Erica is THEEE BEST bartender in the DMV area! She gave me her recommendation for the Tini Takeover, and baby... she did NOT miss. If you go, you HAVE to try the Secret Garden 10/10 -- trust Erica! read more

Makers Union - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Maker's Union is a perfectly serviceable restaurant... and I mean that in the most complimentary three-star-ish way possible. Let's start with the unexpected hero of this story... the chicken sandwich. This thing had absolutely no business being as good as it was. The breaded chicken slapped, the pickle had that perfect crisp snap, and the brioche bun came strolling in like it knew it was the prettiest person at the party. Seriously, that bun deserves recognition for its supporting role. Even the fries were really good, and I'm not a fries guy. Usually fries are just the edible packing material keeping my sandwich from sliding around the plate, but I actually found myself eating these voluntarily. Unfortunately, my margarita was aggressively mid. It wasn't bad. It wasn't good. It was technically a margarita and successfully completed all contractual obligations associated with being one. The atmosphere was... a restaurant. There were tables. There were chairs. People ate food at them. No particular vibe or energy jumped out at me. Service was similarly pure, uncut service. We ordered things. Those things arrived. Transactions occurred. Mission accomplished. Would I go back? Absolutely if someone suggested it. Would I cross state lines and embark on a pilgrimage? Probably not. But I'd order that chicken sandwich again without hesitation... and maybe ask if they'll put my margarita on a brioche bun too. read more

Came here with friends for dinner July 4th--Saturday night was packed but thankfully we had reservations. Restaurant is fairly small and the tables were too close to each other, it felt cramped. Overall food and drinks were okay, but service could have been better. Food was pretty common for American bar type food. Nothing mind blowing, taste was good and we were able to get full off of our dishes. Our server wasn't as attentive, also, we asked for extra condiments but it was mixed up. At the end, she gave us the bill so we paid, and 5 mins later she said she forgot to add more items to the check, and made us pay a second time. We tried to order drinks at the bar after settling our dinner tab, but the bartender just ignored us--we know he saw us but didn't even acknowledge us, terrible service. Parking wise, there's a garage across the street you can park at! read more

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Let me start by giving Erica a huge shoutout! She was absolutely amazing and took such great care of us during our visit to Makers Union. From the moment we sat down, she was friendly, personable, and an overall vibe. The kind of server who makes your experience that much better. Honestly, I'd come back just to see her! Now, for my fellow martini lovers this one's for you. Makers Union has a "Tini Takeover" every Thursday from 4 p.m. until close. Yes, you read that correctly an entire menu dedicated to martinis. As someone who appreciates a good martini, I was in heaven. They also offer a solid happy hour menu with plenty of options to pair with your drinks. I can't believe this was my first visit to Makers Union, but one thing's for sure it definitely won't be my last. If you're looking for a great happy hour spot, delicious cocktails, and exceptional service, do yourself a favor and check out Makers Union. And if you're lucky enough to get Erica, you're in for a great time! read more

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I came here on a Saturday with a friend. It was my first time visiting despite walking by it all the time. It's a large restaurant in a busy area in Arlington. We had monkey bread for the table, amazing. My first time trying money bread and it was my favorite item by far. My friend had the French toast and I had chicken and waffles. We both thought they were fine. Large portion size but the chicken could use more flavor. I'd come back again if just for the monkey bread! read more

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Ordered the union makers burger. It was bursting with flavor and juicy. Loved it. I recommend the burger. Also tried the calamari yummy. Just a bit too pricey for the appetizers . The service was great and the place is kept clean. read more

Makers Union - Hamburger - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Really great vegetarian options. I'm a big fan of the impossible kebabs, which comes with avocado, sweet potato, and rice. I've never had an issue when I've asked for a substitution - they are happy to accommodate. Great cocktails and nice staff. read more

I have no complaints! We stopped by on a Friday night for dinner, no reservation. We sat outside, they have a lot of outdoor seating. We ordered the chicken sandwich and dip sandwich. Both were delicious. I tried the Nashville hot chicken sauce on the side, it was spicy with a touch of sweet. Prices were reasonable. It was $18 for the chicken sandwich and $28 for the dip. Overall, pretty good food and great atmosphere, would come back! read more

