Experience something new this winter as you dine outside to reduce risk and savor chef-driven flavors. Alexandria restaurants are adapting to the dropping temperatures with innovative solutions to keep you warm, from cozy firepits to “bring your own blanket” discounts to twinkling lights for ambience. Be sure to call ahead or make a reservation, as outdoor seating at most restaurants is limited. Need some pre-supper supplies?

At this time, the safest way to enjoy Alexandria is from home with takeout, online shopping, virtual experiences and more. If you decide to go out, please review the CDC’s recommendations for limiting your risk of contracting COVID-19. Outdoor dining is safest with ample ventilation and is best to enjoy with members of your household.

Old Town

Bastille: At Bastille, receive 10% off your check when you BYOB—bring your own blanket. Or, purchase a fluffy covering at the French-inspired eatery and warm up by the firepits.

Bistro Sancerre: Bistro Sancerre’s semi-enclosed overhang features built-in heaters to keep things cozy outside the upscale French American restaurant and wine bar.

Café 44: Reserve a spot on Café 44’s heated riverside balcony for a spectacular view of the Potomac River as you toast the season.

Captain Gregory’s: Raise a glass at the speakeasy’s outdoor Christmas pop-up, Miracle Alley, featuring creative cocktails like “Rum Rum Rudolph” and “Oaxacan Hot Chocolate,” plus chef-driven takes on snacks like beignets and deviled eggs.

King & Rye: Experience King & Rye’s Winter Wonderland from December 2, 2020 to January 30, 2021. You and household members can book a private igloo, outfitted with heaters as well as the option to play your own music via a Bluetooth speaker. Enjoy a tapas-style menu with a Southern twist along with festive cocktails. Igloos are cleaned by a sanitizing machine between parties.

Yunnan by Potomac Noodle House: Be warmed from the inside out when you enjoy a hearty bowl of mixian noodles al fresco at Yunnan by Potomac, decked out with heaters and twinkling lights.

More Old Town Spots to Stay Warm:

• Augie’s Mussel House and Beer Garden
• Bugsy’s Pizza Restaurant and Sports Bar
• Fish Market
• Fontaine
• Hank & Mitzi’s Italian Kitchen
• Hank’s Oyster Bar
• Haute Dogs & Fries
• Mason Social
• Mia’s Italian Kitchen
• Landini Brothers
• Sonoma Cellar
• Thai Signature Local Thai Street Food and Bar
• The Majestic
• The Warehouse
• T.J. Stone’s Grill House and Tap Room
• Union Street Public House
• Urbano 116
• Vola’s Dockside Grill
• Yunnan by Potomac Noodle House

Del Ray/Arlandria

Barkhaus: Brand-new Barkhaus boasts heaters, tents with windbreakers, hot cocoa and drinks and outdoor furniture this winter—not to mention an off-leash dog park for four-legged friends.

Del Ray Café: Del Ray Café has warmed up its winterized side porch and is ready to host you this holiday season and into the new year with a French-infused menu.

Lena’s Wood-Fired Pizza & Tap: Lena’s offers options for outdoor dining. Tropical-themed Lena’s Oasis can adjust with the weather with tent sides that can be opened or closed as well as fresh air heaters. Lena’s Beer Garden on the patio features a fire pit, additional heaters and mulled wine and hot cider (spiked or non-alcoholic) to keep you warm.

More Del Ray Spots to Stay Warm:

• Hops N Shine
• The Garden Del Ray

West End

Ramparts Tavern & Grill: Enjoy the twinkling lights and festive atmosphere as you dine al fresco for a casual bite at Ramparts.

Port City Brewing Company: Book a table at Port City’s outdoor seating and sip your brews under a canopy of glowing lights.

Taqueria Picoso: Enjoy outdoor heaters and bring a blanket as you warm up with Taqueria Picoso’s street-inspired, chef-crafted Mexican food, featuring tacos include al pastor, barbacoa, lengua, pollo pipian, brisket and even chili-roasted mushrooms.

Carlyle/Eisenhower Valley

Delia’s: In the mood for Mediterranean? Reserve an outdoor dining bubble with others in your household at Delia’s and dig into dishes like chicken souvlaki and brick-oven pizzas. Ryobi fogger-misters disinfect the air within the tent between parties.

Laporta’s Restaurant: Luxuriate in Laporta’s expansive outdoor patio and adjacent courtyard as you savor a seafood feast, pasta entrees and more.

Mount Vernon Inn

Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant: Savor an al fresco meal with historic ambience when you dine at the Mount Vernon Inn, starting with the restaurant’s beloved peanut soup, followed by the filet mignon or skillet mac & cheese.

From takeout to gift cards, find more ways to enjoy independent restaurants this winter in Alexandria.

Header Image Credit: Yunnan by Potomac Noodle House