Best of NoVA 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Foodie Favorites
The results are in! Our readers have spoken, and we’re excited to share the top picks for the best food spots across Northern Virginia this year. From bagels to BBQ, discover the places that locals are raving about.
Bagels
WINNER: Call Your Mother Deli
Get your bagel fix at this vibrant “Jew-ish” deli, offering bagels, schmears, hearty sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee (at select locations). With nearly 20 locations since its start in 2018, it’s a must-visit. Locations in Alexandria, Arlington, McLean, Reston, and Vienna.
RUNNER-UP: Chewish Deli (Alexandria)
Bakery/Pâtisserie
WINNER: Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe
For 50 years, this family-owned German bakery has delivered high-quality cakes, cookies, and breads. Generations have celebrated their milestones with treats from this local gem in Arlington.
RUNNER-UP: Chateau de Chantilly (Chantilly)
BBQ
WINNER: Hammerdown Barbeque
Run by Marine veteran Ken Soohoo and his brother Bing, this spot is known for tender brisket, pulled pork, and more. Arrive early before everything sells out! Located in Aldie.
RUNNER-UP: Smokecraft Modern Barbecue (Arlington)
Breakfast Diner
WINNER: Bob & Edith’s Diner
Serving up classic breakfast staples for over 55 years, Bob & Edith’s has become a favorite with eight 24-hour locations across NoVA. Enjoy omelets, pancakes, and Southern comforts.
RUNNER-UP: Chloez Café (Fairfax Station)
Brunch
WINNER: Chloez Café
This cozy and colorful café is your go-to for brunch favorites like waffles, omelets, and smoothies. Bright beach vibes make it a delightful escape in Fairfax Station.
RUNNER-UP: Palette 22 (Arlington)
Burgers
WINNER: Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers
Known for hand-trimmed Angus beef burgers ground fresh daily, this spot offers creative monthly specials alongside its tempting regular menu. Located in Leesburg.
RUNNER-UP: Social Burger (Vienna)
Butcher
WINNER: Oliver’s Corner Butcher Shop
This Great Falls butcher shop emphasizes quality and sustainability, offering gourmet sausages, meats, and expert advice on preparation.
RUNNER-UP: The Whole Ox (Marshall)
Cheesesteak
WINNER: Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern
Philly cheesesteaks shine at this Herndon pub with fresh Amoroso rolls and your choice of cheese styles.
RUNNER-UP: Big Tony’s Pizza (Arlington)
Chinese
WINNER: Mama Chang
A celebration of homestyle Chinese cuisine, this Fairfax favorite offers dishes like hand-pulled noodles and Peking duck.
RUNNER-UP: Peter Chang (Multiple Locations)
Crabs
WINNER: Quarterdeck
Year-round Chesapeake Bay and Louisiana blue crabs flavored with J.O. seasoning steal the show at this Arlington staple.
RUNNER-UP: Captain Pells Fairfax Crabhouse (Fairfax)
Deli/Sandwich Shop
WINNER: The Italian Store
NoVA residents love this Arlington deli’s loaded subs, like The Milano and The Roma, packed with authentic Italian meats and cheeses.
RUNNER-UP: Union Sandwich Co. (Alexandria)
Doughnuts
WINNER: Good Company Doughnuts & Cafe
From classic honey-dipped to maple bacon, this Arlington shop knows how to satisfy your sweet tooth.
RUNNER-UP: Just Fine Donuts (Alexandria)
Farmers Market
WINNER: Falls Church Farmers Market
With up to 50 vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, and more, this lively Saturday market is the best in Northern Virginia.
RUNNER-UP: Reston Farmers Market (Reston)
Farm-to-Table Restaurant
WINNER: The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm
This Lovettsville gem delivers on the farm-to-table promise, serving dishes crafted with ingredients straight from its own land.
RUNNER-UP: Local Provisions (Sterling)
French
WINNER: L’Auberge Chez François
Transport yourself to the French countryside at this enchanting Great Falls restaurant, known for its traditional French menu.
RUNNER-UP: Café Colline (Arlington)
Fried Chicken Sandwich
WINNER: Wooboi Chicken
Heat lovers, rejoice! Wooboi offers fried chicken sandwiches topped with slaw and paired with waffle fries. Dial up the spice with their “Code Blue” level.
RUNNER-UP: Ghosted Concepts (Haymarket)
Indian
WINNER: Celebration by Rupa Vira
Serving up vibrant, creative Indian cuisine in a show-stopping dining room, this Ashburn restaurant impresses with dishes like Calamari 65 and the Celebration Special.
RUNNER-UP: Bansari Indian Cuisine (Vienna)
Italian
WINNER: Carbonara
New to Arlington, this spot has gained fame for its tableside-prepared pasta with Rat Pack music providing the perfect backdrop.
RUNNER-UP: Trattoria Villagio (Clifton)
Korean
WINNER: Ingle Korean Steakhouse
Wagyu beef and a dreamy prix fixe tasting menu set this Vienna icon apart.
RUNNER-UP: Honest Grill (Centreville)
Modern American
WINNER: 2941 Restaurant
This Falls Church favorite combines incredible views with fresh, seasonal dishes that blend American and Mediterranean influences.
RUNNER-UP: Red’s Table (Reston)
Outdoor Dining
WINNER: Barca Pier & Wine Bar
Savor Spanish wines and Mediterranean tapas by the Potomac River at this scenic Alexandria spot.
RUNNER-UP: Trattoria Villagio (Clifton)
Peruvian Chicken
WINNER: El Pollo Rico
Perfectly seasoned and crispy, the charcoal-broiled chicken at this Arlington institution is Northern Virginia barbecue at its finest.
RUNNER-UP: Crisp & Juicy (Multiple Locations)
Sushi
WINNER: Yume Sushi
This Arlington sushi bar dazzles with its artistic presentations and bold flavors, crafted by chef Saran Kannasute.
RUNNER-UP: Modan (McLean)
Vietnamese
WINNER: Rice Paper
Tucked away in Falls Church’s Eden Center, Rice Paper’s menu features expertly prepared authentic hot pots and salads.
RUNNER-UP: Nue: Elegantly Vietnamese (Falls Church)
There you have it! Northern Virginia offers a world of flavors, bringing together beloved classics and exciting newcomers. Where will you dine first?
KATIE WEDGE
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