Arlington Restaurants and Nightlife

Arlington's array of global cuisines rivals that of many much-larger cities. With flavors as diverse as the county itself, eateries range from bistro to barbecue, from unpolished to upscale, from familiar to foreign.

Phenomenal food and drink are on tap most anywhere in Arlington. Sit down for a memorable meal at a chef-driven restaurant, ethnic eatery or European-style brasserie. Grab a quick bite at a gastropub, cozy cafe or neighborhood pizza joint.

You’ll never lack for after-dark fun, whether it’s a romantic date night or a group outing with good friends. From live comedy to rooftop dining, hookah lounges to live Irish music, sports bars to wine tastings, and so much more, food and entertainment are the bread and butter of Arlington’s night scene.

Food

Local flavors are served with plenty of international spice throughout the county. With more than 150 nationalities represented in diverse Columbia Pike, for example, you can dine around the world at Arlington’s largest selection of ethnic restaurants. Its more than 45 international eateries include Bolivian, Chinese, Colombian, Ethiopian, Irish, Italian, Japanese, Mediterranean, Mexican, Salvadoran, Thai, Turkish and more. And that’s just in one neighborhood!

What’s more, many restaurants have trendy outdoor spaces for pleasant alfresco dining. Whether you’re after a busy people-watching spot, a buzzing beer garden or a mouth-watering meal under the stars, Arlington’s numerous outdoor dining locations fit the bill.

Savor a taste of the season at the many vibrant farmers markets, where farm-fresh ingredients are ripe for sampling. But these markets are so much more. They feature live music, food trucks, artisan pastries, ethnic foods, gourmet cheeses, juices and more. Pick up ingredients for a picnic or an edible souvenir to take home as you rub shoulders with locals. 

Vietnamese pho? Authentic Mexican tacos? Texas BBQ? Yes, Arlington’s robust food truck scene has something for everyone. You’ll find quick bites between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. throughout Arlington’s neighborhoods, especially near Metro stations.

Drink

You’ll be equally spoiled for choice when it comes to beverage offerings. Arlington has dozens of craft breweries and beer-centric restaurants and bars, so be sure to try some seasonal beers on your night out.

Although you won’t find vineyards in Arlington’s rolling hills, our lively urban neighborhoods are a vital part of Virginia’s standout wine scene. Serving award-winning regional, domestic and international vintages, Arlington’s wine bars and shops offer oenophiles a vineyard full of unique tastes and experiences.

Get buzzed another way at one of nine — count ‘em — specialty cafes in Clarendon, ground zero for Arlington’s thriving coffee culture. Or get your caffeine fix at any of the other beloved coffee shops throughout the county’s neighborhoods.