After getting off a plane from a week-long trip, I ordered takeout from Carlisle for my mom and me. I dropped her food off in D.C. and continued on to Catonsville, and somewhere between the drive, stopping at the store, and unpacking from my trip, I realized I hadn't even taken any pictures because I was too busy enjoying the food along the way and when i arrived home. I ordered the steak (sliced steak with mushrooms) , and it was excellent ....well-seasoned, flavorful, and cooked just right. The mashed potatoes were creamy and delicious. We also got the crab and corn chowder, which is always outstanding. Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor every time. Key lime pie .... on point .... oh and a salad. i got the chopped salad and added the ever so good goats cheese. Everything was EXCELLENT. What I appreciate most about Carlisle is the consistency. Whether I'm dining in or picking up takeout, the food is always good. Not just okay BUT actually flavorful, well-prepared, and satisfying. That's harder to find than it should be these days. I've been here many MANY times over the years and the experience is consistently excellent. The service is great when dining in, pickup is always smooth and efficient, and the food never disappoints. Carlyle continues to be one of those reliable places that simply gets it right. And whenever I pick up my to go order the bar is always crowded with folks looking like they are having a great time. That should tell you something. Highly recommended. read more

After a very disappointing dining experience the night before at Planta Queen, the restaurant Gods rebounded and handed me one of the very best nights I could imagine. We were celebrating an old friend's birthday, so I wanted a special evening. We went to the Signature to see "Safety Not Guaranteed" which was so good and so much fun. Then on to dinner at Carlyle in Shirlington. Carlyle always pumps out some of the most satisfying meals. You are almost guaranteed to love what the kitchen presents you with. This event was no different. I started with the crab & corn chowder. Thick, luxurious, savory perfection! My main course was Jambalaya Pasta which was outstanding. The chicken was moist, the shrimp was perfectly prepared and the andouille sausage added a perfect piquant note. The creamy sauce finished a great dish. There was so much that I could not eat it all (and I usually eat everything that is placed in front of me). But the best - the ABSOLUTE BEST - part of the evening was our perfect server Sebastian. He was professional, friendly, fast, funny, helpful and everything you want in a server. Plus, he did it all with one of the best personalities that I have ever come across in a server. At one point, we were all laughing so hard, that he had to sit down because he was ready to fall over. He served us, yes! But more than that - he ENTERTAINED US!!!! How often has that ever happened to you??? It is a night that I will not soon forget! Sebastian is a smart guy who will no doubt go far in his life. But, for now, for right now, he is at the top of his game at Carlyle! If you love Carlyle, you will absolutely LOVE Sebastian. Please ask to be placed in his station. I promise he will not disappoint you. Thank you, Sebastian, for making my evening wonderful and for making my BFF's birthday dinner a stunning success, thanks to you!!!! I highly recommend Carlyle - and especially Sebastian - to one and all! read more

I stopped in for lunch with my coworkers and everything was on point. The deviled eggs and community bread basket were a great start to share. My coworkers, said the short smoked grilled salmon salad was fresh and flavorful, the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich and cheeseburger were both satisfying. I had the 6oz grilled filet mignon which was cooked perfectly. Service was friendly, food came out quickly, and the quality was exactly what I expected. I would definitely come back. read more

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I am from out of town and was meeting up with locals who recommended this place. I had not heard of this restaurant previously, but it will now definitely be on my list of places to visit when I'm in the area! Parking was easy, there is street parking and also a lot nearby. The service was polite and professional, and the food was excellent! On my friend's recommendation, we asked for a table upstairs which was nice and quiet. But also still lively as the place really filled up. We were very happy with everything we ordered! We had the bread basket which was fantastic, some salads and pasta. The quality of the food is outstanding and we had a very nice time here. I would highly recommend this restaurant. read more

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My husband's favorite dish! Sautéed gulf shrimp and chicken with crispy andouille sausage and penne pasta in a spicy Creole sauce! The sauce is amazing! Nice little kick to it. read more

Carlyle - Jambalaya Pasta - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

First off I want to say this is the best Salmon i've ever had, seriously. My wife ordered the filet mignon and it was cooked perfectly. The food came out fast, but after that the server may have got one too many tables. We will definitely be back again. read more

