Navy Yard Is Full of New Pre-Game Dining and Shopping Spots

While Nationals Park was the catalyst for development here, there is so much more to do in this “sports fan central” neighborhood.

By Renee Sklarew March 27, 2023 at 9:33 am

Start with breakfast at the latest outpost of Silver Diner, which recently opened in a prime spot across from the main entrance to Nats Park. (Hint for later: The baseball-themed restaurant has a 21-plus terrace lounge upstairs called Silver Social.) Afterward, stop by Steadfast Supply for unique gifts, including DC-themed ones.

Navy Yard, now also known as Capitol Riverfront, has miles of shoreline and several modern parks with seasonal activities. If the weather is warm, rent a kayak at Ballpark Boathouse and paddle around the Anacostia River. You could also bike, walk, or skate the 20-mile Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Afterward, you can’t go wrong with a slice of Andy’s Pizza for lunch, or try Takoda for hearty bites and bottomless brunch on weekends.

Located on the sidewalk beside the Department of Transportation building is the Walking Museum of Transportation. This one-of-a-kind outdoor museum will usher you through the history of transportation, from the Pony Express, to streetcars, to jet planes. Walk along a brick path lined with life-size artifacts, like vintage gas pumps and a wagon wheel.

hot dog and beer at dacha beer garden — *Photo courtesy Dacha Beer Garden*

Then it’s time for your progressive dinner — with so many waterfront hot spots, who can choose just one? First stop: Dacha Beer Garden, where you can order chips and caviar from Jackie, Dacha’s next-door sister restaurant inspired by Jacqueline Kennedy’s iconic style. Next is dinner at the Michelin-starred Albi, known for Levantine hearth cooking. The manti dumplings are a must.

To “pregame,” stop by Solace Outpost and enjoy its jaw-dropping views of the Anacostia River, plus some craft IPAs on tap. The Northern Virginia–based brewery opened this location in 2022.

audi field in navy yard — *Photo by Renee Sklarew*

Now we’re just in time for the kickoff at Audi Field, where superstar Trinity Rodman leads the indomitable Washington Spirit women’s soccer team. Every seat in this intimate stadium is stellar. Our postgame hangout is The Point, a new restaurant on Buzzard Point known for an impressive raw bar — the proprietors also own a premium seafood supplier.

Let’s end this busy day at the rooftop bar in the Thompson Hotel. The views of the Capitol dome and city skyline are unbeatable.

Feature image courtesy Dacha Beer Garden

This story originally ran in our March issue. For more stories like this, subscribe to Northern Virginia Magazine.

Renee Sklarew

Contributing Writer

A contributor to Northern Virginia Magazine since 2007, Renee Sklarew writes about travel, restaurants, and Mid-Atlantic landmarks. She is the co-author of 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles of Washington DC, and her writing and photography has appeared in The Washington Post, Boston Globe, AAA The Extra Mile, Washingtonian, Arlington Magazine, and more.