two slushy cocktails. Sized at 10 or 16 ounces, you’ll be sipping a fruity, icy drink all afternoon. 2915 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Cocina on Market
Cinco de Mayo is in the past, but Mexican Independence Day is September 16. Anytime between then and now, you have every excuse to sip a tequila or mezcal flight overlooking historic downtown Leesburg. The seasonal menu is supplied by a mix of local farms and Mexican markets for a mix of Virginia terroir and south-of-the-border flavors. The same fusion happens in the kitchen. Adventurous souls can do so with chicken live pâté, or settle for locally raised pork or chicken. Either way, don’t miss the Really Good Pimento Cheese. 7 W. Market St., Leesburg
This story originally ran in our July issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to our monthly magazine.
