BRABO by Robert Wiedmaier
German-raised chef Robert Wiedmaier moved on from his acclaimed Washington, D.C., restaurant, Marcel's, to open this restaurant in Alexandria. His food is influenced by his diverse upbringing; the menu boasts French, Italian, Russian and Belgian traditions. Starters include the duck liver parfait, house-cured salmon and sweetbreads for the more adventurous diners, and dinner entrees include lamb and a local rockfish dish served with gnocchi.
The decor is simple and clean, and BRABO is eco-friendly; they carry many organic wines and purchase meats and produce from local purveyors and recycle. BRABO has a tasting room adjacent to the restaurant that serves tarts, mussels and soup and salads and offers a wide selection of beers. Also in Old Town Alexandria is BRABO's The Butcher's Block, a market that sells meats, Belgian beers, breads and cheeses.
BRABO by Robert Wiedmaier
1600 King St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703-894-3440
braborestaurant.com
Bastille
Bastille is a French bistro-influenced restaurant opened by Christophe Poteaux and Michelle Garbee-Poteaux in 2006. The wine menu is extensive and handpicked by the chefs. The menu offers a la carte choices as well as a three-course bistro menu and a four-course gourmand menu. Starters include calamari and shrimp beignets and Foie gras, while the duck magret with spiced pineapple sauce is one of the entree highlights. Bastille, which supports local farmers, is dimly lit, and the ambiance is warm and romantic.
Bastille
1201 N. Royal St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703-519-3776
bastillerestaurant.com
Jackson 20
Named after President Andrew Jackson, this modern American restaurant is eco-friendly and serves only organic meats. Chef Jeff Armstrong keeps the menu pretty straightforward, highlighting American classics, some with a modern twist: The Virginia macaroni and cheese is filled with bacon and ham hock, and the roasted duck is topped with grilled duck hearts.
Jackson 20
480 King St.
Alexandria, VA 22314
703-842-2790
jackson20.com