Makers Union - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

I visited Makers Union Pentagon City for a 4:45pm Thursday reservation for four. I arrived on time and was seated outside on the patio. Unfortunately, service started off on the wrong foot. There was a very large party already on the patio, and I was seated behind them. I waited about 12-15 minutes before the rest of my group arrived, but no server ever came by. We decided to head inside to get re‑seated, but couldn't find a hostess anywhere. We eventually flagged down a random server in the bar area and asked if a four‑top could be cleared so we could sit there instead. Thankfully, once we moved inside, everything improved dramatically. Service from that point on was attentive and friendly. The "Peoples Hour" menu was a highlight--great pricing without feeling "cheap." Appetizers were $6-10, cocktails $6-8, wines $6, and beers $6.50. The Down & Dirty (a vodka martini variation without vermouth) was solid, and the Out of the Office...Forever rum punch was decent. For food, we tried several items: - Makers Mini Nachos with steak -- Generous toppings but the chips got soggy quickly under all the queso, sour cream, and guac, which is not necessarily a bad thing. - Taco-bout Fish -- Crispy cod with a lemon aioli; one of the better bites of the night. - Drop It Like It's Hot -- Really good chicken tenders with a spicy Comeback sauce. - Lil B sliders -- Nicely cooked and not overdone; the Comeback sauce added a nice kick. The space has an upscale sports‑bar vibe with TVs above and around the bar. Seating can feel tight when it's busy, and the noise level definitely climbs, so keep that in mind if you're looking for a quieter meal. Despite the rocky start, the rest of the evening was enjoyable. Good food, great happy hour pricing, and solid service once we were settled inside. I'd return--just probably not to the patio during a big party. read more

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Back here again! We opted to sit at the bar and watch some of the Olympics and ended up staying two hours longer and made new friends at the bar! It was busy but not overly crowded, it was a nice quiet Friday night where it's chilly out but cozy inside. He got the burger and I got the Mac and cheese again (surprise surprise). Both very good. He got the mule, maple old fashioned and espresso martini. I got the espresso martini and then I asked for a coffee with a shot in it (I got Americano with some cream and a shot of baileys). Everything was excellent and will be making a repeat. :) read more

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I'm a nearby neighbor living in an apartment building right down your block! I love TORI - the server and bartender extraordinaire. She smiles and has the RIGHT attitude! We can frequent any restaurant or bar in the area but people like Tori bring us back. She knows her craft and treats people kindly. Win/Win .... Please recognize her because that's what service is all about. Great food, tasty drinks and AMAZING service!!! read more

This was my first time here and it won't be my last. Delawren was my server and she was such a vibe. read more

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I first fell in love with Maker's Union at their Reston Location, but this one is just as good. The only reason they get 4 stars instead of 5 is the size of this location. It is smaller and almost always packed. If you've never been here, happy hour is the move. It's daily from 3-6PM. The old fashion and "Baby B" is always a must. A tiny but flavor burger is always the vibe. The spinach dip is good too. Actually I've never had anything here that wasn't good. Bar seating is almost required without reservations unless it's warm out and the patio is open. Service is always consistent and great. read more

...Visited for Sunday brunch after seeing the great reviews & the restaurant was bustling with a lively crowd, so make sure you have reservations especially on weekends! My friend ordered the smoked salmon lox & I chose the cinnamon roll pancakes. Since there was no option to have syrup with my pancakes, I also ordered a bowl of fruit (lightly sweetened strawberries). Kaiyah was our server & was very attentive & communicative; she periodically checked on us which was wonderful as that can be challenging (especially with a packed restaurant). Our food arrived pretty fast & while everything was beautifully presented, I was taken aback at the pancakes. The menu's description stated that they'd be stacked-high, so I was expecting 4 or 5 pancakes but was disappointed upon receiving only 3 thin ones. They had a sparse sprinkling of powdered sugar & drizzle of cream cheese icing that covered more of the plate than the pancakes. I didn't see or taste the cinnamon sugar but that wasn't a point of major interest to me. I wanted ample toppings on my pancakes so when that wasn't delivered, I took a couple bites because I would've tried to make them work with the fruit as I don't like to ever waste food. But I opted to order something else because they were just too dry. I then decided on the "Frickin' Good Fried Chicken Sandwich" & it lived up to its name! Excellent decision...the sandwich was amazing & coupled with the BEST fries! Whatever batter was used for those perfectly-cut, fluffy fries was INCREDIBLE. All in all, I had a good dining experience & look forward to returning! read more

