Local Guides World
Top Cafes in Alexandria, United States
Top Rated Cafes in Alexandria
Top Reviewed Cafes in Alexandria
Scramble Alexandria
Bread & Water Company
Bastille Brasserie & Bar
Buzz Bakeshop
Lady Camellia
Panera Bread
Uptowner Cafe
Reviews
Lady Cameila was a delightful surprise! Having lived in the area for a while, I was amazed I hadn’t come across it before. From the moment u walk in, the soft peachy-pink decor, crystal accents, and dainty tea cups give off a true London tea vibe. It instantly took me back to the traditional London tea culture that I love.
The service was impeccable thanks to Luvianny, who was a beautiful soul. She greeted us with a warm smile and even took some amazing pictures for us! The pastries and biscuits were delicate and perfectly paired with a pot of tea served in the most beautiful tea sets. And then came the beef and chicken pies, absolutely delicious! I’m already planning my next visit for more.
The service was impeccable thanks to Luvianny, who was a beautiful soul. She greeted us with a warm smile and even took some amazing pictures for us! The pastries and biscuits were delicate and perfectly paired with a pot of tea served in the most beautiful tea sets. And then came the beef and chicken pies, absolutely delicious! I’m already planning my next visit for more.
I had a party of five and thoroughly enjoyed my experience. The service, atmosphere and food was great. Lovely table and food presentation. The selection of teas suited everyone's tastes. I would that they add more decaffeinated versions though. Love their to-go boxes as well. They also have a small room in the back for private tea. I highly recommend trying this tea house. Will definitely be back.
Unfortunately, the basic restaurant ordering function, or manager of this particular site for panera wasn't really on the job this week.
The basic selection of bread for the Chipotle chicken avocado melt was not available. They were out of the very basic side order substitution of baguette bread instead of chips or anything else really, for ALL orders at this location on our visit.
An apple is a nice substitute, but not when you want a baguette from a restaurant that sells itself as a bread based site??
If you didn't want ANYTHING bread related from this bread based restaurant, you were probably ok...
The basic selection of bread for the Chipotle chicken avocado melt was not available. They were out of the very basic side order substitution of baguette bread instead of chips or anything else really, for ALL orders at this location on our visit.
An apple is a nice substitute, but not when you want a baguette from a restaurant that sells itself as a bread based site??
If you didn't want ANYTHING bread related from this bread based restaurant, you were probably ok...
Love Panera Bread anyway and but this location is exceptional, not only because of where it is situated (Carlyle) but also because this is a Panera Bread Express. Which means its a take out, but they do have plenty of room for you to sit and eat (both inside and outside). Additionally, its the people who work here that make this particular Panera Bread beyond 5 stars, and here's a shout-out to DOLLIE! She always goes above and beyond the call of customer service expected of a Panera Bread Manager. Plus she does it with so much grace and with a smile on her face (even in front of rude customers, yes haven't we all seen them). This Panera Bread is lucky to have Dollie working there! I come here all the time and don't plan to stop anytime soon!
Updated review: We went back to this cafe because we had a good experience last time but I tried the hazelnut iced coffee and it was terrible. It tasted like water. No creamer, no sugar in it and no taste of hazelnut. Terrible. Won’t be coming back.
Previous review: We had a mocha frappe which was really smooth and flavorful, wasn’t watered down like a lot of places. The strawberry banana smoothie was good too.
Previous review: We had a mocha frappe which was really smooth and flavorful, wasn’t watered down like a lot of places. The strawberry banana smoothie was good too.
This was my second (but last) time at Lady Camellia. This is supposed to be an experience, not just a regular tea and biscuits moment. But both times I’ve been there, with a reservation may I add, my table has not been ready and they make you stand there in a service hallway (with no seating) for a while. The servers are also inattentive and they seem like they’re in a rush. It’s so disappointing because the place is so pretty it had so much potential to be somewhere really nice.
The definition of café. When I worked across the street I would stop by each morning. It got to the point where the owner would start my food when he saw me coming. I no longer live in the area but whenever I am in northern Virginia, I carve out time to stop by and enjoy. Family owned and operated.
My local Panera Bread location is fantastic. I normally only visit in the mornings, but the morning shift staff, most especially Katie, are absolutely incredible, especially at a time when customer service is at an all time low. They know you by name and make a huge effort to make sure you are happy. Is it perfect, with no hiccups? Of course not, they are human and when the lobby is packed full of morning workers from the The United States Patent and Trademark Office and all the other major offices in the area, there can sometimes be a wait. Be patient and kind and you will leave feeling the staff at this Panera location on Dulaney & Jamison, in Alexandria, VA, try their very best to please their customers.
