19 Best Restaurants in Dumfries, VA
I invite you to join me on a virtual tour of the best restaurants in Dumfries, Virginia, and take a peek into the town's gastronomic heart.
This article is a collaborative effort, drawing on insights from locals and visitors we interviewed. While we've highlighted some must-visit spots, it's imperative to understand that these recommendations are shaped by personal opinions and experiences.
There are countless other wonderful places awaiting your discovery. Our goal isn't just to point you to the well-trodden paths, but to inspire you to explore and truly immerse yourself in the city's essence.
La Caverna Bar & Grill
When it comes to an authentic Spanish experience in the heart of Dumfries, nothing beats La Caverna Bar & Grill.
This hidden gem is a treasure trove of gastronomic pleasure.
The restaurant serves some of the best food I've had in town, and it's not just the food; the ambiance is just as delightful.
As soon as you walk in, you are immersed in a vibrant atmosphere that instantly brightens your day.
The food at La Caverna Bar & Grill is nothing short of spectacular.
Each dish is prepared with love and care, ensuring a taste that is unique and delicious.
Taquizas Virginia
Every so often, I stumble upon a gem that redefines my palate, and Taquizas Virginia was one such revelation.
Tucked away amidst the hustle and bustle, this authentic Mexican food truck undoubtedly has the best Birria Tacos in Northern Virginia.
I remember the first time I laid my hands on their tacos; the juicy, tender brisket and the flavorful chorizo left me wanting more.
And don't even get me started on the chicken - so succulent, it was a delight to relish.
Venturing beyond their delectable tacos, I've also had the pleasure of savoring their rice and beans.
Packed with flavor and cooked to perfection, they were downright irresistible.
I mean, who could possibly say no to that?
I'm almost embarrassed to admit that it took me so long to discover this culinary treasure.
Although I have mostly stuck to their Birria tacos, I've heard rave reviews about their other offerings like sopes and Al pastor tacos.
And each time I visit, I promise myself that I will try something new.
After all, if it's on their menu, it must be worth a try, right?
Bangkok Street Dumfries
Ever had one of those days when you're craving a culinary adventure that's just steps away from your doorstep?
That's exactly what I felt when I first discovered Bangkok Street Dumfries, a local gem that satisfies every Thai food lover's palate.
From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm welcome and was taken to a comfortable booth by the window.
The atmosphere was a little sparse, but who needs a dance club when you're there for the amazing food, right?
I ordered the Pad Thai and Chicken Ginger.
To say the tastes were impressive would be an understatement - each dish popped with flavor, hitting the perfect mark of freshness, and the aromatic spices were a delight to my senses.
What's more, the portions were generous, making the reasonably priced menu even more appealing.
I also tried their Fried Calamari and Green Curry on a separate occasion, and trust me when I say it was nothing short of fantastic.
The calamari paired exceptionally well with the sauce on the side, and the curry was a flavorful mix of chicken, bamboo shoots, and other vegetables.
The quick service made the experience even more enjoyable.
As a bonus, the man who took my order over the phone and delivered it to me was incredibly kind.
With service and food this good, Bangkok Street Dumfries is definitely going to be a regular on my takeout list.
Don't let the cramped parking lot deter you - the food is more than worth it.
And for those who might have heard that the food is bland, let me assure you, it's anything but.
Anyone who says otherwise might need to question their taste buds.
Dumfries Cafe
Have I told you about this little gem in our neighborhood, the Dumfries Cafe?
Nestled in the cozy digs of Route 1, this old-school diner has been my go-to spot for over two decades.
From the moment you step inside, you’ll be taken in by its endearing simplicity.
It’s not a big place, but it’s always clean and well-managed.
You order your food, take a seat, and in no time, they bring it out to you.
It feels just like home, with the added bonus of not having to do the dishes.
What I love about this place is their food - it's simple but done so well.
Whether it's breakfast or lunch, every bite is a delight!
I’ve tried other diners in Dumfries, but nothing hits the spot quite like Dumfries Cafe.
It’s worth noting that they close at 2 pm each day and remain closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
So, make sure you plan your visit accordingly.
