While some of us may have borne the brunt of cold weather earlier this year and gathered near heat lamps to sit outside at Alexandria restaurants to avoid catching the COVID-19 virus, outdoor temperatures in May and June make it more-than pleasant to grab a patio seat outside.
While millions of Americans are getting vaccinated, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends continued vigilance against the virus and detected highly contagious variants. That means wearing masks while not eating and drinking and maintaining at least a six-foot distance from others.
Many of the city’s restaurants offer charming outdoor seating and with average temperatures hovering in the 70s this time of year, it’s the best time to take it outside!
Here are some ideas for your next outdoor dining experience in Alexandria.
www.ShootJoeC.com
Augie's
Augie’s Mussel House and Beer Garden, 1106 King St.
eataugies.com
Inspired by The Patron Saint of Brewers, St. Augustine, Augie’s offers a multitude of fresh mussels in unique flavors, like green curry and spicy grapefruit. In their outdoor space, The Beer Garden, guests can sit at intimate patio tables and try one of the 70 beers available alongside other Belgian-inspired dishes.
Barca Pier and Wine Bar, 2 Pioneer Mill Way
barcaalx.com
Constructed out of shipping containers overlooking the Potomac River, Barca serves up al fresco dining featuring Mediterranean, Moroccan, Greek and Italian flavors. The eatery is a modern take on chiringuitos, traditional Spanish beach bars, with seating for 200 guests, a lounge with awnings and a bar. A neighboring spot dubbed the Barca Wine Bar offers up an intimate space with small plates, craft cocktails and unique wines.
Blackwall Hitch
Blackwall Hitch, 5 Cameron St.
blackwallhitchalexandria.com
Located on the edge of the City of Alexandria Marina boardwalk next door to the Torpedo Factory, Blackwall Hitch offers beautiful patio views with classic, fresh seafood dishes and American cuisine. Fire pits and couches line the back patio where guests can enjoy a great selection of local oysters, fresh seafood and river sunset views of the Potomac River. At night, the front patio, complete with an outdoor bar, offers a scenic view of Old Town and the Capital Wheel at National Harbor.
Café 44
Café 44, 44 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 401
cafe44.com
An American eatery nestled away from the bustle of King Street, Café 44 is one of the few places in Alexandria that offers unobstructed, panoramic views of the Potomac. They were named the “Single Best Outdoor Restaurant in Virginia” by Eat This, Not That! and the OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award for “Ambience, Outdoor Dining, Scenic View, Brunch & Cocktails.” They have also rebranded their rooftop terrace, Bar 44, complete with a new walk-up bar and a private party section.
Cedar Knoll, 9030 Lucia Lane, Fort Hunt
cedarknollva.com
A fine dining experience perfect for every occasion, Cedar Knoll is an extraordinary culinary experience with historic ambience, seasonal cuisine and serene waterfront views just off the George Washington Parkway. Their garden patio, covered in greenery and historic charm, will make every event feel calm and chic.
Daniel O’Connell’s
Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar, 112 King St.
danieloconnells.com
When you walk into O’Connell’s, you see the Irish antiques and the comfortable, relaxed atmosphere that makes any guest feel at home. The rooftop patio is a solace of its own, with a colorful garden where guests can enjoy good beer, good company and good Irish cuisine, shielding tables from the hustle and bustle of King Street below.
Evening Star, 2000 Mt. Vernon Ave.
eveningstarcafe.net
Evening Star, a neighborhood gem nestled in Del Ray, has been serving fun and farm fresh American cuisine since 1997. Outside the cozy, warm-toned interior, The Front Porch and spacious Back Yard serve Edith’s famous Bourbon Slushies and summer picnic vibes. Both spaces are open Wednesday through Sunday, weather permitting.
Hummingbird
Hummingbird, 220 S Union St.
hummingbirdva.net
Chef Cathal Armstrong at Hummingbird (at Hotel Indigo) is serving coastal nostalgia with local seafood, fresh oysters and water views from their outdoor patio. Accents include rustic wood and a white and navy accented décor, fire pits and lounge chairs are scattered among its blooming garden to keep guests cozy in the cool summer nights.
Lena's
Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap, 401 E. Braddock Road, Del Ray
lenasoasis.com
Lena’s serves the local community wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta and a plethora of craft beers. Now, a 5,200 square-foot tent transports guests to an exotic oasis with a Moroccan motif. Socially distanced tables are flooded with greenery, colorful tiles, and at night, blue and purple lighting set the mood for a home-away-from-home happy hour.
Northside 10
Northside 10, 10 E. Glebe Road
northside10.com
The sister restaurant of Southside 815, Northside 10 is an Arlandria neighborhood favorite for Southern cooking, such as po’ boys and chicken fried steak and summer fun. Guests can enjoy 22 hand-selected beers, as well as a wide variety of cocktails on their outdoor patio beside the restaurant’s iconic compass. Pull up your truck, order some grub and watch sports under the stars on their projector.
Sonoma Cellar, 207 King St.
mysonomacellar.com
Experience the palate of Sonoma County wineries in the heart of Old Town with this unique food and wine tasting experience. With over 180 Sonoma, Calif. wines and 20 Virginia-based wines offered, guests can explore and take home West Coast wines. Their outdoor space, The Wine Garden, replicates a luxurious California wine garden with community tables, firepits and live music.
Taverna Cretekou, 818 King St.
tavernacretekou.com
Take a trip to Greece without the passport! Nestled into the streets of Old Town, Taverna Cretekou is a hidden family gem, serving traditional Greek cuisine since 1973. Once spring arrives, their tucked-away outdoor patio, like a secret garden, blossoms. Guests can dine in a tropical paradise, where tables are set against luscious greenery and picturesque vines scaling the walls like a Greek villa.