Carlyle - Brunch Grilled Filet Mignon 6 oz - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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My friends & I hadn't seen each other in over a year & since we're scattered throughout the "DMV," Carlyle was the perfect reunion spot as it's centrally located. The restaurant was beautifully decorated with traditional holiday/Christmas decor & was lively but not loud...which made it easy for us to hear as we caught up on each other's lives. We ordered the following perfectly plated dishes which arrived quite fast: -community bread baskets (which included raisin bread...a yummy surprise!) -deviled eggs with spiced pecans & sugar-cured bacon -2 buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches (I ordered one & it was much larger than expected, perfectly crispy & deliciously juicy. Plus the pommery mustard was out of this world!) -penne primavera -chopped salad -Louisiana pasta -bacon cheeseburger (my friend pointed out that this "hit the spot") -2 coastal lobster rolls served with beautifully grilled corn on the cob -key lime pie Everyone cleaned their plates so it's safe to say that the food was thoroughly enjoyed. Furthermore, I'd like to thank our waiter, Hans, & the rest of staff we encountered as every single person was friendly & accommodating. Sadly this is no longer the norm at many establishments, so it's refreshing to experience. I only have one regret: eating too fast :) read more

Carlyle - Key lime pie...OUTSTANDING taste & a generous slice! - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

The Carlyle has been one of my favorite restaurants in the DMV for years, and this visit reminded me why. I was happy to see they brought back the Mango Chicken and Spiced Pecans Salad, a longtime favorite. It is a bright, refreshing mix of greens, grapes, mango topped chicken, spiced pecans, and a zesty ginger vinaigrette that is simple but so flavorful. My boyfriend ordered the Charleston Salad with Spiced Pecans, and he really enjoyed it. The combination of buttermilk fried chicken, mixed greens, avocado, fresh corn, grape tomatoes, and sun dried cranberries made it a standout. The ambiance is another reason I love this place. I prefer to sit upstairs where the high ceilings, artwork, and decor create such a warm and inviting atmosphere. I am also pretty sure the main kitchen is upstairs which adds to the energy. The bread basket, thanks to the bakery right next door, is always warm and fresh, and the customer service is consistently great. Reliable, delicious and always welcoming, Carlyle continues to be one of my top favorites in the DMV. read more

Carlyle - Mango Chicken and Spiced Pecan Salad - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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This is part of the great American restaurants chain and has a similar look and feeling in decor (like Jackson's and coastal flats). The food was interesting and tasty, and the service was decent, but needless to say the prices were pretty high. read more

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Excellent service, great food and amazing prices. Our server OV was superb, knowledgeable and top-notch!

I'm not much of an American cuisine person, but Carlyle is pretty good at what they do. Their appetizers-- like the lobster bisque and calamari-- are tasty. But where they really shine in my opinion is with the salads! My absolute favorite restaurant salad is the smokehouse salmon nicoise. It is literally divine! The salmon is perfectly cooked and the smoked flavor is the perfect touch. Today I tried the Charleston fried chicken salad and it was equally phenomenal. I do not mind spending $20-$30 on a salad when it's as good as the salads here! read more

Carlyle - Charleston fried chicken salad with blue cheese - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

My wife and I took a detour on our way home from Maryland to try out Carlyle. We have frequented many other restaurants that are part of the Great American Restaurant group, of which Carlyle is a member. I would liken this restaurant to Jackson's in Reston, right down to the French Dip on the menu. Heads up: This is the only restaurant in the Group (I think) that does not serve Ozzie rolls. Parking was easy and free in the nearby garage on weekends. We showed up late Sunday afternoon without calling ahead and had no trouble getting a table. We ordered a Chopped Salad and a French Dip to share, along with a lager each to drink. The salad was super fresh and large enough to split easily. The sandwich was yummy, and the accompanying fries were addictive. The service was friendly and great the entire time. If we are in the area again, we will certainly return. read more

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Welcomed by Byron and Bryan. Very nice first experience. I just happen to stop in on a Friday after work and was impressed with the prime rib that was offered along with the tastings of wine since it was my first time there. I sat at the bar and was quickly assisted by Byron and Bryan. The prime rib that is only offered a few nights a week is off the charts delicious. Would recommend 10 out of 10. The guests were all very friendly and talkative. I will definitely be stopping back in. read more

Carlyle - Prime Rib - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Another great meal and service at Grand Carlyle in Sherlington. All the guests had delicious meals. The ambience is very nice. Great for romantic dinners, group get togethers and business meetings. One of our favorite restaurants in Northern Virginia. read more

