Restaurants in Alexandria VA

Old Town Alexandria is in the midst of a big redevelopment centered on its waterfront. The plan calls for restaurants, shops, bars, and townhouses; a rebuilt pier; and a 1.5-mile riverwalk, so be sure to visit the waterfront while you’re here.

One of the Washington area's most popular dining destinations, Old Town has many more restaurants than it does historical attractions. All are easily accessible via the King Street Metro station, combined with a ride on the free King Street Trolley to the center of Old Town. You'll find cuisines from around the world offered in every price range along King Street The restaurants described here give you a good sampling of the many tastes offered, but don't be afraid to stroll along and pick one of your own. Restaurants generally post their menus out front, and you'll know by the number of customers which restaurants get nods from the town's affluent citizenry.

My favorite joint for coffee and pastries is Misha's Coffee Roaster & Coffee House, 102 Patrick St. (tel. 703/548-4089; http://mishascoffee.com), which hearkens back to the beatnik coffeehouses of the 1950s, with real art on the walls and thrice-read newspapers on the tables. The dogs and bikes leashed to the parking meters outside attest to Misha's popularity with local residents, who gather here for long conversations over freshly roasted coffee. It's open Monday to Saturday from 6am to 8pm, Sunday 6:30am to 8pm.

Inexpensive

Stalls sell inexpensive eats in the Torpedo Factory Food Pavilion between the Torpedo Factory, at King and Cameron streets, and the riverfront Chart House restaurant. It's open daily from 11am to 9:30pm.