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Ada's on the River, Alexandria, VA

Ada's on the River

4.7
4.7
3696 Reviews
$30 and under
American

Make a booking

2 people
7:00 pm
Booked 93 times today
  • Great for scenic views
  • Good for special occasions
  • Great for outdoor dining
Built around a custom wood-burning oven and featuring stunning panoramic views of the Potomac River, Ada's on the River draws inspiration from the ingenuity of Ada Lovelace, one of the greatest mathematicians of the 19th century. Ada's menus feature a selection of wood-fired prime steaks, fresh seafood and vegetarian fare, in addition to an extensive beer, wine and cocktail list.

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    $30 and under
  • Cuisines
    American
  • Hours of Operation
    Mon–Fri 11:30–23:00 Sat, Sun 10:00–23:00
  • Phone number
    (703) 638-1400
  • Website
    https://www.adasontheriver.com/
  • Payment Options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Executive Chef
    Santiago Lopez
  • Private party facilities
    An homage to 19th-century mathematician Ada Lovelace, Ada’s offers panoramic Potomac River views and features wood-fired prime steaks, fresh seafood and vegetarian fare. ‍ The 260-seat restaurant includes 160 indoor seats, including a 32-seat private dining room, and 100 seats on the outdoor patio. The stylish interior provides a warm, modern feel with 15-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and inviting booth seating. A unique wood-burning grill is the central component to the open-concept kitchen, nestled under sweeping hull-like wood paneling, and accented with vibrant red tiles. Original art features Ada, her father, the poet Lord Byron, and other literary figures such as Jane Austen, Mary Shelley, and Emily and Charlotte Bronte. ‍ Adas talented culinary team has created a variety of delicious, made-from-scratch menus. Options range from delicious hors d’oeuvres to multi-course plated meals.
  • Location
    3 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA 22314
  • Area
    Old Town Alexandria
  • Cross Street
    Duke Street and South Union Street
  • Parking details
    There are several public hourly parking garages within two blocks of the restaurant, and hourly street parking is also available on adjacent streets.
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeaway, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Menu

STARTERS

  • MINI BLACK BRIOCHE LOAF VUSD 9.00

    charred orange butter

    • BEEF TARTARE*USD 21.00

      hand cut tenderloin, parmigiano reggiano, shallots, capers, dijon, worcestershire, egg yolk, caraway seeds, dill crackers

      • SEARED TUNA* GUSD 23.00

        avocado mousse, citrus, pickled fresno peppers, green onions, sesame seeds, blood orange soda, aleppo peppers

        • GRILLED OCTOPUS GUSD 21.00

          harissa vinaigrette, smoked tomatoes, fingerling potatoes, horseradish yogurt

          • COAL-ROASTED OYSTERSUSD 19.00

            chorizo-garlic breadcrumbs, cheddar, pickled shallots

            • WOOD-FIRED CHICKEN THIGHSUSD 15.00

              turkish flatbread, dijonnaise, marinated greens

              • COAL-ROASTED PRAWNS GUSD 27.00

                garlic butter, charred blood orange, herbs

                SALADS

                Add wood-fired meats; chicken breast - 10, hanger steak* - 18, salmon* - 15 , jumbo shrimp - 18

                • CHARRED GEM LETTUCEUSD 16.00

                  garlic-anchovy vinaigrette, shaved parmesan, rustic croutons, coal roasted tomatoes

                  • "THE WEDGE"USD 16.00

                    iceberg, bacon vinaigrette, roasted tomatoes, bacon lardons, whipped blue cheese, corn bread croutons

                    • GRILLED SHRIMP & AVOCADO GUSD 21.00

                      bibb lettuce, radishes, citrus, coconut vinaigrette, toasted almonds, pickled fresno peppers

                      • GRILLED KALE & CITRUS V GUSD 16.00

                        roasted hazelnuts, medjool dates, lemon vinaigrette, buttermilk-yogurt dressing

                        ENTREES

                        • BRAISED LAMB SHANK GUSD 38.00

                          polenta, root vegetables, swiss chard, natural jus, horseradish gremolata

                          • WOOD-FIRED BONE-IN PORK CHOP* GUSD 38.00

                            coal-roasted grapes, jalapeños, garlic, bacon, basil, garlic butter

                            • COAL ROASTED CHICKEN GUSD 34.00

                              guajillo marinated half chicken, roasted vegetables, yogurt, garlic butter, herbs

