Ada's on the River

4.7

3713 Reviews

$30 and under

American

Make a reservation

2 people

Dec 11, 2024

7:00 PM

Booked 77 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–Fri 11:30 am–11:00 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

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 3,713 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.

3,713 Reviews

M
Mark
Miami
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Wonderful service and great food for a great experience
Is this helpful?
B
Brenda
Washington DC
67 reviews
5.0
67 reviews
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
It was as usual, delicious ! Wonderful holiday celebration with old ( literally and figuratively ) old friends . Such attentive service , where waiter ( John) notice that last couple of our party was coming and he opened side door so they wouldn’t have to walk so far ! That was so kind and attentive . Also somehow he knew who was with whom and did separate checks without any of us having to ask !! Made a typically awkward situation disappear ….. and being the only single one , sincerely helped ! Thank you. … we all appreciated it ! Ada’s is wonderful , John was great … but still miss Chris and Rock :)
Is this helpful?
T
Terry Scherling
Washington DC
20 reviews
vip
5.0
20 reviews
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Food was delicious, atmosphere was festive and the servers were friendly and attentive.
Is this helpful?
R
R
Acapulco
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Waitstaff representative Sarah is an Ada super hero. We, a party of six, were seated at a booth that can only comfortably seat five. This was totally our fault as one member of our group is part of marriage union and did not understand the importance of each, individual Open Table RSVP. Further exasperating the situation, the couple arrive a bit late so the seating shortage wasn’t noticed right away. Oh— and did I mention Ada had a full house that night? Enter “shero” Sarah. She’s all smiles and solutions. Her resolution will remain a secret because knowledge of how sweet this turned out would likely inspire others to “stage” a similar scenario. For us it was all authentic mishap and thanks to Sarah, pure fortune. Sarah is a stand out— extraordinary and engaging— but Ada has many other exceptional service providers who helped her. The dining experience, which kicked off stunningly, incrementally improved from wow moment to the next. The food was absolutely scrumptious. We ordered steaks (which by the way were perfectly prepared to each persnickety preference) and lobsters and crab cakes and hamburgers and just about every side, including carrots which were elevated and mouthwatering — everything was smokey and amazingly seasoned with indescribable nuance. The chefs are so good at their craft, after desserts we ordered a round of meals to take home. The only “could’ve-would’ve” is if we had known about the 20-minute minimum required prep time for two of the menu desserts (one was a chocolate delight) we would have ordered sweets much earlier in the evening. Advising guests in advance is a “nice-to-have” teetering on a “must-have.” One more thing: One member of our party suffers from a traumatic brain injury which causes über sensory sensitivity. Upon receiving news of our companion’s condition, the manager reduced the music piping through the restaurant. This act of empathetic kindness was a genuine baller move for which our entire party remains grateful.
Is this helpful?
V
Victoria
Washington DC
18 reviews
vip
5.0
18 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
Great spot on the waterfront. Food and service never disappoint. We were pleasantly surprised that Sunday brunch goes until 3:30.
Is this helpful?
J
Jenafer
Washington DC
7 reviews
5.0
7 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Brunch at Ada's is always a treat! Lemon Ricotta pancakes are divine!
Is this helpful?
P
Peter
Washington DC
19 reviews
5.0
19 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We had another great trip to Aida's. This time I got the Ribeye and it didn't disappoint. Service was great...thank you Alex!
Is this helpful?
M
Mary Ann
Philadelphia
17 reviews
5.0
17 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Love this place. Had apps and drinks. Definitely want to go for lunch or dinner. Cocktails were fab. Great bartenders.
Is this helpful?
B
Barbara
Washington DC
10 reviews
vip
5.0
10 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Outdoor dining next to a heat lamp while enjoying the parade of boats. All good!
Is this helpful?
P
Pamela
Charlotte
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined 4 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Our waiter, Keith, was wonderful. He was well versed in the menu and his recommendations were great! He was very friendly and personable.
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 3713 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 11, 2024

7:00 PM

Booked 77 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–Fri 11:30 am–11:00 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

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