Best Tapas Restaurants in Old Town Alexandria

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

District of ColumbiaVirginia - DC Suburbs

Neighborhoods

Adams MorganArlingtonDowntownDupont CircleGeorgetownLogan Circle

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

20 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

The default order for search results reflects a number of factors, including table availability, restaurant location, search criteria, and restaurant reviews and ratings. In addition, payment made by a restaurant to OpenTable is also a factor for the relative ordering of restaurants.

1. Palette 22

4.8

Exceptional(3177)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Arlington

Booked 37 times today

Located in the Village at Shirlington, Palette 22 is a small-plates, tapas-style restaurant focused on food, art and fun. The open kitchen produces shareable, flavor-forward dishes, which pair perfectly with a pitcher of house-made signature sangria. Enjoy watching live entertainment and artists practicing their craft throughout the restaurant, including painters, jewelry-makers and sculptor. All art on the walls is for sale. Open for lunch, dinner and bottomless weekend brunch.

A photo of Socci at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel restaurant

2. Socci at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View Hotel

4.3

Awesome(109)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Arlington

Booked 1 time today

Savor the spirit and flavors of Tuscany in the heart of Arlington at SOCCi. Freshly prepared pastas, succulent steaks, the finest Italian wines, decadent desserts, and craft cocktails take center stage at this modern take on old world Italy. This stylish spot offers an industrial-chic atmosphere, perfect for a memorable dining experience. SOCCi is located inside the Renaissance Arlington Capital View just steps away from National Landing and the best of Crystal City. Reservations recommended. SOCCi also offers private dining in our modern, intimate private dining room. It’s the ideal way to elevate a rehearsal dinner, a retirement party, a celebration with your leadership team, or whatever brings you together to raise a glass and share an unforgettable meal.

3. Sabores Tapas Bar

4.7

Exceptional(147)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Arlington

Booked 7 times today

Sabores Tapas Bar in Arlington is a vibrant celebration of authentic Latin and Spanish cuisine, offering a delightful fusion of traditional and modern flavors from Spain and Latin America. Guests rave about the "delicious and plentiful" array of tapas, including standout dishes like ceviche, gambas, and paella. The restaurant's atmosphere is a lively tapestry of Spanish Latin vibes, enhanced by "excellent service" that keeps patrons returning for more. With its dedication to quality ingredients and a menu that spans diverse regions, Sabores Tapas Bar is a true gem in the DMV area, perfect for both intimate gatherings and festive family meals.

4. Oyamel

4.6

Exceptional(9678)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Penn Quarter

Booked 163 times today

Oyamel Cocina Mexicana, nestled in the vibrant Penn Quarter of Washington, D.C., is a tapas haven where tradition and innovation harmoniously collide. Under the visionary leadership of renowned chef José Andrés and Head Chef Omar Rodriguez, Oyamel crafts an exceptional array of antijitos, or traditional Mexican small plates, that are a "must-try" for any enthusiast. Diners rave about the "delicious and unique" tacos, "phenomenal" ceviches, and "flavorful" small plates that consistently deliver authenticity and creativity. The restaurant's dedication to quality and outstanding service makes it a standout choice for an unforgettable dining experience filled with vibrant flavors and exquisite dishes.

5. Jaleo - DC

4.7

Exceptional(11115)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Penn Quarter

Booked 170 times today

Jaleo - DC is the ultimate destination for authentic Spanish tapas, bursting with vibrant flavors and exquisite presentation. Nestled in the heart of Penn Quarter, Washington, it's helmed by the celebrated chef José Andrés, ensuring a dining experience that's "nothing short of spectacular." Patrons rave about the "impeccable" flavors and the diverse selection of small plates that transport you straight to Spain. Standout dishes include the tender grilled octopus and the unforgettable ibérico ham that "melts in your mouth." With its lively atmosphere and passionate service, Jaleo offers a joyful culinary adventure perfect for any occasion, promising an unforgettable experience.

A photo of The Bazaar by José Andrés - DC restaurant

6. The Bazaar by José Andrés - DC

4.7

Exceptional(1172)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Tapas • Penn Quarter

Booked 94 times today

The Bazaar by José Andrés in Penn Quarter, Washington, DC, offers a sublime American dining experience that merges tradition with innovation. Set in the iconic Waldorf Astoria, it is a testament to Chef Andrés' 30-year culinary dream. Diners rave about the "delicious works of art" that define each dish, highlighting a masterful blend of flavors that are both authentic and inventive. The tapas-style service, featuring "exceptional service" and "phenomenal food," ensures a vibrant and memorable dining journey. With its avant-garde Americana-inspired decor and a menu that captures the essence of American cuisine, The Bazaar is a culinary gem in the nation's capital.

