30 Best Cafes in Arlington

“This is one of my favorite places in Arlington. The menu changes often, providing fresh options to try. I've had the duck and rabbit dishes for dinner and loved both. I also highly recommend the steak tartare, and definitely save room for dessert—you won't be disappointed!“

“Was there on Labor Day late morning. Very busy but found a nearby parking spot and a good table. All good except our salad entrees were both over dressed (too much dressing) . Reminder to get dressing on side. Friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere. All good. Will come back soon.“

“I like this environment very much, it allows me to work quietly. A cafe that pays attention to the environment and the quality of the coffee is good, I believe they will get better and better in the future. Reviews from Arlington residents.“

“It felt like a beautiful fall afternoon. Where only a cup of mocha would make it better. I walked to a quaint coffee house at a corner of two roads in a V, across trees in orange and red. 8 green chairs and 2 brown benches put up in small circles under a canopy. There was a cute patio with string lights across, allowing just enough warm sunlight through horizontal patterns. Plants breathing in as they had been there forever. Murmurs and faint conversations followed.

I opened a glass door to enter as a bell above me rang. There were 3 baristas behind a counter creating art , soaking in some music. There was a huge menu on a chalk wall which I chose not to read. I knew what I wanted.

I walked to the girl with a huge smile behind a billing screen on the other side of the counter,

“I feel special”, I said.

“We have these 3 special drinks available today”, she said.

I looked at the 3 drinks and it just didn’t click.

“Do you like Matcha”, she asked.

“I like matcha”, I answered.

“We have a matcha inspired tea.”

“I like tea, but today feels like a coffee kind of fall afternoon. Can you make me a mocha?!”, I asked.

“Hmmm… Let’s get you a special Mocha! Maybe a baklava latte but fused for chocolate”

I liked what was going on in an artist’s head. Today felt special. I wanted that original piece. I wanted this artist’s monalisa.

The Baristas – an ensemble of 3 – had a quick discussion. They ran thru the flavor profile of this new drink. With precision, he blended coffee, with oat milk & chocolate. I stood by and  watched, my drink being made with special detail. And to finish it my drink had a latte art specialist. I breathed in anticipation.

They placed my mug on a glass counter.

“Here is your drink, let us know how you like it.”

I carefully threaded the coffee mug with two hands to my lips & took a sip.

“It tastes like a beautiful fall afternoon”“

“Great place for coffee, croissants, wonderful vibe and music“

“Tried for the first time and was blown away. So good.“

“Great Sandwiches and Conversation!!!“

“Amazing food, always made fresh to order at a family owned and family ran eatery. Home style cooking, great for picking up a quick lunch. Love the quality of the beef and chicken. I order the beef bibimbap rice bowl and the chicken curry with rice dish. Both excellent! Highly recommend!!!“

“👏👏👏 One of the Best Coffee spots in Arlington.“

“I ordered the tiramisu and ferrero rocher eclairs with an iced Americano. I loved the ferrero rocher eclair with the hazelnut filling. The tiramisu eclair had icing that was too sweet for me but still delicious. I look forward to coming back!“

“My Mom and I came here two mornings in a row. The food is delicious whether you’re eating in or on the go. We had an unfortunate situation with another customer who was rather rude and made everyone uncomfortable. Another customer stepped in as did some staff and luckily the situation resolved itself rather quickly. A staff member treated my Mom and I to a donut for each of us and was super apologetic for the unwanted excitement. Besides having good choices for breakfast, they have a nice staff and show that there’s still kindness in the world.“

“Ordered sandwich and coffee online. Was ready once I arrived. Bacon on the sandwich was thicker than expected. Overall, my experience was . . . je ne sais quoi

Parking: Parking in Ballston can be an issue. Luckily there was a meter available 100 ft away, but I can see how this would easily not be the case.“

“You're not seeing double. I love the garden roll, and my husband loves the rainbow roll! Forget anything that I have said about any other sushi place on the East Coast. Cafe Sushi Garden not only has the very best rolls that we have ever eaten, but it also offers rice bowls, sandwiches, and pretty much something for everyone. Set back from Wilson Boulevard at the corner with North Pierce, this small, impeccabile, unassuming restaurant is perfect if you and a couple of friends prefer a sushi counter, grab and go, or outside seating. The people who work here are charming, generous, and constitute the other main reason for going back again and again. They contribute to exceed expectations.

Update: The last time we went, our favorite rolls were significantly smaller. Whereas this had become our favorite place for sushi rolls, I am not sure now. We will probably give the restaurant one more chance.

