Best Restaurants for Quiet Conversation in Old Town Alexandria

Brunch was great, service was great and they even gave us some macarons to celebrate being newly weds! We will definitely go back soon. Recommend 100%.

Kingbird restaurant is an absolute gem, especially for anyone heading to a Kennedy Center performance. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, striking the perfect balance between elegance and comfort. Our server was exceptional—not only attentive but also incredibly thoughtful about our schedule. They ensured that each course was perfectly timed, so we could enjoy a relaxed meal without worrying about missing our show. They even recommended the best walking route to the Kennedy Center, saving us at least five minutes—something we greatly appreciated! The food was outstanding. Every dish we tried was a delightful blend of flavors, showcasing the restaurant’s mastery of Italian cuisine. The fresh pasta was a particular highlight, cooked to perfection and paired with rich, satisfying sauces. The portion sizes were just right: filling but not overwhelming, leaving us satisfied without feeling uncomfortable. To top it all off, the desserts were truly amazing—a sweet conclusion to a fantastic meal. Whether you’re stopping in for a special occasion or pairing it with an evening at the Kennedy Center, Kingbird offers a dining experience you won’t forget.

As always, the Lafayette is the best place for breakfast, standing well above all others for its accommodating wait staff (today it was Kenny), pleasant and relaxing atmosphere, well prepared meals, and the wam greetings that welcome you when you arrive at the host’s desk.

What a wonderful reception we received upon arriving; each of our party of five was greeted individually as if we were family members. Each dish was as delicious as it was beautifully plated (I had the shrimp stuffed with crabmeat and a marvelous sauce). The service was impeccable with the waitstaff being there when we needed him but he didn't hover. Thank you, RT's, from a group of reuniting friends who had THE BEST time in a remarkable setting.

The restaurant, bar and lounge areas spread out across multiple rooms / terraces / levels so it is a really intimate and fun layout. Excellent service and value. Price for classic drinks skewed a tad high in my opinion. I'll try and catch a happy hour sometime and the jazz performances.