Fresh food, fresh air, and fresh views are perhaps the best way to capture summertime at its fullest. While there are plenty of restaurants that can offer one or two of these elements, how many can promise all three? Enter OpenTable: The reservation service and review database released its “100 Most Popular Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in America” list for 2023, and three NoVA businesses made the cut.
OpenTable’s list was determined by the site’s reviewers, and recognized restaurants for their food, views, and experiences. The top spots span the nation. All three in NoVA have also been recognized by Northern Virginia Magazine’s own Best Restaurant list. Check out the hot spots that made OpenTable’s list.
Ada’s on the River
Ada’s on the River was inspired by the 19th century mathematician Ava Lovelace and built around a custom wood-burning oven. Prime steaks, fresh seafood, and vegetarian options are the stars of the menu. Its steaks are wood-fired and aged, its ricotta gnocchi smoked and served with vegan sausage ragù. Signature side dishes, such as the lobster mac and cheese, are served family-style so everyone can dig in. And the beverage menu spans from draft beers to cocktails, like the raspberry- and agave-muddled Life on the Water. Most importantly, you’ll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the Potomac with your meal, as the name promises. 3 Pioneer Mill Wy., Alexandria
L’Auberge Chez Francois
L’Auberge Chez Francois is a family business that consistently serves up French fine dining. Charming and romantic, the restaurant stuns with details: a brick fireplace, a garden, and a terrace fountain. It’s easy to imagine why engagements have unfolded here throughout the years. The classic French cuisine is as exquisite as the ambiance; L’Auberge offers prix-fix dinner. Entrées range from Papa’s Bouillabaisse, a fresh fish and shellfish medley in a saffron broth, to Les Deux Tornedos starring Béarnaise sauce and beef tenderloins. In between courses, savor the housemade sorbet. The restaurant also hosts a variety of special culinary events throughout the year, such as its upcoming Bastille Day celebration. 3211 Springvale Rd., Great Falls
Ruthie’s All-Day
Ruthie’s All-Day is an inviting brunch, lunch, and dinner spot specializing in Southern comfort food. The building, formerly a chocolate factory and ice cream shop called Mr. W’s, has been carefully preserved and restored to maintain its 1950s. Its outdoor dining area links seamlessly to the indoor space. The menu is North Carolina-inspired, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. For dinner, start off with some skillet cornbread or wood-grilled octopus before moving on to the half rack of sticky spare ribs or the wood-grilled New York sirlion. Pair your meal with an original cocktail, mocktail, or spritz. 3411 5th St. S., Arlington
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