When it comes to dining out, some restaurants simply have the innate ability to transport you to another world through the atmosphere, the food, the service, or a combination of all three. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill restaurants – these are tried and true, regionally beloved, memorable dining experiences.
And now, more than ever, you deserve a special night out. In Fairfax County, Virginia, there are more than just a couple of these extraordinary places that offer a taste of destination dining, perfect for a romantic couple’s trip or girl’s getaway.
2941 Restaurant
2941 Fairview Park Dr, Falls Church
Image courtesy 2941 Restaurant/Facebook
Recently named the #1 best restaurant in Northern Virginia by Northern Virginia Magazine, a semi-finalist in the 2024 James Beard Awards for Outstanding Restaurant, and lauded as one of the top dining spots in the greater Washington region, the ever-changing, five-course Chef’s Tasting Menus offered at this off-the-beaten-path establishment consistently bring diners back time and time again. Executive Chef Bertrand Chemel’s contemporary American cuisine is accented with bold French and Mediterranean flavors that you’d come to expect from a born-and-raised Auvergne native. As you approach 2941 Restaurant, which is subtly located on the ground floor of an office building, you may be surprised to be greeted with lush greenery, a koi-filled pond, and yes, even a waterfall. Inside, the main dining room soars 30 feet in the air with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer spectacular views of the outdoor landscaping. Just outside the main dining room, order an aperitif at the bar from the creative – and also seasonally rotating – cocktail menu.
Cedar Knoll
9030 Lucia Ln, Mount Vernon
Image courtesy Cedar Knoll/Facebook
For fine dining with sweeping waterfront views and historical significance, look no further than Cedar Knoll. The land on which this hidden gem of a restaurant sits was once owned by George Washington (in fact, Cedar Knoll is just 1.7 miles from his estate). The building itself began as an 1800s farmhouse, then an antique shop, and eventually transitioned to an inn and restaurant in 1941. Since 2015, owner and Executive Chef Andrew Holden has been leading the charge to create dynamic seasonal menus that showcase the European and Mediterranean influences he is inspired by, yet retains the classic American flavors that offer a sense of comfort. Fresh seafood is a staple here with a strong showing of local Virginia oysters; the libations menu is also one of the few in the area to include local Northern Virginia wine. The historic charm baked into the walls at this neighborhood favorite is unrivaled and one taste of the menu will have you making follow-up reservations.
Clarity
442 Maple Ave, E, Vienna
Image courtesy Audrey Wong for The Dining Traveler
As its website suggests, everyone is looking for a little clarity (especially these days) – and this gem of a restaurant in the Town of Vienna can deliver in spades. Clarity’s original chef/owner Jon Krinn was already renowned in the Washington, DC area for opening the aforementioned 2941 Restaurant and the former Inox in Tysons after years of working under nationally regarded chefs like Tom Collichio and Rocco DiSpirito. In recent years, Krinn turned ownership of Clarity over to a new team, who continues to showcase creative menus each day. The kitchen is now under the helm of Tracy A. O'Grady, who "creates culinary masterpieces that tantalize the taste buds and ignite the senses." Featuring an open exhibition kitchen, surrounded by the main dining room, and a first-come, first-served 8-seat kitchen counter, guests can get up close and personal with Chef Tracy's concoctions. Better yet – if you have food allergies or restrictions, the team will work directly with you to adjust and create. A truly one-of-a-kind experience awaits you at Clarity, and it’s easy to see why it has raked in awards and accolades since its opening in 2015.
Joon
8045 Leesburg Pike, Vienna
Image courtesy Joon/Facebook
Joon presents an Iranian dining experience featuring Persian cuisine, inviting guests to savor the rich flavors and delve into the culinary and historical heritage. In a sophisticated Persian ambiance, Executive Chef Najmieh Batmanglij, a world-renowned Persian cookbook author, collaborates with DC's Michelin-starred Chef Christopher Morgan. Both became semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard "Best Chefs" award for their culinary skills and leadership abilities. Elevating the dining journey, Joon seamlessly blends contemporary Western influences with traditional Iranian foundations in their upscale dishes. Joon delivers a delectable menu featuring dishes like Duck Fesenjoon, Qaliyeh Mahi, and, of course, an impressive selection of kabobs. This unique fusion has earned them recognition on the Washingtonian Magazine's respected list of the 100 Very Best Restaurants in Washington, DC.
L’Auberge Chez Francois
332 Springvale Rd, Great Falls
Image courtesy L'Auberge Chez Francois
As you follow the winding road that leads to L’Auberge Chez Francois and turn into the gravelly driveway of the charming inn-style restaurant, you’d be forgiven for forgetting that you are still in the Washington, DC metro area. Chef Jacques Haeringer continues the family tradition that his father started in 1954 with contemporary cuisine marked by the diversity of traditional Alsatian cuisine and the infusion of homegrown crops from the restaurant’s sprawling on-site gardens. Stepping into the restaurant’s main dining rooms, you are transported to Alsace, France through its old-world style atmosphere, stained glass windows, meticulously curated family heirlooms, and the warm hospitality of the well-trained wait staff. Expect a multi-course meal here with expertly paired wine and do not dare leave without a taste of their famous hot souffle. Arrive early for a specialty cocktail from the Brasserie downstairs or take a stroll around the property’s beautiful gardens. Whatever your occasion, a celebratory – and delicious – time awaits you at this dining destination.
Trummer’s Restaurant
7134 Main St, Clifton
Image courtesy Trummer's Restaurant
Set amongst the quaint main street setting of the historic town of Clifton, the husband-and-wife-owned Trummer’s Restaurant has long been a favored place of the Washington-area community for celebrating life’s big occasions. In fact, in 2024, the restaurant celebrates 15 years as one of Northern Virginia's most beloved dining spots. In recent years, the restaurant shifted its focus to allow for a slightly more casual environment and creatively crafted American cuisine with influences from co-owner/mixologist Stefan Trummer’s native Austria. Executive Chef Zack Ridenhour, who early in his career worked in the Trummer's kitchen, has now rejoined the Clifton restaurant as its head chef. An evening at Trummer’s is not complete without a taste of the innovative cocktail program the restaurant is known for – or a palate-perfect pairing of one of the many wines that are housed in one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s largest wine cellars. Pulling up a seat in the bright and airy main dining room, you’ll quickly understand why Trummer’s has been a consistent player in Washington, DC’s finest dining experiences for many years.
Where have you had a memorable dining experience? Let us know in the comments below or on social media using @VisitFairfax or #FXVA.