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Fun spot in Crystal City. Went on a Sunday - packed. Sat at the bar. Cold beer, fun drinks, and a chill vibe. Had the med bowl with chicken, it was better than average. The ding I have for them - bartender was paying attention but not really, distracted easily. read more

Makers Union - Mediterranean Bowl - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

MAKE A RESERVATION HERE if you're going to eat here at 5-7pm. The service was very slow at the beginning: when we got our table, we didn't get our waters filled or drink orders taken until 20min after we got seated. However, once we orders drinks and food, they were really fast with serving. The food was decent American food. I actually preferred the Moroccan bowl without the impossible kebab. The mushrooms were better with the rest of the bowl. My husband got the prime rib French dip, and it could use a little more horseradish. The dip was pretty flavorful and the beef was pretty soft to chew. The Brussels sprouts and oysters were the stars and of course, I have to give a shoutout for the mini Tabasco sauce. Great cocktails and happy hour deal here! read more

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***ARLINGTON*** Location For some reason the Arlington location isn't showing but I wanted to leave a review., This is my second time visiting the ARLINGTON location. The first was brunch and then tonight for dinner. Brunch is definitely a calmer and quieter vibe. I arrived ~7 and the restaurant was giving full on club vibes: dim lights, loud music and very robust crowd. If this is your scene, check it out. If not, maybe try this location for brunch or lunch. The Mediterranean Bowl is DELICIOUS, as are the appetizer brussel sprouts. The Impossible Kebobs are JUST okay but a reasonable protein addition. read more

Makers Union - Crispy Brussels Sprouts - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Food My cousin and I stopped by Makers Union for happy hour since it's close to both of our offices. The happy hour menu has a decent variety--sliders, nachos, wings, and more. But the portions are tiny. $8 for just two chicken tenders (see photo) felt excessive - at least give us three! The sangria was tasty but far too sweet for my liking, though some people may enjoy that. I did appreciate that their gin & tonic used Hendrick's, which is a solid option. That said, I wish they'd step up their tequila game - Patrón isn't cutting it. ‍ Service When I arrived, I waited at the host stand for a bit, and someone tried to cut ahead of me. The young man hosting politely told him I was first, which I really appreciated. He also asked his manager if I could still get happy hour at a regular table since all the high tops and most of the bar were taken by a large party. Unfortunately, the manager said no. Thankfully, a bar seat opened up shortly after. The host was kind and professional, though the overall handling of happy hour seating policies left something to be desired. Atmosphere The restaurant itself isn't very large, but with the patio included, it has a nice amount of space. However, today most of the high tops and bar seats were reserved for a private event, which is the only area where happy hour pricing is available. If they're going to allow that, they should extend happy hour deals to other parts of the restaurant. Otherwise, customers are left scrambling for limited seats, which makes the experience stressful instead of relaxing. Overall, not the worst happy hour experience, but definitely not the best either. I might come back and give their brunch a try, but I wouldn't go out of my way for happy hour again. read more

Makers Union - Nashville Hot Chicken Tenders - happy hour - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

I had lunch here after work and it was perfect! Neil at the bar was quick and kind! The grilled chicken sandwich was perfect! I'd visit again next time I'm in town! read more

Makers Union - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

It's the last 2 days of Arlington Restaurant Week, and I met up with my cousin for brunch. Makers is a beautiful and spacious restaurant, offering free 3-hour parking at the lot located around the corner. Their benches have beautiful blue upholstery, and the bar showcases their selections and TVs high and low. The guava margarita was one of the best I've ever had. It was like I was drinking fresh mango puree, just not as thick. The restaurant week lunch comes with a starter, entree, and dessert. The crab soup reminded me of lobster bisque, and they didn't skimp on the crab. The Makers steak was tender and seasoned well, but the parmesan garlic butter fries stole the show for me. Such a unique flavor, and there wasn't a single fry that wasn't crispy. I enjoyed the grilled broccolini as well. The cinnamon raisin bread pudding with vanilla ice cream was the perfect ending. Our server was always checking in on us, had our drinks and food to us without a prolonged wait, and even had recommendations for drinks. read more

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The food was good here, we got the lamb chops, the burger, and the steak frites. The food was mostly good but the service was terrible. The server didn't give us water once and when we had to hunt down the server and asked for water refills, instead of asking what we wanted she ran off to get bottles of Evian water which we never asked for. When we mentioned that, she said she had already opened them and couldn't take them back??!! Making us spend 15 bucks for water when the server is supposed to provide refills of tap water is just absurd. We won't be returning here just for the poor service. read more

Makers Union - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Not bad, the poke was a little skimpy on meat but everything tasted great and the service was on point.

