Known for its cobblestone streets and waterfront dining, Old Town Alexandria offers diverse restaurants steeped in historic charm, with unforgettable meals in a beautifully historic, walkable setting. Whether you are looking for a quaint romantic spot, a casual waterfront lunch, or an upscale fine dining experience, Old Town Alexandria welcomes you. Fresh Potomac River seafood, artisan cocktails, international-inspired dishes, southern comfort food, and so much more await.
Old Town Alexandria’s Diverse Restaurant Scene
One thing we loved about Old Town Alexandria is the very convenient and free public transportation options. The King Street Trolley takes passengers to and from the King Street Metro Stop and the Waterfront. The DASH buses run routes from the Braddock Street metro area east to the Waterfront, and then south along Union Avenue to King Street and beyond. See the maps and schedules for the routes of these free, clean, and convenient options. This map shows the location of the five restaurants we visited in Old Town Alexandria: The Majestic, Vola’s Dockside Grill, Union Public House, Chart House, and Royal Restaurant.
Vola’s Dockside Grill on Alexandria’s Waterfront
Vola’s Dockside Grill, directly on Alexandria’s riverfront, offers stunning views of the Potomac River. Vola’s all-day menu features stylishly crafted dishes, including daily selections of market oysters, fresh seafood, vibrant soups, salads, sandwiches, and main courses on their picturesque waterfront terrace.
Nothing is better than sitting outside on the expansive outdoor patio overlooking the Potomac River with DC in the distance. Parks, walkways, and green space along the waterfront are perfect for viewing while dining or for a relaxing stroll before or after your meal.
We started our leisurely lunch at Vola’s with a trio of cold beverages. Julie sipped on her Floral Fizz, William indulged in his Berry Sangria, and I enjoyed my ice cold Yuengling Beer. For our entrees, Julie had the fresh Chopped Salad, Wiliam tried the Crab and Avocado Toast with smashed avocado, lump crab, corn, pickled shallots, herbs, and home fries. I couldn’t resist the Creole Shrimp Fettuccini, blackened shrimp in a creamy white sauce with garlic, white wine, peppers, spinach, cream, and parmesan.
Since we had been eating out at so many great restaurants that week, we debated on skipping dessert. However, we weakened and decided to share a slice of yummy Audrey’s Key Lime Pie. And we’re glad we did. Also, if I do go back, I have my eye on the Chocolate Fudge Cake and the Vanilla Bean Trifle.
The Majestic by Chef Santiago Lopez
The Majestic, by Chef Santiago Lopez, serves New American cuisine with a Mediterranean nuance. The eclectic menu features a variety of flavorful dishes, ranging from pan-roasted bronzino to house-made ricotta, glazed salmon, roasted lamb shank, and lobster pot pie, all crafted with bright Mediterranean flavors. Born and raised in Bogota, Chef Lopez worked at the historic Peabody Hotel in Orlando before coming to Virginia and making a name for himself at several Alexandria restaurants. In April 2026 he became owner of The Majestic, and has done a masterful job elevating the menus, the decor, and the all around dining experience.
The building was originally constructed in 1888 as a Victorian residence and was transformed into a restaurant in 1949. After many years serving the people of Alexandria and then being vacant for a while, the building was revitalized in 2001 with a major restoration breathing new life into its old bones.
Walking into The Majestic in Old Town Alexandria feels like entering a glamorous 1930s supper club. Vintage artwork adorns the hunter-green walls, with rich burgundy booths, and softly glowing chandeliers creating an atmosphere of warmth and elegance. The inviting cocktail bar features ornate tin ceilings, Art Deco accents, and brings diners back to the restaurant’s storied past. Service is friendly and personable, and the food is delicious!
Julie loved her grilled Herb Marinated Salmon with Shishito peppers, roasted corn, pickled ramps, spring peas, charred tomato sauce, scallion relish, and mango gastrique. Likewise, my Pan Roasted Branzino with lobster americaine sauce, pancetta, navy beans, zataar, and EVOO was delicious. Our server, Juan, was excellent and made us feel welcomed at this iconic eatery.