Small place with fast service & friendly owners. Offering sandwiches, bagels, coffee & teas. If you are staying in Hyatt across street - worth visiting for a breakfast. Recommend The Uptowner sandwich & any hot sandwiches. May skip teas and settled for mineral water or coffee.
Sandwich+ juice will be about $ 13 with tip.
The place has some seating outside along King street but it will be sun-light by noon.
Sandwich+ juice will be about $ 13 with tip.
The place has some seating outside along King street but it will be sun-light by noon.
Here’s the tea! 🫖😊
This place is a whole tea party vibe! Our reservation was at 10:30am, and they got us seated immediately. Water was brought to the table, and we placed our order. The food came out fast, along with the tea. The servers continued to come back, throughout our meal, to refill the tea pot with hot water. They were not over the top friendly, but they were not unfriendly, as others have described-please consider culture and what average communication is within different cultures before rating the service.
The food was AMAZING!! We were stuffed, but couldn’t stop eating. I had mentioned this was a birthday celebration in the reservation note, and they brought a cupcake out for my bestie. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Cons: $150 for two people (hello included 18% gratuity and taxes) is a lot of money! I would never do this on a regular day. It was Easter, and besties birthday, so we splurged. But wow, it added up so fast!
Ignore the negative reviews, and try it out for a special occasion.
This place is a whole tea party vibe! Our reservation was at 10:30am, and they got us seated immediately. Water was brought to the table, and we placed our order. The food came out fast, along with the tea. The servers continued to come back, throughout our meal, to refill the tea pot with hot water. They were not over the top friendly, but they were not unfriendly, as others have described-please consider culture and what average communication is within different cultures before rating the service.
The food was AMAZING!! We were stuffed, but couldn’t stop eating. I had mentioned this was a birthday celebration in the reservation note, and they brought a cupcake out for my bestie. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Cons: $150 for two people (hello included 18% gratuity and taxes) is a lot of money! I would never do this on a regular day. It was Easter, and besties birthday, so we splurged. But wow, it added up so fast!
Ignore the negative reviews, and try it out for a special occasion.
Katie is the perfect person to have at the front counter! She is bright,cheery, friendly, and just the right amount of conversational. She knows her regular customers by name and greets them personally when they come in. She was helpful when I placed my order, pointing out exactly what would be in my sandwich,allowing me to make a substitution. She is fluent in Spainish and English and easily switches between the two to personalize her customers' experience. She was a delight to encounter.
The pastries were great as was the selection. As another reviewer noted, the atmosphere was quite loud and given that the space was relatively small, it made the din even more noticeable. I did feel rushed to leave (in the UK, they give you about an hour and forty five minutes), and they added a 18% gratuity for our table of two, which is unfortunate, as I usually tip at 20%, so I wish they would’ve given me the choice.
I will NOT be returning to this location. I ordered a sausage, egg & cheese sandwich & the sandwich was missing the meat. I went back to get my order fixed. Still wrong, I got no cheese this time & the bread had a spot of mold on it. I mean WTH, will it hurt for the staff to double check the order is correct & not serve old bread!
I haven't been to this location since before the pandemic. Everything was good.
I wish PB used more "green" lettuce instead of the "yellow" lettuce. And add another dressing.
Prices increased but the food was good.
I wish PB used more "green" lettuce instead of the "yellow" lettuce. And add another dressing.
Prices increased but the food was good.
This place has all the vibes of an English afternoon tea (which I miss). It is cute and tiny. I made a reservation in advance (needed) and then found out they would hold our table is we were a little late which was appreciated! The tea was excellent and the sandwiches and treats quite delightful. The scones were amazing and should get a reward on their own! Staff was very on top of things even with a full tea house.
I had a group of 5 for a little Galentine’s get together at Lady Camellia. It is a super cute tea room and I love the vibes. I made a reservation a month in advance because I did not want to risk it filling up. We went on a Sunday and it was very crowded as the place is very small, and very loud. If you want to not yell over the people you’re with I would recommend going at a less busy time or during the week!
The food and tea itself is really good. Depending on your group size you get an assorted mix of pastries and sandwiches. The servers came to our table maybe twice to fill our waters.
The pricing is expensive. After tax and gratuity we spent $75 on the basic weekend afternoon tea. Overall it was a 7/10 experience, it was a super cute ambiance and experience. But it was a little crowded and loud for my liking. That ruined the peaceful tea room energy.