Overall not bad for brunch. It was a little loud so beware that talking would be a problem. This place has been open for several years and first time trying. Nothing to write home about but good enough selection for a brunch menu and the food is good. It doesn't feel like a large chain and has a bit of fun and social vibe to the decor, saw many families on a sat am. Which is good. Usually when i walk by in the evenings because it's on the Amazon campus, many happy hours take place here. It was a bit windy today so less people wanted to sit in the outdoor area but in warmer weather, it's very lively on the outside as well. read more

Makers Union - Classic Eggs Benedict - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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A group of us met here during travel to DC. Despite living here for 4 years in the recent past, I'd never been to.Maker's Union. I was pleasantly surprised. Menu: small.menu of about 20 items, but they had a very good variety. Everything we ordered was great: the salmon, steak frittes, she crab soup, fish n chips, and shrimp fetticini. The portions were good for a group of hungry dudes that missed lunch. Price: DC is really high for food. This restaurant was reasonable for the area. Prices ranged from $20 to $46 (ribeye). For the quality of the food, I was gladly surprised at the price. Ambiance: A really cool place! Beautiful and contemporary inside. It was a little noisy, as the place was full, but Ive definitely been to noisier places in DC. They have outside seating when there is no snow on the ground. Drinks: The smoky old fashioned was superb. They have a great selection of whisk(e)y and an IPA-forward beer selection. Service was quick and pleasant. read more

The host who seated us was pleasant but the service after that was horrendous. Not once did the server check if we needed anything else or if everything was okay which really put a damper on the experience. The server forgot both our drink and food orders then asked if we were ready to order but immediately left saying give me a minute. Tables around us were also waiting endlessly to place orders or get their checks. We had to get up ourselves to get condiments. After forgetting to put in our drink order the server never brought them and someone else finally did after we asked again so we tipped the bar as well. We told the manager who seemed stoic and uncaring even though he said he would locate our server. The scrambled eggs were extremely salty and when I asked to have them replaced with fried eggs they were oily but at least edible. The bill was incorrect and we had to ask for it to be fixed. Service impacts the dining experience and this visit was far below the quality of past ones. read more

Makers Union - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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The fish and chips were great! I loved the liveliness of the space and how the bartender tried to manage the demand with fun and speed. There were a number of things I wanted to try so I will be back. read more

Makers Union - Fish & Chips - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

I've been to Makers Union twice now. It's my go to for happy hour or entertaining work folks in Crystal City. Surprisingly you likely need a reservation as they get quite busy, but I have gotten lucky with a table before. They are very accommodating and have patient staff. The menu is very classic Americana. The food is all good and they have a good selection of beer. read more

This is my first time here and I must say it's a very beautiful and upscale looking restaurant. We did not have a reservation, but went during the week around happy hour time and seating was no problem. We ordered the calamari which was underwhelming and not very appetizing, so that's why one star is missing, but the entrées were good. The only complaint I have is mine (Moroccan-Style "Impossible" Kebabs) was too salty. Not inedible, but noticeable to the point where I didn't finish. I think it was the sauce that was used. I will try again and see how it is next time. read more

Makers Union - Moroccan-Style "Impossible" Kebabs - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

I came into town to see my older brother with the family. He picked this restaurant for us to meet at and said he's heard decent things about the place. It had a lot of space to accommodate for a lot of people and also family oriented. Their lunch menu had a variety of food for us to pick from. I haven't had a grilled chicken sandwich in a while so I went with that. My mom didn't enjoy her fish and chips as much; however, I loved my grilled chicken. The restaurant is nearby my brother's job so it worked out great for us as a spot to meet up at. read more

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Sunday brunch service was subpar. Plates were dirty. Staff was lethargic and food was ok. Thai coconut soup came out cold, the replacement was better. The server poured me a half of cup of coffee instead of a full cup and I had to ask him to fill it up, it was more than enough room left for my creamer. Overall, not impressed and won't be back. Sunday brunch options were limited. I can say the breakfast platter with honey ham and potatoes was decent. read more