A standout memory from one of my weekend visits was when my partner and I decided to have breakfast here.
She ordered two eggs over easy with scrapple and toast, while I opted for scrambled eggs with home fries and grits.
The coffee was refilled without even having to ask, and the service was as friendly and swift as ever.
The Happy Eatery
You won't believe the joy that hits you when you walk through the doors of Happy Eatery - it's like stepping into a friend's home.
The new decor has made this place even more inviting, and the change in design adds a fresh appeal that makes dining all the more pleasurable.
Here's the best part; the food is just as wonderful as the atmosphere.
It's not every day you find such mouth-watering Chinese cuisine in this town.
Their wings are unparalleled - hands down, they're the best in town.
And to top it all, they are the only Chinese restaurant around that serves bubble tea, which is a must-try!
What sets Happy Eatery apart is their dedication to their customers.
Each order is handled with utmost care and delivered with a warm smile.
Their food is always fresh, something I can vouch for, having been there on several occasions - even on a random Wednesday when the place was bustling with customers.
The wait was pretty short considering how busy they were, and the food?
It came hot off the stove, fresh and delectable.
I highly recommend their Lo main - succulent and saucy, just the way I like it.
The Szechuan pork, dumplings, and fried rice sides are equally impressive, and they never disappoint.
El Paso Mexican Grill
I've always had a soft spot for lively cantina-style restaurants, and El Paso Mexican Grill is one of those gems in our neighborhood.
Bursting with vibrant Mexican culture, the restaurant instantly transports you to the heart of Mexico with its warm, inviting setting.
One sunny afternoon, I decided to try their unique combo.
I picked a chicken tamale, a shredded beef soft taco, and a ground beef enchilada.
The shredded beef was well-seasoned, and the accompanying black beans and rice were a perfect side.
The Molé enchiladas I ordered were a hit, tasting simply out of this world.
My partner's shrimp, too, was a thumbs-up.
Skrimp Shack
You know those evenings when you're just driving around town, not sure where to stop for a quick bite?
Well, that's how I stumbled upon Skrimp Shack.
This delightful eatery, tucked away in our local vicinity, was one we decided to give a try.
You can easily find them online at Skrimp Shack, if you're curious to know more before you visit.
So, what was it like?
Let me start by saying that I'm a seafood lover.
And when I spotted the shrimp and big cat po boy with fries on the menu, I couldn't resist.
My partner went for a simple chicken sandwich with hush puppies and mac & cheese.
Although the sandwiches here don't come with lettuce and tomato, there was a burst of flavors in my mouth.
The shrimp were succulent, and they served what I'd say was a pretty decent portion.
Fo Japanese Bistro
Walking in the quiet streets of our neighborhood, you often come across some names that always ring a bell.
Among those, Fo Japanese Bistro has been a go-to destination for me and my family for the past year.
There's something about the authenticity of their Japanese cuisine that makes you go back for more.
From the sushi rolls to the steak lover roll to the shrimp tempura roll, there is a lot to explore.
Although, from my experience, each dish offers a unique taste, I should admit, there was this one time when I felt the flavors of the steak and the shrimp tempura roll were quite similar.
But those were just one-off instances, and the consistent quality of the food has never failed to impress us since then.
The restaurant's ambiance is another reason why I find myself drawn to this place.
The decor sends out a warm welcome which is complimented by the service.
Over the years, we've seen that the restaurant is usually not very crowded, which makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful dinner or even a pre-birthday celebration, just like my partner and I did the last time we were there.
Wings Ways
I can't count the number of times I've made a pit stop at Wings Ways on a busy day.
Tucked right in the heart of our town, this place is my go-to for a quick, satisfying lunch.
One of the reasons I love it so much is their toasted, cheesy subs that you can customize as per your preferences.
What's lunch without a hearty sandwich?
One sunny afternoon, I remember ordering their Peri-Peri chicken sandwich, and I was left craving more.
The chicken was cooked to perfection with just the right amount of spice.
My partner, on the other hand, is a fan of their Philly steak and cheese sandwich.
