Forget the notion that Herndon is just a pit stop on the way to Dulles Airport. This vibrant Northern Virginia town is quietly becoming a culinary destination, brimming with hidden gems and diverse flavors. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a business traveler with a long layover, or just passing through, Herndon boasts an impressive array of restaurants to satisfy any craving. This guide will take you on a journey through the best food in Herndon VA, showcasing the restaurants that offer exceptional quality, unforgettable experiences, and a true taste of the local culture. We’ve carefully curated this list based on factors like food quality, atmosphere, value for money, and positive community reputation. Get ready to discover your new favorite spot in Herndon!
Herndon, Virginia, a town steeped in history and conveniently located near Washington D.C., has evolved into a melting pot of cultures and tastes. The area’s demographics have created a high demand for all types of cuisine. Therefore, culinary entrepreneurs have emerged over the past few years to fulfill this demand. So, whether you are interested in a casual meal, a special occasion venue, or just a quick bite on the way, Herndon has got you covered.
Casual Dining Delights
Sometimes, all you need is a relaxed atmosphere and a delicious, satisfying meal. Herndon has a fantastic selection of casual dining options that are perfect for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a relaxed evening with friends.
Amphora Diner Deluxe
A Herndon institution, Amphora Diner Deluxe is open almost all the time, serving up classic diner fare with a modern twist. From hearty breakfasts to juicy burgers and comforting dinners, Amphora Diner has something for everyone. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service is always friendly. It is a great restaurant to enjoy the best food in Herndon VA. Try their famous pancakes, loaded with toppings, or their signature gyros. It’s a local favorite for a reason. Plenty of parking is available. This restaurant is accessible for those with disabilities.
Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern
If you are looking for some best food in Herndon VA and a lively atmosphere, Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern is the place to be. This neighborhood pub offers a great selection of craft beers on tap, along with a menu of tasty pub fare, including burgers, sandwiches, and wings. They are known for their friendly staff and regular live music events. This place is a great spot to grab a bite and catch up with friends. Outdoor seating is available, weather permitting. However, parking can sometimes be difficult to find. This restaurant is accessible for those with disabilities.
Momo House
Craving authentic Himalayan cuisine? Momo House is a must-visit. Specializing in momos (dumplings), they offer a variety of fillings, from savory meat to vegetarian options. The restaurant also serves other Nepalese and Tibetan dishes. It is a unique culinary experience in the heart of Herndon. The momos are flavorful and expertly prepared, and the atmosphere is casual and welcoming. Be sure to try their spicy dipping sauce. Parking is usually available. The restaurant is small, so seating may be limited during peak hours.
Fine Dining Experiences
For those special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself to an exquisite culinary experience, Herndon offers some impressive fine-dining establishments.
Mediterranean Breeze
Transport yourself to the shores of the Mediterranean at Mediterranean Breeze. This elegant restaurant offers a sophisticated menu of traditional dishes with a modern flair. From fresh seafood to perfectly grilled meats, every dish is prepared with the finest ingredients and presented beautifully. The ambiance is refined and romantic, making it perfect for a special date night. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. They offer great options for the best food in Herndon VA.
Ashton Hyde American Bistro
This place provides upscale dining without the high-end price tag. Providing both American and International cuisines, this restaurant has been in business since 1994. They have a wide array of menus to select from, catering to all palates. This restaurant has a friendly vibe and a very committed staff.
A Taste of the World: International Flavors
Herndon’s diverse community is reflected in its incredible range of international restaurants. From authentic Indian curries to flavorful Vietnamese pho, there’s a world of culinary delights to explore. The best food in Herndon VA should include international cuisine.
Bollywood Bistro
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of India at Bollywood Bistro. This popular restaurant offers a wide selection of authentic Indian dishes, from classic curries to tandoori specialties. The spices are fragrant, the flavors are bold, and the portions are generous. The restaurant is lively and colorful, creating a festive atmosphere. Be sure to try their butter chicken or their lamb vindaloo. Plenty of parking is available.
Pho 75
Craving authentic Vietnamese pho? Look no further than Pho 75. This no-frills restaurant is famous for its flavorful and aromatic pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. The broth is rich and savory, the noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and plentiful. It’s a quick, affordable, and incredibly satisfying meal. This is one of the most popular restaurants in the area. Parking can be challenging during peak hours.
El Taco Rico
This restaurant is an authentic Mexican fast food diner. Offering a wide array of burritos, tacos, enchiladas, etc, this place is packed full of fresh ingredients. This restaurant has a very fast pace, so expect to get your order quickly. This is one of the hidden gems in Herndon for the best food in Herndon VA.
American Comfort Food
Sometimes, you just crave classic American comfort food. Herndon has plenty of restaurants that serve up delicious burgers, sandwiches, and other traditional dishes.
Five Guys
While a chain, Five Guys offers a consistently great burger experience. You can customize your burger with a wide range of toppings. It is a local favorite for a quick and satisfying meal. Their fries are also a must-try, especially with a dash of Cajun seasoning. Plenty of parking is available.
The Wine House
You may not think that the best food in Herndon VA can be found in a wine house, but this place will definitely surprise you! The Wine House offers a range of small plate American cuisine. These snacks and small plates are perfect to pair with a wine of your selection. The Wine House boasts an impressive array of wines from all across the globe. You can easily spend an evening here enjoying the sights and tastes.
Pizza Perfection
Who doesn’t love a good slice of pizza? Herndon has a variety of pizza places, from classic Italian-style pizzerias to more modern and creative options. These are all great options to find the best food in Herndon VA
Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza
This pizzeria makes a gourmet pizza that has some unique ingredients. They offer an array of unique, interesting, and sometimes exotic ingredients that is sure to blow your mind. They also offer vegan options as well.
Vocelli Pizza
For a more traditional pizza experience, Vocelli Pizza offers a wide selection of classic pies, as well as calzones, strombolis, and other Italian favorites. They have something for everyone. Parking is generally easy to find.
Sweet Treats and Coffee Breaks
No culinary journey is complete without a stop for dessert or a coffee break. Herndon has a variety of cafes and bakeries where you can satisfy your sweet tooth.
Starbucks
You can’t go wrong with Starbucks for your quick coffee and pastry fix. Starbucks is the largest coffee chain and is a favorite to millions of people.
Crumbl Cookies
This place is a perfect place to quench your craving for cookies. With a wide array of rotating cookies, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. This makes the list for the best food in Herndon VA as a dessert venue!
Dining Tips for Herndon
Parking can be challenging in some areas of Herndon, especially during peak hours. Be sure to check parking regulations and allow extra time to find a spot.
Reservations are highly recommended for fine-dining restaurants, especially on weekends.
Accessibility – Many restaurants in Herndon are accessible for people with disabilities. Be sure to check with the restaurant in advance if you have any specific accessibility needs.
Local Events – Keep an eye out for local food festivals and events. These events are a great way to sample a variety of dishes from different restaurants in Herndon.
Conclusion
Herndon’s food scene is a hidden gem, offering a diverse and exciting culinary experience for residents and visitors alike. From casual diners to elegant fine-dining restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every craving. We encourage you to explore the restaurants listed in this guide and discover your own favorite spots in Herndon. The best food in Herndon VA is out there waiting to be discovered!
Let us know in the comments below what you think of our list and tell us where you like to go! You are more than welcome to suggest a new restaurant to put on our list! You may even suggest to us the best food in Herndon VA!