                              • CRAB STUFFED CAROLINA TROUTUSD 38.00

                                lump crab stuffing, capers, lemon butter, herbs

                                • SMOKED SWORDFISH* GUSD 35.00

                                  coriander & black pepper, brussels sprouts, pomegranate agrodolce, smoked mustard cream sauce, herbs

                                  • SEARED SALMON* GUSD 34.00

                                    roasted cauliflower, kale, smoked tomatoes, charred pearl onions, salsa verde, herbs

                                    • HOUSE-GROUND PRIME DRY AGED BURGER*USD 24.00

                                      wood-fired onions, bacon, taleggio cheese, dijonnaise, russian dressing, pickles, lettuce, onion-brioche bun, thick cut fries

                                      • GIANT CRAB CAKEUSD 46.00

                                        jumbo lump crab, creamed leeks, pickled shallots, lemon remoulade

                                        • SEARED SCALLOPS* GUSD 36.00

                                          corn soubise, coal-roasted corn, bacon jam, pickled fresno peppers, roasted tomatoes, dill, almond dukkah

                                          • STEAMED BLUE MUSSELSUSD 24.00

                                            harissa-tomato broth, shallots, garlic, herbs, grilled rustic bread

                                            WOOD-FIRED CUSTOM AGED PRIME MEATS

                                            Served à la carte with garlic maître d' butter

                                            • 14 OZ, 75 DAY AGED, NY STRIP* GUSD 55.00

                                              • 18 OZ, 60 DAY AGED, BONE IN COWBOY RIBEYE* GUSD 75.00

                                                • 10 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, HANGER STEAK* GUSD 36.00

                                                  • 18 OZ, GRAIN FED TOMAHAWK VEAL CHOP* GUSD 59.00

                                                    • 6 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, FILET MIGNON* GUSD 42.00

                                                      • 10 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, FILET MIGNON* GUSD 69.00

                                                        SAUCES

                                                        • HOUSE STEAK SAUCE

                                                          • EachUSD 4.00
                                                          • TrioUSD 10.00

                                                        • GARLIC CHIMICHURRI

                                                          • EachUSD 4.00
                                                          • TrioUSD 10.00

                                                        • BEARNAISE

                                                          • EachUSD 4.00
                                                          • TrioUSD 10.00

                                                        • BRANDY-PEPPERCORN

                                                          • EachUSD 4.00
                                                          • TrioUSD 10.00

                                                        VEGETABLE ENTREES

                                                        • COAL-FIRED MUSHROOM LASAGNA VUSD 23.00

                                                          house made pasta, roasted mushrooms, smoked mozzarella, ricotta, coal roasted tomato sauce, lemon aioli

                                                          • SMOKED RICOTTA GNOCCHI VUSD 24.00

                                                            vegan sausage ragù, smoked ricotta, crispy shallots, herbs

                                                            • SPICED COAL ROASTED CAULIFLOWER V GUSD 22.00

                                                              pine nuts, arugula, pickled raisins, salsa verde

                                                              SIGNATURE SIDES

                                                              • HONEY-GLAZED CARROTS V GUSD 12.00

                                                                garlic labneh, almond dukkah, herbs

                                                                • THICK CUT FRIES VUSD 12.00

                                                                  garlic labneh, ada's seasoned salt, russian dressing

                                                                  • HASH BROWN PAVE VUSD 12.00

                                                                    potatoes, smoked paprika aioli, coarse salt

                                                                    • BRUSSELS SPROUTSUSD 12.00

                                                                      pomegranate agrodolce, bacon, garlic labneh

                                                                      • COAL-ROASTED ASPARAGUS V GUSD 14.00

                                                                        white chocolate béarnaise*, caper-coconut granola, dill, pickled shallots

                                                                        • ROASTED SWEET POTATO V GUSD 12.00

                                                                          fresh goat cheese, toasted pecans, pomegranate-citrus honey, urfa pepper, scallions