The food and tea itself is really good. Depending on your group size you get an assorted mix of pastries and sandwiches. The servers came to our table maybe twice to fill our waters.
The pricing is expensive. After tax and gratuity we spent $75 on the basic weekend afternoon tea. Overall it was a 7/10 experience, it was a super cute ambiance and experience. But it was a little crowded and loud for my liking. That ruined the peaceful tea room energy.
Such a cute place. The tea and food were delicious, the cost was reasonable, and the staff was very friendly. The only drawback was that the place is very tiny. We had reservations, but couldn't be seated because a large party was still seated, taking up most of the room. Really hoping they eventually move to a bigger location. 10/10 would go again.
Bastille was such a lovely surprise! The front room and bar area have a cozy, warm, french-inspired atmosphere playing fun french music and really transporting me. The wine on offer is all delicious. The main dining area has slightly less charm but is still cozy and lovely to dine in. The food was simply wonderful. We went for restaurant week and opted for the wine pairing, which i’m so glad we did. I had the french onion soup, duck breast main and chocolate cake for dessert. Each dish was wonderfully plated and extremely satisfying. Highly recommend!
This place is absolutely fantastic.
My wife and I stopped in during restaurant week and were treated to a wonderful experience from the time we walked in the door.
All of the food was absolutely delicious. The service was exceptional, and I cannot wait to come back.
The hanger steak was cooked perfectly and had great flavor.
I am not a big fan of duck, but my wife said it was among the best she has ever had.
The escargot was exactly what you would expect in flavor/preparation, but it did throw me for a loop when they did not come in their shell.
Profiteroles🙌profiteroles🙌profiteroles🙌
You have to have the profiteroles
My wife and I stopped in during restaurant week and were treated to a wonderful experience from the time we walked in the door.
All of the food was absolutely delicious. The service was exceptional, and I cannot wait to come back.
The hanger steak was cooked perfectly and had great flavor.
I am not a big fan of duck, but my wife said it was among the best she has ever had.
The escargot was exactly what you would expect in flavor/preparation, but it did throw me for a loop when they did not come in their shell.
Profiteroles🙌profiteroles🙌profiteroles🙌
You have to have the profiteroles
Really great restaurant for celebrating New Year’s Eve! The menu was around $160 per person for New Years and it was totally worth it! It was three courses with wine pairing. Really great combinations, the chef does know their stuff! Would love to be back.
The food was exceptional! We went for our 5 year anniversary and had a lovely time. We brought our own wine because I had a bottle saved for the occasion, but we experienced none of the awkward communication that sometimes comes with that. Our server simply confirmed what type of wine it was to bring out the proper glasses and carried on. The food came out in a timely manner, so we never felt rushed. Every dish was prepared exceptionally well. We ordered both versions of the prix fixe menu so we were able to experience the fabulous skill set of the chefs. I would certainly come here again to taste their lunch and brunch menus. I can't imagine having a bad meal here.
Amazingly kind and attentive service, providing some of the best French food and drink I’ve ever had in an amazingly comfortable dining environment. This is a must-try in Alexandria.
It's pricey (like $13-16 per person without sides), but the food is good. I prefer them to Panera on the basis that I got my food like 5 minutes after ordering and they didn't mess it up.
Sitting here in the shop writing this review cause its just that good! Its my first time here, im supprised i havent found this place before! The tarts, danishes, and maccrons looks amazing, the vibes are on point. The chai is exceptional! I am looking. Forward to getting my food, cause i can smell it being cooked and its moth watering... Plus i just found out that their other spot BunPapa has Fried chicken sandwiches! I cant wait to be back for more!
We were looking for a new lunch spot to check out on a rainy afternoon and Uptowner Cafe did not disappoint! It’s a small space with a homey feel and very quick service. Everything was ready in just a few minutes. We loved our sandwiches - no frills and just downright good. My latte was also delicious. Pricing is decent for the area. We will be back!
Adorable Cafe with rustic seating that makes a cozy environment. Super pleasant first thing in the morning. The white chocolate mocha is smooth and awesome! Fresh bagels available and to die for low fat muffins! A definite try for a breakfast or lunch date, or just quietly reading a book for one!
Laid back atmosphere. I went twice in one day. Love their pumpkin latte and delicious pumpkin muffin.
I went back for quick lunch later. Turkey sandwich and strawberry bubble tea.
Good food. Kind staff. Quick for those on the go like me.
I went back for quick lunch later. Turkey sandwich and strawberry bubble tea.
Good food. Kind staff. Quick for those on the go like me.
