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Whether you're traveling through the area or a longtime resident in need of new ideas for dinner, Alexandria, Virginia, has several perfect family-oriented restaurants worth trying. If your crew is in the mood for some comfort food, a giant burger, some pizza, or a hot dog, any one of these four eateries is bound to make everyone happy. more Chadwicks Located on Strand Street in Old Town, Chadwicks is the second of a trio of restaurants with the same name. Opened in 1979, the restaurant features a classic American menu. with some of its items changing seasonally. Stop in for lunch and enjoy an array of entrees, such as buttermilk fried chicken, jumbo crab cakes, or barbecued ribs. Kids might enjoy building their own burgers, topping them with their favorite cheeses. Del Ray Cafe Blending local organic and natural food with the best of French cuisine and catering toward the entire family, Del Ray Cafe offers a welcoming atmosphere for all its customers. Owners Laurent and Margaret Janowsky purchased the 1925 home in 2000, with plans for converting it into a restaurant. Today, you can stop into the casual neighborhood eatery and enjoy a variety of delicacies, including organic omelets, quiche, burgers, pot pies, and seafood. The children's menu features salads, crepes, pancakes, sandwiches, pasta, and hamburgers. Haute Dog and Fries Situated on Montgomery Street in North Old Town, Haute Dog and Fries serves the same hot dogs you would find at Fenway Park, although these aren't your typical ballpark dogs. At this eatery, each hot dog comes straight off the grill and is served atop a New England-style bun. It's hen blanketed with fresh toppings, some of which include caramelized onions, mangoes, jalapeno peppers, and a homemade chili. Each dog comes with hand-cut French fries or sweet potato fries. Other available dishes include burgers, bratwurst, Italian sausages, kielbasa, and lobster rolls. Owners Pamela Swanson and Lionel Holmes opened the eatery in 2010 and remain committed to using locally produced products from vendors who yearn to give back to the community. They serve fresh sausage and grass-fed beef provided by Virginia-based Fields of Athenry. Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap Lena's Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap is on Braddock Road, central to Old Town and Del Ray. Owner Jason Yates sought inspiration from his mom, Lena, who knew how important it was to give her family the love and stability needed through comforting food. He created the restaurant as a place for friends and families to gather to forget about their hectic schedules and enjoy some delicious authentic Italian cuisine. The restaurant's menu features mouthwatering Italian specialties, including its famous Neapolitan-style pizzas that come straight from the wood-burning oven. The dough consists of double-zero flour and pure spring water, while the fresh toppings cap off the pie. There are also house-made pasta dishes, including gnocchi made with butternut squash, chicken Alfredo, and lasagna. Kids can enjoy pizza, pasta, chicken, or steak. The next time you're in the Alexandria area, make sure you hit up one of these family-friendly restaurants. They're bound to whet your appetite, fill your stomachs, and make even the pickiest eater satisfied. image via pixabay

Savory tacos, mouthwatering enchiladas, bulging burritos, spicy salsa, if this is what you've been craving, you're in luck. The city of Alexandria, Virginia, has some exceptional Mexican restaurants serving authentic cuisine that's irresistible and delicious. Here's a look at some of the best Mexican restaurants in the area. more Don Taco Located on historic King Street in Old Town, Don Taco uses only the freshest ingredients and a mix of both traditional and modern Mexican cooking styles to bring you flavorful dishes you won't soon forget. If you go early, have the chorizo and egg taco with jalapenos. For lunch, try one of the other tacos such as the land and sea, buffalo chicken, or the cluck. When you're in the mood for something other than a taco, get the DT special burrito with carne asada, chorizo, roasted chicken, chipotle sauce, Monterey cheese, lettuce, tomato, rice, and beans. Taqueria el Poblano Whether you want a tasty margarita made in-house from all-natural, fresh ingredients or Mexican-inspired cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds, you'll find it at Taqueria el Poblano. A few menu favorites include items such as the Baja fish taco, the duck carnitas, and the chili-braised beef burrito. However, you won't be disappointed with any of the great items on the menu. Guapo's Restaurant Bring the whole family to enjoy a meal at the family-friendly Guapo's Restaurant. The laid-back atmosphere and delicious food are sure to impress. Start off with some quesadillas or nachos before ordering your main course. When you're ready for your entree, you might like to try the seafood enchiladas, carne asada fajitas, chimichangas, or one of the tacos. Don't forget to save room for an authentic Mexican dessert such as the churros, tres leches, sopapillas, or flan. Urbano 116 At Urbano 116, you'll have a unique dining experience accompanied by great service and excellent food. With fresh ingredients and lots of