Parking: Two hours free parking off Pierce“

“Great customers service ever and the staff’s are very friendly. Love their pizza & sandwiches!!“

“My Mom and I came here two mornings in a row. The food is delicious whether you’re eating in or on the go. We had an unfortunate situation with another customer who was rather rude and made everyone uncomfortable. Another customer stepped in as did some staff and luckily the situation resolved itself rather quickly. A staff member treated my Mom and I to a donut for each of us and was super apologetic for the unwanted excitement. Besides having good choices for breakfast, they have a nice staff and show that there’s still kindness in the world.“

“Held my Monday meet up for my campaign for State Senate here this morning Such a beautiful venue adorned with sunflowers hanging from the ceiling! Their Nitro Cold Brew is great! Even the pup tried to take a sip ☺️ Visit www.Sophia4VA.com for our next coffee gathering!“

“The atmosphere is simply fantastic. I’ve only visited during evening hours. This new establishment is solidly moving forward. Service can be slow but the kind staff and fabulous food easily mitigate delays.“

“^_^ BuleStory review for Woodstock Cafe ? I got pancakes and my hubby got a burritos and a cream cheese bagel. Surprisingly the pancakes was really good it’s soft and fluffy and it’s a little chewy so it’s nice when you cut it. The burritos was good too and the bagel was ok. But i like their pancakes so much ? we ate here during the breakfast and it was nice. The location of this restaurant is in Shirlington Gateaway building on the first floor.“

“Lydia and Helen are up early to make sure people can begin their day with great coffee and kind smiles! I so appreciate their hospitality and expertise. Lydia is an excellent barista.Very convenient for those staying at any of the several hotels in the area, this shop is located in the lobby of Renaissance. They have several sandwiches, pastries and snacks available as well as hot and cold beverages. They have indoor or outdoor seating, or you can take to go. Remember to ask for a mug if you are enjoying your order in their restaurant or in the beautiful lobby of the hotel…one less cup to the landfill.Update: I went by a bit earlier today and the commuter crowd was lined up. Helen was handling the barista counter and got everyone their orders quickly, with that wonderful smile and the quality perfect, as expected!“

“This place is quickly becoming my favorite lunch spot.I haven't tried anything on the menu I haven't liked (and boy do I hope they keep the special Cuban chicken panini and don't phase it out)There's no seating here, but there plenty in the building hallway, and outside if the weather complies.Ps. Their coffee is amazing“

“I was craving rich, creamy, lavender-flavored coffee, and this place has it. I ordered a lavender latte. It was balanced and complex. I could still savor the richness of the coffee while not missing the lavender notes. Asides from good coffee, the service is excellent.“

“Delicious latte, delicious halva brownie. I love the Tatte aesthetic and vibe. When my friend and I arrived (at 10 am on a Sunday), there were tables to be had and the line wasn't long.

Dietary restrictions: I have a wheat allergy and eat gluten-free. There are plenty of suitable options for me at Tatte.“

“Vegetarian options: This place is simple and bright, spotless, efficient and priced very reasonably. Good is fresh and tasty- wide variety and lots of veggie choices. We were a group of 16 going to a funeral at nearby Arlington Cemetery and everyone came away pleased.“

“I loved my iced matcha!!!“

“Visited last week with friends. Great vibe, extensive menu, fair prices. Perfect for a chill outing. We would also like to thank Adam for being very creative and polite despite our special requests - plus food came out fast. Highly recommend!“

“One of the best run restaurants of this type, with the best staff, I've experienced. I'm a frequent customer, and it is clean (including the bathrooms--and thank you for having paper towels we can use to open the door) with a very friendly staff, including. management. The outdoor seating is a nice plus. The wi-fi could be stronger, but that's a nitpick. Thank you for bringing a positive Panera experience to Ballston.“

“Fast & friendly service and some very nice pasta for lunch... Nicer than I expected from the decor which was a bit old & tired - I probably wouldn't have tried the place, if it weren't for seeing other good reviews! Could stand to turn the AC down a bit “

“*The menu prices from what is pictured have gone up a few dollars, fyi*
Super legit sandwich shop located inside some kind of mixed offices building, very close to the metro. From cold sandwiches to wraps to the hot stuff, these guys really know whats up. Very kind and efficient staff without too many frills. Skip that Potbelly down the street, this is the best sandwich spot you'll find south of the Potomac.“

“1. I live in the neighborhood and frequently visit Tatte. The last few times I’ve been there the front line cashier were not friendly. The young lady who took my order today barely looked at me, she seemed uninterested and bored. This is the second time I’ve experienced this service. I love Tatte, but I can take my business elsewhere, where I feel welcomed. I lived in the area for the past 5 years and all the establishment I’ve frequented have great customer service. Experiencing this type of service of disappointing.

I like the atmosphere, however if they don't treat me well . I'm not coming back.“

“Truly, THE best BLT and Bahn Mi we've ever had!! Adorable decor, too!“