Alexandria’s Summer Dining Guide: Must-Visit Restaurants, Bars & Ice Cream Stops
From breezy riverfront patios to rooftop cocktails and old-fashioned ice cream counters, Alexandria, VA turns into a true dining playground in the summer. Whether you’re staying local or visiting for the weekend, this charming city has all the ingredients for a season of unforgettable meals, golden-hour drinks, and spontaneous dessert runs.
Here’s your definitive guide to the best restaurants, bars, and sweet spots to hit this summer—from Old Town to Del Ray and beyond.
WATERFRONT & OUTDOOR VIBES
BARCA
Perched on a repurposed pier with panoramic views of the Potomac, BARCA offers one of Alexandria’s most iconic al fresco settings. Mediterranean-style tapas, Spanish wines, and weekend brunch make it ideal for sunset dinners or long, lazy lunches.
Must-Try: Patatas bravas, sangria, and brunch torrijas.
Catboat Pizza Bar | Old Town Marina
Catboat Pizza Bar
A relaxed riverfront pizza spot with a seriously cool vibe, Catboat is only open on weekends and Thursday evenings—making it feel like a summer secret. Grab a seat at a picnic table, order a natural wine or slushie, and enjoy wood-fired pizzas with a breeze.
Must-Try: Whatever’s on special, plus a frozen cocktail.
Vola’s Dockside Grill + Hi-Tide Lounge | King Street Waterfront
Vola’s Dockside Grill
Colorful cocktails, fresh seafood, and a tiki-inspired patio right on the water. Perfect for vacation-style afternoons.
Must-Try: Fish tacos, crab dip, and the signature Hi-Tide Punch.
Blackwall Hitch | Cameron Street Waterfront
Blackwall Hitch
With live music, nautical vibes, and a large riverside patio, Blackwall Hitch is the go-to for groups and waterfront dining with a touch of elegance. Don’t miss their Thursday oyster happy hour on the patio—fresh oysters at a steal, paired perfectly with a crisp cocktail.
Must-Try: Lobster roll, seared scallops, and oysters during happy hour.
ROOFTOP ESCAPES
Good Fortune at Hotel Heron | Prince Street, Old Town
Good Fortune
The city’s hottest rooftop bar is located atop the newly opened Hotel Heron. With skyline views, colorful cocktails, and a laid-back vibe, it’s made for golden-hour lounging.
Must-Try: The You-Zu-You (vodka, yuzu, cucumber), crab rolls, and frozen cocktails.
CASUAL COURTYARD & BEER GARDEN HANGOUTS
Augie’s Mussel House & Beer Garden | King Street
Augie’s Mussel House
A Belgian-inspired beer garden tucked just off King Street, Augie’s is a favorite for hearty mussels, flavorful frites, and a huge beer list. The string-lit courtyard feels like an escape in the middle of the city.
Must-Try: Thai green curry mussels and a local draft.
Daniel O’Connell’s Irish Restaurant & Bar | King Street
Daniel O’Connell’s
Don’t let the cozy pub interior fool you—Daniel O’Connell’s features a hidden rooftop terrace that’s perfect for casual summer nights. Great for sipping a pint, snacking on fish & chips, and enjoying live Irish music on weekends.
Must-Try: Guinness, bangers & mash, and their classic shepherd’s pie.
Port City Brewing Company | West End
Port City Brewing Company
Alexandria’s award-winning craft brewery has a pet-friendly beer garden, a rotating schedule of food trucks, and live music all summer long. Don’t miss their monthly "Loading Dock Rock" concert series.
Must-Try: Optimal Wit or a limited seasonal brew + tacos from La Tingeria.
SWEET TREATS TO COOL YOU DOWN
The Dairy Godmother | Del Ray
A Del Ray institution, this nostalgic custard shop is beloved for its rotating flavors and doggie pops. The perfect post-dinner or post-playground stop.
Must-Try: Vanilla custard with house-made toppings or their seasonal sorbet.
Pop’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream Co. | Old Town
Retro charm and hand-scooped classics make Pop’s a crowd favorite on King Street. With dozens of flavors and waffle cones made in-house, it’s worth every bite.
Must-Try: Cookies & cream in a waffle cone.
Goodies Frozen Custard & Treats | Old Town
Housed in a vintage Airstream trailer, Goodies dishes out creamy frozen custard in one of the most picturesque settings in Old Town.
Must-Try: The signature “Goodies Doozie” — a custard sandwich between warm donuts.
Pitango Gelato | Union Street, Old Town
Authentic Italian gelato in seasonal and classic flavors (like hazelnut, pistachio, and stracciatella) served right off the waterfront.
Must-Try: Pistachio and dark chocolate combo.
A FEW MORE LOCAL FAVORITES TO ADD TO YOUR LIST
Hummingbird
Hummingbird Bar & Kitchen. Elevated coastal cuisine with outdoor seating and Potomac views.
The Garden (Del Ray). A casual outdoor beer garden with rotating food vendors and plenty of space for groups.
Hank’s Oyster Bar. Cozy Old Town seafood staple with a charming front patio.
Evening Star Café (Del Ray). Neighborhood gem known for farm-to-table dining and twinkle-lit garden seating.
SUMMER DINING ITINERARY
Whether you’re a longtime local or visiting for the weekend, Alexandria’s food and drink scene knows how to celebrate the season. From breezy riverfront views and rooftop cocktails to scoops of old-fashioned ice cream, this city makes summer taste better.
Pro Tip: Many of these spots are walkable from each other—park once and make a day of it!
SEE ALSO: Virginia Summer Bucket List: 34 Ways to Make the Most of the Season
