{"id":521584,"date":"2025-05-28T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-28T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/northernvirginiamag.com\/?p=521584"},"modified":"2025-06-27T15:22:47","modified_gmt":"2025-06-27T19:22:47","slug":"best-of-nova-2025","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/northernvirginiamag.com\/culture\/2025\/05\/28\/best-of-nova-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Best of NoVA 2025: More Than 185 of the Best Places to Eat, Shop, and Play"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The votes are in for Best of NoVA 2025. Here are our readers\u2019 picks for food, drinks, entertainment, fitness, weddings, beauty, and shopping across Northern Virginia. Plus, FOX5DC’s Angie Goff <\/a>shares her favorite spots around the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

By Amy Ayres, Angie Buck, Michele Kettner, Maggie Roth, and Debbie Williams<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jump to: FOOD<\/a> | DRINKS<\/a> | ENTERTAINMENT<\/a> | FITNESS<\/a><\/strong> |<\/strong> WEDDINGS<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> | BEAUTY<\/a> <\/strong>| SHOPPING<\/a> <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best of NoVA 2025: Food<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Throughout Northern Virginia, decadent baked goods, juicy burgers and steaks, and restaurants with fantastic views await.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bagels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Call Your Mother Deli<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stop in to this colorful shop to get a variety of bagels and schmears, generously sized sandwiches, and (in some locations) freshly roasted coffee. Co-founders Andrew Dana and James Beard\u2013nominated chef Daniela Moreira started the \u201cJew-ish\u201d deli in 2018 and now have close to 20 locations in the DMV and Colorado. Alexandria, Arlington, McLean, Reston, Vienna<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Chewish Deli<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alexandria<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bakery\/P\u00e2tisserie<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Owners Carla and Wolfgang B\u00fcchler have been making connections with generations of area families in the 50 years their Heidelberg Pastry Shoppe has been baking for their special occasions. Today, B\u00fcchlers\u2019 children work alongside them at the German bakery making goodies that include cakes, cookies, and breads. Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Chateau de Chantilly<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Chantilly<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

BBQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Hammerdown Barbeque<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Make sure you get to this BBQ joint, started by Marine veteran Ken Soohoo and his brother Bing, before it sells out for the day. Choose from a wide array of meats, including sliced brisket and chopped pork, to pile on a locally made brioche roll. Aldie<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Smokecraft Modern Barbecue<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Breakfast Diner<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Bob & Edith\u2019s Diner<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Grab a stool at the counter and start your day with a classic breakfast at one of eight Bob & Edith\u2019s NoVA locations. The 24-hour diner has been around for 55 years and offers eggs with a variety of sides, omelets, griddle greats, and Southern comfort food like biscuits and gravy. Alexandria (three locations), Arlington (three locations), Manassas, Springfield<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Chloez Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fairfax Station<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brunch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Chloez Caf\u00e9<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Enjoy brightly painted walls and a tropical flower in your latte at this beach-themed spot. Try the waffles or pancakes with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a hearty omelet with a side of home fries, beignets with dipping sauces, or a breakfast sandwich. And don\u2019t skip out on the fresh smoothies. Fairfax Station<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Palette 22<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"melt
Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers (Photo by Rey Lopez)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Burger<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Bite into a huge, juicy burger made from hand-trimmed, aged Angus beef that\u2019s ground in-house daily. There are about 20 burgers on the menu, including a create-your-own option, so you\u2019re sure to find one to cure your burger craving. You can return every month to try a new creative burger of the month \u2014 and the shake of the month to go with it. Leesburg<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Social Burger<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Vienna<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Butcher<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Oliver\u2019s Corner Butcher Shop<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stop by this shop to create your next artisan cheese and charcuterie board. You\u2019ll find gourmet sausages made in-house as well as beef, pork, poultry, wild game, seafood, and more. The store chooses much of its inventory from local, small, independent farms that put an emphasis on sustainability, and the butchers here can give customers advice on cuts of meat and cooking techniques. Great Falls<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: The Whole Ox<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Marshall<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cheesesteak<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Jimmy\u2019s Old Town Tavern<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re looking for a tasty Philly-style cheesesteak, our readers love them at this Herndon pub, where the fresh Amoroso rolls are shipped right from the City of Brotherly Love. For the gooey topping, choose from Cheese Whiz, provolone, or American cheese \u2014 each a favorite in different parts of Philadelphia. Herndon<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Big Tony\u2019s Pizza<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chinese<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Mama Chang<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This Fairfax spot is No. 9 on our 50 Best Restaurants list, selected by our food critics \u2014 and readers love it, too. The homestyle Chinese cooking here celebrates the women in chef Peter Chang\u2019s life. Try the hand-pulled noodles with beef brisket, share the Peking duck, or sample the scallion bubble pancake. Fairfax<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Peter Chang<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington, Fredericksburg, Herndon, McLean<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"table
Quarterdeck (Photo by Rey Lopez)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Crabs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Quarterdeck<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Get your Chesapeake Bay and Louisiana blue crabs year-round at this busy spot with a vintage vibe. The shells are flavored with layers of J.O. crab seasoning and served with drawn butter and vinegar. If you prefer, you can also get your crab fix in the form of crab balls, crab soup, or crabcakes. Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Captain Pells Fairfax Crabhouse<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fairfax<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deli\/Sandwich Shop<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: The Italian Store<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You can\u2019t go wrong with a sub from one of The Italian Store\u2019s Arlington locations, like The Milano, made with two kinds of Italian ham, provolone, and Genoa salami; or The Roma, with prosciutto, mortadella, Genoa salami, and provolone. Plus, you can stock up on some Italian specialties while you\u2019re there. Arlington (two locations)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Union Sandwich Co.<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alexandria<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Doughnut Shop<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Good Company Doughnuts & Cafe<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Bet you can\u2019t stop at just one doughnut at Good Company \u2014 and you\u2019re not alone. There are always seasonal treats to be had, and you can grab a honey dip, a cinnamon sugar, or a doughnut topped with chocolate, coconut, maple bacon, or plenty of other choices. (There are lots of other pastry options, too.) Arlington (three locations)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Just Fine Donuts<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alexandria<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Farmers Market<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Falls Church Farmers Market<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On Saturday mornings throughout the year, you can browse the goods from up to 50 different vendors with seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, meats, and flowers. The market sets up shop in the Falls Church City Hall parking lot and often includes musical acts to add some tunes to your shopping.<\/em> Falls Church<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Reston Farmers Market<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Reston<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Farm-to-Table Restaurant<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This restaurant brings the farm-to-table concept to life with ingredients right from its Lovettsville property. The tasting menu changes with what\u2019s fresh on the working farm to include produce picked that day by the farmer. Bites of watermelon, tomatoes, or sweet corn may explode in your mouth, depending on when you visit. Lovettsville<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Local Provisions<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sterling<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"souffle
L\u2019Auberge Chez Fran\u00e7ois (Photo by Rey Lopez)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

French<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: L\u2019Auberge Chez Fran\u00e7ois<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Be transported to Alsace at this Great Falls institution situated on 6 acres. It\u2019s been in this fairy-tale location for nearly 50 years, since chef Jacques Haeringer\u2019s father relocated it from DC. The traditional French restaurant\u2019s menu includes Chateaubriand de L\u2019Auberge for two, Papa\u2019s Bouillabaisse, and the legendary hot souffl\u00e9s for dessert. Great Falls<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Caf\u00e9 Colline<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fried Chicken Sandwich<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Wooboi Chicken<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dial up the heat as high as you can stand it on The Sando (fried chicken topped with coleslaw) or chicken tenders served with the popular Comeback Sauce at Wooboi. The heat ranges from mild to the blindingly spicy Code Blue. Make sure you order some waffle fries to pair with your chicken. Alexandria, Fairfax, Herndon<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Ghosted Concepts<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Haymarket<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Indian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Celebration by Rupa Vira<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At this creative modern Indian restaurant, don\u2019t miss chef Rupa Vira\u2019s Calamari 65, chipotle gosht, and the Celebration Special \u2014 a dessert with a creamy makhan malai served with dry ice and topped with rose petals and edible gold. You\u2019ll eat it all under a dreamy purple glow in the dining room. Ashburn<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Bansari Indian Cuisine<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Vienna<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Italian<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Carbonara<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Chef and restaurateur Mike Cordero opened this old-school Italian restaurant on Wilson Boulevard in Arlington in March 2024. It\u2019s quickly become a favorite \u2014 especially the delicious pasta prepared tableside in a Parmesan cheese wheel as Rat Pack classics play over the speakers. Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Trattoria Villagio<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Clifton<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Korean<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Ingle Korean Steakhouse<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Several Korean steakhouses have opened in NoVA recently, but Ingle is still our readers\u2019 favorite. That might be because of the top-notch wagyu beef in to-die-for cuts like the marinated zabuton, which our food critic calls \u201cmeat candy.\u201d The mouthwatering prix fixe meal is a sure bet. Vienna<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Honest Grill<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Centreville<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Modern American<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: 2941 Restaurant<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of our top restaurants, 2941 is a surprise tucked away in an office park in Falls Church. It has grand windows that look out over a beautiful view and a packed koi pond. But the atmosphere is only the beginning. The real winner is the food, the work of chef Bertrand Chemel, who creates contemporary American cuisine with French and Mediterranean accents. Falls Church<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Red\u2019s Table<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Reston<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"dish
Courtesy Evelyn Rose<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

