5 Best Restaurants in Fairfax, Virginia to Try

Just miles from DC but rooted in Virginia history, Fairfax is a swirl of students, families, government lifers, and global restaurants.

Its dining scene embodies both the charm of old courthouses and the energy of tech startups—each meal here is a mix of local pride and world-savvy flavor.

1. 21 Great American Bistro

The true heart of downtown, 21 Great American Bistro is bustling, unpretentious, and full of warmth.

You’ll find tender steaks, blackened fish, rich pastas, and Southern-fried chicken share space with creative salads, gourmet burgers, and specials inspired by whatever’s in season nearby.

Cocktails change with the weather; the bar’s Old Fashioned and spicy margarita are both township legends.

2. Sisters Thai

Sisters Thai feels like a quirky, lived-in living room made for both comfort and conversation.

Meals start with fragrant Thai tea, and the menu dives deep into Bangkok street-food territory: spicy papaya salads, lemongrass soups, pad prik khing, vegan basil stir fries, and perfectly crisp roti.

The “living room” fills up at nearly all hours—families unwind here after busy weekends, students cram for exams over noodle bowls, and friend groups return again and again for the affordable, reliable flavors and genuinely kind staff.

3. Havabite Eatery

Greek and Italian comfort meet at Havabite, a longtime favorite for everything from gyros and souvlaki to toasted subs, moussaka, homey Greek salads, and mammoth baklava.

The staff welcomes you like long-lost relatives; it’s not uncommon to have the owner check in at your table.

Cheery outdoor seating makes it perfect for summer nights, and the house Greek dressing is good enough for grocery aisles.

4. Wooboi Hot Chicken

Wooboi means heat, and this counter-serve Nashville-style spot brings it with crispy, golden fried chicken (tenders, wings, or sandwiches), wildly spicy sauces (from “Mild” to “S.I.T.”—so spicy it’s a dare), and classic sides like slaw and “comeback” sauce.

The décor is hip, with murals and music, and the chicken is Instagram gold—perfect for college kids and bold eaters. Even the cautious find a spice level to love.

5. Coyote Grille

Coyote Grille is the Southwestern kitchen every suburb wishes for: sweet potato fries dusted in chipotle, chorizo breakfast burritos, saucy enchiladas, fish tacos, and baby back ribs.

The wraparound patio is full by 5:30 and live music on weekends turns dinner into a mini-fiesta. The margaritas, made with fresh citrus, have settled more than one boardroom debate.