With its extensive made-from-scratch menu and its celebration of sports, Joe Theismann's Restaurant has been one of Alexandria's hometown favorites since 1975.
Joe Theismann's Restaurant isn't the type of place you can pigeon-hole as being ideal for one group or another. From the moment you walk in, you can imagine yourself relaxing at the bar, watching a game with friends, or enjoying a family dinner in the newly refurbished dining room.
Regional Executive Chef Brandon Whitestone has created an expansive menu of American favorites done in a gourmet way, from scratch, with top-notch ingredients.
“Theismann’s is a place that celebrates sports without compromising on the things that make a for great night out. Where else can you and your friends grab a seat at the bar to watch your team on the big screen TV and also enjoy an aged Prime USDA steak that was hand-cut by the chef that same day? It’s those unexpected details—from the menu to the new décor—that we pride ourselves on.”
– Scott Shaw, Partner at Alexandria Restaurant Parters
ADDRESS: 1800A Diagonal Road | Alexandria, VA
PARKING: Validated garage parking, metered street parking
METRO: King Street Metro station (Blue Line)
PHONE: (703) 739-0777
WEBSITE: Theismann's
SOCIAL MEDIA: Theismann's on Facebook
WEEKLY SPECIALS: Wine Down Wednesdays for half-price bottles of wine | $30 per person for "Bottomless Apps" during Redskins games (whole table only) | Brunch on Saturdays and Sundays
Theismann's would be a great happy hour spot, given its proximity to the King Street Metro station (it's right across the street) and the convenient garage parking. From 3 to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, you get 20 percent off starters, $7 specialty cocktails, and $4 well drinks, draft beers, and house wines. If that isn't an invitation to have apps for dinner, I don't know what is!
The chef generously sent out some of their best dishes for us to sample and here is what we tried:
New York Strip
The USDA Prime steaks at Theismann's are all from family farms in Nebraska and are custom-aged for at least 45 days before being hand-cut by the JTR chefs. This New York Strip was simply divine, served with a silky bernaise sauce, garlic green beans, and a loaded baked potato. It doesn't get much better than this!
Joe's All-American Burger
Look no further if you're craving a big, juicy burger. This version comes with two patties, cheese, and all the traditional fixings. It's so big, it definitely falls into the messy-but-worth-it category!
Reuben Fries
For this unique appetizer, a pile of crisp fries are topped with morsels of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and a blanket of cheese. The whole thing is covered with a rich housemade dressing that ties it all together beautifully.
Chicken Wings
Classic buffalo wings served with crisp veggies and a creamy dressing are just what you need on game day.
Spirale and Chicken
Listed on the menu as Joe's favorite dish, it's easy to see why. Pasta is delicately dressed with a light Parmesan cream sauce, spinach, and tender chunks of grilled chicken. Absolutely delicious!
Waffle Sundae
This simple creation is the best possible end to a meal. A fluffy, warm waffle is topped with scoops of rich ice cream and slices of fresh banana. Plenty to share, it would put a smile on anyone's face.
To say that there is something for everyone on this menu would be an understatement. You could make a meal of their inventive appetizers or treat yourself to an amazing steak. Add to that a full bar and you've got a pretty delicious night out.
Theismann's would be the perfect option for drinks or dinner after work, family dinners, or even date night. On weekends, the outdoor seating would be amazing for people-watching over brunch. Whenever you decide to go, you can't go wrong with a meal at this Old Town Alexandria favorite.
**All of the photos in this article are by Tony or Sarina Petrocelly.
Have you been to Joe Theismann's Restaurant lately? What do you think of the renovations? Drop us a line in the comments and let us know your favorite dish!