New Restaurant<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Evelyn Rose<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This eatery is new, but it\u2019s like an old friend: It comes from two Clarity alumni. Chef Nick Palermo and co-owner Sam Schnoebelen opened Evelyn Rose last year on Vienna\u2019s Church Street, in the space long occupied by Bazin\u2019s on Church. It\u2019s named for their grandmothers and has made a name for itself with its friendly, welcoming vibe and scrumptious housemade pasta. Vienna<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Carbonara<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Outdoor Dining<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Barca Pier & Wine Bar<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Barca is located right on the Potomac River in Old Town Alexandria with a focus on outdoor dining so you can take in the fresh air. Make a reservation for weekend brunch or stop in for the wine bar happy hour. Enjoy sangria or a menu of Spanish wines while you sample a wide variety of Spanish-Mediterranean tapas. Alexandria<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Trattoria Villagio<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Clifton<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oyster Bar<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: King Street Oyster Bar<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Order your fresh oysters at the Middleburg or Leesburg locations, where you can choose from more than 10 varieties, which may include War Shore from Chesapeake Bay, Sweet Jesus from Maryland, or Riptide from Massachusetts. Oysters from the East Coast arrive at King Street Oyster Bar within 24 hours of being out of the water. Leesburg, Middleburg<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Hank\u2019s Oyster Bar<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alexandria<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Peruvian Chicken<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: El Pollo Rico<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Get charcoal-broiled chicken that\u2019s perfectly spiced with skin that\u2019s \u201creliably crunchy\u201d at this Arlington mainstay with locations in Fairfax and Woodbridge. The Wilson Boulevard location was opened in 1988 by Victor and Nelida Solano, who were inspired by the street vendors in their native Peru. Options for sides include fried plantains and fried yuca. Arlington, Fairfax, Woodbridge<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Crisp & Juicy<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington, Falls Church<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pie<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Acme Pie Co.<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Pies are made daily in small batches at Acme, which recently moved to a new location on Columbia Pike in Arlington. The menu changes seasonally, but you can always count on a crisp and flaky Southern-style crust and 12 to 15 fruit pies, along with some savory options, to choose from. Take a seat at the counter and sip a cup of coffee with your pie. Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Mom\u2019s Apple Pie Company<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Leesburg, Occoquan (The Golden Plum), Round Hill<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"umai
Courtesy Umai Ramen & Rice Bowl<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Ramen<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Umai Ramen & Rice Bowl<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The popular Herndon location now has a larger sister restaurant in Tysons. Umai offers popular Japanese dishes that its Thai chefs, Preeyaporn Aroonchokthawon and Sirinda Liwlompaisan, infuse with Southeast Asian flavors like coconut milk and lemongrass. The Umai Curry Ramen has a coconut-based broth that\u2019s topped with fried noodles, Aroonchokthawon\u2019s take on her native khao soi. Herndon, Tysons<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Jinya Ramen Bar<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington, Fairfax, Reston<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Restaurant with a View<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll arrive on a steep and winding driveway to reach this special spot (No. 1 in our 50 Best Restaurants), situated on a hilltop overlooking the Potomac River in rural Lovettsville. Take in the view while you eat your meal in the indoor conservatory, outdoors under a tent, or in the picturesque gazebo. Lovettsville<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: The Ashby Inn & Restaurant<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Paris<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steak<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: D.C. Prime<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Executive chef Brad Weideman, who previously served as an executive chef for The Capital Grille, ensures you\u2019ll find sumptuous steaks at this 10-year-old steakhouse. Diners can choose from filet mignon, New York strip, rib-eye, and porterhouse. D.C. Prime is also known for its award-winning wine list to pair with your meal. Ashburn<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Guerra Steakhouse<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sushi<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Yume Sushi<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Be sure to dine at the counter, where you can watch the artful preparation by the chef \u2014 and get a good look at the graffiti mural. The kitchen is led by chef Saran Kannasute, who was born in Thailand and honed his skills in his family\u2019s small restaurant. He\u2019s been an executive chef at different sushi restaurants since 2002. Arlington<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Modan<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