dedication and commitment, the chefs here create delicious, authentic meals that will keep you coming back for more. The starter's menu includes items like guacamole, nachos, and quesadillas, but also features unique options such as elotes locos and Julia's Mexican pizza. For your main course, you can get, tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, burritos, and all of your other Mexican favorites. Tequila & Taco Tequila & Taco is a lively place serving authentic Mexican cuisine that is sure to satisfy your craving. Begin your meal by ordering the fried plantains with crema jalisco or the empanada of the day. Taco options include carne asada, grilled shrimp, fried chicken, pork belly, and more. If you want to go meatless, order the vegan fajitas which come with mushrooms, zucchini, peppers, onions, guacamole, salsa verde, pico, black beans, and corn tortillas. To compliment your meal, have a fresh margarita, cocktail, or beer. When you're in the mood for authentic Mexican food prepared just the way you like it, head to one of these Mexican restaurants around Virginia. You're sure to find something on the menu at one of these place that you'll love. image via pixabay

Whether you're in the mood for pancakes smothered in syrup, an omelet made with all your favorite ingredients, or a sweet donut or pastry, you'll find something to satisfy your craving at one of the great breakfast spots around Alexandria, Virginia. So the next time you're getting ready to go out for breakfast, consider these area restaurants. more Fontaine Eating at Fontaine's will delight your senses. From their friendly staff to their fresh menu items, everyone will leave here satisfied. In fact, because they make everything to order, you can enjoy a delicious meal no matter what your dietary restrictions might be. They can prepare your food the way you want it, all you have to do is ask. You'll find some of the best crepes in the metropolitan area on their menu. With options like the Old Towner, which has ham, sauteed spinach, and caramelized onions, and the Zenist, which has lentils and spinach and tomatoes simmered in a coriander coconut curry sauce, everyone is sure to find something they love. Other items on the breakfast menu include a breakfast Cobb salad and the quiche du jour. Elizabeth's Counter If your idea of a perfect breakfast involves coffee and doughnuts, then head to Elizabeth's Counter. From slow-brewed Yama cold drip to classic vanilla lattes, the coffee at Elizabeth's is some of the best in town. If you want sweet and tasty doughnuts, you'll find traditional, old-fashioned, and extraordinary options on the menu that are all made fresh daily. Vegan doughnuts are also available and come in flavors such as caramel and toasted coconut, maple French toast, and grandma's strudel, just to name a few. Breakfast sandwiches are available for those that don't have a sweet tooth at breakfast. Del Ray Cafe Are you going to breakfast with the whole family? Then Del Ray Cafe is the place for you. This family-friendly restaurant uses local, organic ingredients to create some of the best food around. Even for breakfast, you can enjoy appetizers like a chocolate croissant or a slice of fresh homemade banana walnut bread. For your main course, get an omelet made just the way you like it, or, if you're feeling adventurous, try one of the DRC signature dishes. On the weekends, this cafe also serves brunch from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Extra Perks Coffee Shop and Cafe Located in Old Town, Extra Perks Coffee Shop and Cafe serves delicious British and American fare for breakfast and lunch. While everything here is good, you can't leave without trying the Italian French toast that's made with ciabatta bread. One of the more unique menu items is the full British breakfast, which comes with two eggs, banger, applewood smoked bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast. If you don't make it here for breakfast, they also have a wonderful lunch menu. Breakfast is said to be the most important meal of the day, so why not treat yourself to the best that Alexandria has to offer. Try all of these great restaurants and let us know which one you like the most. image via pixabay

If you're in the mood for European cuisine and you live in the Alexandria, Virginia, area, you are in luck. There are many top-rated European-inspired restaurants that are worth trying. Here are a few that you'll definitely want to add to your list. more La Refuge Restaurant The La Refuge Restaurant is Old Town's oldest French restaurant. Diners can expect authentic French recipes from the owner's hometown of Beaugency, France. Try one of the fresh salads or hors d'oeuvres as a starter and then move on to the main dish. With items like the Coquilles Saint Jacques Marseillaise or the Poitrine de Poulet Dijonnaise, you're sure to enjoy your meal. In addition to a delicious menu, La Refuge Restaurant also offers a full wine menu. The wines are carefully chosen to perfectly pair with menu items. The La Refuge dining room is quaint and comfortable and will transport you into an authentic French dining experience. Old House Cosmopolitan Old House Cosmopolitan has been an Alexandria favorite for locals and tourists for over 10 years, where they have earned a reputation by being one of