5 Best Hidden Gem Restaurants in Fairfax, Virginia to Try

Fairfax, VA, known for its rich history and vibrant community, also hides some notable dining gems.

Here are the five best hidden gem restaurants in Fairfax that you need to discover.

Coastal Flats

Coastal Flats offers innovative American seafood dishes with fresh ingredients in a casual, beach-themed setting.

Try their Blue Crab Fritters, featuring tender crab with a tangy remoulade sauce.

Order the Jambalaya, perfectly spiced with a rich, smoky flavor.

Their Key Lime Pie, tart and sweet with a graham cracker crust, is a delightful dessert. 

Coastal Flats’ vibrant dishes and relaxed atmosphere make it a standout.

21 Great American Bistro

21 Great American Bistro combines contemporary American fare with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients in an elegant setting.

Try their Braised Short Ribs, featuring tender beef with a rich, savory jus.

Order the Seared Scallops, perfectly cooked with a citrus vinaigrette.

Their Flourless Chocolate Cake, rich and velvety with a hint of espresso, is a delightful dessert. 

21 Great American Bistro’s refined dishes and stylish ambiance make it a local favorite.

42 Degrees Tavern

42 Degrees Tavern offers hearty pub fare with a focus on craft beer and fresh ingredients in a laid-back setting.

Try their Steak Frites, featuring perfectly cooked steak with crispy fries and garlic aioli.

Order the Buffalo Chicken Wings, spicy and crispy with a tangy blue cheese dip.

Their Apple Pie, sweet and spiced with a flaky crust, is a delightful dessert. 

42 Degrees Tavern’s hearty dishes and inviting atmosphere make it a top choice.

Spicy Moon

Spicy Moon serves authentic Szechuan cuisine with bold flavors and fresh ingredients in a cozy, vibrant setting.

Try their Kung Pao Chicken, featuring tender chicken with a spicy, tangy sauce.

Order the Mapo Tofu, perfectly cooked with a rich, spicy broth.

Their Sesame Balls, sweet and crispy with a red bean filling, are a delightful dessert. 

Spicy Moon’s vibrant dishes and lively atmosphere make it a hidden gem.

Dolce Vita Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar

Dolce Vita Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar offers classic Italian cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in a stylish setting.

Try their Linguine alle Vongole, featuring tender clams with a garlicky white wine sauce.

Order the Chicken Parmigiana, perfectly cooked with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese.

Their Tiramisu, creamy and rich with layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, is a must-try dessert. 

Dolce Vita’s refined dishes and chic ambiance make it a must-visit.