Alpine Restaurant   

4770 Lee Hwy
Arlington, VA 22207
703-528-7600
www.arlingtonbusinesscouncil.org

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In business for about 30 years, this has been one of Virginia's most enduring restaurant institutions, a stop-in place for every kind of local celebrity from sports figures to politicos: Just look at the photos smiling out from the front walls. Customers love this old-timer because intimate dining rooms suggest "country cottage" or "mountain hideaway," and each has its own charm. If there's a table free, ask for one in the room with the fireplace -- it's a cozy setting to enjoy the chef's solid Italian cooking and a good place to listen to the quiet piano music or the strolling guitarist. Try some homemade pastas -- the gnocchi with Gorgonzola is outstanding. And for something more substantial, the osso buco makes a fine main course with a side of garlicky mashed potatoes. If you've left room, tiramisu is a suitable dessert.