Fancy a quick weekend getaway without the hassle of hopping on a flight? Why not spend a weekend in Alexandria, VA? Just south of the hustle and bustle of Washington DC, Alexandria is known for its art galleries, antique shops, charm, and unique restaurants. Here are a few of the must-try culinary establishments Alexandria has to offer.

Chef Guo

Don’t be surprised at the exterior of Chef Guo. It’s in a somewhat nondescript area, but once you step inside this dining experience is pure elegance. From the golden headdresses on the servers to the ornate table settings, you’ll feel as if you’re dining amongst royalty. Chef Guo began his training at the age of fourteen, mastering techniques and flavors throughout his career. This isn’t your average menu either – in fact, there are only three things to choose from: The Banquet of Eternal Bliss Hot Pot, The Banquet of Peace and Prosperity, and The Banquet Filled with Precious Gem and Jade. The Banquet of Eternal Bliss Hot Pot ($98) is twelve courses with items such as Golden Squid Soup, Australian scallops with mustard greens, and the Chef Guo signature pork chop. The second banquet ($158) is thirteen courses and the third ($278) is twelve courses, both introducing high end items such as prosperity truffles, lobster tail with black rice and mustard greens, pan fried foie gras, Kobe beef with Sichuan pepper, and much more. Bring your appetite and your friends for an evening of elegant food and service.

La Fromagerie

Looking for a place to get a good glass of wine and some nibbles? Look no further than La Fromagerie. With a wine by the glass menu offering nineteen choices, this is a legitimate wine bar. Choose by the glass, by the bottle, or do a little sampling by ordering a flight. Nothing pairs with a glass of wine better than a cheese and charcuterie board and at La Fromagerie, you can build your own. Choose from seventeen different types of cheese and twelve charcuterie items to make the perfect pairing for your wine selection. You can also opt for small plates with menu items such as escargot, foie gras torchon, and Spanish octopus, or dive into a main course such as duck cassoulet, sea scallops and pork belly or wild mushroom potato gnocchi.

Nasime

If you’re a fan of Japanese food, Nasime is a must. They offer a unique five course tasting menu each night with specialties that are prepared same day. The dishes that are prepared are done in a variety of Japanese styles such as Tsukuri (raw dishes), Yakimono (grilled dishes), Agemono (fried dishes), Nabe (Japanese style casserole), and many more. Some of the culinary delights that have been featured are Soy Wine Braised Chilean Sea Bass, Ox-Tail Ramen, and of course, sashimi. Be sure to ask for the sashimi upgrade – the fish is fresh and delicious. Try samplings of barracuda, eel, uni, sea bass, mackerel, yellowfin tuna, and more all served with ponzu and edible flowers. Truly a treat, Nasime is worth a visit.

Le Refuge

Established in 1983, Le Refuge is Old Town’s oldest French restaurant in Alexandria. A family business, Le Refuge is run by owner Jean Francoise Chaufer, along with his wife and daughter.   The menu consists of classic French favorites such as Bouillabaisse, Salmon en croute, Beef au poivre, and escargot. And what goes better with French food than wine? Le Refuge also has an extensive wine list to choose from for the perfect bottle to pair with your meal. Enjoy a night in France without having to leave the States.

Royal Nepal

If you’re looking to spice things up, you’ll love Royal Nepal. Their menu consists of creative Nepalese Indian dishes with fresh ingredients that are sourced locally. The starters highlight the traditional Nepalese dumplings called Momo, and varieties include chicken, yak, goat, and wild boar. The entrees consist of curries of wild boar, goat and lamb, tandoori chicken, or salmon and chicken tikka masala, to name a few. Their wine list is extensive with a wine cellar adjacent to the dining area and a sommelier on hand to assist you with your pairings. Royal Nepal gives you the true Nepalese Indian experience.

 

 

Alexandria is the perfect weekend getaway for a wonderful culinary experience.