Carlyle - Blackened grouper on mashed potatoes - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Almost 1900 reviews and still sitting at four stars means somethings going right. This was our first time here, and I was hoping we were far enough out in the burbs where we would not have to pay for parking, but that is not the case here. I think there's a parking garage close by that may have been free, but I can't be sure. They do have some wines by the glass, cocktails, but they only have their own brand of beer for a craft choice. We came here with a group of seven and there were two complimentary baskets of bread already on the table. We started with the calamari and spinach/artichoke dip which were excellent. Since we got here on a Friday, we decided to take advantage of their prime rib special offered to only on Friday and Saturday. Three of us got that and the others had different options. Despite the noisy full house, service was very attentive and helpful. Our waiter had no problem with splitting the bill either. I can see why this place has achieved the high rating it has. Some informative photos included. read more

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I've been coming to this amazing restaurant for 15 years and it is the most consistent restaurant I've ever been to. The chicken paillard and Caesar salad never fail, and their receipts cannot be found anywhere else. The chocolate waffle is one of my favorite desserts and always leaves you craving it next time. Staff are nice and the ambiance is comfortable, classic and cozy. Highly recommend this traditional and truly fair priced restaurant! Wish they'd come to the west coast. read more

Carlyle - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

I'll start by saying I'm a Great American brand fan! I've been going to Carlyle for years. The ambiance is classy. Perfect for a date night or any occasion where you want a nice dinner. The staff greeted me as I entered and I was swiftly seated upstairs. I normally get the salmon or the crabcakes but this time I wanted to try something different. The pecan twisted trout is amazing. It's a must try! I will be back again and will definitely order this dish again as well. read more

Carlyle - Pecan Crusted Trout - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

I visited here for a birthday celebration and the waiter, Oliver was attentive, friendly, and made my friend experience a great one. For an appetizer, I had the crab and corn chowder, it was good but wish for a thicker consistency and more crab. The community bread was not a good combination and it was served cold. My entree was the crab cakes with mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Most of my dish was good except the mashed potatoes; the temperature was warm but not hot so made it undesirable. Those who ordered pasta dishes were quite unhappy with their meal as the dish lacked flavor and sauce. Most dishes were returned and changed to something else. Overall, the experience was good but also disappointing from the last visit two years ago. Additionally, the restroom didn't have toilet paper in most of the stalls, like eww. read more

Our server, Kyla, was so sweet and accommodating. She was able to answer all of our questions about the menu and the daily specials as this was our first time here. Kyla made sure our dietary needs and preferences were met. Carlyle's also has a gluten friendly menu. My husband said the deviled eggs were really good and the flavor of the bacon complemented the eggs. I had the bacon as well. I loved the maple flavor. I ordered the penne primavera but with angel hair and chicken and the Stella Artois on draft. I would have liked a little more chicken, but it tasted delicious and fresh. My husband ordered the grilled chicken and substituted green veggies for the pasta. He said the chicken was tender and the crispy brussels made it for him. I snagged some off his plate! I enjoyed the draft Stella Artois. I finished my meal with the white chocolate turtle cheesecake. The cream tasted so fresh. It wasn't over the top, but satisfying. read more

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We are big fans of the Great American Restaurants. I can't remember ever having a negative experience. The service is always friendly, the food always delicious. Favorite dishes at Carlyle include the shrimp and crab fritter appetizer and the jambalaya pasta. We've also had many, many fish dishes that often change with whatever's fresh, and it has never disappointed. Highly recommended. read more

Birthday dinner wishes Excellent restaurant with good eats and strong service. The Carlyle is in the heart of Alexandria Virginia ( shirlington area). Check them out. Menu items Judith Calamari Grilled chicken with angel hair pasta Warm chocolate bread pudding #birthday #dinner #foodlover #foodpics #instafood #dmvblogger #foodshare #foodblogger #foodblog #dmvfoodie #foodpornshare #dcfoodies read more

We came in here on a Friday afternoon and from the moment we walked in, till the time we left it was well worth the visit. They have a nice bar and booth setup downstairs for more formal seating, you can head upstairs. We started with appetizers and I can truly say this was one of the most decadent spinach and artichoke dips I've had. Our server Oliver was very accommodating and was sure to check in with us quite often. I got the espresso martini and it was very tasty, I should've gotten at least one more before we left. The hickory burger was really well seasoned, and there was sauce throughout the bun, which is my favorite way to enjoy my burger. I would love to come back for dinner and try some of their specialties. read more

