Arlington, Virginia, just across the river from Washington D.C., is often seen as a charming and vibrant city. It’s packed with rich history, culture, and modern-day energy, offering a myriad of attractions. But as someone who spends a lot of time dining out, I can’t help but draw attention to the incredible and creative dining experiences Arlington has to offer. From innovative takes on American classics to international twists on beloved dishes, Arlington’s restaurant scene is anything but ordinary. In this post, I’ll share with you some of the most creative restaurants in the area, based on my personal experiences.
1. The Liberty Tavern – Reinventing Classic American Cuisine
Location: 3195 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA
Price Range: $15 – $35 per entrée
Must-Try Dish: Liberty Burger
Nestled in the heart of Clarendon, The Liberty Tavern has become a beloved local institution. Combining the charm of a classic American tavern with the creativity of modern culinary techniques, the experience here is as comforting as it is exciting. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the inviting, rustic interior—wooden beams, warm lighting, and a cozy ambiance that instantly made me feel at ease. It’s the type of place where you can enjoy a casual night out or celebrate a special occasion. But what truly elevates this tavern is the food.
The Liberty Burger, one of their signature dishes, is the definition of a creative twist on a traditional favorite. Made with a juicy blend of grass-fed beef, caramelized onions, truffle aioli, and smoked cheddar, this burger is far from your average pub fare. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavorful richness and sophisticated ingredients, making it feel like an elevated dining experience. It’s not just about eating—it’s about enjoying every bite and savoring the complexity of the flavors.
In addition to their burgers, the Lobster Mac and Cheese stands out as a creamy, indulgent dish that’s pure comfort, while the Eggs Benedict made with succulent crab cakes adds an upscale twist to a classic brunch option. The menu here has a unique way of blending timeless American dishes with gourmet twists, making the experience feel familiar yet refreshing.
What Makes It Creative?
The real creativity at The Liberty Tavern lies in their ability to take classic comfort foods and reimagine them with a refined touch. They elevate basic ingredients, using thoughtful pairings and innovative techniques to deliver a dining experience that feels both accessible and extraordinary. Whether it’s through the truffle aioli on their burger or the lobster mac and cheese, every dish feels like it was crafted with intention and love.
How to Reserve & Get Discounts
If you’re planning to visit, I highly recommend making a reservation through Resy or OpenTable, especially on weekends when the restaurant is at its busiest. To make the most of your visit, consider checking their social media or website for any happy hour specials or discounted offers on drinks and appetizers. If you’re looking to enjoy a more budget-friendly option, their happy hour is a great opportunity to experience their creative menu without spending too much.
2. Arties – Playful American Cuisine with a Nostalgic Twist
Location: 1900 N. Veitch St., Arlington, VA
Price Range: $12 – $30 per entrée
Must-Try Dish: Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup
One of the first things that caught my attention at Arties was its whimsical vibe. Located in Rosslyn, Arties blends modern American cuisine with a touch of nostalgia. It’s the perfect place if you’re in the mood for something familiar but with a gourmet spin.
Their Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup takes this childhood classic to new heights. The artisan bread paired with aged cheddar elevates this comfort food dish to something extraordinary, while the tomato soup is infused with spices that add depth and complexity. It’s a dish that feels like a warm embrace but tastes like a sophisticated culinary experience.
What Makes It Creative?
Arties excels in taking classic American comfort food and elevating it with unexpected flavor combinations and gourmet ingredients. It’s playful without being gimmicky, and that’s a rare find in today’s restaurant scene.
How to Reserve & Get Discounts
I recommend making a reservation through OpenTable to ensure you get a spot, especially during the weekends when the restaurant can get quite busy. While Arties doesn’t have regular discounts, they do run promotions during holiday weekends and special events, which is a great time to visit.
3. The Brass Sun – A Fusion of Mediterranean and American Flavors
Location: 2200 N. Westmoreland St., Arlington, VA
Price Range: $18 – $40 per entrée
Must-Try Dish: Lamb Shank
The Brass Sun is a true hidden gem in Arlington. Located in Westover, this restaurant offers an exciting fusion of Mediterranean and American flavors. I was immediately impressed with the open, airy space and the calming earthy tones that make the interior feel welcoming yet contemporary.
