If there’s one thing that Vienna’s residents have in common, it’s the love of good food – and they know exactly where to find it. These local favorites are unique to Vienna and although they differ in price range and cuisine, they all feature authentic and inspired dishes, quality ingredients, top-notch service, and vibrant venues.

Bazin’s on Church

 

A Vienna staple, the award-winning Bazin’s on Church offers creative and contemporary American cuisine in a charming and lively bistro setting. Bazin’s is known for serving the best melt-in-your-mouth sea bass in NoVA and signature favorite – the jumbo lump crab meat spring rolls. Their varied menu is complimented by a global wine collection with over 400 options and a distinct focus on California’s best offerings. In addition, Bazin’s celebrates the gluten-free lifestyle with innovative creations by the head chef and owner Patrick Bazin. Friendly and knowledgeable staff, a Sunday brunch to die for, and a beautiful setting, are just some of the reasons this restaurant fills up almost every night, so I highly suggest making a reservation or prepare to wait for your table.

Plaka Grill

 

When Vienna residents are in the mood for Greek, they head to Plaka Grill. This casual style restaurant serves up generous portions of classical Greek fare made with the freshest ingredients. Their signature made-from- scratch Plaka Gyro combines the traditional gyro with the Plaka Grill twist – a serving of French fries joins the flavorful grilled meat inside the soft pita. Vienna’s own Peter Drosos, Plaka Grill’s chef and owner, grew up in his family’s local restaurant and then obtained his culinary arts degree in Greece where he worked in various establishments and perfected the art of souvlaki and gyros. Reasonable prices, an excellent beer selection, delightful staff, and
festive atmosphere make Plaka Grill the number one location for gyros in Fairfax County.

Sushi Yoshi

 

Sushi Yoshi is Vienna’s answer to traditional Japanese and fusion cuisine. Reservations are necessary at this popular venue where the fish is always fresh and the distinct flavors burst on your palate. Order a Bento box for heaping portions of a variety of dishes or the Sushi Yoshi take on Chirashi, is also a local favorite. Perfectly crafted sushi, stunning presentations, great prices, beautiful indoor décor, and a quaint tree-shaded outdoor patio are why Sushi Yoshi has become one of Vienna’s preferred dining destinations for lunch or dinner.

Taco Bamba

 

Celebrity chef Victor Albisu is known for his appearances on Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay (and he did), Fox TV’s Hell’s Kitchen, and Telemundo’s Top Chef Estrellas. He has even cooked for President and Mrs. Obama. However, Vienna knows him best as the chef and owner of Taco Bamba where creative and unique taco and torta combinations are loaded with tender and savory meat, fresh and plentiful fillings, and tangy house-made sauces. Served in a casual and upbeat indoor and outdoor atmosphere, complete with a margarita bar and salsa bar, the only complaint is that Taco Bamba is so popular that the lines are long at times – but the incredible food is well worth the wait!

Clarity

 

Winner of countless awards, Clarity’s reputation for fine dining is well deserved. Featuring a daily changing menu with the freshest of seasonal ingredients, this upscale restaurant is known for its diverse menu, impeccable presentations and attentive, knowledgeable service. Your experience will begin with homemade bread fresh from the oven and olive oil for dipping. Expect to be delighted throughout your entire meal ending with their delicious and decadent desserts. At the chef’s bar, you can admire the energy and expertize involved in creating your meal. You will certainly not mind paying top dollar for your exceptional meal and if you dine at lunchtime, you will receive the same superb quality at more affordable prices.

Church Street Pizza

 

Whether you prefer by the slice or the whole pie, Church Street Pizza is where locals satisfy their desire for traditional NY style pizza. Relish in the perfected proportions of crispy yet chewy thin crust, light and flavorful tomato sauce, fresh and ample toppings and high-quality cheese that stretches from hand to mouth. Casual and homey, this no- frills spot is all about the pizza. The reasonable prices, friendly staff, and addictive salads round out the quintessential pizza parlor experience.

Maple Ave Restaurant

 

Enjoy eclectic American cuisine in a casual yet elegant setting at the Maple Avenue Restaurant. With high-end, farm-fresh ingredients, creative and inspired dishes, reasonable prices, and excellent customer service, you will certainly need to make advance reservations at this cozy venue. The weekend brunch is a must and menu favorites include the ricotta pancakes and truffle egg scramble. Although you may find their menu options are limited, it’s because they know what foodies want and they do it phenomenally well.