Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Oak Steakhouse

    4.1 (366 reviews)
    Ultra High-EndSteakhouses, New American, Seafood
    Closed 5:00 pm - 10:00 PM
    Updated 3 weeks ago

    Oak Steakhouse Photos

    Business Info

    OAK STEAKHOUSE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Trendy
    Intimate
    Romantic

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Oak Steakhouse

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Steak frites
    James L.

    After starting...saving...revising...and saving again...I think I'm finally ready to complete this review which has been in draft for a while. For decades, the most notable landmark in this section of Alexandria was the Potomac River Generating Station. However, over the past 5-10 years, this section of Alexandria has been re-branded as "Old Town North." The purchase of the former power plant site in 2020, is scheduled for massive mixed use re-development to include residential and commerical use - https://www.alexandriava.gov/neighborhood-development/potomac-river-generating-station-prgs-power-plant-redevelopment-old-town TBH, I had not really explored the Old Town North neighborhood in a while, so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the wide variety of new restaurants, walkable areas, and green spaces to enjoy - https://visitalexandria.com/the-best-of/old-town-north/ A friend and I decided to grab dinner, and after perusing the options, decided upon Oak Steakhouse. Since it's 2005 founding in Charleston, SC, Oak Steakhouse has steadily expanding its national footprint with the Old Town location representing it's more Northern location. Oak definitely leans into the steakhouse ethos with a darker color palette, hardwoods, and dim lighting (at least in the evenings). There are many floor to ceiling windows, which I assume provide ample natural lighting during the lunch hours. The place was buzzing on a Friday evening, but we were luckily able to snag a coveted window table. Server arrived within a few minutes, greeted us in a friendly manner, and described the specials of the evening. We enjoyed a Port City Optimal Wit (since it's a local Alexandria brewery) and a glass of sauvignon blanc. Both were fine; served chilled as expected. We skipped appetizers and for the mains, we shared the steak frites and seared sea scallops. Slices of so-called "butcher's steak" were cooked to an appropriate medium-rare doness. Steak was good; not tough...the side of au poivre sauce was good for adding much needed additional seasoning and saltiness. Housemade fries were cooked in beef-fat and stayed crispy, even after 20-25 minutes. Scallops were just okay. The mollusks were cooked to temperature and given a quick sear on one side, so they wouldn't be mushy or rubbery in texture. They were served with fennel gonocchi, carrots, beet chips, avocado mousse, and finished off with a sherry-rum sauce. My main observation again, was the dish was underseasoned. The scallops were fine, but the sauce was too sweet and the entire dish just needed some finishing salt sprinkled on top. Our server popped by a few times to check-in, and ensured water glasses were filled. Many of my reviews will reference the monetary value during in today's economic climate, and this will be a factor here also. Here's the thing, I'm well aware that if I decide to dine out, I expect to spend money...especially at a steak house. On its Yelp page, Oak Steakhouse is marked with "$$$$," so we knew the price point before walking in. For me (as well as my dining companion), we didn't feel the overall experience at Oak was anything "special" - and I concede that everyone defines that word differently. We certainly observed the large groups gathered, as well as the smaller parties enjoying themselves throughout the night. While there might not be many options for steak houses in Old Town, I feel there are other and frankly, BETTER choices for your dining dollar. Dinner for two adults, with one glass of wine and one beer, two entrees was $135-ish with tax and tip.

    Main dishes
    Dona P.

    Always a solid option for a good steak frites and good cocktail. Definitely on the higher price point but the quality is commendable. Service is always great. They messed up the portion size of one of our friend's steaks and they immediately fixed it. Salads are always fresh and deserts decadent. Typical steakhouse vibe with leather and wood tones. Great bar.

    40 bucks worth of fries and a sliver of meat.

    service was okay but $40 for a plate of fries and a just a few bites of meat. Not worth the $.

    NY Strip
    Michaela N.

