50 Best American Restaurants near Clifton

“Great music on a Friday night!“

“Clifton Cafe is our new favorite evening spot on the weekends. We’ve been customers since the original owners opened it years ago, but until this past fall we did more to go orders than dine in since the service and time to prep food was often slow and unpredictable. Now we go almost every week. We’ve noticed big improvements since they expanded their kitchen and redesigned the bar area. Their new pull up bar is beautiful and spacious. The new owners and management are great too! We love the evening staff as well, especially Ian and Nicole. They are very personable, accommodating, and attentive. They have great happy hour specials from 3-6 and make the best margaritas and espresso martinis. Some of our favorite dinner items include the crab dip, Mediterranean salad, cuban sandwich, burgers, crab cakes, quiche specials, banana pudding, and too many crepes to name! We also appreciate that they have become more family friendly. We had a last minute party of 14 on a Friday evening (half of which were children ages 1-11) and they didn’t hesitate to pull some tables together in a private nook to accommodate our large group (again thanks to Ian and Nicole). We noticed they finally got a changing table in the large bathroom, which they are about to install. Our kids are past that stage, but there were several times when they were little that a changing table would have been helpful.“

“Loved the shakes, and burger“

“Delicious food and friendly service.“

“A friend and I meet at Theisman's restaurant for lunch quite often. I live in Alexandria and she lives in Warrenton so it's a great middle point. We both love the food and the hostesses and waitstaff are excellent. The atmosphere is nice.. the reason I gave it 4 stars is that the music in there was so loud. We decided to sit on the porch thinking it would be quieter and it was such a beautiful day... unfortunately the music was extremely loud out there too and seemed to increase in volume as we were out there for about 2 hours. I noticed a few other people were saying that it was so loud too. We should have said something to the hostess but we had not seen each other in awhile. Wonderful place, but people do want to be able to talk and hear each other. Hopefully, this will get to the right ears ?“

“Carlos is the very best! He is a great server and took care of us. My daughter's birthday was awesome because of him! Kudos to this location which also takes GREAT care of its Beer Club members! We'll be back soon!“

“If you're in Fairfax, don't miss Andy's Pizza! Their delicious pies are always fresh, with a perfect crust and flavorful toppings. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is cozy, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal. Whether you're dining in or taking out, Andy's Pizza never disappoints. Highly recommend!“

“Friendly, good food. Our waitress, Nicole, was outgoing and great!“

“Food excellent in quality, preparation, textures, flavors and presentation. The jarring and omnipresent noise (which also bounces) renders the fore-described qualities frustratingly moot - almost. I would dearly love to recommend as well as return and bring friends along but will have to forewarn them as well as brace myself.“

“Mike was amazing and the food was great!“

“There is a sign on the door as you walk in that states “Best Breakfast in town” there has never been a more true statement. Well done Yorkshire!!!!!“

“ONE Bar&Grill is our number one restaurant choice in Old Town Fairfax. We have visited several times and EVERY meal has been amazing! Mina the owner, and Stephanie along with all the servers are first class people. Fairfax is fortunate to have such a top notch restaurant! We look forward to many future visits.“

“When you’re looking for a
local favorite, this feels like it needs a Michelin star but it has the prices of a mom and pop restaurant. Everything from the appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts make it a place I’ll go out of my way to come back to when visiting.“

“I love the food and great service!👍♥️“

“I have lived in Chantilly for 30 years and you CANNOT find a rack of ribs better than Backyard Grill! The potato skins and beignets are wonderful as well!“

“Great, go to place for consistent service and quality food!“

“Great food and the roof top searing was a great place to enjoy the band on a First Friday evening!“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - I have always had great experiences at Bear Branch Tavern, but today I had Ash and Maria as my server and bartender. They were fantastic. I could not recommend them enough. Every time I go back I am going to try and get Ash as my server. 10/10 experience, 10/10 food. Will definitely be back.“

“I had a delightful time at Ruby Tuesday. It was my first time ever and yes, delightful. The food hit the spot, the vibes were relaxed, and everything came out just right. But the real MVP of the evening was our server, David.

David was friendly without hovering, funny without trying too hard, and somehow always appeared exactly when we needed something (I suspect magic). Drinks stayed full, food arrived hot, and he made the whole experience feel easy and fun like dining with a very professional, very efficient friend.

All in all, great food, great service, and a reminder that Ruby Tuesday can still absolutely deliver. If you go, ask for David you’ll leave fed, happy, and possibly wondering if he clones himself to cover all those tables. 😄“

“We had lunch here with our family and small kids. Everyone was so friendly and caring and the food was great and amazing service. Highly recommend.“

“Amazing atmosphere and decor, service is perfection, food is wonderful and memorable. Also… fantastic happy hour! New fav in Vienna/Tysons.“

“Was in the mood for a good cheesesteak so we decided to try out a recommendation from the Vienna Foodies group! Our experience was great, great service and the food was good. My husband got the double double on a pretzel burger and I had the original cheesesteak! We were VERY impressed how the fries at the bottom of the basket were still crispy! We’ll definitely be back! 🔥💯👏🏽“

“I love this place! I tired it the first time last August when my son was here for a baseball event. We’re back and I have literally dreamed about eating this again for a year!“

“A friend and I had an excellent lunch at Hamrock's. We shared an appetizer of deviled eggs, which were the best I have ever had. We had the chicken salad, which was delicious, and limoncello cake-to die for. Oh yes, the popovers and small round rolls were also tasty. I would be happy to repeat the experience any time. Parking at the restaurant is a bit of a problem, but there is additional parking across the street.“

