Ada's on the River

4.7

3688 Reviews

$30 and under

American

Make a reservation

2 people

Nov 27, 2024

7:00 PM

Booked 69 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–Wed, Fri 11:30 am–11:00 pm Thu 11:00 am–10:00 pm Sat, Sun 10:00 am–11:00 pm
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
Neighborhood
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, Takeout, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Offers

Thanksgiving Feast
Nov 28, 2024 only
Settle into your cozy table with friends and a view of the beautiful Potomac River to enjoy our three-course Thanksgiving menu or our regular dinner menu. Choose from appetizers like Seared Scallops, entrées like Smokey Turkey Breast Roulade and desserts like Cranberry Tart. $79 adults | $29 kids + tax & gratuity Open 11 AM - 10 PM Thanksgiving Day

Popular dishes

MINI BLACK BRIOCHE LOAF V$9.00
charred orange butter
BEEF TARTARE*$21.00
hand cut tenderloin, parmigiano reggiano, shallots, capers, dijon, worcestershire, egg yolk, caraway seeds, dill crackers
SEARED TUNA* G$23.00
avocado mousse, citrus, pickled fresno peppers, green onions, sesame seeds, blood orange soda, aleppo peppers
GRILLED OCTOPUS G$21.00
harissa vinaigrette, smoked tomatoes, fingerling potatoes, horseradish yogurt
COAL-ROASTED OYSTERS$19.00
chorizo-garlic breadcrumbs, cheddar, pickled shallots
WOOD-FIRED CHICKEN THIGHS$15.00
turkish flatbread, dijonnaise, marinated greens
COAL-ROASTED PRAWNS G$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 LETTUCE$16.00
garlic-anchovy vinaigrette, shaved parmesan, rustic croutons, coal roasted tomatoes
"THE WEDGE"$16.00
iceberg, bacon vinaigrette, roasted tomatoes, bacon lardons, whipped blue cheese, corn bread croutons
GRILLED SHRIMP & AVOCADO G$21.00
bibb lettuce, radishes, citrus, coconut vinaigrette, toasted almonds, pickled fresno peppers
GRILLED KALE & CITRUS V G$16.00
roasted hazelnuts, medjool dates, lemon vinaigrette, buttermilk-yogurt dressing

ENTREES

BRAISED LAMB SHANK G$38.00
polenta, root vegetables, swiss chard, natural jus, horseradish gremolata
WOOD-FIRED BONE-IN PORK CHOP* G$38.00
coal-roasted grapes, jalapeños, garlic, bacon, basil, garlic butter
COAL ROASTED CHICKEN G$34.00
guajillo marinated half chicken, roasted vegetables, yogurt, garlic butter, herbs
CRAB STUFFED CAROLINA TROUT$38.00
lump crab stuffing, capers, lemon butter, herbs
SMOKED SWORDFISH* G$35.00
coriander & black pepper, brussels sprouts, pomegranate agrodolce, smoked mustard cream sauce, herbs
SEARED SALMON* G$34.00
roasted cauliflower, kale, smoked tomatoes, charred pearl onions, salsa verde, herbs
HOUSE-GROUND PRIME DRY AGED BURGER*$24.00
wood-fired onions, bacon, taleggio cheese, dijonnaise, russian dressing, pickles, lettuce, onion-brioche bun, thick cut fries
GIANT CRAB CAKE$46.00
jumbo lump crab, creamed leeks, pickled shallots, lemon remoulade
SEARED SCALLOPS* G$36.00
corn soubise, coal-roasted corn, bacon jam, pickled fresno peppers, roasted tomatoes, dill, almond dukkah
STEAMED BLUE MUSSELS$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* G$55.00
18 OZ, 60 DAY AGED, BONE IN COWBOY RIBEYE* G$75.00
10 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, HANGER STEAK* G$36.00
18 OZ, GRAIN FED TOMAHAWK VEAL CHOP* G$59.00
6 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, FILET MIGNON* G$42.00
10 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, FILET MIGNON* G$69.00