    Five out of five! Everything was delicious. My Bestie took me for a vacation in old town Alexandria and I had the best time doing all the things, but this is definitely one of the highlights that I will be returning to. The steak was perfectly cooked, the seafood tower was perfectly chilled, and the sides were very large and great for sharing. They put all the nice touches on it being an amazing birthday occasion, the waitress consistently used our names. And they had great attention to detail and timeliness with delivery. It was beautifully darkened and moody inside.

    Parker House Rolls
    Nima B.

    We usually go to Bourbon Steak for special occasions but decided to try somewhere different hence Oak Steakhouse. I have tried almost every high end steakhouse in the DMV. We were greeted immediately upon entering and promptly seated. The service was excellent and far better than Bourbon Steak. I ordered a cocktail and my gf ordered a mocktail. Both drinks were good. We were offered Parker Rolls that looked delicious. Less oily than the complimentary bread at Bourdon Steak. We started with the cocktail shrimp which were good. The cocktail sauce was underwhelming and desperately needed horseradish to give it a kick. We both ordered filet mignons. We ordered medium well done which was a mistake. It was blackened and overcooked. The Béarnaise sauce and Chimichurri were good. I would have preferred fresh chimichurri which is typically chopped parley and minced garlic but this had the consistency of ketchup. I didn't want to waste a steak so didn't complain about being overcooked. For sides we ordered the Brussels sprouts and fries. The Brussels sprouts were very oily and overcooked. I like to see a bit of green versus just black leaves. The fries were good but presentation was lacking. Overall it was a good experience. I would have guessed they offered a complimentary dessert for birthdays but that was not the case. I would return for a casual lunch at the bar but not a special occasion.

    Katie N.

    We came here for a date night and the restaurant already sets the mood for dinner date vibes. We were seated promptly with our reservation and greeted with water options. We ordered the steaks and a few sides to share. Everything was amazing and our steaks were cooked to our liking. I particularly love how they ensure the steak temp is how you like when bringing it. Highly recommend.

    Parker House rolls
    Michael W.

    Absolutely fantastic restaurant. We don't frequent steakhouses, but when we feel like indulging, a good steakhouse can always deliver. This place has great atmosphere, service, and the beef is tasty!! 6 oz filet with sauce Béarnaise, cooked rare, melts in your mouth. The outside is seared and crispy, the inside was a gorgeous red, and so soft and buttery. It was so satisfying and ultra-decadent when dipped in the sauce. The 6oz portion was just the perfect amount so by the time you finished your meal you didn't feel like you needed a wheel barrow to haul you out. Started with some home-baked Parker House rolls. They come out 4 in a tray, pull apart piping hot, nice salty butter. Felt so good on a cold night. The Sides: mushrooms, perfectly soft, savory and simple. The show stopper were the Brussel sprouts. They are nice and crunchy on the outside and coated in an absolutely superb sauce that consists of apple cider vinegar, soy, and caramel. The sauce combo took these baby cabbages to a wickedly amazing new level! Outstanding, If you don't order these as one of your sides you are missing out! Thanks Ricardo!

    Charcuterie board with burrata cheese
    Ada B.

    We went with friends to the Oak Steakhouse because it never disappoints. The appetizers were delicious, the charcuterie board with the burrata cheese is a must. The place gets pretty crowded on a Saturday night. The service was very good but our waitress failed to inform us that the tip is already included. This caused some confusion in the end. The noise level is not bad but the lighting is a bit dim. You can bring a bottle of wine for a modest cork fee .

    Link to QR code provided by hotel
    M. Teresa B.

