Tucked away in Arlington, Virginia, the Highlands offers a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, presenting a residential haven with a surprisingly vibrant food scene. This hidden gem, conveniently located and brimming with local character, is much more than just a place to live; it’s a place to savor. From cozy cafes brewing aromatic coffees to authentic international cuisines transporting your taste buds across continents, the Highlands boasts a diverse culinary landscape waiting to be explored. This guide will be your compass, directing you to the best places to eat and drink in the Highlands, ensuring a memorable and delicious experience. Prepare your appetite, because we’re about to embark on a delectable journey!
Exploring the Diversity of Food in the Highlands
Let’s begin our culinary adventure through the Highlands, highlighting some of the best places to satisfy your appetite, whether you’re craving a quick bite, a leisurely meal, or an adventurous taste of something new. The Highlands offers a diverse range of options, promising a flavor to suit every palate and a setting to fit every mood.
Casual Cafes and Bakeries: A Morning or Afternoon Delight
The Highlands understands the importance of a good cup of coffee and a sweet treat. Several charming cafes and bakeries dot the neighborhood, perfect for starting your day or indulging in an afternoon pick-me-up.
The Daily Grind
A local favorite, The Daily Grind offers a welcoming atmosphere and a wide selection of coffee drinks, teas, and pastries. The aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, creating a cozy and inviting space to relax or catch up with friends. Their signature lattes, featuring creative flavor combinations, are a must-try, and their selection of artisanal breads and pastries are simply divine. Expect to spend around ten to fifteen dollars for a coffee and pastry. You’ll find them nestled on Highland Street, a central location easily accessible from anywhere in the neighborhood.
Sweet Surrender Bakery
If you have a sweet tooth, Sweet Surrender Bakery is your paradise. This delightful bakery specializes in custom cakes, cupcakes, and cookies, each a work of art. They also offer a selection of other baked goods, including croissants, muffins, and scones, all made with the freshest ingredients. It’s a popular spot for celebrations, but equally perfect for a simple, satisfying treat. Prices range from five dollars for a single cupcake to more for custom orders. Located on a quiet side street, Sweet Surrender offers a peaceful escape from the busier parts of the Highlands.
International Cuisine: A Taste of the World in the Highlands
One of the highlights of the Highlands food scene is its diverse array of international cuisines. From authentic Ethiopian dishes to flavorful Italian pastas, you can experience the world without leaving the neighborhood.
Taste of Ethiopia
For an authentic Ethiopian experience, look no further than Taste of Ethiopia. This family-run restaurant serves up traditional dishes, such as injera (a spongy flatbread) with various stews and curries. The flavors are rich and complex, and the communal dining experience is both fun and engaging. Vegetarians will find plenty to enjoy here as well. Expect to spend around twenty to thirty dollars per person. Located near the community center, Taste of Ethiopia is a cultural and culinary gem. The restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods shines through in every dish.
Bella Italia Trattoria
Step into Bella Italia Trattoria and be transported to the heart of Italy. This charming trattoria offers a menu of classic Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Their homemade pasta is a must-try, and their wood-fired pizzas are simply irresistible. You can enjoy a satisfying meal for around twenty-five to forty dollars per person. Situated in a bustling part of the Highlands, Bella Italia offers a taste of authentic Italian cuisine in a lively and welcoming setting.
Pho Vietnam
Craving authentic Vietnamese cuisine? Look no further than Pho Vietnam. This spot offers rich and flavorful pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, along with other Vietnamese specialties like banh mi sandwiches and spring rolls. The restaurant is a family-owned favorite known for fresh ingredients and friendly service. A hearty bowl of pho will cost you around fifteen dollars, making it a fantastic and affordable meal option. You can find Pho Vietnam along Highland Street, a convenient stop for lunch or dinner.
American Fare and Pubs: Comfort Food and Good Times
Sometimes, you just want a classic burger or some hearty comfort food. The Highlands has you covered with a few solid options for American fare and pubs, perfect for a casual meal or a night out with friends.
The Highland Tavern
This cozy tavern is a neighborhood staple, offering a menu of classic pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making it a great place to grab a beer and watch the game. Their burgers are particularly popular, made with high-quality beef and topped with your choice of fixings. Expect to spend around fifteen to twenty-five dollars for a meal and drinks. The Highland Tavern is situated in the heart of the Highlands, a central meeting place for locals and visitors alike.
Arlington Grill
Arlington Grill is known for its hearty American comfort food. Expect classics like pot roast, meatloaf, and fried chicken, along with a selection of sandwiches and salads. They’re popular for brunch on the weekends, offering a wide variety of options to satisfy every craving. A meal here will likely cost you between twenty and thirty dollars. You can find Arlington Grill on a corner lot, providing a spacious and welcoming atmosphere.
