The best restaurants in Arlington County

When you need a fast, joyful reset this week, the original Big Buns in Ballston delivers made-to-order signature stacks, rotating burger drops, and slurpable shakes that hit the spot. It’s the kind of neighborhood staple you keep in your back pocket when only a great burger will do.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 26, 2026

If you like your globally inspired small plates with a side of creativity, Palette 22 turns dinner into a mini gallery visit as local artists paint, sculpt, and chat. Go for bottomless brunch or dinner, pair it with signature sangria, and call it your new Shirlington standby.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 25, 2026

Jon’s Joint is the kind of no-fuss burger spot that hits when you want it simple and satisfying. Straightforward, well-executed patties, friendly vibes, and zero overthinking, just an easy place to scratch the craving on a random Tuesday or after a long commute.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 28, 2026

Craving a low-key spot where the burgers bring the heat and the vibes feel like your friend’s backyard? Cowboy Cafe nails it with juicy patties, legit wings, a breezy biergarten, and Monday night trivia. It’s the kind of place you wander into once and somehow become a regular.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 12, 2026

When you want every big play on screen and wings that actually spark debate, First Down Sports Bar & Grill delivers 50 flavors, 25 beers on tap, and the kind of Ballston energy worth the quick hop from Alexandria. Rally the crew, claim a TV, enjoy the win.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 27, 2026

Hal & Al's BBQ serves low and slow halal brisket and ribs with big flavor and zero fuss. Set inside the food court, it’s an easy meet-up when everyone craves something different, and the bold signature sides round out a plate that actually satisfies on a Tuesday.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 24, 2026

El Mercat Bar de Tapas brings the essence of Spanish cultural diversity to your weeknight plans with shareable, seasonal, house-made tapas that actually encourage conversation. Think a vibrant, flavor-hunting lineup where a couple plates turns into a full culinary tour… perfect for Arlington nights that need a spark.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 11, 2026

La Bettola Italiano is that quietly reliable spot where classically trained chefs turn out soulful pastas, square Sicilian pizzas, and old-school favorites like shrimp fra diavolo without any fuss. Great for a midweek craving or easy takeout, with catering when the whole crew decides pasta is a love language.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 24, 2026

Pentagon City mainstay since 2012, Epic Smokehouse leans into bold flavors and the kind of hearty plates that make weeknights and brunch plans feel, well, epic. Grab a seat for creative smokehouse takes, or call in epic lunchboxes and catering when the office or your next get-together needs a win.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 17, 2026

Corso Italian feels like that reliable friend who always says yes to carbs and conversation. Expect comforting Italian staples, well executed classics, and a laid back vibe that works for date nights, group catchups, or those evenings when cooking feels wildly optimistic.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 3, 2026

Good Stuff Eatery in Crystal City keeps it simple with farm fresh ingredients, juicy burgers, crispy fries, and thick shakes in a chic, upbeat space. Order online for eat-in, take-out, or delivery when your week needs an easy win.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 23, 2026

Big Buns in Shirlington nails the craveable combo of customized burgers, craft drafts, and boozy shakes, all in a laid-back counter-serve spot that moves fast but never skimps. Perfect for a casual weeknight catch-up, with enough topping combos to start a friendly debate.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 14, 2026

This week, whether you need a rainy-day reset or just a legit noodle hug, Pho 75 nails it with long-simmered broth, tender cuts, and perfectly cooked noodles. Pair a classic beef, chicken, or veggie bowl with fresh herbs, spring rolls, and a Vietnamese iced coffee, then thank yourself later.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 26, 2026

Federico Ristorante Italiano keeps it classic with pizza, traditional pastas, Italian entrees and a full bar in a casual, rustic setting. Gluten free pizza and pasta are on deck, and they do brunch, party platters, catering and group events when you need to feed more than two.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 21, 2026

When the fried chicken mood hits, BHC Chicken Arlington answers with ultra-crispy Korean fried chicken in signature flavors like Bburinkle, Matcho-King, and Gold-King, plus tteokbokki for good measure.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 4, 2026

Green Pig Bistro turns lesser-known cuts into craveable hits, blending rustic French roots with American comfort in plates that feel both thoughtful and un-fussy. Go this week for hearty, balanced dishes and the cozy, cookbook-lined vibe that makes lingering over one more bite feel mandatory.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 30, 2026

When only shatteringly crispy will do, Bonchon Arlington nails it with their double-fried Korean chicken, signature sauces, and that clutch side of pickled radish or coleslaw. Round it out with Bulgogi Fries, sotteok skewers, or the K-Chicken Sandwich and call it a very good night.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 4, 2026

Sloppy Mama's BBQ is the neighborhood spot for 100% wood-smoked meats, from prime brisket and pulled pork to ribs, turkey, and even jackfruit. Sides hit right, sauces are legit, the sleeper pick is their cheeseburger, and weekend breakfast biscuits are dangerously good.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 9, 2026

Japanese restaurant serving ramen and other comfort food in a laid-back, social setting.

Brass Rabbit is the neighborhood pub-fare-and-cocktails combo we keep returning to, with weekend brunch that hits the spot and happy hour that keeps conversation going. Under new management and sporting upgrades, it’s an easy pick for casual hangs or hosting parties and events.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 28, 2026

Basic Burger keeps things, well, basic in the best way... juicy Angus beef burgers, cage-free chicken sandwiches, and milkshakes that make any weekday instantly better. It’s a no-fuss neighborhood standby when you need something satisfying, quick, and reliably tasty without overthinking dinner.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 5, 2026

From weekend brunch to the legendary RITZ Afternoon Tea, Santé nails that fireside mood that invites lingering with Mediterranean-inspired shareable plates, seasonal dishes, and handcrafted cocktails.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 25, 2026

Modern pizzeria chain serving gourmet pies with diverse sauces, plus dessert pizzas & house sodas.