    One of my friends and I ended up here because the Sheraton where she is staying recommended this place and had given her information through the hotel that you would receive a discount for dining here. It literally is right across the street. For reference to this review, I don't need a discount. But when it's 730 o'clock at night after a long day of travel from the west coast and you're figuring out where to eat and there's an advertisement for a free appetizers and a discount right across the street from your friend's hotel, it's enticing. The waiter was wonderful. He was really sweet, attentive, and kept filling up my water. When it came to the free appetizer and discount, he had to go get his manager to inquire about the discount and the free appetizer since he'd never the advertisement before. The manager, Todd came over to talk to us and his customer service was poor and down right unprofessional and offensive. He was aggressive, abrasive, and blatantly came across with an attitude that he did not believe us. He stated that he did not want people coming in for free appetizers, or if they needed a discount he could not do that bc that would open the floodgates to discounts and that even though he was prior military he doesn't even offer military a discount. He said based on the well priced menu, if you couldn't pay it, there are other places to go. Oddly, in that same convo Todd did mention, that for first time guests, they do provide a free appetizer. Todd then came back a second time and wanted to look at the advertisement and where we found it. We let him know that it was provided by the hotel, and that it was a QR code the hotel has given their guests in their rooms. He asked to take a picture of it along with a picture of the list of the other restaurants listed by the hotel that give discounts. He then came back a third time and told us that he spoken to the Sheraton sales department (which is strange because I've never heard of a sales department being open at 8 PM at night) and that the Sheraton sales department manager told him it was quite possible we were being scammed. He again asked where we found the discount and we told them that it was in the hotel room in the Sheraton, where they had provided the QR code. He did again say that first time guests dining at this facility would receive something for free. It was a very strange, awkward and uncomfortable interaction. They did comp us a free appetizer which was yummy (the hummus), my friend bought a burger, which she said was great, and I got the steak frites which were meh (I have just come back from Paris so my pallet might be a little biased having Parisian steak frites multiple times in the last week). The last time Todd came at the end of the meal, he said we could return for happy hour if we wanted to dine at more affordable prices. Which is down right rude and offensive. I regularly go out to eat. In the last three weeks I've dined in multiple restaurants in London, Paris, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Laguna Beach, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach. At all those locations, customer service was impeccable. And even if I hadn't it dined in all those places, no manager or restaurant owner should ever make the assumption that someone cannot afford a meal at their restaurant. Or dismiss them bc they were provided an advertisement discount. I wouldn't think twice when a hotel gives you recommendations or discounts to restaurants because plenty of hotels do that. For the quality of the food, I've had better. Again, the waiter he was phenomenal. The manager, however, he is enough reason to never go to this restaurant ever again. Apparently they're opening one in Arkansas, and the majority of their restaurants are in South Carolina. Best of luck if you decide to come here !

    Scallops
    Ariana A.

    Ordered a martini and they gave me a drink 1/2 full . I should have said something like where is the rest of it, but didn't -- 1st Red flag-- 2nd I asked them to tell me about the fish dish they looked at me like I asked them to tell me what the square root of 145,000 was. Let me preface this by saying I told him that I didn't eat meat or chicken and he was like oh yea there's nothing you can really eat here -- let's continue -- Bartender Said it was sautéed-- and then stopped -- I said and.. go on ..How is it prepped , etc -- Isn't it their job to know the menu and explain each dish ? Then I asked them tell me about your scallops dish-- this time they looked at me like I had come Mars-- again like the audacity that I asked for more detail right? they said it was sautéed-- shocker right ? We asked about the burata -- again the bartender annoyed barely explained and it tasted like s@€€ ! How do you mess up so much in one day ? Not great from the start with the bartender though it was ok to charge 18 for 1/2 if an espresso martini -- should have left then . Food was subpar - scallops were overdone --- drink was a 3 sip martini -- service was not good -- bartender had a chip on his shoulder -- and somewhat rude and not friendly or helpful at all -- 2/10 -- save your money -- $183 dollars could have spent at a better steak house with much better service and friendlier bartender . I will not be going back there ever again, nor will my friend. I will tell everyone about this crappy place -- Go spend your money elsewhere !!! Terrible place!!! I'd give them a zero star rating if I could!!! I want my money back and my time wasted there !

    French Press Coffee!
    Craig D.