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Representing 2018 in alphabet series for C is for Carlyle. I had won a gift card to a Great American Restaurant at the Celebrate Fairfax Fair in June 2018. Great American Restaurants has a variety of restaurants all across Fairfax County & beyond into Arlington County in the case of Carlyle. I think it was $20 gift card here. I had a 2nd date on Thursday, August 2, 2018 with someone I knew for 6 years from a Meetup group we were both in. She lived walking distance to Shirlington, and I lived in Wheaton, MD (Montgomery County) at this time. At this time, I was banking on Fairfax County or some other work travel to get me over here, but I was annoyed with work as the manager had said it could wait until Monday and just to work in office all day. Unfortunately, my office was just south of Baltimore & further than Wheaton. So, starting at 5 PM, I had a long, stressful 1 hour 40 minutes from Halethorpe, MD to Arlington that Thursday. This place is on the fancier side and a bit more expensive than the typical Great American Restaurant. Even with my $20 gift card, it was still over $60 with tax & tip in 2018 dollars. I got the steak medallions, mashed potatoes, & brussel sprouts. It was solid, not the very best steak I've had, but above average I'd say. Service was efficient. Also, we got a glass of wine, which was delicious. As for the date, the 2nd date was decent, but 1st was better. Conversation was a bit stagnant. I had tried to pursue a 3rd date, but she wasn't feeling it. This August 2018 visit to Carlyle was my only visit here. I'd consider coming back if I was ever over here. read more

Carlyle - Steak medallion, mashed potatoes, & brussel sprouts were very good - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Service was great, food was decent. I ordered the penne primavera. It wasn't the best I've ever had but it definitely had flavor to it. Portion was just right, not too much and not too little. If you're really hungry I'd probably order an appetizer as well. The lighting is pretty low in the evening so great date night ambience. Also, it wasn't loud so you will be able to hear the person next to you. read more

Carlyle - Penne Primavera - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

So, I normally hit Mike's since it's part of the GAR group but decided to meet a good friend here for a quick holiday catch up. We ordered the fried green tomatoes with a seafood topping, field green salads, salmon, filet mignon and she ordered dessert! LoL The salmon was cooked perfectly as was the filet. Rhianna was our server and she was absolutely delightful! She was super attentive and very personable. The ambiance is always nice and classy! Such a good time! read more

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For many years, Carlyle has been that restaurant that has always been there when I walk or drive by, but have never tried. A reservation was made for Saturday evening. I'm glad I did that as it was a bustling Saturday night. Upon arrival, I checked in and was asked to wait a few minutes until the table was ready. After five minutes, I was escorted upstairs. They have seating on the main floor, upstairs and outside weather when the weather permits. They also have outdoor heaters during the cooler/colder months. When viewing the menu, I discovered that they do have gluten sensitive options. I love pasta. But gluten and too much dairy is something I avoid. The server quickly arrived at our table and we had some questions and it was clear she was well versed. I decided to try the Penne Primavera with chicken, since it wasn't a very creamy and cheesy pasta dish. My friend chose the Field Greens Salad with chicken. I enjoyed every single bite of my pasta and wanted more! My friend also enjoyed her salad. The restaurant was very busy. Our server was attentive and checked in on us. I can't believe all these years Carlyle has been nearby and never gave it a try. That is no more. The ambience, server, and most importantly the food was fantastic. read more

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Normally ALWAYS have a good experience, not so much yesterday. Ordered two salads and the spinach & artichoke dip for appetizers. It took 15-20 minutes to get those. After that, another good 30-35min for entrees (grilled chicken, shrimp & grits, and jambalaya), and then the dessert (chocolate flourless waffle) came out pretty fast. Waitress wasn't too attentive, but that's fine. read more

Great service; nice atmosphere as it wasn't too crowded and noise level was an acceptable din. Speaking of din(ner), I had the pecan encrusted trout. To die for. Finished off with delish key lime pie. Go there! read more

