Clarity
Vienna / Modern American / $$$
Clarity reopened before just about any other restaurant in NoVA, with chef-owner Jon Krinn’s parking lot concept, A Lot of Clarity, serving tasting menus tailgate-style. This is just one of Krinn’s big ideas.
Other recent upgrades to his upscale menu include meats cooked on an Argentine grill—ordered pre-pandemic, but a perfect accompaniment to patio dining. Yes, diners are heading to Clarity for tasting menus and a full range of private-label-rye Manhattans, but wouldn’t that cocktail go just beautifully with a carefully grilled steak?
See This: The open kitchen allows you to watch Krinn and co. at work, but if you can, sit outside and enjoy A Lot of Clarity.
Eat This: The menu changes daily, so be flexible. If all else fails, the burger is fantastic.
When to Visit: You’re hoping to impress a client over the best business lunch around.
This post originally appeared in our November 2020 issue’s Best Restaurants cover story. For more food reviews, subscribe to our weekly newsletter.