    (4.25) ~ Very good Overall food & Service. Note: Parking Garage across the street or street parking. DRINKS: ** French Press Coffee (see photo) = (4.35) Very cool Treat! ** Water (Aqua Panna) = (4.25) Very good ** Water (tap) = (4) very good, must be filtered;) FOOD: ** Strawberry Cheesecake (see photo) = (4.75) Great! Very Light! ** Hummingbird Bread Pudding (see photo) = (4.5) Very tasty & Shareable ** Parkerhouse Rolls (w. cultured butter) = (4.25) Very good ** Braised Beef Belly = (4.25) Very tasty ** Filet Mignon (medium rare) = (4.25) Very good w. Black Truffle Butter ** Mac & Cheese (added Lardons) = (4.25) ** Oatmeal Cream Pie (see photo) = (4.25) Very tasty, just wish the glass of milk had a wider opening to dip the cookie b/c it was too narrow. ** Brussels Sprouts = (4.15) Very good ** Beef Fat Fries =(4) very good

    Croissant Bread Pudding
    Kai M.

    This place is the epitome of exquisite dining! First, thank you to everyone from the hostesses, our waiter Jose, and the GM Todd! Hospitality stands at the top of their list and it showed in every interaction that we had with all of the staff. Thank you. Next, I would mark this place as date night worthy. The type of restaurant where the dimmed lights, soft playlists, drinks, and food makes you stare off into your significant other's eyes from drink to dessert time. Here is a breakdown of my night: Appetizers: East Coast Oysters: fresh! Succulent and delicious Oysters Rockefeller: the BEST I've had in a while. The filling was simply divine! Drinks: Cinn City: looks like this was a seasonal drink because I didn't see it online. Well, let me say this, the combination of flavors in this drink takes you out of Alexandria and places you on a cozy mountain resort. The flavors...omg the flavors! And yes, I had and only needed one drink because it was a bit strong and I needed to walk lol Fun fact, my boyfriend ordered this drink after he tried and disliked his Oak Manhattan. He said that the Oak Manhattan was not his favorite but he agreed and loved the Cinn City. Entrees: 6oz Petit Filet Mignon- I should have ordered it medium because the cut was a little dried out with my medium/well request. Nonetheless, it was still very juicy and needed no sauce or anything added to it. Sides: Crispy Brussels sprouts- if I had to eat this everyday, I would! The Brussels were perfectly prepared, not too soggy and not overcooked. Tossed in a sweet/tangy sauce, this was SCRUMPTIOUS! Yukon Gold Potato Puree- who doesn't love a good potato Puree with their steak?! This freshly prepared Puree complimented the Brussels and steak perfectly! My boyfriend's dish: Steak Frites- his steak was prepared medium how he likes it and I have to say that after taking a bite, I secretly wanted his meal lol The fries were fresh cut and fried perfectly but like me, he indulged in the Yukon golden potatoes and Brussels-too good to pass up. Dessert: At this point in our dining experience, we were full but there was no way that we would have visited this magnificent place and not try a dessert. Well, the croissant bread pudding might confuse you at first sight, but it will win you over at first bite! OMG this dessert can go into the ring with several other competitors and I'm sure it will emerge as the people's champ! Dining experience delight! As our night ended, Jose presented us with their packaged mini cakes and told us to enjoy it in the morning with coffee. What a beautiful way to send off your guests. Update: I had it with coffee and I absolutely LOVED IT! Would I return again? Does a zebra have stripes? YES! lol Is it great for groups? Yes Romantic? Baby this place is sexy! Cost-affordable? Yes! You pay for the fine dining experience, ambiance, and quality service. Good for kids? Eh, hire a babysitter for this one and go enjoy your partner. Kudos! On a job well done! FYI, if you live in DC, then know that this place is a relative to O-ku, another one of my favs!

    Birthday cake

    The reason for the 2 stars is because of the price, I almost felt robbed. My family and I were not expecting the price. This place will fool you with the prices. Our bill was over 2500 dollars. I was so embarrassed that I chose this place for my birthday. I would have got more pictures of every dish so I could better share what you're getting if you decide to have a party of 6 for your birthday. The food was okay. Everything was just okay. I ended up taking my steak home because it was way too rare for me. One thing I did like was the different butters (which there was a charge for) yes if you want butter, sauce for your steak..you had to pay. I did get a free cake..I think. Nice place for a date though. If it's just one person. This is not a place for big gatherings at all!

