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Where to Eat in Old Town Alexandria: A Complete Food Guide 2026

 Old Town Alexandria in Alexandria is one of the most charming historic neighbourhoods near Washington, D.C.. The area is famous for cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, waterfront views along the Potomac River, and a vibrant restaurant scene.

Most restaurants are located along King Street, which stretches from the waterfront through the heart of Old Town. This street is filled with independent restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and bars that attract both locals and tourists.

Whether you want seafood by the river, authentic Italian cuisine, American comfort food, or French dining, Old Town Alexandria offers many great options.

In this complete food guide, you will discover:

  • Best restaurants in Old Town Alexandria

  • Restaurant pictures and dishes

  • Address and average price

  • What to eat at each restaurant


1. Ada’s on the River



















Address: 3 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA 22314
Cuisine: Modern American, seafood & steak
Average Price: $35 – $70 per person

Ada's on the River is one of the most popular waterfront restaurants in Old Town. The restaurant is located along the Potomac River and offers beautiful views while dining.

The restaurant focuses on wood-fired cooking, where meats and seafood are cooked on a live-fire hearth. This cooking style gives dishes a smoky flavour and unique taste.

Popular dishes

  • Wood-fired ribeye steak

  • Fresh oysters

  • Grilled salmon

  • Lobster omelette (brunch)

Why visit

  • Stunning river views

  • Romantic atmosphere

  • Excellent seafood and steaks

It is one of the best restaurants for dinner and brunch in Old Town Alexandria.


2. Virtue Feed & Grain

source: weddingwire

Address: 106 S Union Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Cuisine: American comfort food
Average Price: $20 – $40 per person

Virtue Feed & Grain is a unique restaurant located in a historic warehouse building near the waterfront. The building was originally a feed house in the 1800s and still keeps its historic character today.

The restaurant serves modern American dishes made with fresh ingredients and creative recipes.

Popular dishes

  • Shrimp and grits

  • Fried chicken

  • Classic American burger

  • Craft cocktails

Why visitors love it

  • Historic building atmosphere

  • Cosy rustic design

  • Great casual dining experience

This restaurant is perfect for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch.


3. The Majestic

https://www.macphie.com/app/uploads/2024/02/Middle-Eastern-inspired-eggs-benedict-Macphie-Hollandaise-Sauce-7-1920px.jpg
source: macphie

Address: 911 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Cuisine: American comfort food
Average Price: $20 – $40 per person

The Majestic is a historic restaurant on King Street that has been part of the Alexandria dining scene since 1932.

The restaurant mixes classic American comfort food with a stylish interior inspired by jazz-era restaurants.

Popular dishes

  • Eggs Benedict

  • Fried chicken

  • Steak frites

  • Brunch cocktails

Why people like it

  • Historic atmosphere

  • Great brunch menu

  • Friendly service

It is a must-visit restaurant when exploring King Street.


4. Mia’s Italian Kitchen

source: tripadvisor

Address: 100 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Cuisine: Italian
Average Price: $25 – $45 per person

Mia's Italian Kitchen is a family-style Italian restaurant located at the waterfront end of King Street.

The restaurant serves traditional Sicilian recipes inspired by the owner’s family cooking traditions.

Popular dishes

  • Sicilian-style pizza

  • Homemade pasta

  • Italian seafood dishes

  • Tiramisu dessert

Why visitors love it

  • Authentic Italian recipes

  • Large family-style portions

  • Energetic open kitchen

This restaurant is perfect for family dinners or group dining.


5. Josephine




















Address: 109 S Saint Asaph Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Cuisine: French
Average Price: $35 – $60 per person

Josephine is a classic French brasserie located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.

The restaurant is inspired by Parisian cafes and serves traditional French dishes in a romantic atmosphere.

Popular dishes

  • Steak frites

  • French onion soup

  • Duck confit

  • Chocolate mousse

Why couples love it

  • Elegant French atmosphere

  • Perfect for date nights

  • Authentic French cuisine


6. Landini Brothers

https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5dc9d1ffb94bd32a8a4856f2/1604520672525-AXYJSIS5E4MBJI2USO37/MIC_0112.jpg?format=2500w
source:landinibrothers


Address: 115 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
Cuisine: Northern Italian
Average Price: $35 – $60 per person

Landini Brothers is a well-known Italian restaurant that has been serving customers since 1976.

The restaurant focuses on traditional Northern Italian cuisine with a Tuscan influence.

Popular dishes

  • Lobster ravioli

  • Veal parmesan

  • Fresh seafood pasta

  • Italian desserts

Why visitors enjoy it

  • Classic Italian recipes

  • Elegant dining room

  • Great wine list


Average Food Prices in Old Town Alexandria

Restaurant TypeAverage Price
Casual cafĂ©$10 – $20
Mid-range restaurant$20 – $40
Fine dining$40 – $80

Prices depend on the restaurant and menu items.


Best Areas to Eat in Old Town Alexandria

King Street

King Street is the main food street filled with restaurants, bakeries, bars, and cafes.

Waterfront District

Restaurants near the Potomac River offer beautiful dining views.

Market Square Area

This historic area has many cafes and restaurants near Alexandria City Hall.


Tips for Eating in Old Town Alexandria

1. Make reservations
Popular restaurants can be very busy on weekends.

2. Explore by walking
Many restaurants are within walking distance.

3. Try seafood
Seafood from the Chesapeake Bay region is popular here.

4. Visit during sunset
Waterfront restaurants offer amazing views in the evening.


Conclusion

Old Town Alexandria is one of the best food destinations in Northern Virginia. With its historic charm and diverse restaurant scene, it offers something for every food lover.

Some of the best places to eat in Old Town Alexandria include:

  • Ada’s on the River

  • Virtue Feed & Grain

  • The Majestic

  • Mia’s Italian Kitchen

  • Josephine

  • Landini Brothers

Whether you want waterfront seafood, Italian cuisine, French dining, or American comfort food, Old Town Alexandria has many amazing restaurants waiting to be explored.



Sources

Information used in this article was collected and adapted from:

  • Visit Alexandria restaurant guide

  • Ada’s on the River official website

  • Virtue Feed & Grain restaurant information

  • The Majestic restaurant website

  • Mia’s Italian Kitchen restaurant description

  • OpenTable Old Town Alexandria restaurant listings

  • Historical information about King Street and Old Town Alexandria

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