Northeast Alexandria - Alexandria, VA Area Guide

If living in a city with rich history appeals to you, Alexandria is a place to be. George Washington chose Alexandria, his hometown, as a part of the District of Columbia in 1791. Northeast Alexandria is situated just north of Alexandria's historic center, Old Town. With a rich history older than 13,000 years, Alexandria's past began with Native American settlers and continues with the city it is today.

The legacy of this city's rich history, including the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement, can be seen at several nearby museums. A trip to nearby Old Town makes history come alive before your eyes, with its rich art scene and culture. Visit the George Washington Masonic National Memorial and the city's art hub, the Torpedo Factory Art Center , an old naval munitions factory that now houses over 160 artists and 82 studios.

Northeast Alexandria residents have plenty of choices when it comes to their next meal. Whether you are searching for a hot cup of coffee, a quick lunch, a gourmet dinner, or a lively neighborhood bar, you can find it in Northeast Alexandria.

Start your day with a frothy latte and a breakfast pastry at Buzz Bakeshop on Slaters Lane. This cozy neighborhood bakery whips up homemade sweets that the Washington Post calls "downright outrageous." Try a cream cheese-stuffed pumpkin muffin, ham and cheddar scone, fresh quiche Lorraine, or buttery croissant for breakfast. For lunch, order one of the famous Red Apron Sandwiches. Choose from specialties such as a smoked pimento grilled cheese on pullman bread. If a sweet craving strikes, you're in good hands at Buzz. Not only does the dessert menu include cookies, buttery shortbread, fudge brownies, and freshly frosted cupcakes, but also Buzz's house-baked cakes in flavors such as s'mores, cookies and cream, and banana chocolate-peanut butter.

For a taste of authentic Greek cuisine, Vaso's Kitchen on Powhatan Street is not to be missed. Although this tucked-away restaurant may seem small from the outside, inside it serves dishes big on flavor that keep locals coming back for more. Feast on gyros, baked moussaka, braised lamb, and Greek-style shrimp to see why locals love this hidden gem. To sample a little bit of everything, order the shareable Greek sampler that includes Greek olives, stuffed grape leaves, feta, anchovies, peperoncini, hummus, pita, and Vaso's famous corned-beef meatballs.

Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, Rustico Restaurant serves locals lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Also located on Slaters Lane, Rustico's dinner menu includes shareable plates, rustic mains, burgers, pasta, and wood-fired pizza. Popular menu choices include the deep-fried deviled eggs, Belgian mussels, and lamb pappardelle pasta. An equally solid choice for a romantic date or a happy hour with friends, Rustico also offers an extensive beer and wine menu. The restaurant features over 330 beers for patrons to choose from, with 30 of them on tap. Come to Rustico during daily happy hour and enjoy a refreshing, cold beverage on their outdoor patio.

If you're after something a little lighter than pizza and pasta, stop at Tropical Smoothie Cafe on Potomac Greens Drive. This cafe boasts the motto "Eat Better, Feel Better," and attracts Northeast's health-conscious residents and nearby office employees alike with its fresh superfood smoothies. If you prefer ice cream to smoothies, you may want to check out Mount Vernon Ave's the Dairy Godmother. Besides a witty name, the Dairy Godmother makes Wisconsin-style frozen custard that locals line up for. Besides this creamy frozen treat, the shop sells dairy-free sorbet, exotic ice pops, and dog-friendly "puppy pops." President Obama, one of the store's biggest fans, has his own chair that you can see on your visit.

When it comes to nightlife, plenty of options can be found in and around Northeast Alexandria, from dive bars to upscale lounges. For an intimate experience and innovative craft cocktails, head to Captain Gregory's on North Henry Street. This secretive, dimly-lit bar provides a speakeasy environment with nautical flair and accepts reservations, which are highly recommended. Sip original and hand-crafted cocktails from the constantly changing menu that includes ingredients such as homemade rose liquor, curry soda, and red, miso-infused bourbon. If you prefer live local music with your libations, Majestic Lounge at the Evening Star Café is the place for you. Located on Mount Vernon Avenue, this bar provides a casual environment suitable to relaxing while listening to live bands. With TVs, pool tables, shuffleboard, and bar snacks, locals favor Majestic for a casual night out with friends.