    Menu, restaurant

    See all

    Photo of Christy B.
    174
    39
    10

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 12
    Thanks 3
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Nima B.
    2
    182
    83

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of The Indigo R.

    The Indigo R.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ariana A.
    918
    24
    3

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ken C.
    94
    1370
    4

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Craig D.
    33
    2811
    308

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kai M.
    179
    530
    2825

    2 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 3
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Michael L.
    1
    199
    134

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 4
    Love this 12
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tina P.
    1
    33
    51

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sam P.
    32
    1
    0

    10 months ago

    Outstanding NY Strip and fries. Parker rolls, Brussels sprouts and whiskey was also a treat. Barely had room for dessert, but we managed.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of EM M.
    1
    155
    152

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 10

    Ask the Community - Oak Steakhouse

    Where is Parking?

    Off first, next to West Elm is free underground parking. Park by G1 and stairs come up nearby oak entrance.

    Are you still serving raw oysters?

    Yes, we always have raw oysters!

    Is there is corkage fee?

    Anita, the corkage fee is $30 per bottle. Thanks for asking!

    What's the dress code?

    It appears to be "nice-casual". Jeans were seen but no tank tops or flip flops seen. Saw men in nice shirts & jeans/pants. Women had sleeveless dresses/ nice shorts/ sun dresses/jeans.

    View All 5 Questions

    You might also consider

    Vermilion

    Vermilion

    4.0
    (991 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$$

    Service = outstanding! David welcomed us like we were coming into his home. He and Mercedes made us…read morefeel like we were the only customers there! Food = absolutely delish! Brunch- Chicken & waffles; eggs and homemade sausage; and wonderful coffee! All yummy! Ambiance = we were celebrating our anniversary & David printed a menu with our names & years together honored along with two cake pops. Then ran after us when we forgot our souvenirs (hey, you'll be old one day!). We also loved how all of the staff waited on each other's tables if anyone needed more water, coffee, etc. We will be back when we're in town next! Thanks for making it special!!

    The staff and the atmosphere were amazing, but the food was just okay. We did go for brunch, so I'm…read morenot sure what their normal menu is, but I wouldn't go back again for brunch. The arancini was the best part of the meal for me. The risotto was great, it had short rib in it, and the aioli complemented it well. I didn't like the chicken and waffles. The chicken was good, but the aioli and hot sauce were drizzled over everything, and it didn't taste good on a sweet-tasting waffle. There was no butter or syrup with it, so I'm not sure if the hot sauce was meant to be the topping for the waffle too, but it wasn't great. The few bites I had of just waffle tasted really good. It has the potential to be a great dish, but it just missed the mark for me. I'd consider going back for dinner one day, but especially for the price, I wasn't terribly impressed.

    Photos
    Vermilion
    Root vegetable curry with sauce poured tableside
    Root vegetable curry with sauce poured tableside
    VA Cabernet

    See all

    VA Cabernet
    Hummingbird Bar & Kitchen

    Hummingbird Bar & Kitchen

    3.4
    (386 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    We enjoyed a very leisurely and delicious meal at Hummingbird Bar and Kitchen. The Prix-fixe menu…read morewas perfect for us as we were starved. I love the quaint and rustic feeling of the space which contrasted with the elevated dining experience. The view of the Potomac from the courtyard and restaurant were spectacular The Strawberry Fields Forever specialty cocktail is a refreshing blend of strawberry, mint, and rum. The Palm Royale is just as delightful with St Elder and Pomegranate liqueurs with champagne. Ludmyla was very friendly and Alla the manager helped us out with gluten free options. We enjoyed the Hummingbird Salad, Shrimp Cocktail, Lobster Lemon Linguine (with GF pasta) and Steak Frites. The Crème Brûlée and Flourless Chocolate Torte were a decadent finale for a splendid meal. It is hard to believe such a great restaurant is located inside a hotel. Hotel Indigo is very fortunate.