The combination of tender steak and melting cheese is simply divine.
Not to mention, their fries make for a perfect side dish, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
During another visit, I couldn't resist trying their beef gyro.
For less than $15, I had a full meal that left me completely satisfied.
The beef was tender and flavorful, and their prompt, friendly service added to the experience.
It's becoming harder to decide what to order each time because everything on the menu is too good.
Mandarin Court
A typical evening out for my partner and I involves enjoying our all-time favorite Chinese and Japanese cuisine.
The ideal spot for this in my town has always been Mandarin Court, with its convenient whereabouts and strip-mall locale.
As we walked in, the cleanliness of the spot struck us immediately, with well-maintained and spacious areas; even the bathrooms were spotless.
The food had always been a remarkable aspect of the restaurant, and we were looking forward to the flavorful beef dish, which indeed didn't disappoint.
The beef was tender, and the sauce added a wonderful taste that we savored.
Mirna Restaurant
As I was driving down the streets of my hometown, my stomach started growling, reminding me it was time for breakfast.
Remembering that our usual spot, Dumfries Cafe, cuts off their breakfast service at noon, we decided to try something new.
That's when we stumbled upon Mirna Restaurant.
From the moment we stepped in, we felt the warm, welcoming atmosphere of this local, family-owned gem.
I indulged in their eggs with chorizo, a savory delight.
My son couldn't stop raving about the chicken quesadillas paired with crispy fries.
My partner, on the other hand, was taken by the enticing flavors of the carne asado.
The dish was wonderfully complemented by queso fresco, chips, and homemade salsa.
To top it all off, their coffee was invigorating, just what I needed to kickstart my day.
Triangle Fried Chicken
One of those nights when my stomach was growling louder than my TV, I decided to explore my town for a quick, scrumptious bite.
My choice fell on the Triangle Fried Chicken, and I'm glad it did.
When you first walk in, you're greeted with the fragrant aroma of frying chicken, and the sizzling sound of the fryer is like music to your ears.
And the speed at which they work is nothing short of amazing – you'll have your order in front of you before you've finished browsing their mouth-watering menu.
Speaking of the menu, Triangle Fried Chicken has a plethora of choices to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.
My personal favorite is the chicken over rice platter.
A generous portion of perfectly fried chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, served over a bed of fluffy, fragrant rice.
And the prices?
Hard to beat such high-quality food.
But be warned – once you taste the delicious fried chicken at Triangle, you might find yourself coming back again and again.
Safari African Restaurant
Every now and then, I crave something different, something that takes me on a culinary journey right in the heart of our town.
That's when I turn to Safari African Restaurant.
This hidden gem offers a taste of authentic African cuisine, and it's one of my favorite spots to indulge in.
From the moment I stepped into this humble yet cozy restaurant, I was welcomed with a warm, matronly smile that made me feel at home.
I remember ordering their Jollof meal on my first visit, a dish so generously served and wonderfully presented that I was instantly hooked.
Let me tell you this, each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors.
Over time, Safari African Restaurant has become my go-to place for an authentic African culinary experience, and I've had the pleasure of trying numerous dishes from their varied menu.
The waakye and the fufu & spinach soup with smoked turkey and fish are simply out of this world.
Their offerings are so tasty that I often find myself wishing they'd include more options with goat meat.
And it's not just the food that's impressive; their top-notch customer service is truly commendable.
Whether it's the husband-and-wife duo who always greet with a friendly smile or the exceptional cleanliness and packaging of the food, everything about this place is impressive.
La Bendicion
You know, there's just something about finding a local dining spot that feels like home.
That's exactly what I found with La Bendicion, a family-run restaurant tucked away in our town.
My first visit was a memorable one.
The ambiance alone was enough to captivate me.
It was such a fantastic experience; the environment was friendly, warm, and inviting.
It felt like I'd been invited to a family gathering rather than just a restaurant.
The steak and cheese sandwich caught my eye on the menu, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.
The flavor was robust, the cheese perfectly melted, and the accompanying fries were a delight.
They were crisped to perfection, leaving me speechless with every bite.
