Support Arlington's Veteran-Owned Businesses

Arlington, Virginia stands as a powerful symbol of American military history, home to iconic landmarks like Arlington National Cemetery, the Pentagon, and numerous revered memorials and monuments. Our deep-rooted connection to the U.S. Armed Forces is celebrated through major annual events such as the Marine Corps Marathon, Army Ten-Miler, and Armed Forces Cycling Classic.

This strong military presence has inspired many veterans to settle in Arlington and launch businesses that serve and strengthen the local community. In this blog, we’re spotlighting the incredible contributions of these businesses and exploring why Arlington continues to be a launchpad for veteran entrepreneurs.

Pictured | Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima)

Veteran-Owned Businesses in Arlington

Good Company Doughnuts & Café

Family-owned and operated, Good Company Doughnuts & Café is a warm and inviting café specializing in fresh, hand-cut doughnut that have locals lining up outside on weekend mornings. Good Company is owned and operated by brother-sister duo Charles and Kate, Melissa (Charles’s wife), and close family friend, Tim. When Charles settled in Northern Virginia, he immediately noticed a need for a neighborhood all-day café. Charles and Kate had always dreamed of going into business together and following in their late father’s footsteps. After Charles’s second deployment to Afghanistan, he finally convinced Kate and his wife Melissa to open their dream café. Melissa, who served the Dept. of Defense for 14 years, discovered a talent and passion for baking. The final founder, Tim Terry, spent more than 23 years as a Navy Mustang and now loves serving the Arlington community.

Good Company’s warm and comforting menu offers a lot more than just doughnuts. For breakfast, a cozy cup of Intelligentsia coffee pairs perfectly with one of the breakfast sandwiches on homemade bread or a protein bowl with eggs and veggies. Kids will find a lot to love too, including apple slices with house-made caramel sauce and gooey grilled cheese sandwiches.

Pay them a visit in Ballston or National Landing.

Compass Coffee

The brainchild of two former U.S. Marines, Compass Coffee has one goal: good coffee. Its slogan, "real good coffee," is written on every aromatic cup and is recognizable throughout the Washington, D.C., area. During their military service, the owners relied on coffee as an essential source of energy, and it steadily developed into a ritual. After returning from deployment, they channeled their focus into providing coffee that is strong, flavorful and just plain good. Compass opened its first location in D.C.'s Shaw neighborhood and has quickly expanded throughout the region with three locations in Arlington (Ballston, Clarendon, Langston Boulevard and Rosslyn).

Highlights from the coffee menu include the nitro cold brew and honey turmeric lattes, as well as a variety of seasonal offerings. Compass also serves a limited breakfast on-the-go menu that sells out quickly, and the vegan blueberry muffins are worth the early morning hustle. For those that can't get enough of the coffee, Compass sells all nine of its unique blends in-store and offers various refill programs.

Potomac Kempo

Tucked away in National Landing, veteran-owned Potomac Kempo's mission is to inspire excellence in those that they serve, challenging them to become healthier, happier, and better through the practice of martial arts. Students are able to learn self-defense, improve overall health, decrease stress, build confidence, learn self-discipline, improve focus, and enjoy the process of learning something new.

If you're looking for a fresh way to get active in Arlington, stepping into the dojo may be the right fit for you!

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls in Shirlington is a veteran-owned franchise operated by a local husband/wife team. Their lobster is sourced directly from the waters of Maine and prepared in true New England fashion — simply and modestly. In addition to their famous lobster dishes, you'll also find crab and shrimp rolls, chowders, bisques, and Maine Root Soda.

Military Women’s Memorial Gift Shop

While not a traditional business, the proceeds from the gift shop at the Military Women’s Memorial at the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery support rotating exhibits and programming at the museum. The shop’s merchandise is varied and engaging. From servicewomen dolls representing branches of the military, to stunning lapel pins created by designer Ann Hand, the store stocks a variety of treasures their loved ones will cherish. Choose from clothing, jewelry, children’s items, books and seasonal items — like the cherry blossom collection — unique keepsakes that will commemorate your visit to Arlington and the nation’s capital. While you’re there, ask to accompany a docent on a tour through the Memorial to learn stories of heroism made by women in uniform.

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