SAUCES

HOUSE STEAK SAUCE
- Each$4.00
- Trio$10.00
GARLIC CHIMICHURRI
- Each$4.00
- Trio$10.00
BEARNAISE
- Each$4.00
- Trio$10.00
BRANDY-PEPPERCORN
- Each$4.00
- Trio$10.00

VEGETABLE ENTREES

COAL-FIRED MUSHROOM LASAGNA V$23.00
house made pasta, roasted mushrooms, smoked mozzarella, ricotta, coal roasted tomato sauce, lemon aioli
SMOKED RICOTTA GNOCCHI V$24.00
vegan sausage ragù, smoked ricotta, crispy shallots, herbs
SPICED COAL ROASTED CAULIFLOWER V G$22.00
pine nuts, arugula, pickled raisins, salsa verde

SIGNATURE SIDES

HONEY-GLAZED CARROTS V G$12.00
garlic labneh, almond dukkah, herbs
THICK CUT FRIES V$12.00
garlic labneh, ada's seasoned salt, russian dressing
HASH BROWN PAVE V$12.00
potatoes, smoked paprika aioli, coarse salt
BRUSSELS SPROUTS$12.00
pomegranate agrodolce, bacon, garlic labneh
COAL-ROASTED ASPARAGUS V G$14.00
white chocolate béarnaise*, caper-coconut granola, dill, pickled shallots
ROASTED SWEET POTATO V G$12.00
fresh goat cheese, toasted pecans, pomegranate-citrus honey, urfa pepper, scallions
LOBSTER MAC & CHEESE$26.00
campanelle, old bay mornay, white cheddar
CURRY SUNCHOKES V$14.00
garlic, ginger, jalapeño, aleppo pepper, nigella, cilantro, yogurt
CREAMED SPINACH V$12.00
chipotle morita, aged cheddar, nutmeg, shallots, garlic
COAL-ROASTED MUSHROOMS$14.00
anchovy vinaigrette, garlic bread crumbs

What 3,688 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.

3,689 Reviews

N
Natalie
Charlotte
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined today
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing find! Food was awesome and the service was top notch.
Is this helpful?
M
Mirba
New York City
55 reviews
vip
5.0
55 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
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.
Is this helpful?
W
William
Houston
53 reviews
vip
5.0
53 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
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.
Is this helpful?
K
Kathy
Washington DC
13 reviews
vip
5.0
13 reviews
Dined 6 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Lovely restaurant and will go back again. Great waiter!
Is this helpful?
E
Edgar
Washington DC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great great service. Water was constantly filled.
Is this helpful?
L
Lauren
Washington DC
87 reviews
vip
5.0
87 reviews
Dined on November 18, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Wonderful outdoor seating with waterfront views. Food is always delicious with the seafood being the best. It's the sweet surprises like the citrus butter and the bacon jam that boosts the flavor of already quality ingredients.
Is this helpful?
R
Russell
Baltimore
5 reviews
3.0
5 reviews
Dined on November 17, 2024
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
Pricey, food took awhile to get to the table, was disappointed with the steak omelette. Could be better
Ada's on the RiverResponded 4 days ago
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us. We always aim to provide excellent food and value for our guests, and we regret that we missed the mark this time especially with the steak omelet. We appreciate your feedback and will certainly take it into consideration as we continuously strive to improve our offerings and service.
Is this helpful?
R
Rosa
Washington DC
9 reviews
1.0
9 reviews
Dined on November 17, 2024
1. Overall 1
2. Food 1
3. Service 1
4. Ambience 1
Horrible food the grilled octopus taste like a plastic, The black bread was charcoal in it basically you are eating charcoal, if you ask for regular bread they don't have it , after i asked for different bread I SAW another table got some flatbreads and I ask for that they said we can not give that bread it is for special dish , it was just a regular tortilla. i ordered 2 salads ,one of the salads was nothing in it they just cut the iceberg lettuce in 4 and put it on the plate , no taste in the shrimp the kale salad was very bad , beside food taste and quality the server and mangers were really rude and don’t care, we had 2 servers they keep changing and at the end the lady manager brought the food , I was waiting to order for main dish no one even bother to come and take our order I just paid the bill and walk out , which i saw a mice in the balcony too horrible experience
Is this helpful?
M
Michelle
Washington DC
44 reviews
vip
5.0
44 reviews
Dined on November 17, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
The food and staff are top notch! We all enjoyed our meals.
Is this helpful?
MC
MindyC
Washington DC
25 reviews
vip
5.0
25 reviews
Dined on November 16, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Hands down the BEST restaurant in Old Town! Make a reservation & enjoy!
Is this helpful?