On another occasion, I decided to take a friend along to share the experience.
In no time, their plate of wings was wiped clean.
The speed at which they disappeared was a testament to how good they were.
It's not just the food that's impressive; it's the service too.
You're not just another customer here; you're treated like a part of their family.
Now, I'd be remiss not to mention their chicken fajitas.
The ingredients are always fresh, and the dish comes out of the kitchen quickly.
The combination of taste and speed is just right.
And if you're worried about the price, don't be.
The price-to-food ratio here is perfect - good value for your money.
Feng's Garden
If you're ever driving around town and craving some quality Asian cuisine, Feng's Garden is an often overlooked gem nestled in a local strip mall.
You might be disinclined to give it a go based on its admittedly utilitarian decor, but the food here really does the talking.
I remember my first time at Feng's; I was in dire need of a quick meal, and there it was, a small beacon of hope in the ordinary strip mall facade.
Intrigued by their vegetarian options, I opted for the vegetable chow mei fun and Szechuan-style bean curd.
I was pleasantly surprised by the expeditious service and the piping hot food that was served to me.
The chow mei fun was a blend of salty and flavorful, and the bean curd was just the right level of spicy, perfectly complemented by the steamed white rice.
Montclair Chinese Cuisine
Ah, the sweet and sour symphony of a well-prepared Chinese dish!
If you have an appetite for a culinary journey, let me introduce you to Montclair Chinese Cuisine.
Nestled in the heart of our community, this place has become a cornerstone in our dining routine.
Just the other day, I found myself craving a classic Chinese dish.
So, I hopped over to the restaurant's website, Montclair Chinese Cuisine, and ordered General Tso’s Tofu, a personal favorite.
The dish was packed with flavor, the tofu beautifully complementing the classic General Tso sauce.
Meanwhile, my mom decided on the Beef w/ Broccoli Lunch Special.
Now, I must admit, I was so captivated by the tantalizing aroma wafting from the plate that I forgot to take a picture before digging in!
But, of course, what’s a Chinese meal without a side of fried rice?
The fried rice at Montclair Chinese Cuisine is a game-changer - the perfect combo to have with any General Tso's food item.
It’s truly an amazing side dish that enhances the main course wonderfully.
On a slightly different note, this restaurant is also our go-to on DoorDash.
They always deliver fast service, great food, and unbeatable prices!
We usually order the chicken broccoli, sweet & sour chicken, and some sugar donuts - a delightful combo to round off a meal.
Viva Tequila
There's nothing quite like enjoying a flavorful margarita on a sunny afternoon, especially when it's at Viva Tequila.
This local Mexican gem is where you can find me most weekends, soaking in the lively ambiance and delighting in their delicious cuisine.
The food?
Absolutely mouth-watering.
Whether it's the enchiladas smothered in green sauce or the crispy nachos loaded with melted cheese, Viva Tequila's menu never fails to impress.
Other Restaurant Nearby
America’s Best Wings (Montclair)
What's a trip to the neighborhood without biting into the best wings in town?
I'm talking about a local gem, America’s Best Wings.
You'll find yourself in a quick, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for chowing down on an array of wing flavors, complemented with seafood, salads, and classic sides.
When you walk into this place, the first thing that hits you is the excellent customer service.
You meet Saif at the front desk, the epitome of professionalism, friendliness, and courtesy.
They ensure you receive the correct order and also verify the quality of the food leaving their store.
I can't get enough of their honey barbecue wings with mambo sauce and Philly cheese steak - it's a taste sensation like none other!
But the wings aren't the only thing that's got me hooked.
They've got these unique flavors like Honey Moon Dust that I absolutely adore.
It's distinctive, and there's nothing like it elsewhere in town.
And let's not even get started on their traditional fries, the perfect side to any meal.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, one thing is certain - Dumfries is a food lover's paradise.
From La Caverna Bar & Grill's vibrant ambiance to the authentic Mexican street tacos at Taquizas Virginia LLC, there's something to satiate every palate.
Indeed, the diverse culinary landscape of Dumfries makes every meal a delightful exploration.
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