Ada's on the River

4.7

3739 Reviews

$30 and under

American

Make a reservation

2 people

Dec 25, 2024

11:00 PM

Booked 58 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, Tue, Thu, Fri 11:30 am–11:00 pm Wed 11:30 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
Adil Aghandous
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
Many parking garages available in walking distance: 320 Strand, underneath Ada’s 206 Strand, between Prince and Duke (3 min walk) HB Parking, 115 S Union St (5 min walk) Torpedo Factory, 102 N Union St (7 min walk) Market Square, underneath City Hall (10 min walk) 111 S. Pitt (10 min walk) Tavern Square Garage, 418 Cameron St (12 min walk)
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

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 3,739 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 a delightful dining experience with "amazing food" and "impeccable service." Guests rave about the "beautiful river views" and "friendly staff," making it ideal for special occasions and celebrations. While some find the pricing steep, the culinary quality and ambiance consistently impress, leaving diners eager to return.

3,739 Reviews

H
Heidi
Richmond
18 reviews
5.0
18 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
A great experience always! Food is top notch. Service was great!
Is this helpful?
J
Jennie
VIP
Washington DC
11 reviews
1.0
11 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 1
2. Food 2
3. Service 1
4. Ambience 1
We have been going here for the past 2 years for XMAS meal. Terrible XMAS dinner tonight. They messed up rack of lamb..so spicy couldn't eat it. They told me they could make it plain. Then they got me after 25 mins the fish special and it was not hot. My husband was done with his meal by the time I got the fish entree. So I ate my scallop appetizer and dessert. My husband's prime rib was good. Waitress was not friendly and not attentive. They did refund my meal. Just so disappointed. It used to be very friendly and attentive. Not tonight. My husband faced the open kitchen and saw alot of meals being sent back and lots of meals ready just sitting there.
Is this helpful?
M
Monica
VIP
Washington DC
19 reviews
5.0
19 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
Ada’s on the river has a great atmosphere We have been coming here for the last three years and consistently offers great customer service. Tonight, our server was also a bartender so he was extremely busy serving others. However, we still had a pleasant time.
Is this helpful?
P
Peter
VIP
Washington DC
17 reviews
5.0
17 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We've been coming to Ada's ever since it opened. Yesterday evening was wonderful - Dominique was our server, and he has been working there for quite a while now. He was terrific - we wanted out crabcakes with just some greens underneath, and without the leeks, and he was able to accomodate us. His service was first-rate, and the cocktails and crabcakes were great. Ada's has always been good every time we go.
Is this helpful?
J
John
Washington DC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing first visit. Can wait to return to try the other menu items!! Excellent choice for my GF end of Birthday Weekend
Is this helpful?
V
Vicky
Washington DC
5 reviews
4.0
5 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great ambience and service. Cocktails were delicious but pricey. Our appetizers were delicious but pricey, especially for the small portions. Dinner was very good, but the dishes we had were not exceptional for the price and two of our dishes had small portions. Sides are extra. This is a great special occasion restaurant but be ready for a big bill at the end. I think our bill was close to $600 for 4 of us - 5 cocktails, 1 glass wine, 2 appetizers shared, 4 main course dishes, 3 sides shared. If I go again, I will focus on the appetizers. I recommend that you check the menu in advance, so you know what you are in for.
Is this helpful?
J
Judith
VIP
Washington DC
21 reviews
5.0
21 reviews
Dined 5 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The food was great, and the service excellent. Our waiter, Chad, was efficient, professional and friendly. Overall a wonderful dining experience.
Is this helpful?
B
Brenda
VIP
Washington DC
68 reviews
5.0
68 reviews
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Fabulous as always but a particular festive vib this holiday season . Great wine by the glass , wonderful entree and fabulous expression martini with baileys . Brenda is EXCELLENT server and delightfully human being . Tolerated my craziness with poise and compassion . This is a gem of a place ! ( but still miss Chris and Rock!!)
Is this helpful?
B
Brian
VIP
Washington DC
17 reviews
5.0
17 reviews
Dined on December 17, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great service and food. Nice spot for a group Holiday dinner.
Is this helpful?
B
Bob
VIP
Houston
14 reviews
5.0
14 reviews
Dined on December 16, 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Really good choices, from steak to burgers to seafood. I had the scallops which were perfectly cooked. We had the chocolate souffle for dessert. We'll worth the wait for dessert.
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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 3739 OpenTable diners.

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

Make a reservation

2 people

Dec 25, 2024

11:00 PM

Booked 58 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, Tue, Thu, Fri 11:30 am–11:00 pm Wed 11:30 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
Many parking garages available in walking distance: 320 Strand, underneath Ada’s 206 Strand, between Prince and Duke (3 min walk) HB Parking, 115 S Union St (5 min walk) Torpedo Factory, 102 N Union St (7 min walk) Market Square, underneath City Hall (10 min walk) 111 S. Pitt (10 min walk) Tavern Square Garage, 418 Cameron St (12 min walk)
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Executive chef
Adil Aghandous
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

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