“Our first experience here was phenomenal, so the fact that the experience keeps getting better is amazing. The staff is so friendly, welcoming and ensures that you’re satisfied with your food/drinks, but also your experience! It’s always clean, and rarely has a wait time. But when they do; it’s for good reason. This is a place where you can confidently take your kids, pets, and even just by yourself without worry. With present and clearly passionate ownership; it’s always a good vibe where people visibly enjoy their jobs. Even when they are clearly busy and rushing; they always remember your presence and will consistently go above and beyond.“

“I’m only in town for a week, but have already been here twice since it’s short trip from where I’m staying and I enjoy a good brew pub. Ate at the bar both times. Food and service were 💯both times. I had the bacon wrapped meatloaf and the supreme pizza. Meatloaf was great, pizza’s ok. I tried both their hazy beers and the Freedom and Founders IPAs, all good choices. I’m planning on bringing my husband for my 3rd visit before heading home. Looking forward to having the Stroganoff pasta on my next visit. Would highly recommend for food and craft beer selections.“

“I randomly found this place based on some reviews.
I had the chicken Caesar wrap, and let me tell you, this was a perfect wrap. I enjoyed my lunch!!!! Will be going there for sure to try out other items on the menu.
Highly recommended and I love supporting small businesses.“

“Thank you Cracker Barrel for stepping up your "Customer Service" skills. I receently picked up a take out order that I was not pleased with. When I went to pay for the order, the cashier acknowledged the complaint and called for a manager. The manager immediately apologized and corrected the problem. Thank you for getting it right! This is why I keep coming back. ? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ See you soon!“

“Amazing and fresh oysters! My sister and I sat at the bar and ordered a dozen oysters while we waited for our takeout order. Bartenders Jim and Brian were amazing, friendly, and great service!

From our takeout order, we ordered a bunch of appetizers, our favorite were the fried calamari and clam chowder soup. Definitely will be back.“

“My wife and I brought the kids here after spending the day in State College. It was excellent. Fresh food, good prices (kids eat free with a regular purchase). Will definitely be back!“

“I have only been here a few times and Josh the Bartender remembers my name each time!!! GREAT BARTENDER!!!“

“Was super bz on a Sunday and service was okay but our waitress wasn’t all that great.“

“First time guest Oct 28, 2025 lunch time. Great service. Food was so good. I had the Mason pulled pork sandwich with fries. The sandwich was huge. I had to eat a lot of the pork with my fork first to get the sandwich to a reasonable size to bite 😂 the sandwich had slaw, pickles and an onion ring. It was really delicious!! The fries were crispy and not greasy. I’m a fry lover I approved 😜 I really love the atmosphere, decor, design and seating options. Absolutely going back soon!“

“I think it's fairly new. Not sure how many people know about it. I just found out. I love this restaurant! They had a location in Lakeridge and it closed years ago. They have a lunch special with most things on tbe menu for 12.99. Its excellent casual dining. You just cant beat it.“

“Great local bar with good food. Staff are professional and friendly.“

“Amazing food great atmosphere and they except reservations“

“Wonderful food, the trout was amazing and so was the shrimp and crab fritter appetizer. Our waiter Matthew was seriously the best and sweetest waiter I’ve ever had in my life. We are here for vacation but we will without a doubt come back here the next time we are in the area.“

“We enjoyed brunch here for our anniversary. I have several food allergies and I was well accommodated. The food was wonderful and the service friendly. We will be back“

“I’m from South Carolina and this place can compete with the restaurants in Charleston!!!! Try it. You’ll love it!“

“Great brunch spot with high-quality food and quick service. The staff were friendly and attentive, making the experience even better. The seafood scramble was outstanding, and the French toast and pancakes were delicious. Excellent value for money—highly recommended!“

“The Wine House is like our “cheers“, and Michael and Dinah and many of the staff always treat us so warmly and make us feel at home! The food is always fabulous but especially wonderful last night! We were celebrating Dave's birthday and they made us spill very special! Thanks so much! “

“The college is very pretty! Hard to find your way around, if you have never been there. Went for the arts and craft fair on November 9th. Wish there would have been signs showing where to go. The art and crafts from the students were nice to see. The painting s/drawings and jewelry were unique!!“

“Nice, chill location. the food was good. I ordered the 10pc wings with fries. I don't recommend getting the honey mustard sauce. it's the cost of a drink🥴, literally. Why something the same size as ranch or blue cheese costs the same as a drink (while the ranch and blue cheese don't cost extra), I'm not sure. If you're like me and don't eat ranch or blue cheese, bring your own honey mustard. other than that, I highly recommend.“

“Any cheesesteak, amoroso’s rolls, beer battered fish and chips, any rueben style sammich. Mostly between 13-15 bucks. Typically time of placing order to table is less than ~10 minutes for cheesesteaks, hoagies or sandwiches, makes for a quick in and out for lunch.“

“The happy hour food menu is an amazing deal, and the food is delicious. I love that they offer a variety of daily specials too. You gotta meet the staff - very entertaining and always friendly.“

“Great place. Awesome fries and amazing milkshakes“

“Friendly, good food. Our waitress, Nicole, was outgoing and great!“

“As every other Sunday, great family time …“

“Great food, service, and unbeatable cocktails! Our server was attentive and courteous from start to finish. The steak was tender, delicious, and cooked perfectly—just what you want from a steakhouse. Cocktails were fantastic, especially the Old Fashioneds—two for under $20 with no gimmicks. Can’t beat the value or the flavor. We'll definitely be back!“