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 3688 OpenTable diners.

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

Make a reservation

2 people

Nov 27, 2024

7:00 PM

Booked 69 times today

Order delivery or takeout

3 Pioneer Mill Way, Alexandria, VA 22314

Additional information

Cross street
Duke Street and South Union Street
Neighborhood
Old Town Alexandria
Hours of operation
Mon–Wed, Fri 11:30 am–11:00 pm Thu 11:00 am–10:00 pm Sat, Sun 10:00 am–11:00 pm
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, Takeout, 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.

Ada's on the River

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information

Thanksgiving Feast

SEARED SCALLOPS G

CHEESECAKE TOWER V G

CRAB & AVOCADO TOAST

STARTERS

MINI BLACK BRIOCHE LOAF V$9.00

BEEF TARTARE*$21.00

SEARED TUNA* G$23.00

GRILLED OCTOPUS G$21.00

COAL-ROASTED OYSTERS$19.00

WOOD-FIRED CHICKEN THIGHS$15.00

COAL-ROASTED PRAWNS G$27.00

SALADS

CHARRED GEM LETTUCE$16.00

"THE WEDGE"$16.00

GRILLED SHRIMP & AVOCADO G$21.00

GRILLED KALE & CITRUS V G$16.00

ENTREES

BRAISED LAMB SHANK G$38.00

WOOD-FIRED BONE-IN PORK CHOP* G$38.00

COAL ROASTED CHICKEN G$34.00

CRAB STUFFED CAROLINA TROUT$38.00

SMOKED SWORDFISH* G$35.00

SEARED SALMON* G$34.00

HOUSE-GROUND PRIME DRY AGED BURGER*$24.00

GIANT CRAB CAKE$46.00

SEARED SCALLOPS* G$36.00

STEAMED BLUE MUSSELS$24.00

WOOD-FIRED CUSTOM AGED PRIME MEATS

14 OZ, 75 DAY AGED, NY STRIP* G$55.00

18 OZ, 60 DAY AGED, BONE IN COWBOY RIBEYE* G$75.00

10 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, HANGER STEAK* G$36.00

18 OZ, GRAIN FED TOMAHAWK VEAL CHOP* G$59.00

6 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, FILET MIGNON* G$42.00

10 OZ, 30 DAY AGED, FILET MIGNON* G$69.00

SAUCES

HOUSE STEAK SAUCE

GARLIC CHIMICHURRI

BEARNAISE

BRANDY-PEPPERCORN

VEGETABLE ENTREES

COAL-FIRED MUSHROOM LASAGNA V$23.00

SMOKED RICOTTA GNOCCHI V$24.00

SPICED COAL ROASTED CAULIFLOWER V G$22.00

SIGNATURE SIDES

HONEY-GLAZED CARROTS V G$12.00

THICK CUT FRIES V$12.00

HASH BROWN PAVE V$12.00

BRUSSELS SPROUTS$12.00

COAL-ROASTED ASPARAGUS V G$14.00

ROASTED SWEET POTATO V G$12.00

LOBSTER MAC & CHEESE$26.00

CURRY SUNCHOKES V$14.00

CREAMED SPINACH V$12.00

COAL-ROASTED MUSHROOMS$14.00

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

Does Ada's on the River offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is Ada's on the River restaurant rated?

Is Ada's on the River currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Order delivery or takeout

Additional information