George Mason University alum Alex Hussein, BS Information Systems and Operations Management ’21, who is also known as @DC Spot, shares his recommendations for a few must-go-restaurants in local Fairfax. Alex is a food influencer with more than 215,000 Instagram followers. His videos feature eateries throughout the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area. Read more about Alex in the recent news feature: Eating with an Entrepreneur, and watch his reviews here: @dcspot.
Downtown Fairfax is just a few miles from the Fairfax Campus for walking or jump on one of the bus systems around town—the Mason Shuttles, Fairfax CUE Bus, and Fairfax Connector.
First Watch
Location: 9600 Main St Suite S
Distance from the Fairfax Campus: 8 minutes, 2.4 miles
First up, First Watch! First Watch serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch with options of sweet or savory, and coffee served iced or hot (an entire pot’s worth for the table is made fresh every morning), Fall is upon us, and it’s a great time to check out First Watch’s seasonal menu which includes flavorful juices and pancakes. They also have a “Healthier Side” section that includes avocado toast, egg white omelets, and more. First Watch doesn’t take reservations, but customers can order online for pickup until 2:30 p.m. or delivery until 2:15pm.
Don’t Miss Out Item: Bacado Omelet and Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Taco Bamba
Location: University Mall, 10629 Braddock Rd, Suite B-8
Distance from the Fairfax Campus: 4 minutes, 1 mile
Taco Bamba was founded by Chef Victor Albisu, a Mason alum with more than 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry. He brings his Latin heritage and culinary education to the table, making for a delicious dining experience! Taco Bamba is a local chain with properties across the East Coast including 10 locations in Virginia. Taco Bamba has a colorful chalk wall menu, and carafes of water available to customers seated inside or outside. The best part about Taco Bamba? You and your family can enjoy some awesome Patriot Perks!
Don’t Miss Out Item: El Diablo
De Clieu Coffee and Sandwiches
Location: 10389 Main St B
Distance from the Fairfax Campus: 5 minutes, 1.3 miles
De Clieu is a sandwich and coffee shop located in Old Town Fairfax just off University Drive. Breakfast and lunch sandwiches galore are topped only by the eclectic iced coffee options including gelatoccino, a gelato drink made with “award-winning flavor.” De Clieu partners with Intelligentsia Roasters to serve customers the best quality coffee beans from across the world. Their menu currently features seasonal specialty drinks and baked goods, some of which blend sweet and savory flavors! The restaurant offers upper and lower deck seating and has free parking and Wi-Fi.
Don’t Miss Out Item: Spicy Swine Breakfast Sandwich
Sisters Thai
Location: 4004 University Drive
Distance from the Fairfax Campus: 4 minutes, 1.3 miles
Sisters Thai offers an array of Asian dishes and desserts to customers. Nicknamed “The Living Room Café," Sisters Thai puts an emphasis on relaxing while you enjoy their cuisine and a drink or two. Be sure to check out the “Thai Street Food” and “Chef’s Recommendation” menu sections for some colorful dishes and unique flavors. The inside is picturesque with a decorative bookshelf lining a cozy booth area, and flowers hanging from above. If you don’t have time to dine-in, Sisters Thai offers online ordering for delivery or pickup. The local chain has three other locations throughout the region.
Don’t Miss Out Item: Kana Moo Grob
Fats Fairfax
Location: 10673 Braddock Rd
Distance from the Fairfax Campus: 4 minutes, 0.7 miles
Fats describes themselves as a “N’awlins saloon offering great food” that gives off the vibe of Bourbon Street. Fats offers delicious seafood specials that include spiced shrimp, steamed mussels, and raw oysters. While customers enjoy their meals, they are serenaded with live entertainment. With Open Mic Night, Trivia Night, and Karaoke, Fats is more than just a restaurant, but the perfect place for a fun night out with friends.
Don’t Miss Out Item: Hot Crab Dip
Woody’s Ice Cream
Location: 10435 North St
Distance from the Fairfax Campus: 5 minutes, 1.4 miles
Another one for Patriot Perks! Woody’s is in the heart of downtown Fairfax and offers treats like waffle cones, milkshakes and everything in between, with 34 flavor options to choose from, four of which are only offered seasonally, so don’t miss out! The shop offers delicious non-dairy alternatives as well as weekly specials Monday through Thursday. Woody’s offers indoor seating and expanded patio space for customers to sit and enjoy their treats. And speaking of treats, Woody’s is dog-friendly, so bring your pup along for the ride. If you’re lucky, Woody and his granddaughter Danielle will be in-house. They love meeting new customers!
Don’t Miss Out Item: 2 Scoops of Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough with Reese's Pieces Toppings (and Gummy Bears for a little razzle dazzle!)
Looking for more options? Remember to check out George Mason University’s Patriot Perks program, which provides students and alumni with exclusive deals at local establishments and supports small business and alumni-owned businesses. Many of these locations also accept Mason Money.