    I enjoyed the food, the service from my waitress, and the atmosphere. However, I noticed that the…read moreprinted receipt reflected the mathematically correct total, while the bill presented for signature increased the amount by two cents. When I asked about the discrepancy, I was told the systems sometimes differ by a few cents. The adjustment was made when I requested to pay the correct total, but the response suggested that questioning "only two cents" was unreasonable. My concern was never the amount; it was the principle. When a customer is shown one accurate total and then asked to authorize a higher one without explanation, it creates the appearance of taking money that was not part of the stated charge. If I may add my two cents as a former patron and frequent restaurant guest: trust matters in a dining experience. Even a few unexplained pennies raise a reasonable question--if this occurs repeatedly throughout the day, where do those extra cents go? A couple of cents from one guest, a few more from another, eventually add up. Transparency in billing prevents that concern. When a discrepancy is presented without a clear explanation and a patron is made to feel foolish for asking about it, it leaves a bad taste, regardless of how enjoyable the meal may have been.

    Photos
    Inside the restaurant at closing hours
    Inside the restaurant at closing hours
    French Toast
    French Toast
    Tequila

    See all

    Tequila
    Carlyle

    Carlyle

    4.1
    (1.9k reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $$$

    After getting off a plane from a week-long trip, I ordered takeout from Carlisle for my mom and me…read more 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.

    After a very disappointing dining experience the night before at Planta Queen, the restaurant Gods…read morerebounded 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!

    Photos
    Raw Oysters at Carlyle
    Raw Oysters at Carlyle
    Grilled Chicken at Carlyle
    Grilled Chicken at Carlyle
    Lobster Roll at Carlyle

    See all

    Lobster Roll at Carlyle
    1799 Prime Steak & Seafood

    1799 Prime Steak & Seafood

    4.0
    (562 reviews)
    0.7 mi
    $$$

    My wife gave 1799 Xmas gift certificates to family members and the feedback was good, so we decided…read moreto celebrate our Wedding Anniversary there and it was a great move. We had the Sunday Brunch and the food was cooked and seasoned to perfection, with the Mac & Cheese being some of the best I've ever eaten. Our server was, Basem, who had great personality, was knowledgeable about 1799's history, the menu and provided outstanding service, actually some of the best we've experienced. I strongly recommend this warm, intimate restaurant, with incredible cuisine and suggest you add it to your options list.

    First, let me start with the positives because there were definitely several things I enjoyed. 1799…read moreis in a beautiful location in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, and the restaurant itself has a gorgeous interior with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The servers were friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome throughout our visit. We started with a few appetizers, and the Crab & Oyster Rockefeller was absolutely delicious. My mocktail was also refreshing and well-crafted. My husband thoroughly enjoyed the Old Bay wings, and my cousins loved both the shrimp and grits and the salad with grilled scallops. Unfortunately, my entrée was the biggest disappointment of the evening. I ordered the Bolognese pasta, and it just completely missed the mark. It didn't taste like a traditional bolognese at all. The sauce was overly acidic and lacked the rich, slow-simmered flavor I was expecting. It's definitely not something I would ever order again. The only other downside was the temperature inside the restaurant. We visited during a heat wave, and while I understand the building is older, it was uncomfortably HOT. I found myself sweating through most of the meal, which made it difficult to fully enjoy the experience. Overall, I have mixed feelings about my visit. The atmosphere, service, appetizers, and drinks were all enjoyable, but my entrée and the uncomfortable temperature kept the experience from being a great one. I would consider returning, but next time I'd stick to the appetizers or try a different entrée.

    Photos
    Salad and cold seafood area.
    Salad and cold seafood area.
    Shrimp cocktail on the seafood duo
    Shrimp cocktail on the seafood duo
    Tomahawk Steak

    See all

    Tomahawk Steak

    Oak Steakhouse - steak - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...