What really makes the Brass Sun stand out is its menu. They blend Mediterranean spices and American ingredients in unexpected and delightful ways. The Lamb Shank was cooked to perfection and was incredibly tender, complemented by a rich sauce that had just the right amount of spice.
What Makes It Creative?
The Brass Sun excels in pairing Mediterranean ingredients like saffron, mint, and pomegranate with traditional American dishes like roast chicken and grilled fish. This unique blend creates a sophisticated yet accessible dining experience, perfect for anyone looking to try something new.
How to Reserve & Get Discounts
For easy reservations, I recommend using Resy. The Brass Sun doesn’t offer frequent discounts, but they do run seasonal specials and occasional wine-pairing events, which is a fun way to explore their menu creatively.
4. Ted’s Bulletin – Comfort Food with a Creative Spin
Location: 1301 S. Joyce St., Arlington, VA
Price Range: $10 – $25 per entrée
Must-Try Dish: Ted’s Tacos
Ted’s Bulletin in Pentagon City offers a quirky take on comfort food with a vintage 1920s diner feel. The restaurant is known for its creative twists on American classics, and I have to say, it delivers in a big way.
Their Ted’s Tacos are one of my personal favorites. It’s not just a regular taco — these are crispy fish tacos paired with fresh slaw and a tangy crema, creating a balanced flavor profile that elevates this classic dish. Ted’s also offers homemade pop tarts, which I recommend for dessert — they bring a nostalgic twist to the meal.
What Makes It Creative?
Ted’s Bulletin takes traditional comfort food and serves it up in fun, creative ways. The retro diner décor only adds to the charm, making it a great spot for both casual meals and special occasions. It’s like stepping back in time but with modern, inventive dishes.
How to Reserve & Get Discounts
Ted’s Bulletin accepts reservations through OpenTable, and they often offer weekday specials or happy hour deals. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions on their social media channels, as they sometimes offer discounts on certain menu items.
5. The Salt Line – Fresh Seafood with a Creative Coastal Twist
Location: 415 8th St SE, Washington, DC (a short drive from Arlington)
Price Range: $20 – $50 per entrée
Must-Try Dish: Lobster Roll
For seafood lovers like myself, The Salt Line is a must-visit. Located just across the river in D.C., it’s a short drive or metro ride from Arlington, and the trip is definitely worth it. The restaurant specializes in New England-style seafood but with a creative, modern twist.
Their Lobster Roll was one of the best I’ve ever had. Fresh lobster meat is served in a buttery, soft roll, and paired with a spicy mayo that added a delightful kick to each bite. Another standout is their clam chowder, which is rich and creamy, full of fresh ingredients.
What Makes It Creative?
The Salt Line takes the traditional seafood offerings and adds a layer of creativity with flavors and techniques that elevate the experience. From their craft cocktails to their innovative menu, The Salt Line brings coastal New England flavors to the D.C. area with sophistication and charm.
How to Reserve & Get Discounts
Reservations can be made via Resy or OpenTable, and while they don’t always offer discounts, they do have seasonal specials and sometimes offer happy hour deals on their seafood items, making it a great option for budget-conscious seafood lovers.
Booking Your Arlington Dining Experience
For those planning a trip to Arlington and looking for the best deals, here are a few platforms that can help streamline your booking process:
- OpenTable – A great platform for reserving tables at top restaurants in Arlington, including all the places mentioned in this post.
- Resy – Another fantastic platform for securing a spot at highly sought-after spots, especially for trendy, hard-to-book restaurants.
- Expedia – You can use Expedia to find deals on flights and accommodation while planning your food-centric adventure in Arlington.
- Yelp – Use Yelp to read detailed reviews and find exclusive discounts at Arlington’s most creative dining spots.
Final Thoughts
Arlington’s food scene is thriving with creativity. From classic American twists at Liberty Tavern to the Mediterranean-American fusion at the Brass Sun, there’s no shortage of innovative dining experiences in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a foodie seeking new tastes or someone who just enjoys great meals with a bit of artistic flair, Arlington has something to offer. So next time you find yourself in this beautiful city, don’t miss out on these creative and unforgettable dining experiences.