Relaxed, eco-chic chain serving health-conscious fare, including vegan options, plus cocktails.

Fresh, never-frozen, locally sourced beef ground daily, buns baked fresh daily, and hand-cut fries make All About Burger an easy Clarendon go-to. The kicker is their over 30 milkshake flavors, plus crispy chicken, Impossible Burgers, and a proper Philly if your burger loyalty wavers.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 19, 2026

Ballston folks, meet Scolapasta, the fast-casual spot turning out handcrafted pasta made fresh every morning at Ballston Quarter.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 19, 2026

Casual restaurant and bar providing Asian small plates and quick bites, plus beer and cocktails.

Gyu San Japanese BBQ & Bar brings an easygoing, premium AYCE spread to nearby Arlington, with tableside yakiniku where you sizzle Miyazaki Wagyu, hand-cut A5 Wagyu, pork, and seafood over ceramic heat, then finish strong with meticulously crafted sushi and sashimi from chefs who clearly obsess over details.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 16, 2026

Smokecraft Modern Barbecue treats barbecue like a craft project in the best way, turning out competition-tested ribs, brisket, and surprise hits like cedar plank salmon, plus a proper weekend brunch and craft cocktails. Inventive without being fussy, it’s the kind of Clarendon standby you end up craving.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 30, 2026

Craving a cozy night that feels like Little Italy without leaving NoVA? Carbonara in Arlington turns out handmade pasta and old-school hits like Gnocchi della Mamma, baked clams oreganata and shrimp scampi, backed by a legit wine bar and weekend live music. Quick hop from Alexandria, totally worth it.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 10, 2026

Makers Union nails that reliable comfort-food-and-cocktails combo locals crave, with a pet-friendly patio for the pups and plenty of good-times programming, from game-day hangouts to happy hour to the occasional 'Tini Takeover. Easygoing, tasty, and perfect for low-effort plans that still feel fun.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 25, 2026

Whether you’re on a lunch break or dodging another Zoom, Burger District is that casual, counter-service spot for a no-fuss burger, crispy fries, and a legit buffalo chicken sandwich. Nothing fancy, just solid, craveable comfort that hits the spot when your energy is low and appetite is high.

From the Washington newsletter, September 2, 2026

An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.

Maison Cheryl nails that laid-back yet stylish vibe locals love, serving comforting New-American favorites with classic French technique, a seasonal menu, brunch, house-made desserts, and a bar that actually cares about craft cocktails, wine, and beer. Perfect for a casual bite or a not-so-casual celebration.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 24, 2026

Burgers that hit the spot, pizzas, and easy-drinking cocktails are the move at Ballston Local, plus a steady lineup of live entertainment and themed nights. Not leaving the house, order online for pickup or delivery and keep Arlington vibes going from the couch.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 1, 2026

Texas Jack's Barbecue is that big, woodsy, rustic-modern hangout where genuine hospitality meets true American barbecue, plus sides with some personality. Perfect for a laid-back weeknight or casual meetup, with takeout, delivery, catering, and private events if your crew turns hunger into a group project.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 26, 2026

The Liberty Tavern nails the split personality in the best way, with changing New American plates upstairs when you want to feel fancy and a lively bar slinging proper pub grub downstairs when you don’t. Also, weekend brunch with unlimited small plates makes group plans pleasantly easy.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 18, 2026

Pie-Tanza keeps it simple with an open-air kitchen, a wood-fired brick oven, and pies that hit that crispy-chewy sweet spot, plus Italian comfort food for the table.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 29, 2026

Pi BBQ and Bar is an Arlington go-to when you want barbecue without the fuss. Lunch and All Day menus keep ordering simple, and online pickup is painless, making it a reliable move for last-minute dinners, backyard hangs, or when the grill is taking the night off.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 23, 2026

m. m. or a proper burger after a long Zoom, Ted's Bulletin keeps Arlington fed with modern American plates, Virginia flair, and locally sourced touches.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 22, 2026

Skip the same-old dinner routine and share-your-way through Sabores Tapas Bar’s Spanish-Latin lineup, from classic bites to modern spins, with cocktails and wine to match. Fun vibe, music and a menu built for mixing, matching and lingering... perfect for a midweek reset.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 2, 2026

Old-school Arlington favorite A Modo Mio has been serving legit Italian since 1978, with Sicilian roots and Chef Antonio Biglietto turning out crisp, light pies and comforting pastas that actually taste like Italy. Grab a table with friends this week and let the Farruggio family handle dinner.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 15, 2026

Rocklands Barbeque & Grilling Company has been serving real wood-smoked barbecue since 1990, with ribs that actually fall off the bone, brisket with that perfect char, and sauces worth hoarding. Easy pickup in Arlington, or go big with their crowd-pleasing catering when neighbors miraculously invite themselves over.

From the Arlington newsletter, September 25, 2026

With a tin-ceilinged glow and the kind of intimate buzz that makes weeknights feel special, Mele Bistro keeps things classic with deeply comforting Italian favorites plus a few European detours. Perfect for when you want real conversation, a slow meal, and zero pretense.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 2, 2026

Ruthie's All-Day is a family-friendly neighborhood restaurant and bar centered on a custom wood-burning hearth. This week, grab coffee and breakfast counter service, full-service lunch and dinner, or weekend brunch, with seasonal, locally sourced menus that keep things interesting.

From the Arlington newsletter, October 1, 2026