About 65 percent of Northeast Alexandria commuters rely on a car for transportation. Residents can take advantage of easy highway access to transcontinental Jefferson Davis Highway and a short commute to downtown Alexandria. You can be downtown from Northeast in just four minutes by car, seven minutes by bicycle or twelve minutes by public transit. For those who prefer public transportation to driving, Northeast hosts the Metrorail, which connects to Washington, D.C. and makes getting around town a breeze. The Metrorail services about 700,000 patrons daily and costs $1.75-$5.90 depending on peak hours, discounts and pass options.

For residents who wish to bike their way around, Northeast Alexandria receives a 90 Bike Score from Walkscore.com and is recognized for having excellent bike lanes and flat, bike-friendly terrain. Residents can also feel comfortable taking to foot to explore this walkable neighborhood and accomplish daily errands, thanks to a "Very Walkable" Walkscore. Uber and cab companies service the Northeast and although parking can get difficult during peak hours, most businesses provide their own lots and street parking in addition to garages are available.

Enjoying the outdoors in Alexandria is easy. Whether you want to go for an afternoon hike, visit a dog park with your pooch, or pack a picnic, Northeast Alexandria offers a variety of nearby parks. Head to the Waterfront Park in Old Town and explore 1.37 acres of scenic Potomac River views. Go for a leisurely stroll, sit by the riverside, or take a boat ride. Another waterfront gem, Founders Park, is a favorite among locals for picnicking or playing a game of volleyball. Waterfront Park hosts events such as free outdoor movies during the summer.

Dogs can enjoy nearby Simpson Stadium Dog Park, while the whole family can spend an entire day at Potomac Yard Park. With nearly 24 acres, Potomac Park has something for everyone, including walking and biking paths, athletic fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a playground. The park's highlight, the Interactive Water Fountain, features 36 jets that offer a great place for kids to cool off in addition to a water show, which is lit up at night.

Due to its close proximity to Washington, D.C. and nearby amenities, Northeast Alexandria hosts a higher cost of living average compared to the state of Virginia. The cost of living in Alexandria is also 62 percent higher than the national average. The median cost of a one-bedroom averages $1,423.

The price of gas settles in at around six percent higher than the national average and a ride on the Metrorail averages $3, with discounts available for seniors, those with disabilities, and children. Expect to pay around $5 for a beer at a local pub.

Living in Northeast makes shopping extremely accessible, whether it's at the nearby Crystal City Shops mall or at local boutiques. If antique shopping and home decor prove some of your favorite activities, a visit to Abaca Imports becomes a treat. This North Royal Street shop hosts a unique selection of imported furniture that cannot be found at other stores. Their fine selection includes one-of-a-kind vintage pieces that those from all over the D.C. area come to seek out.

For a boutique experience, local trendsetters head to Kiskadee on Mount Vernon Ave. This trendy boutique has something for every budget, from clothing to to jewelry to specialty gifts. Locals love the unique selection and the helpful, friendly staff. Shop at Kiskadee for your next cocktail dress, pair of shoes, or favorite accessory.

For all of your grocery needs, Northeast has several stores a short car ride away, including Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, Safeway, Harris Teeter, and MOM's Organic Market. For a smaller selection of artisan products, visit Slaters Market on Potomac Greens Drive or Market 2 Market on Del Ray Ave. Slaters offers a variety of products, including coffee, pasta, chocolate, soups, freshly baked bread, cheese, gourmet sandwiches, and ice cream. Slaters also offers beer and wine and delivery to Alexandria residents. Locals love Market 2 Market for fresh Italian subs and their specialty products. Come here for everything you need to recreate an authentic Italian meal in the comfort of your own home, including the wine.

For farmers markets, visit the Old Town Farmers Market on Saturdays, the pet-friendly West End Farmers Market on Sundays, or the year-round Del Ray Farmers Market on Saturdays.