Introduction
Ballston isn’t just another Metro stop; it’s a vibrant and rapidly growing community with a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene. Nestled in the heart of Arlington, Virginia, Ballston offers a culinary landscape that caters to everyone, from busy professionals grabbing a quick lunch to families looking for a relaxed dinner and those seeking exciting international flavors. Forget the chain restaurants – while they certainly have their place, this guide will take you on a journey to discover some of the best spots to grab some incredible food near Ballston, regardless of your budget or craving.
This guide is designed to be your go-to resource for finding your next favorite meal in Ballston. We’ve broken down the options by cuisine type to make it easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. So, ditch the takeout menus piled up on your counter and get ready to explore the exciting world of food near Ballston!
American and Casual Dining: Comfort Food Done Right Near Ballston
Sometimes, you just want a classic burger, a plate of wings, or some good old-fashioned comfort food. Thankfully, when you’re craving some American fare, there are plenty of places to get your food near Ballston.
SER Steak + Spirits
While technically a steakhouse, SER offers a great casual experience in the bar area. This is a perfect spot for happy hour or just a good burger with a drink. Price is considered moderate to high. Located conveniently in the Hilton Arlington Ballston.
Ted’s Montana Grill
This chain offers a rustic and comfortable setting with classic American fare like burgers, steaks, and pot roast. Their bison burgers are a must-try, and their commitment to sustainability is admirable. Expect moderate pricing. You can find it conveniently located in the Ballston Quarter.
World of Beer
This place is great for when you’re craving some pub-style food and a wide array of drinks. Great spot to watch your favorite games as well. Affordable pricing and it is located in the Ballston Quarter.
Italian Temptations: Pasta, Pizza, and More near Ballston
For those days when you crave a comforting bowl of pasta or a crispy, cheesy pizza, Ballston has some fantastic Italian options that provide quality food near Ballston.
Pupatella
Authentic Neapolitan pizzas that are wood-fired to perfection. Their pizzas are simple, fresh, and incredibly flavorful. The atmosphere is casual and lively, making it a great spot for families and friends. Expect moderate prices. Find it on Wilson Boulevard!
Amici’s
A local favorite with a menu packed with classic Italian dishes, from pasta and pizza to salads and sandwiches. Known for its generous portions and friendly service, Amici’s is a reliable and affordable option for a satisfying Italian meal. Expect relatively affordable pricing and is conveniently located in the heart of Ballston.
A Taste of Asia: Exploring Eastern Flavors Near Ballston
Ballston boasts a diverse selection of Asian restaurants, offering everything from spicy Szechuan dishes to delicate sushi rolls and flavorful Vietnamese pho. When the craving for Asian-inspired food near Ballston hits, you’ll have options!
Hot Pot Hero
Offering a fun and interactive dining experience, Hot Pot Hero allows you to customize your own hot pot with a variety of broths, meats, vegetables, and sauces. It’s a great spot for a group gathering. Price is considered moderate. Conveniently located inside the Ballston Quarter.
Pho 75
No-frills, authentic Vietnamese restaurant specializing in delicious and affordable pho. It’s a local favorite for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner. The portions are generous, and the broth is incredibly flavorful. It’s the place to go for an authentic food near Ballston experience. Prices are very affordable.
Rolls By U
Sushi burrito place, this is the perfect place to grab something quick and affordable when you are craving a sushi burrito! Expect affordbale pricing. It is also conveniently located inside the Ballston Quarter.
Mexican and Latin American Delights Near Ballston
From zesty tacos to flavorful enchiladas, Ballston’s Mexican and Latin American restaurants offer a vibrant explosion of flavors and spices that will transport your taste buds south of the border.
El Pollo Rico
Renowned for its Peruvian-style roasted chicken, El Pollo Rico is a must-try for anyone seeking flavorful and affordable food near Ballston. The chicken is marinated in a secret blend of spices and roasted to perfection, resulting in juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful meat. This place truly has amazing food near Ballston at affordable prices.
QDOBA Mexican Eats
A very popular Mexican-chain that is conveniently located in the Ballston Quarter. This is a perfect place to grab some Mexican food when you are in a pinch!
Indian and Middle Eastern Cuisine: Spices and Aromas Near Ballston
For those who appreciate the rich and complex flavors of Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine, Ballston offers a selection of restaurants that will tantalize your senses with fragrant spices and exotic aromas that add variety to the food near Ballston landscape.
Kabob Palace
Specializing in authentic Afghan cuisine, Kabob Palace offers a variety of grilled meats, rice dishes, and vegetarian options. Their kebabs are incredibly flavorful, and their rice dishes are cooked to perfection. Affordable prices, delicious food near Ballston, what else do you need?
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
While not exclusively Middle Eastern, Tatte offers a variety of pastries and dishes with Middle Eastern influences, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. Their Shakshuka is a must-try.
Brunch Spots: Kicking off the Weekend Right Near Ballston
Brunch is a weekend staple, and Ballston has some great spots to enjoy a leisurely meal with friends and family. These restaurants offer delicious food near Ballston to start your day on a delicious note.
First Watch
A chain restaurant that offers plenty of American-style food options. This is the perfect brunch spot to gather with family and friends! They have many options that are great for both sweet and savory food lovers.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
While mentioned earlier, Tatte is a great brunch spot as well, with plenty of options to choose from.
Quick Bites and Coffee Shops: Fueling Your Day Near Ballston
Need a quick caffeine fix, a light lunch, or a sweet treat? Ballston has a plethora of coffee shops and quick-bite eateries to keep you fueled throughout the day.
Starbucks
Multiple locations for your classic coffee and pastry needs.
Java Shack
Local coffee shop with great coffee and pastries.
Taylor Gourmet
Delicious hoagies and sandwiches for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Subway
Reliable and affordable sandwich options.
Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Refreshing smoothies and light bites.
Hidden Gems: Uncovering Ballston’s Best-Kept Secrets for Food near Ballston
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Ballston has a few hidden gems that are worth seeking out. These places may be smaller or less flashy, but they offer unique and delicious food near Ballston experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.
Aroma Kitchen
A small but mighty Indian restaurant tucked away, serving authentic and flavorful dishes at very reasonable prices. Their lunch buffet is a steal. The location may be a little unassuming, but they truly provide some quality food near Ballston at a budget-friendly price.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits Near Ballston
As you can see, the food scene near Ballston is far more diverse and exciting than you might expect. From classic American comfort food to exotic international flavors, there’s something for every palate and budget. So, get out there and explore the amazing restaurants and eateries that Ballston has to offer.
Don’t be afraid to try something new and step outside your comfort zone. You might just discover your new favorite restaurant! And be sure to share your own favorite spots in the comments below – we’re always looking for new recommendations for amazing food near Ballston. Bon appétit!
