Out holiday shopping? Here’s where to grab lunch in/around NoVA

With the holidays quickly approaching you may find yourself holiday shopping, which can work up an appetite. If you’ll be in Northern Virginia this holiday season, we’ve found places for you to satisfy your hunger.

As you’re out enjoying your holiday shopping, you may want to try a new place to get a quick bite for lunch. While you’re supporting small retail businesses in NoVA, we’ve highlighted various local places to go and get a scrumptious bite to eat. 

The Italian Store

Location: Arlington

Looking for a quick bite to eat when you are shopping around Arlington? The Italian Store is the perfect place to get the best sandwiches, pizzas, and wines that you may need. Locally owned and operated by the Tramonte family for 30+ years, The Italian Store has grown to include two different locations in Arlington for all the Italian lovers.

Del Ray Café

Location: Alexandria

If you are out and about this holiday season in Alexandria, be sure to visit Del Ray Café for lovers of French style dishes. This restaurant was transformed from a house into a cute and cozy restaurant for a home-away-from-home restaurant feeling. 

Whether you want classic French fare like French onion soup and chocolate mousse or decadent salads and cheese boards, Del Ray Café will have you second-guessing if you’re in NoVA or Paris.

My Deli & Café

Location: Purcellville

My Deli & Café is the perfect destination if you’re craving authentic Greek or Italian cuisine. Known for its delicious sandwiches and deli offerings, like gyros and chicken souvlaki, the café has been a Purcellville favorite since opening in 2007. Don’t miss the fresh salads, pizzas, and desserts, either.

The cafe offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, too. Some highlights include the gourmet vegetarian panini, featuring mozzarella cheese, feta cheese, tzatziki, banana peppers, pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a delicious house dressing, as well as the Greek veggie pita, with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, banana peppers, feta cheese, black olives, and tzatziki sauce.

Taco Zocalo

Locations: Reston, Ashburn, Chanitlly, Falls Church, and Sterling

Taco Zocalo is a family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant with five locations across Northern Virginia. Renowned for its authentic cuisine, Taco Zocalo offers a customizable dining experience, allowing you to mix and match to create your perfect taco. 

Did you know that the local restaurant chain makes their own hot sauces? Diners can choose from the original habanero blend, roasted jalapeno salsa verde, pineapple habanero, and mustard habanero. Taco Zocalo sells the housemade recipe in bottles, so they’re perfect for gifting this holiday season.

Café Kindred

Location: Falls Church 

Café Kindred is the ultimate spot for breakfast and lunch lovers who adore a full plate. Known for its variety of French poutine dishes and other delicious breakfast options like the Croque Madame—Brioche bread, grilled and topped with country ham, mornay sauce, and Swiss cheese, topped with a sunny side egg, and served with mixed greens—this cozy café has something for everyone. 

On weekends, their no-laptop policy fosters a warm, social atmosphere, perfect for connecting with friends or simply enjoying the vibe. Don’t forget to check out their selection of unique merchandise while you’re there.

Mamma’s Kitchen

Location: Alexandria

Mamma’s Kitchen offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere with a blended menu of Greek, Italian, and American cuisine. With multiple locations across Northern Virginia, they serve a variety of delicious sandwiches, fresh salads, and homemade pastries. One diner-favorite is the Mediterranean chicken salad, complete with baby spinach, grilled chicken, feta, olives, green peppers, onions, and tomatoes, tossed in a lemon olive oil dressing, and served with pita bread.

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light bite, Mamma’s Kitchen has something to satisfy every craving.

Dolce Vita Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Location: Fairfax

Dolce Vita Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar has been delighting diners in Fairfax with authentic Italian cuisine for over 25 years. Known for its outstanding wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted pastas, and an extensive wine list perfect for pairing, Dolce Vita offers a true taste of Italy. A standout favorite among guests is the indulgent truffle pizza, a must-try for any visit.