McLean<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Thai<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Sense of Thai<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Get your Thai favorites at this stylish restaurant in One Loudoun and Chantilly. Order chef Porntipa Pattanamekar\u2019s street fried rice packed with sausage and the som tum, a crunchy papaya salad. The menu includes dishes from the Chumphon province in Southern Thailand to northern specialties, all with bold flavors and friendly service. Ashburn, Chantilly<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Sisters Thai<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Alexandria, Fairfax (two locations), Tysons<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vietnamese<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Rice Paper<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Eden Center is a destination for Vietnamese cuisine, and Rice Paper is a top contender for your dinner plans. Try the authentic hot pot with chicken, seafood, rice, and vegetables or go for a North Vietnamese specialty, grilled fish with dill. Simple salads bring big taste here, too. Falls Church<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Nue: Elegantly Vietnamese<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Falls Church<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"chicken
Courtesy Chi Mc Chicken & Beer<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Wings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Chi Mc Chicken & Beer<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The name of this spot means chicken and beer in Korean, and that\u2019s exactly what you\u2019ll get. The crispy, juicy fried chicken wings are topped with your choice of soy-garlic or hot sauces \u2014 or a combination of the two. While you\u2019re there, taste some of the other Korean menu items like bulgogi, japche, or tteokbokki. Alexandria, Burke, Centreville, Sterling, Vienna<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Jimmy\u2019s Old Town Tavern<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Herndon<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

NoVA Wars Winners<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

So far this year, we’ve held NoVA Wars competitions for the best pizza and taco. Our readers have voted in these winners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"pizza
Courtesy The Dons’ Wood-Fired Pizza<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Pizza<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Don’s Wood-Fired Pizza<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This family-owned Sterling business has been serving tasty Neapolitan and New York–style pizzas since 2005. Try the highly recommended original cheese pie or Margherita pizza. The menu also features calzones, strombolis, salads, and oven-baked sandwiches. Sterling<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Don
Courtesy Don Sebas Taqueria<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Taco<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Don Sebas Taqueria<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Find authentic Mexican tacos and fresh ingredients at this Woodbridge taqueria. Taco lovers can indulge in steak, chicken, pork, and vegetarian options — all served in housemade corn tortillas. Still hungry? Try the restaurant’s enchiladas, fajitas, norte\u00f1as, or an accompaniment of sides. Woodbridge<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

