DelRayDiva

It really does depend on what you are looking for in Old Town. I was surprised about how many restaurants were not open on Christmas Day last year. I don't recall Jackson 20, Restaurant Eve or Brabo ( our top 3 choices being open!)

In fact, last year, we went non-traditional and had a nice mid-day dinner at Il Porto. Its a classic red sauce joint. We then walked down to the Chart House for dessert and coffee. We had a really nice afternoon and since Il Porto is small and intimate, it did not have the rushed feel as Chart House. They also were serving their regular menu and so it did not feel like a holiday 'slap together' buffet.

 Grille at Morrison House is open and a solid option as well. Trademark Eat and Drink in the Hilton is also open and a bit off the radar.

This year, we are headed over to the National Harbor. We are hoping to take the water taxi from Old Town. I think Ed Lee's new joint - Succotash. We hope to make the afternoon complete there by riding the big Ferris Wheel.

Good Luck. It was very quiet down in that neighborhood last year.

It doesn't seem that Eric Reid is headed there. Although several of his Alums from Del Marei are moving in.

Tim Irwin from Evening Star and Eventide and Jeremy Barbour from Del Merei are partners with a yet to be stated chef.

It's called Common Table and will focus of fare fron Charleston.

Del Ray Patch newspaper reports that the same designer who did Founding Farmers is in charge of the update to the space.

I had the opportunity to get out to Falls Church Saturday night and we popped into Taco Bamba to grab dinner.

What did I spy on the menu? A riff on Poutine! Fries, Barbacoa jus, Escabeche, Cotija cheese!

My little heart was warmed. I thought it was a fun and playful nod to both of our neighbors.

I'll have to write up the rest of my visit, too. If you haven't been, the place is worth the trek out!!!!!!

I thought I'd bump this Poutine thread since winter is here.

I noticed that Del Ray Pizza in Alexandria has it on the apps menu but with tots. We tried them over the weekend and found them to be admirable. They used a true brown gravy (not enough of it ) and real cheese curds.

Once we asked for extra gravy, the Poutine was pretty OK for being served in VA in a pizza joint!

We haven't updated this discussion since 2011. Where else is some good Poutine? Any new suggestions?

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Poutine (Baltimore, Pras)

I really enjoy this thread, and I'm bumping it because of this list that just came out in Northern Virginia Magazine. Not a lot of surprises on this list, but plenty to discuss....

I am really happy to see Reserve 2216 make the NOVA Magazine list. I've always wondered why Chef Eric Reid doesn't get more buzz. He made my list above. I have followed him since DelMeri

Currently, Reserve 2216 is closed and is going to reopen after they move to a bigger space. His Hot Chicken was sublime!

It's not the District but The German Gourmet in Falls Church has a serviceable selection of wine. They also host weekend tastings! I find this shop to be a hidden gem for all things German from sausage to homemade Pretzels to Wine!

Heather is indeed gone from the Grounds. There is a new pastry chef in place. They seem to be offering more options. They also are advertising for what appears to be evening servers and help. Could dinner be right around the corner? They currently do special dinners but their Facebook page said the evening hours were starting Dec 2015.

I'll keep the topic going!

The list is fluid and ever changing....

No particular order:

Brabo

Del Ray Cafe

Evening Star Cafe

Vermilion

Peking Duck

Hong Kong Palace

RT's (Underrated, forgotten gem!)

Rays (Any way Michael Landrum want to present it)

Willow

Reserve 2216 (Del Ray small joint. Chef Eric Reid's new joint)

I'm looking forward to Jamie Leeds new place Hanks Pasta Bar!

Thanks Y'all, Not just for the dining suggestions but how to savor them. I am the geek that does take notes on any thing new. I am a reformed 'picky' eater.

I have found Clydes on Beauregard has had some very good oysters as of late. Very fresh with a wide selection.

I'm open to trying all types. I'm a born and bred Illinois person so if they weren't fried- we didn't eat them!

It's it been in the last few years that I have really started to enjoy them.

My favorites have tended to be smaller and creamier. I enjoy Prince Edward Island and Gulf Coast.

Really we are looking expand the palate and learn more while we try lots of good recommendations.

Ok gang....

Where in your opinion is the best place to slurp back some really fresh oysters? Preferably in VA and DC.

Hank's and Union Street in Old Town Alexandria have been solid hits on this side of the river but we are looking at branching out.

Hey Y'all!

I've been a lurker here for years but for some reason I just got off my are and registered.

I'm originally from the midwest and moved out here 20 years ago. I spend most of my time in the Alexandria neighborhoods of Del Ray (home) or Old Town.

I've been in love with the DC food scene since I first strolled into town. I am always looking for new experiences or hole in the wall places that are doing great things!

My favorite food experience has to be the secret pop up dinner parties in people's homes that a collection of chefs in Portland, Oregon were doing back in the early 1990s. It was awesome.

I have always wanted to join the discussion but really don't feel like I have enough experience or chops to have a vslid opinion. Y'all are so kind so perhaps, I consider dropping a thought once in a while!

Til then!