Brunch at Makers Union was pretty good! We enjoyed coffee, the Makers scramble, and cinnamon pancake stack. Service was friendly but could have been more attentive. We had to search for our server a couple times but overall it was fine. I did notice my friend's pancake stack only had two pancakes and the table next to us had three! Our food was cooked well and everything was flavorful. I really enjoyed the scramble- potatoes and garlic bread were very tasty. Garage retail parking though off Elm St was a bit of a headache where the machine was malfunctioning and to exit you have to call support if you don't want to be charged $21. But with all that said, I would still come back and wouldn't mind trying their happy hour and other menu items! read more

Makers Union - Makers Scramble - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Kiyah was great definitely returning with a friend. Her service was top tier & the food comes out hastily! She also got me to sign up for the rewards program I look forward to returning! read more

Terrific food and terrific service. After a hard run marathon, we just wanted liquid carbs and a burger. Makers delivered both - and were quick to bring us and extra order of salty fries. Good experience all around and would love to go back when I'm less ravenous. read more

Makers Union - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Food came out extremely fast and it was very hot. I also enjoyed a pomegranate lemon drop and my friend had an espresso martini overall I would say everything was really great. This was such a nice deal for unlimited brunch at the Arlington location for $35. I was genuinely surprised at how much food items were on the menu for the appetizers and the entrées. I will definitely be visiting again and I did enjoy my service from our server. My favorite items were the chicken and waffles and the breakfast nachos. read more

Makers Union - Berry Nutella pancakes, Cornflake French Toast, Makers Nachos - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

We stayed at Embassy Suite across the street. Found this gem Erica and Makers Union. Erica the bartender is the real reason we ate dinner 3 evenings there. She was very friendly knowledgeable and funny. The brussel sprouts and poke was my favorites. Most of the menu looked amazing. Chatter was lively and TV sports was playing. Great way to spend evenings close to Washington DC. Thanks Erica from Flip Flopper and Tracy lol read more

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We stopped for brunch on Sunday. First time at Makers Union. We were seated right away and we sat outside. It was a beautiful day. The server came over right away and took out orders right away. We went with the bottomless mimosas option. The server was very good in bringing our drinks out right away. My wife ordered the salad with the chicken. This is why i only gave 4 stars. The chicken was not prepared properly and we had to send it back. My wife substituted the salad with the steak. That was prepared very well and the server did not charge us for the steak addition which was very nice of him. Overall a very nice experience and I would definitely return. read more

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My partner and I went here on a whim. We have visited the area before, but never dined here. The restaurant is small, but doesn't feel too small because of the extremely high ceilings. We came during happy hour and ordered on the happy hour menu and the regular menu. Our waitress was very attentive and kind. We really enjoyed our drinks and food. We definitely were too hungry to take all of the pictures! On the happy hour menu we got a rail drink, pink lemonade with vodka and also tried the dirty martini. I would definitely come back for the atmosphere, food, and vibes. Definitely seems like an easy place to pop in after work to grab some good food. There is also a patio for people to sit with their four legged friends ! read more

Makers Union - Spinach & Artichoke Dip - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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I was trying to find a place to get dinner at 9 PM and I was glad that Makers union still had their kitchen open! We got the crispy brussels sprouts and the Mediterranean bowl, which was more of a salad than what you think of a bowl that can be very grain heavy but it was so good! It had a bunch of different toppings that you could pick and choose whether or not to mix in and the vinaigrette was very tasty. The hummus was a nice addition to keep it vegetarian. The tzatziki wasn't anything to write home about, but that was the only thing on the salad that I didn't enjoy. The variety of vegetables in addition to the salad component made it feel very complete. The crispy brussels sprouts were really good on top of the salad, it had honey and peanuts on top and adding the warm component to the salad made it even better. Service was quick, even though it was packed on a Friday night. It was kind of loud but to be expected with a lot of people looking like they were coming out after work. read more

Makers Union - Vegetarian Mediterranean Bowl - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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Let's start with the Sunday Brunch. I defy anyone to find fault with that value. First round of mimosas is expensive but the next six rounds is cheeeeap. And the selection?!?! For under $70 two people can have crab cakes benedict, fried brussels, crispy French toast... I don't even remember. Like ten different things! I didn't have to eat again until 9pm. The food was great! Vinny, who was our handler (clearly he has training in special education or something because we that table. Or maybe the TIPS trainings have advanced to include messy brunch people) was fun, patient, and knowledgeable. This is THE SPOT for brunch on Sunday. read more

Food was good just not very hot upon arrival. Had to sit at bar if no reservations. Potatoes are big wish they would cut smaller. Overall nice restaurant and very busy. read more

Makers Union - Yummy - American Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

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