Guide to 23rd Street: National Landing’s “Restaurant Row”
National Landing’s 23rd Street more than earns its nickname of “Restaurant Row."
This charming, walkable corridor is a hub for cafes, pubs and eateries, all clustered together. That includes DMV institutions that have stood the test of time for decades, like The Portofino Restaurant, Freddie’s Beach Bar or Urban Thai.
New hotspots are moving into the neighborhood, too, including La Posada and Falafel, Inc. Whether you’re in the mood for chips and guac, pancakes, or doro wat, here’s where to dine out on Restaurant Row.
Explore Restaurant Row
Beauty Champagne and Sugar Boutique
Wine means community at this sweet bistro and shop run by owner Zena Polin, who is an adept guide to the best sips — including bottles made by women winemakers or from acclaimed Virginia wineries. Tasting nights and a popular wine club make this wine bar even more inviting, as do Polin’s homemade desserts.
Pizza and pasta with that old-school Italian touch can be found at La Bettola, where chicken parm and calzones are served on tables covered with red-and-white-checked tablecloths.
Pull up for patty melts at the National Landing location of this classic DMV diner chain, famously open 24/7 for all-hours cravings.
A neighborhood go-to for game watches since 1994, Crystal City Sports Pub is open from 8AM to 2AM every day of the year. The pub’s three floors are decked out with pool tables and memorabilia, with easygoing fare like chicken fingers and cheese sticks (and plenty of specials).
The D.C. area is known for its Ethiopian and Eritrean food, and National Landing's Enjera is a local favorite. This is a great option for meals for vegetarians and meat lovers alike, with combo platters geared towards both camps.
Explore Restaurant Row
Freddie’s Beach Bar & Restaurant
This beloved Arlington institution bills itself as a “straight-friendly LGBTQ+, straight-friendly” bar and restaurant and recently celebrated 25 years as a landmark in National Landing and the surrounding region. Owner Freddie Lutz dials up the fun with the unforgettable décor here (think Barbie dolls and purple everywhere) while karaoke nights and drag brunches are bound to be a party.
Mexican and Latin American favorites from “super” nachos to sizzling fajitas and beef short rib birria tacos make the menu at this newer 23rd Street arrival, La Posada. Don’t miss mango cheesecake for dessert.
Local chain Los Tios has both Mexican combo plates and Salvadorean platters covered, with a loyal clientele at its National Landing outpost.
Hoist a pint at this traditional Irish pub that whips up classic dishes like fish and chips and Shepherd’s pie along with standard bar fare like burgers and chicken fingers. Daily happy hour deals bring in the regulars.
Owner Pam Makepigul recently celebrated more than 20 years in the neighborhood at Urban Thai, where she specializes in street food from her native Bangkok. Tom Yum soup, Panang curry and drunken noodles are highlights here.