the best German cuisines in the area. Each menu item is designed with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Begin your meal with the Calamari or the Obazda. Then, try one of the mouth-watering entrees, like the Jager Schnitzel or the mixed grilled platter. Old House also offers daily lunch specials until 4 p.m., with discounts on your favorite dishes. Pair one of the delicious German beers with your favorite menu item. Landini Brothers Landini Brothers is a casual Italian dining option, located right in central Old Town, Alexandria. The Landini brothers started their restaurant in 1979 with the goal of combining Tuscany-inspired cuisine with friendly culture. They understand that sitting down with family and friends to enjoy a good meal together is just as important as the quality of the food itself. Just a few items on the menu worth trying include the Carpaccio di Tonna or the Insalata Tommaso. Gluten-free dishes are also available on request. La Fromagerie While La Fromagerie might be known for its extensive wine list, they also serve a worthy menu. Many customers rave of the Charcuterie board, which is made up of artisan cheeses and fresh Charcuterie. If you are still hungry, then try the escargot or the duck confit. Make sure you leave room for dessert, as the chocolate pot de crème is a must-try. La Fromagerie also offers numerous wine programs that allow you to try out their best wines. The Sommelier Ben Kuna wine program has many perks including weekend discounts on bottles of wines, free corkage services, themed wine events, and ongoing wine recommendations. Keep in mind that due to the COVID-19 outbreak, some restaurants may have restrictions including capacity and hours. It is best to always call ahead to ensure that the restaurant is open before visiting. With the long list of delicious European-inspired restaurants in the Alexandria area, you don't have to travel far to enjoy a good meal. Grab a few friends this weekend and take a European tour around Old Town Alexandria. image via pixabay

There are few things as satisfying as a good pizza. Alexandria, Virginia, is home to many fine pizzerias and restaurants where you'll be treated to tasty pizzas prepared with fresh and homemade ingredients—and lots of care. more Del Ray Pizzeria Del Ray Pizzeria offers a laid-back, family-friendly setting where you can enjoy a good pizza paired with an ice-cold beer. The venue features a cozy bar area with a few TVs where you can catch some sports updates while sipping on a crispy pilsner or a hoppy IPA. If you're there for the pizza, however, move along to the roomy and clean dining space. At this joint, they don't serve New York- or Chicago-style pizzas but rather their own style—or styles. These include hand-tossed thin crusts, pan-handled thick crusts, and deep-fried calzones. In addition, you can now opt for a healthier, cauliflower pizza base. The menu features many unique and delicious pizza creations, such as the I Need Two Pears—with olive oil, mozzarella, blue cheese crumbs, caramelized pears, and balsamic mixed greens—or The Hills prepared with basil pesto, chicken, goat cheese, ricotta, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers. Lena's Wood-Fire Pizza & Tap If you like your pizza Neapolitan style and baked in a wood-burning oven, Lena's is your go-to pizza joint. Apart from their authentic wood-fired pizza, this restaurant offers an elegant and modern venue with lots of raw brick and wood surfaces. The dining room boasts a stylish bar area where patrons can sit down for a craft beer or a house cocktail, and there's also a welcoming patio outside for dining when the weather is nice. At Lena's, the pizza dough is made from scratch with only top-quality double zero flour and spring water, and you can rest assured that all toppings are fresh. On the menu, you'll find a combination of classic and innovative pizza options, such as the Pepperoni with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and hand-cut Pepperoni; and the Korean BBQ with Korean barbecue short ribs, gochujang, scallions, mozzarella, and pickled vegetables. Delia's Mediterranean Grill & Brick Oven Pizza When the doors of the original Delia's opened way back in 1981 in Springfield, Virginia, it was an immediate success due to a special combination of Old World recipes and a welcoming family atmosphere. So prosperous was it that the family eventually decided to open a new Delia's with a modern flair in Alexandria. Besides a stylish venue with a gorgeous bar counter that looks like its made from gold, this pizzeria also offers mouthwatering Mediterranean fare. The menu is made up of diverse options, including Greek dishes like halloumi and grilled octopus as well as traditional Italian pasta and pizza options. The pizzas at this restaurant are baked in a traditional brick oven, and you can choose from gourmet creations like the Prosciutto White with ricotta, prosciutto, pine nuts, microgreens, and fig balsamic drizzle; and the Choro with spicy chorizo, prosciutto, hand-crushed San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella, red onion, and basil. Whether you like a pan-handled thick-crust or a traditional, wood-fired Neapolitan pizza, or something in-between, Alexandria is home to a pizza joint that's perfect for you. image via pixabay