                                                                          • LOBSTER MAC & CHEESEUSD 26.00

                                                                            campanelle, old bay mornay, white cheddar

                                                                            • CURRY SUNCHOKES VUSD 14.00

                                                                              garlic, ginger, jalapeño, aleppo pepper, nigella, cilantro, yogurt

                                                                              • CREAMED SPINACH VUSD 12.00

                                                                                chipotle morita, aged cheddar, nutmeg, shallots, garlic

                                                                                • COAL-ROASTED MUSHROOMSUSD 14.00

                                                                                  anchovy vinaigrette, garlic bread crumbs

                                                                                  Last updated: 29 November 2024

                                                                                  What 3,696 people are saying

                                                                                  Overall ratings and reviews

                                                                                  Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

                                                                                  4.7
                                                                                  4.7 based on recent ratings
                                                                                  • 4.6Food
                                                                                  • 4.7Service
                                                                                  • 4.7Ambience
                                                                                  • 4.3Value

                                                                                  Noise • Moderate

                                                                                  Loved For

                                                                                  • Washington, D.C. Area

                                                                                    Great for scenic views

                                                                                  • Virginia - DC Suburbs

                                                                                    Great for scenic views

                                                                                  • Virginia - DC Suburbs

                                                                                    Most Booked

                                                                                  Review summary

                                                                                  AI-generated from verified diner reviews
                                                                                  Ada's on the River offers an exceptional dining experience with "amazing service," "delicious food," and "beautiful views" of the Potomac River. Guests frequently praise the attentive staff and diverse menu, highlighting standout dishes like the Cowboy Ribeye and Lobster Mac and Cheese. Ideal for special occasions, the ambiance is both "fun and classy." However, some find it "a bit pricey," and service occasionally varies. Overall, Ada's remains a favorite for many in Alexandria.

                                                                                  3,696 Reviews

                                                                                  1. Michael

                                                                                    San Francisco

                                                                                    7 reviews

                                                                                    4.0

                                                                                    7 reviews

                                                                                    Dined 1 day ago

                                                                                    1. Overall 4
                                                                                    2. Food 4
                                                                                    3. Service 4
                                                                                    4. Ambience 4
                                                                                    First time group of vegetarians. Nice location on the Potomac River. Attentive service. A little loud and busy but still maintained a cozy atmosphere for group discussion at a booth. Delicious vegetarian entrees annd side options. The gnocchi was outstanding. The roasted cauliflower was tasty but needed more sauce and seasoning. Would definitely go back.

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                                                                                  2. Alexandra

                                                                                    Washington DC

                                                                                    9 reviews

                                                                                    5.0

                                                                                    9 reviews

                                                                                    Dined 1 day ago

                                                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                                                    2. Food 5
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                                                    This was our first time at Ada’s and everything we ordered was amazing! Especially the oysters as a starter. The holiday lighting was also beautiful and service was great. Will be going back!

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                                                                                  3. Sam

                                                                                    Charleston

                                                                                    2 reviews

                                                                                    5.0

                                                                                    2 reviews

                                                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                                                    2. Food 5
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                                                    Great experience and terrific food. Can’t wait to go back!

                                                                                    Is this helpful?

                                                                                  4. Michelle

                                                                                    Washington DC

                                                                                    1 review

                                                                                    4.0

                                                                                    1 review

                                                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                                                    1. Overall 4
                                                                                    2. Food 4
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 4
                                                                                    We had a very nice Thanksgiving Day meal, served well with good food.

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                                                                                  5. Bud Marston

                                                                                    Washington DC

                                                                                    15 reviews

                                                                                    vip
                                                                                    4.0

                                                                                    15 reviews

                                                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                                                    1. Overall 4
                                                                                    2. Food 3
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 4
                                                                                    My turkey lunch special was mediocre. The turkey was pressed leg meat, the gravy was not very tasty, and the scalloped potatoes were dry. The lemon dessert was fine. - My turkey lunch was served barely lukewarm, and the gravy was almost cool. I sent it back for reheating. The bill for myself and two guests, which included sparkling water, one glass of wine, one mixed drink, and one cappuccino, totaled $381 -- just not the quality food for that price.