We ended the night sharing a flavorful slice of their light Coconut Cake, a perfect ending to a wonderful evening.
Royal Restaurant
The newly elevated Royal Restaurant, a local restaurant on Saint Asaph Street, features scratch-made home cooking, friendly service, and a fresh new look. Enjoy their signature breakfast and lunch options like build-your-own omelets, Acai bowls, and Blueberry Pancakes, or come enjoy dinner favorites like Pot Roast Stroganoff and Spicy Lamb Bolognese. Chef Santiago Lopez (with sister restaurant The Majestic) has reinvented the menu with a delightful combination of new dishes and traditional standouts.
Julie’s Açai Bowl was excellent for a lighter, flavorable breakfast, and my blueberry pancakes hit the spot. Long time server Liz was delightful and shared her insightful knowledge about the Royal and its intriguing history. We especially enjoyed the nostalgic charm of the dining room and the covered patio adorned with colorful flowers and twinkling lights.
Union Street Public House
Union Street Public House has been serving revolutionary American cuisine in a renovated Colonial warehouse with a warm and lively atmosphere since 1986. Parts of the building were actually used by George Washington in conducting his business. Locals and visitors flock to the waterfront location for fresh seafood like fish and chips, tasty salmon, grilled steaks, and a taste of Old Town’s favorite tap and grill.
Adrean, our server, recommended the Jumbo and Lump Crab Meat Dip for a starter, with pita chips, artichokes, green onion, and fresh baked bread. Delicious! What a great way to start our evening.
William ordered the Gnocchi Alla Vodka, a plump chicken cutlet served with fresh mozzarella, parmesan, and Gnocchi smothered in a delicious Vodka Sauce. Julie enjoyed the grilled salmon, and I ordered the traditional fish and chips. For a finale, we shared the delicious lemon blueberry dessert. All were fantastic.
Cara, the personable Marketing Manager, gave us a fun and informative tour of the building after dinner. Stories of ghosts, George Washington, and interesting tidbits kept us intrigued and entertained. Our thanks to Managing Partner Jay Test, whose family has managed Union Street Public House for many years. In fact, this iconic restaurant was celebrating their 40thAnniversary when we visited!
Chart House Seafood Restaurant
Whether dining outside on the patio or indoors, Chart House Seafood Restaurant gives gorgeous panoramic views of the waterfront and the sparkling city. Delicious seafood dishes like crab cakes, Lemon Honey Swordfish, Pecan Crusted Trout, and Seared Halibut with Lobster Risotto are a few of the featured seafood dishes at Chart House. They also served a tender Filet Mignon and a flavorful New York Strip for those longing for a sizzling steak.
Julie had a fresh spinach salad with a crabcake, William savored his Lemon Honey Swordfish, and I was very happy with the Chef’s Feature, a delicious Pecan Crusted Trout cooked in brown butter and served with steamed green beans and garlic mashed potatoes. For dessert, our delightful server, Michael, and training manager Ashley, brought out three amazing desserts.
The first was Hot Chocolate Lava Cake with chocolate liqueur, Heath® Bar Crunch bits, vanilla ice cream, and chocolate sauce. Sinfully delicious! They also brought out a decadent Bread Pudding and a refreshing dish of Sorbetini. The three of us tried each dessert, and had plenty leftover to take home and snack on later.
Old Town Alexandria is a Food Lover’s Paradise
Come enjoy Alexandria, the hometown of George Washington, beautiful Mount Vernon, Old Town Alexandria, the National Masonic Temple, and nearby attractions like Arlington Cemetery, the Pentagon, and Washington DC. While visiting this historic city, be sure to enjoy these and other fabulous restaurants in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.
Thanks to The Majestic, Vola’s, Royal Restaurant, Union Street Public House, and Chart House Seafood Restaurant for hosting us. All opinions are my own.