Spotlight Restaurant: The Garden Table
Nestled on a quiet corner in the Highlands, The Garden Table is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. With its charming outdoor patio and its focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, The Garden Table has quickly become a must-visit destination for food lovers. What sets it apart is its commitment to sustainability and its dedication to creating a menu that reflects the changing seasons.
“We believe in using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients possible,” says Chef Emily Carter, the driving force behind The Garden Table’s innovative menu. “We work closely with local farmers and producers to source our ingredients, ensuring that our dishes are both delicious and sustainable.”
The Garden Table’s menu changes regularly, depending on what’s in season. However, there are a few dishes that have become permanent fixtures, beloved by regulars and newcomers alike. The Pan-Seared Scallops, served with a butternut squash risotto and a brown butter sage sauce, are a perennial favorite. The scallops are perfectly seared, creating a crispy exterior and a tender interior, and the risotto is creamy and flavorful. Another must-try dish is the Roasted Chicken, which is brined for twenty-four hours before being roasted to perfection. The chicken is juicy and flavorful, and the crispy skin is simply irresistible.
One evening, while dining at The Garden Table, I overheard a couple celebrating their anniversary. The waiter, noticing the occasion, brought them a complimentary glass of champagne and a small dessert. It was a small gesture, but it spoke volumes about The Garden Table’s commitment to creating a memorable dining experience for every guest. The food is exceptional, the atmosphere is charming, and the service is impeccable.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While the aforementioned restaurants are well-known and popular, the Highlands also has a few hidden gems and local favorites that are worth seeking out. These are the places that locals frequent, the restaurants that offer a unique and authentic experience.
Maria’s Pupuseria
Tucked away in a small strip mall, Maria’s Pupuseria is a true hidden gem. This unassuming restaurant serves up delicious and authentic pupusas, a traditional Salvadoran dish made from thick, handmade corn tortillas filled with various ingredients. The pupusas are cooked to order and served with curtido, a tangy cabbage slaw, and salsa. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that won’t break the bank. Locals love Maria’s for its authentic flavors, its friendly service, and its affordable prices. A filling meal costs around ten dollars.
The Corner Deli
This unassuming deli has been serving the Highlands community for years. Locals flock to The Corner Deli for its classic sandwiches, soups, and salads. The sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and piled high with meat and cheese. The soups are homemade and hearty, perfect for a cold day. It’s a great spot for a quick lunch, and it’s a testament to the Highlands’ appreciation for simple, well-made food. Expect to spend around eight to fifteen dollars.
Tips for Dining in the Highlands
Navigating the Highlands food scene can be a breeze with a few helpful tips. Here’s what you need to know:
Parking in the Highlands can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Street parking is available, but it can be limited. Consider using ride-sharing services or public transportation if possible. Several restaurants offer dedicated parking spaces, so checking ahead is always a good idea.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and for popular restaurants like The Garden Table. Calling ahead to make a reservation will ensure that you get a table and avoid a long wait.
The best time to visit the Highlands for dining is during the weekdays, when the crowds are smaller and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Lunchtime is generally less busy than dinner time.
Outdoor seating is available at several restaurants in the Highlands, making it a great option during the warmer months. Be sure to check if your desired restaurant offers outdoor seating and if it is available when you plan to visit.
Most restaurants in the Highlands are wheelchair accessible, but it’s always best to call ahead to confirm if you have any specific accessibility needs.
Several restaurants in the Highlands are family-friendly, offering kids’ menus and a welcoming atmosphere for children. The Highland Tavern and Arlington Grill are particularly good choices for families.
Beyond the Food: Exploring the Highlands
While the food scene is a major draw, the Highlands offers more than just great dining. Take some time to explore the neighborhood and discover its other hidden treasures.
The Highlands Community Park is a beautiful green space perfect for a stroll or a picnic. The park features walking trails, playgrounds, and a community garden.
The local shops and boutiques offer a unique shopping experience. You can find everything from handcrafted jewelry to locally made art.
The historical landmarks in the area offer a glimpse into the Highlands’ rich past. Be sure to visit the historic church and the old schoolhouse.
Dining in the Highlands can be part of a larger Highlands experience. Enjoy a delicious meal and then explore the neighborhood’s other attractions, creating a memorable day out.
Conclusion
The Highlands, Arlington, is a culinary destination that deserves to be explored. From cozy cafes to authentic international cuisine, this vibrant neighborhood offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. The food in the Highlands is more than just sustenance; it’s an experience, a celebration of community, and a reflection of the neighborhood’s unique character. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor, the Highlands promises a delicious adventure that you won’t soon forget.
So, plan your culinary adventure to the Highlands today and discover the delicious treasures that await! You’ll find yourself returning again and again to savor the flavors of this hidden gem in Arlington. The Highlands is more than just a neighborhood; it’s a community united by its love of good food and the welcoming atmosphere of its local establishments. Come and experience it for yourself!