Carlyle - Key lime (birthday) pie - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Great atmosphere, nice looking bar and plenty of tables and a nice patio that felt cozy even with the street right there. Went for lunch and ordered soup & an appetizer. Unfortunately both were bland & IMO way overpriced for what it was. The lobster bisque was very cream laden & I couldn't taste any lobster flavor, it was mostly puréed with 2 very tiny pieces of what felt like crab. The calamari had good texture, but the flavor just wasn't there. You can tell by the pic it's kind of meh. My friend said the Louisiana pasta was also very bland, but the corn & crab chowder was tasty. Giving it a 3 vs 2, because it's a great spot to meet people & has a very pleasant atmosphere. read more

Carlyle - Crispy Point Judith Calamari - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Our server was newer but super cute, knew her stuff, and was very attentive. The menu looked amazing but I had my heart set on a burger and Carlyle did not disappoint!! That was definitely one of the best burgers I've had all year. I would've liked the fries to be a little crispier but they were still good. The only thing that would've made this experience better was an allergen free dessert! read more

Carlyle - Bacon cheeseburger - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

So good just like all the other "all American" restaurants. We came last night and had Byron as our waiter. We had excellent service and my FIL is celiac and they were very careful with cross contamination and prep of food. Food was excellent and everything was cooked to perfection. We left full and happy. Oysters were a table favorite. It was a busy night and we did have a reservation but service was fantastic and can't wait to return. read more

We came here for my son and his new wife's wedding dinner. It was a great occasion and the Carlyle is a great place. We had a section to our own and the wait staff was friendly and prompt. We had a party of 25. The atmosphere is upscale. The appetizers were good. I Had the waldorf salad and a side of sweet potato fries. I wasn't exactly full afterwards. Next time I'll order something more filling. I would come back read more

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Awesome spot in Shirlington. It was recommended for a bartender at another restaurant and it was well worth the walk directly across the street. The Carlyle bartender recommended I sample their two branded beers and the lager was my selection. Smooth with a fruity flavor. The service was quickly and friendly. Several options were recommend for dinner and I selected the Mango Chicken and Spiced Pecan salad. Very tasty. I highly recommend this restaurant either sitting at the bar or the patio seating. I will be back. Make sure you stop by and give them a try. Enjoy! read more

Carlyle - Carlyle Lager! - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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The last 2-3 times my group of friends (5) met for dinner, the service was very poor. Last night was horrible as it appeared that our identified server vanished without taking orders or refills. When addressed with employee in plain clothes, there was no acknowledgement or apology. Always Loved and Trusted The Great American Restaurants but Carlyle has changed read more

Member of the Carlyle restaurant group that is probably best described as a slightly more upscale version of the Cheesecake Factory. Tons of table seating spread out between 2 floors with bar seating offered as an option as well I came here with my GF for dinner on a Saturday night, and we were able to walk in without a reservation. We split their $1 bread basket, and I got a salad dish and an espresso martini. Everything was fine, but nothing was spectacular. Service was very fast read more

I was pleasantly surprised by Carlyle restaurant: beautiful interior, great food, great service, great price. I had dinner with a friend and ordered a burger and fries. The burger had great flavor, and the shoestring fries a perfect crisp. Our server was pleasant, and all the staff were respectful. I would definitely go back. read more

Carlyle has been a staple in the Shirlington community for years, offering fresh takes on New American bistro fare in a vibrant and cozy setting. Whether you're dining in the art deco-inspired dining room, relaxing at the lively bar, or enjoying the outdoor patio, Carlyle delivers a warm and stylish experience. The eclectic design draws from the bold styles of the 1920s and '30s, adding charm to every visit. Don't miss the freshly baked bread and pastries from Best Buns Bread Co., located right next door. With outstanding customer service, delicious food, and great drinks, Carlyle continues to be a local favorite. If you're ever in the area...GET SOME!!! read more

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This place surprised me, we had just returned to the country so we wanted some traditional American food and I was impressed that my food wasn't boringly standard. I had the snapper that was on special and it was great. My husband got the ribs and really enjoyed them. We enjoyed our cocktails and I highly recommend leaving room for dessert. Key lime pie was one of the best I've had! Service was great too read more

Carlyle - Desserts - New American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Amazing service, food and drinks! Favorites include the calamari, spinach dip, fresh fish, crab cakes, and hanger steak! Must have the espresso martini! read more

This place is such a classic. The roast beef French dip is my favorite in the area, burgers are also classically perfect, and bartenders are always attentive and super friendly. This place is deceivingly huge, we've never actually gone upstairs but the vibe overall is nice. read more

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