[BACK TO THE TOP]<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best of NoVA 2025: Drinks<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Whether you\u2019re in the mood for a locally brewed craft beer, a flute of sparkling wine, or a soothing cup of tea, you can quench your thirst at one of these Northern Virginia spots. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"blue
Courtesy TeaDM<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Bubble Tea <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: TeaDM<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Looking for a place to get a late-night tea fix? TeaDM is open until midnight Monday to Saturday, with drink specials starting at 10 p.m. Choose from a wide selection of sweet flavors like Moonlight Mango, Honey Rosie, and Peach Partea. TeaDM also serves Vietnamese coffee, milk teas, and smoothies, plus savory rice paper snacks. Fairfax,<\/em> Falls Church, Sterling, Vienna<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Chunky Cup Bubble Tea and Fries <\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stafford, Woodbridge (two locations)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cocktail Bar\u202f<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Heirloom<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Hidden away in the Open Road Distilling Company, Heirloom hearkens back to the time of cozy speakeasies. It offers an extensive wine menu, plus seasonal craft cocktails with a\u202fmodern twist. Try the signature Heirloom, made with mezcal, pineapple sous-vide Campari, Ancho Reyes Verde liquor, and tangerine-serrano shrub. Or get adventurous and order La Variable: The bartender will whip up the flavor of the week. Reston <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Salt<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coffeehouse <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Rare Bird Coffee Roasters <\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Rare Bird sources coffee from smaller, independent importers and roasts each blend to perfection. Order the rosemary latte, Dragonwell green tea, or the Pretoria Fog, a blend of Star of Africa rooibos tea and steamed milk. Pair your drink with a cinnamon roll, chocolate orange scone, or Amaretti cookies for a delightfully sweet experience. Falls Church<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Weird Brothers Coffee<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Herndon (two locations), Leesburg <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Irish Bar <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Ireland\u2019s Four Provinces<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This spot is more than a bar: It\u2019s a neighborhood staple. Known for its live Irish music, plentiful outdoor seating, and family-friendly atmosphere, 4Ps draws a friendly mix of locals, families, and celebrations of all kinds. You\u2019ll find much more than a hearty Guinness at this Irish pub. Falls Church <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: The Auld Shebeen Irish Pub & Restaurant<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fairfax<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rooftop Bar <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Starr Hill Biergarten<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This independent regional craft brewery, started in 1999, was originally located in the Starr Hill neighborhood in Charlottesville. The Starr Hill Biergarten sits on top of Capital One Center in the heart of Tysons and has a brewpub on the first floor. It offers live music several days a week. Hours are weather-dependent, so check Instagram or Facebook for information on closures. McLean <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Wilson Hardware<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Arlington <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sports Bar <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Open Road<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A four-time winner in the Best of NoVA, this sports bar features beer from local craft breweries, an impressive whiskey and bourbon collection, and seasonal handcrafted cocktails to enjoy while you watch sporting events on the multiple TVs. Settle in for live music and a relaxed atmosphere at three locations.
Arlington, Falls Church, Reston <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Ornery Beer Company<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Fairfax <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tea Shop <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Seven Teahouse<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sourced from the top 2 percent of tea farms worldwide and crafted by certified tea masters, the artisans at Seven Teahouse take their craft seriously. Schedule a tea-tasting experience or visit the minimalist, tranquil location in Leesburg. Sip the 2025 Global Tea Championship winner, Imperial Dragon Well, a ceremonial-grade green tea with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Leesburg <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Elden Street Tea Shop<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Reston<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wine Bar <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: The Wine House<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

At this bistro-style wine shop and food destination located in Old Town Fairfax, the wine list is the retail store. Choose a bottle off the wine rack at retail price and open it at your table for a small corking fee. The menu offers a selection of meats and seafood paired with local produce, and many of the staff here are sommeliers, so they are happy to help you find the perfect bottle to complement your order. Fairfax <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Ashburn Wine Shop Bar & Bistro<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Ashburn<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wine Shop <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: The Wine Cabinet<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Locally owned for more than 20 years, The Wine Cabinet offers a wide variety of wines and craft beers with staff recommendations, along with gourmet foods, cigars, and gifts. The shop also hosts events including Open Bottle Thursdays, wine and beer tastings on Friday evenings, wine tastings on Saturday afternoons, and a variety of classes. Reston<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Dominion Wine and Beer<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Falls Church <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Winery <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

WINNER: Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Located in the bucolic Piedmont region, Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery is surrounded by 30 acres of vineyards and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The vineyard grows 10 varietals including Norton, Virginia\u2019s native grape, and offers a hearty selection of reds and whites. The venue is kid- and dog-friendly and offers plenty of parking and indoor and outdoor seating. Delaplane<\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n

RUNNER-UP: Arterra Wines<\/a> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Delaplane<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

[BACK TO THE TOP]<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Best of NoVA 2025: Entertainment<\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Northern Virginia is full of rocking concert venues, educational museums, and can\u2019t-miss seasonal activities. Bring on the fun at these locations. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n