Interested in getting intel on the freshest new spots in Alexandria? From a retro diner to a juice bar, read on for a rundown of the newest hot spots to debut near you.
Tequila & Taco
Stroll past 540 John Carlyle St. in Eisenhower East and you'll find Tequila & Taco, a new Mexican eatery with 10 different types of tacos on the menu. It's the latest venture from married couple and restaurateurs "Mango Mike" and Donna Anderson, who also serve up barbecue at Sweet Fire Donna's just down the street, reports Alexandria Living.
Taco options include the carne asada (grilled skirt steak, avocado and pico de gallo), mahi-mahi with pineapple salsa, crispy pork belly with watermelon radish, among others. Cocktails, wine, cervezas and freshly made margaritas are also available.
The Executive Diner
Over in Old Town, there's The Executive Diner at 1400 Duke St., which is serving up classic comfort food. The new addition is open seven days a week and serves all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Look for homestyle favorites like biscuits and gravy, fruit-topped waffles, shrimp and grits, sandwiches, wraps and home fries.
Yelp reviewer Tenshi S. has high praise for the new eatery: "What a nice diner! Executive fits the name — the service staff is impeccable and the food was amazing."
Van Dorn Diner
On the West End, another diner has opened its doors. The retro Van Dorn Diner, at 281 S. Van Dorn St., is in the space that formerly housed Kabob Villa in Van Dorn Plaza. A throwback to the 1950s, the diner has swivel stools around a curved breakfast bar, teal and white leather booths and vintage art.
The all-day breakfast menu features country fried steak, corned beef hash, omelets, French toast and more. For lunch and dinner, look for hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, chicken tenders and desserts like apple pie and ice cream.
South Block
Now open at 106 N. Lee St. in Old Town is South Block, a spot to score cold-pressed juices and smoothies. The Arlington-based micro-juicery has several shops in the area. This is the chain's second Alexandria location, with the other in Del Ray.
Beyond juice, South Block also serves açai bowls filled with nuts, fruits and seeds, and both standard and inventive caffeinated beverages, including a beet latte.
Smoking Kow BBQ
Head over to 3250 Duke St. to check out Smoking Kow BBQ, the first brick-and-mortar location for the food truck operation. Owned by Dylan Kough, the new barbecue joint is serving up smoked meats and street tacos.
The small eatery only seats 20, with many customers taking the slow-cooked meals to go. Look for hand-rubbed chicken, pulled pork, ribs and brisket on platters with housemade sides, including mac and cheese, coleslaw and cornbread.