Absolutely love Scramble! Took my grandson early Friday morning. Very clean and organized. Check in was very easy. Staff was super friendly and helpful. They have a great cafe lots of options for everyone. They even have some alcoholic beverages available for purchase. I will definitely be going back soon
We booked a deluxe party package for our son's bd. Before signing the contract and on the day before the party, you must double and triple check every word on the contract and frequently answered questions, no matter how ridiculous the rules, because they will 100% enforce it. There is absolutely no flexibility or understanding even though this is a child's party. We left pretty disgusted after they charged an additional $60 for the 3 balloons that the 3-4 year olds accidentally let float onto the ceiling. This experience left a sour taste in our mouth and we will definitely never book again.
I went on a Thursday noon and it was the best, the place was practically empty and my kid had a blast, pretty clean and a lot of space to run around, coffe terrible that's all.
Beautiful evening on the patio. Wonderful food, relaxed and gracious service. Update: returned for birthday dinner…loved the scallops with squash risotto, the charcuterie appetizer with scrumptious walnut fruit bread…delighted by the almond pear tart!
A decent stopping place for coffee, pastries and cold salads. Pastries include: cinnamon roll, sticky bun, chocolate croissant, chocolate muffin, silk mousse pie, cookies and others. An acceptable mocha with lovely, strong espresso.
Had a chicken sandwich from here for the second time. The first time it was awesome which is why I went back.
This second time the chicken sandwich was horrible! I live several hours away and went back because I was in the area visiting family. The only reason I went back was because of the first time being so good.
Sandwich was flat as a pancake, nothing like the pictures shown and it looked grilled instead of "double fried". Never again!
This second time the chicken sandwich was horrible! I live several hours away and went back because I was in the area visiting family. The only reason I went back was because of the first time being so good.
Sandwich was flat as a pancake, nothing like the pictures shown and it looked grilled instead of "double fried". Never again!
This is the best play place I’ve been to for my 18 month old so far. We’ve tried out several in the area and haven’t found one that comes close to this place. All of the play areas are plenty spacious so parents can comfortably follow behind their little ones. They also have a huge toddler area. So many soft areas for little guys to play in. And so unique! I’ve never seen a play place like it. Highly recommend. Busy or not busy, it was a great time.
Outstanding little French restaurant. We flew into DCA rush and rather than fight traffic stopped here for dinner on a whim. We ordered gazpacho, onion soup, moules et frites and salade Nicoise. Both soups were fantastic! The Gruyère was amazing in the soup. Both main plates were excellent. We then ordered desserts… these were sublime! Have to come back and try more on the menu! Attentive service and the restaurant is well appointed.
We try to go during slower hours and it’s fantastic when not super crowded. Soft indoor playground with so many creative little nooks and crannies filled with detailed sensory/interactive elements - so many different fun rooms to explore with a range of difficulty for tiny toddlers to bigger kids. Great food options too and a very nice little bookstore. Great indoor play option. No inflatables or trampolines. It’s essentially a soft mat playground / obstacle course.
Yum Yum 😋 This is hidden paradise 👌five minutes off the 495. So convenient for hikers and bikers from the trail to take break. The burger 🍔 is one of kind👍wonderful ingredients and texture. The soft buns are so easy to chew.
P.S. I also bought a watch from nearby Jewelry Store with good discount.
P.S. I also bought a watch from nearby Jewelry Store with good discount.
Great Place to let the little ones run free, We took my Granddaughter age: 4 . She had a blast. We paid $20 for her (weekend rate ages 4-10 yrs old), It's cheaper during the week, and $2 per adults. So needless to say, I got my $2 worth 😜. And you can have birthday parties there too..So check them out!
Great atmosphere and plenty of activities to keep the children occupied and busy. My grandprincess had a great time and was able to have fun with other children. They have snacks and some light meals for the children and parents to enjoy. The pricing us reasonable. Look forward to other visits in the near future.
Very cute indoor play area. It’s actually one of the largest ones I’ve ever been to! There’s no shortage of things for kids of different ages to do. And their slide was awesome.
It's a nice place. Not bad to take some coffee or sandwich. Good bakery. Not more than that.
Very kind employees and clean tables.
Very kind employees and clean tables.
First time here, bakery products are very soft and fluffy, there are so many options for lunch and breakfast.
The coffee is good, the muffins are delicious, the place is very abstract. Tables outside, very kind cashier, good customer service and fast attention.
The coffee is good, the muffins are delicious, the place is very abstract. Tables outside, very kind cashier, good customer service and fast attention.