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                                                                                  6. Madison

                                                                                    Tampa

                                                                                    4 reviews

                                                                                    5.0

                                                                                    4 reviews

                                                                                    Dined 3 days ago

                                                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                                                    2. Food 4
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                                                    Our server Alex was amazing. He welcomed us immensely and gave helpful suggestions. The food was exceptional. We especially loved the bread and stuffed trout. Definitely planning on coming back for a special occasion!

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                                                                                  7. Natalie

                                                                                    Charlotte

                                                                                    3 reviews

                                                                                    5.0

                                                                                    3 reviews

                                                                                    Dined 4 days ago

                                                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                                                    2. Food 5
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                                                    Amazing find! Food was awesome and the service was top notch.

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                                                                                  8. Mirba

                                                                                    New York City

                                                                                    55 reviews

                                                                                    vip
                                                                                    5.0

                                                                                    55 reviews

                                                                                    Dined on 23 November 2024

                                                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                                                    2. Food 5
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                                                    Fantastic brunch! Would like to go back for dinner but we only come to Alexandria once a year. Definitely will be coming back.

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                                                                                  9. William

                                                                                    Houston

                                                                                    53 reviews

                                                                                    vip
                                                                                    5.0

                                                                                    53 reviews

                                                                                    Dined on 22 November 2024

                                                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                                                    2. Food 5
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 3
                                                                                    We had such a great time. Dominic was a great waiter, friendly and very professional. Food was outstanding. Decent wine list. Our table was super close to another’s, we could not avoid hearing their conversations. Otherwise perfect night.

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                                                                                  10. Kathy

                                                                                    Washington DC

                                                                                    13 reviews

                                                                                    vip
                                                                                    5.0

                                                                                    13 reviews

                                                                                    Dined on 21 November 2024

                                                                                    1. Overall 5
                                                                                    2. Food 4
                                                                                    3. Service 5
                                                                                    4. Ambience 5
                                                                                    Lovely restaurant and will go back again. Great waiter!

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                                                                                  FAQs

                                                                                  Ada's on the River offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (703) 638-1400.

                                                                                  Ada's on the River is rated 4.7 stars by 3696 OpenTable diners.

                                                                                  Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

                                                                                  Make a booking

                                                                                  2 people
                                                                                  7:00 pm
                                                                                  Booked 93 times today

                                                                                  Order delivery or takeout

                                                                                  Google Map for Ada's on the River

                                                                                  3 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA 22314

                                                                                  Additional information

                                                                                  • Cross Street
                                                                                    Duke Street and South Union Street
                                                                                  • Area
                                                                                    Old Town Alexandria
                                                                                  • Hours of Operation
                                                                                    Mon–Fri 11:30–23:00 Sat, Sun 10:00–23:00
                                                                                  • Price
                                                                                    $30 and under
                                                                                  • Cuisines
                                                                                    American
                                                                                  • Dining style
                                                                                    Casual Elegant
                                                                                  • Dress code
                                                                                    Business Casual
                                                                                  • Parking details
                                                                                    There are several public hourly parking garages within two blocks of the restaurant, and hourly street parking is also available on adjacent streets.
                                                                                  • Payment Options
                                                                                    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
                                                                                  • Executive Chef
                                                                                    Santiago Lopez
                                                                                  • Additional
                                                                                    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeaway, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
                                                                                  • Website
                                                                                    https://www.adasontheriver.com/
                                                                                  • Phone number
                                                                                    (703) 638-1400
                                                                                  • Private party facilities
                                                                                    An homage to 19th-century mathematician Ada Lovelace, Ada’s offers panoramic Potomac River views and features wood-fired prime steaks, fresh seafood and vegetarian fare. ‍ The 260-seat restaurant includes 160 indoor seats, including a 32-seat private dining room, and 100 seats on the outdoor patio. The stylish interior provides a warm, modern feel with 15-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and inviting booth seating. A unique wood-burning grill is the central component to the open-concept kitchen, nestled under sweeping hull-like wood paneling, and accented with vibrant red tiles. Original art features Ada, her father, the poet Lord Byron, and other literary figures such as Jane Austen, Mary Shelley, and Emily and Charlotte Bronte. ‍ Adas talented culinary team has created a variety of delicious, made-from-scratch menus. Options range from delicious hors d’oeuvres to multi-course plated meals.
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