Island Hopping in Arlington



Click here for a coupon to these featured retailers.

Cassatt's
Dreaming of an island getaway? You may not have the time or money this season to visit the Caribbean or South Pacific, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out. Thanks to a few one-of-a-kind restaurants in Arlington, you can go jet-setting around the world just about anytime you want.

Take Cuba. Its white sandy beaches are pretty much off-limits for most of us, but you can still enjoy the island’s Spanish- and tropical-inspired flavors at the Caribbean Grill. Serving traditional Cuban and Caribbean specialties at bargain prices, this small corner restaurant on Lee Highway has inspired a loyal following with mouth-watering dishes like masas de puerco (marinated fried pork), ropa vieja (shredded beef ), and quite possibly the best Cuban sandwich north of Little Havana.

Now it would normally be a long trip from Cuba to New Zealand, but in Arlington it’s right down the street. Cassatt’s is a cozy café boasting a varied menu complete with everything from meat pies to Pavlova, New Zealand’s national angel food-meringue dessert. Come on Kiwi Night to sample the classic fish and chips or the kiwi burger with fried egg, or visit another night for a wine tasting dinner or to enjoy live jazz music.

(If you want to make it a real island getaway, come on Family Fun Night – you can enjoy a relaxing candlelit dinner while your kids are fed and entertained elsewhere.)

Your last stop as a jet-setter is Little Quiapo in the Arlington Forest Shopping Center. This Filipino restaurant is one of just a few in the Washington area and the only one in Arlington. Some Filipino dishes have strong fish sauces or vinegar marinades that can overwhelm first-timers, so if the food is new to you, stick to the tasty adobo (a chicken or pork dish flavored with soy sauce and spices) or the lumpia (similar to eggrolls) and you can’t go wrong. More adventurous diners might consider trying the kare kare (oxtail with peanut sauce).

Warm breezes and the smell of saltwater may still be a ways off, but hopefully in the meantime a few nice meals at these special destinations will give you a good taste of paradise. Don’t forget to send postcards!




Caribbean Grill
5183 Lee Highway
(703) 241-8947

Cassatt’s – Kiwi Café & Gallery
4536 Lee Highway
(703) 527-3330

Little Quiapo
4807 1st Street North
(703) 528-3194

Bring this coupon to featured retailers for special dining discounts!

  • Cassatt's: 25% off any entree (Monday through Thursday only) OR
    25% off your total bill (Monday through Friday from 3 to 5 p.m.).

Restrictions may apply. One coupon per customer.


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