Top Restaurants in McLean, VA in 2024

McLean, VA, is a culinary treasure trove, offering a diverse array of dining experiences. From authentic Turkish cuisine to classic Italian and innovative American fare, the restaurants in McLean cater to all tastes and occasions.

Top-Rated Restaurants in McLean, VA

Pulcinella Italian Kitchen

Pulcinella Italian Kitchen is led by a chef with over 30 years of experience, aiming to provide more than just a meal but a memorable dining experience. They focus on authentic Italian cuisine, emphasizing fresh and high-quality ingredients to create delicious dishes. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, encouraging guests to enjoy a taste of Italy and create lasting memories with their loved ones.

Pulcinella Italian Kitchen review:

Wonderful food and service. I would certainly recommend and would return. It would be great if they also had a wine selection but even better they actually allow outside wine with no separate corkage charge. There is a store nearby in walking distance if wine is needed. The pizza is brick oven and there are some interesting pasta dishes as well. Great to have a local place we can walk to. -JH Kim

Mylo’s Grill

Mylo’s Grill in McLean, VA, is a family-owned restaurant by Head Chef Damon Mylonas and his son Christos, deriving its name from their family name Mylonas, which means “Miller” in English, a nod to their Cypriot heritage. Head Chef Damon Mylonas and his son Christos opened Mylo’s Grill in McLean, VA, in March 2010. They bring sixty years of combined restaurant experience. They focus on fresh dishes, warm service, and a friendly atmosphere.

Mylo’s Grill review:

Food was very good but service stood out even more than the food. Our waitress, Adryanna, was great! So nice, funny, helpful with our menu questions. Give that girl a raise! -Dallas Atkinson

Aracosia

Aracosia McLean offers authentic Afghan gourmet and chophouse dining, with a focus on healthy and ethical eating. Their menu avoids GMOs, preservatives, MSG, hormones, and microwaves, catering to various dietary needs including Paleo, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal. Aracosia McLean actively supports the community. They donate part of their earnings to help those in need.

Aracosia review:

The restaurant was wonderful! We did the mini aracosia taste for two people. Every meal we got was well prepared and delightfully tasty. The rice might have become one of my favorite dishes there! The bread with the different dipping sauces were also very incredible! As far as the food was concerned, everything was wonderful. The service was also top tier! Our server was attentive and made sure to come by in case we needed anything. Overall, I would highly recommend this restaurant. -Linda A.

The Union Restaurant

Chef Sastry runs The Union Restaurant in McLean. He brings flavors from around the world to the table, inspired by his travels and work in the US and India. The place focuses on fresh ingredients and offers a cozy spot for community dining. Sastry is skilled in European cooking and aims to create a space for culinary creativity.

The Union Restaurant review:

Staying for work in McLean. I saw the previous high ratings and can only concur. Wish I had a second night in a row to go back. The burger and fries were as good as I have ever had. The burger char was just perfect. The fries were just as good. Hope to be back in the future. -Doug Clarke

Capri Ristorante Italiano

Capri Ristorante Italiano, located in the heart of McLean, Virginia, has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for over 20 years. They pride themselves on using only the freshest ingredients to create a variety of salads, soups, pastas, and fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant is known for its warm and friendly dining experience, making it a favorite among locals.

Capri Ristorante Italiano review:

This restaurant’s food was amazing. From appetizer to dessert, everything was exceptional. My main meal was the gnocchi and it was absolutely the perfect consistency. The service was spot on and the atmosphere was peaceful yet full of joy. I definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a good place to eat. I will definitely be back. -May Tam

J. Gilbert’s

J. Gilbert’s in McLean has been a favorite in Fairfax County for nearly 20 years, known for its prime wood-fired steaks and seafood. Inspired by Kansas City steakhouse fare, they offer top-rated dishes in a luxurious yet welcoming environment. The restaurant is appreciated for both its steak and seafood, earning a reputation as one of the best in McLean.

J. Gilbert’s review:

Yesterday was our first time visiting and I know we will be returning for another visit very soon! Our Food was very tasty and my server Joan was excellent. She was very attentive and gave great recommendations from the menu. The General Manager Conner even checked on us to make sure our meals were satisfying. I did have one concern about my meal and Conner the GM immediately addressed the issue to my satisfaction and made sure we were happy customers. -Kim Franklin

Kazan Restaurant

Kazan Restaurant, located in McLean, VA, has been offering fine Turkish cuisine since 1980. They’re known for their authentic dishes, bringing a taste of Turkey to the local community.

Kazan Restaurant review:

Halal restaurant serving authentic Turkish food. One of the few restaurants I keep returning to year after year. A hidden gem, family owned and run. Very respectful and cordial. Albanian liver and doner kebab are to die for. Not a Michelin star establishment but more enjoyable than many of them. True comfort food. -Ali Mohammed

Exploring the restaurants in McLean is a journey through global flavors and local charm. Each establishment not only serves delicious food but also showcases the rich cultural diversity and culinary excellence of the area.