Springfield, particularly West Springfield, Virginia, in Fairfax County, zip code 22152, is a military family-favorite locale for a PCS to the National Capital Region. You can probably guess from the unrelenting demand for real estate in the area that the neighborhoods are family-friendly, the schools are sought after, and commute times to the Pentagon and Fort Belvoir are ideal.
What more could you want than great neighbors, good schools, and an easy commute? The answer is—delicious food! The restaurants in Springfield, VA, deliver not only the national chains you’ve depended on during tough duty stations, but the city also offers more dining experiences than you can ever try while living there.
The area takes pride in being known as the mixing bowl of global influences and authentic international dishes. Trying a wide variety of food is one of the top things to do in Springfield, but don’t worry; if you like food that tastes like home, there are plenty of choices for traditional burgers, steak, and salads, too.
1. Afghan Bistro
Springfield locals rave about Afghan Bistro, so much so that the word is out and travelers up and down nearby I-95 make pit stops for authentic Afghan fare like stews and kabobs. In addition to classic meals (everyone loves the lamb), the bistro offers menus that cater to specific diets like vegetarian, gluten-free, Halal, and Paleo.
2. Eleni's Greek Taverna
Eleni’s Greek Taverna is the neighborhood's go-to for Greek food if you prefer to dine at tucked-away hidden gems. The family-owned restaurant prides itself on its commitment to authentic Greek food and embraces the chance to share with diners the feeling that they’re dining and traveling throughout Greece. In addition, patrons appreciate that Eleni’s serves up generous portions of tasty food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Are you heading to Springfield soon? Here’s What to Know About Living in Springfield, Virginia.
3. Delia’s Pizzeria & Grille
Chef Mario Batali crowned Delia’s one of the country’s best pizzerias in his book, Everyone Loves Pizza. That’s high praise for a small neighborhood favorite that serves Italian, Greek, Peruvian, and American food. Not only is the pizza amazing, but Delia’s salads and sandwiches, like the Cuban, hold their own. When you arrive, you’ll dine with plenty of faithful fans at one of the best restaurants in Springfield, VA.
4. 54 Restaurant
If Asian is your go-to restaurant food, try 54 Restaurant. It serves guests a wide range of Asian-inspired dishes, including crowd-pleasing pot sticker appetizers and teriyaki and lo mein entrees. But many customers come in for a menu filled with unique and fresh sushi/sashimi options. When the weather is chilly, ask for a seat by the fireplace. Or if the day is perfect, enjoy the outdoor seats.
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5. Mike's American
There’s something for everyone at Mike’s American; that’s why everyone loves the restaurant and returns for repeat dining experiences. The spacious family-friendly restaurant serves classic burgers, steaks, pasta, and seafood, along with chicken, ribs, and chops.
Check out the wine and cocktail menu to try something new, including Mike’s own American Ale and Lager. The restaurant also offers a gluten-sensitive/free menu.
6. Silver Diner
After a late-night or early morning, sometimes you just want classic diner food. Of course, you won’t go wrong at Silver Diner, a DC regional chain favorite. But, you’ll also have the chance to expand your palate and try something unique from the vegetarian menu or their popular blue-plates. Silver Diner Springfield is exceptionally popular, so plan to get cozy with your fellow diners waiting in line. If you come on a pretty day, try the outdoor patio.
Nearby Alexandria has a lot of similarities to Springfield. Check out what it’s like living there in What You Need to Know for Your Military Move to Alexandria, Virginia.
7. Yard House
The Yard House is the place to go when relaxing with good friends, and sipping outstanding cocktails and brews are the top priorities for dining out. Not that the food isn’t inventive and delicious (try the Vampire Tacos), because it is, but the Yard House is somewhere to linger and enjoy a dining experience that starts with a pre-dinner drink, a round of apps, and ends with a yummy dessert.
Expanding their culinary palates and experiencing new food is one of the residents’ top things to do in Springfield, VA, so choose your favorite location and start your journey to become a “regular” at one of these beloved food outlets.