Friendliest staff ever! Went twice while visiting DC and they had already learned our faces. Cozy little shop with great ambiance and decorations. Excellent sandwiches and coffee, and a great way to start a long day of walking and sightseeing.
We went for restaurant week and it was hands down the best we've been too! We did the wine pairing as well, and it was definitely worth it! We were impressed with the staff, dazzled by the presentation and service and enjoyed every morsel of delicious food! We will definitely be back! ... update, 6months later we went back and every word still rings true!
[Edit]
Lowering the starts. It was initially 5 but I have to lower the stars because what the pesto pasta I had and the apple pie were ….. very tasteless and bad. We threw everything out as soon as we open them and tasted it at home.
[older review]
They no longer have seats inside which i like! Outside seatings are very limited but if it’s not too crowded, you get to sit when others finish eating and your food will come out. Their blt is very very delicious ♥️ I tried new cubano sandwich which was good too but I like blt better. Their bread is always delicious!! I used to get their baguettes 🥖 pre Covid era. Hopefully i will do that again soon.
Drink Kombucha too because it helps your digestion and let’s you go back to have another sandwich !! Yum!
Parking is good because this store is located in a small neighborhood mall.
Lowering the starts. It was initially 5 but I have to lower the stars because what the pesto pasta I had and the apple pie were ….. very tasteless and bad. We threw everything out as soon as we open them and tasted it at home.
[older review]
They no longer have seats inside which i like! Outside seatings are very limited but if it’s not too crowded, you get to sit when others finish eating and your food will come out. Their blt is very very delicious ♥️ I tried new cubano sandwich which was good too but I like blt better. Their bread is always delicious!! I used to get their baguettes 🥖 pre Covid era. Hopefully i will do that again soon.
Drink Kombucha too because it helps your digestion and let’s you go back to have another sandwich !! Yum!
Parking is good because this store is located in a small neighborhood mall.
Unfortunately did not have a great experience with their biscuit breakfast sandwiches.
The biscuits for both were very dry and crumbly, falling apart in your hands just trying to pick them up. Ended up just eating pieces of the broken-up sandwich with our fingers as holding the sandwiches soon became impossible. It maybe would have been a bit better with more sauce but the biscuits were really just not good.
Ordered a bacon egg & cheese and a sausage egg & cheese sandwich. Both had a disappointing meat to biscuit ratio with just a single sausage link in one (far too difficult to bite into without again, destroying the whole sandwich) and an odd-looking chewy piece of bacon resembling the sensation of chewing on a piece of gum.
Also, what was supposed to be a quick stop for breakfast, despite being the only ones at the window by 8am, turned into more of a 30min wait for two breakfast sandwiches but I was in no rush.
Went out of our way headed into DC considering the positive reviews from this restaurant but honestly regretted it. I'm sure their other menu options are better but I wouldn't go too far out of your way to get breakfast here.
The biscuits for both were very dry and crumbly, falling apart in your hands just trying to pick them up. Ended up just eating pieces of the broken-up sandwich with our fingers as holding the sandwiches soon became impossible. It maybe would have been a bit better with more sauce but the biscuits were really just not good.
Ordered a bacon egg & cheese and a sausage egg & cheese sandwich. Both had a disappointing meat to biscuit ratio with just a single sausage link in one (far too difficult to bite into without again, destroying the whole sandwich) and an odd-looking chewy piece of bacon resembling the sensation of chewing on a piece of gum.
Also, what was supposed to be a quick stop for breakfast, despite being the only ones at the window by 8am, turned into more of a 30min wait for two breakfast sandwiches but I was in no rush.
Went out of our way headed into DC considering the positive reviews from this restaurant but honestly regretted it. I'm sure their other menu options are better but I wouldn't go too far out of your way to get breakfast here.
Always clean and nice inside & outside. Both hot and iced coffees are fresh. Margherita flatbread pizza was tasty and the pick 2 is always great.
Great staff. A large outdoor dining area in their garden is a plus!
Great staff. A large outdoor dining area in their garden is a plus!
Best service, amazing food! I loved my first experience at Bread and Water Company and cannot wait to check out the pentagon city location that’s closer to me.
They were able to handle my large group and we ate some amazing food! Summer peach and beat salad, BACON waffles, French toast, lovely assorted sandwiches, annnd pastries! Try the flourless brownie. There is nothing in the world like it!!!
They were able to handle my large group and we ate some amazing food! Summer peach and beat salad, BACON waffles, French toast, lovely assorted sandwiches, annnd pastries! Try the flourless brownie. There is nothing in the world like it!!!