7. Ambar - Arlington

4.6

Exceptional(4123)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Arlington

Booked 73 times today

Ambar - Arlington is an exceptional destination for those seeking authentic Eastern European cuisine, specifically the vibrant flavors of the Balkans. Diners consistently rave about the "unlimited small plates" concept, which allows guests to savor a wide variety of traditional dishes, each bursting with flavor. The restaurant is celebrated for its warm hospitality and lively atmosphere, making every meal a unique experience. With standout dishes like stuffed cabbage and lamb specialties, Ambar elevates Balkan dining to new heights. One enthusiastic patron even declared it their "favorite restaurant in the world," highlighting the fresh, complex, and comforting nature of the cuisine.

A photo of Gypsy Kitchen - DC restaurant

8. Gypsy Kitchen - DC

4.6

Exceptional(1629)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Logan Circle

Booked 62 times today

Gypsy Kitchen - DC in Washington's vibrant Logan Circle neighborhood offers an unforgettable Cocktail Bar experience that is nothing short of spectacular. Guests rave about the "festive craft cocktails" that highlight the menu, with particular praise for the "Gypsy Dragon cocktail," described as "smooth and perfectly made." The ambiance complements the cocktails beautifully, creating a lively yet intimate setting perfect for any occasion. Patrons have consistently lauded the skillful mixologists for their creativity and precision, ensuring each drink is a masterpiece. With its unique and authentic cocktail offerings, Gypsy Kitchen is a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts.

A photo of Taberna del Alabardero restaurant

9. Taberna del Alabardero

4.7

Exceptional(3947)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Tapas • Downtown

Booked 36 times today

Taberna del Alabardero in Downtown Washington is the epitome of authentic Spanish Tapas, offering a delightful culinary journey just steps from The White House. Celebrated for its "outstanding" cuisine, this restaurant has been a staple in DC since 1989, proudly receiving the 2019 Honorary RAMMY award. Guests are consistently impressed by the "excellent food and service," with tapas that transport diners straight to Spain. The menu, crafted by Spanish Chef Oscar Ordonez, features traditional ingredients, ensuring every dish is as authentic as possible. With its elegant atmosphere and "spectacular service," Taberna del Alabardero promises an unforgettable dining experience.

10. SER

4.9

Exceptional(2355)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Tapas • Arlington

Booked 18 times today

SER, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Arlington, is a true gem for seafood aficionados. Known for its authentic Spanish cuisine, SER excels in delivering a "phenomenal" seafood experience that transports diners straight to the coasts of Spain. The seafood platter and classic paella are standout dishes, celebrated for their freshness and "saffron-infused rice" that captures the essence of Spanish flavors. Guests rave about the "octopus delicacy" and "smoked scallops," which are expertly prepared to highlight the rich, natural flavors of the sea. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive service, SER promises an exceptional dining journey for seafood lovers.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

K
Kathy
Washington, D.C. Area •27 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Jaleo is a DC classic! Delicious food, attentive service & lovely atmosphere. We hadn't been there in a long while & it was just as wonderful as we'd remembered! Enjoyed our time & will be back very soon.
More info
Jaleo - DCPrice: Expensive• Spanish• Penn Quarter
•
4.7
D
DuncanVIP
Washington, D.C. Area •24 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Great brunch w interesting, delicious food. Will go back for sure to try dinner.
More info
Palette 22Price: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• Arlington
•
4.8
A
Alisha
Puerto Vallarta •2 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
Loved the guacamole and the lemonade. The tacos were good. Server was great.
More info
OyamelPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Penn Quarter
•
4.6
J
Jennifer
Washington, D.C. Area •27 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Excellent dining as always! Thank you!! Ceviche, beet salad, arepitas... wonderful
More info
Sabores Tapas BarPrice: Moderate• Tapas / Small Plates• Arlington
•
4.7
OT
OpenTable Diner
Central Texas •1 review
5.0
Dined on Mar 19, 2025
We went for a family dinner there. Food and drink was good and everyone enjoyed it. They have a selective food items on the menu and do not have a variety.Had a good customer service experience with a good ambiance. Price was little higher than what it would cost in other places. But Renaissance is a 4/5 start hotel and taking it in consideration price of the food would be higher by nature. Overall we had a good experience at this place. If you want to have a nice family dinner in a quiet place with a cozy atmosphere that’s the place to go.
More info
Socci at the Renaissance Arlington Capital View HotelPrice: Expensive• Italian• Arlington
•
4.3

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