Victor Albisu’s mini-chain of Mexican restaurants got its start right here. The original location is the most no-frills, but it’s still the place to find stellar tacos stuffed with everything from octopus to carnitas. Albisu’s mother Rosa Susinski runs the Plaza Latina market housed in the same shopping center. Order takeout here.

This tiny, divey haven for grilled cheeses with various toppings is a Falls Church standby. Diners can customize their sandwiches (as well as their totchos) with just about every ingredient imaginable. There’s a wide selection of beers to wash it all down. Online ordering available here.

Falls Church’s coffee scene has been stepping up in recent years, with great options like local roaster Rare Bird and chill cafe Cafe Kindred in the mix. This particular all-day gathering place is a local haunt for coffee and pastries in the morning, brunch on the weekends, and pizza and wine in the evenings. Don’t miss items like the Earl Grey blueberry scone or the giant cinnamon buns. The owners also oversee nearby Liberty Barbecue. Order online here, extensive outdoor seating available (expect many patrons with cute dogs on the patio).

This Falls Church restaurant came on the scene a few years ago to rave reviews for its homemade pastas and impressive desserts (don’t miss the olive oil cake). Starting dinner with an order of the garlic bread is a must. Outdoor seating available; order takeout online. A second location just opened in Alexandria.

Chef Bertrand Chemel of fine-dining mainstay 2941 also presides over Pizzeria Orso, a casual neighborhood spot for Neapolitan pies (they’re certified), Italian small plates like arancini, excellent salads, and a small selection of pastas. The bar is a lively spot for half-priced wine on Wednesday evenings. Carryout available here.

Chef Jay Yu shows exquisite craftmanship and showcases high-quality seafood at his tiny seafood restaurant in Falls Church. The chirashi is an affordable way to sample some of the freshest fish of the day; the seared scallop is a great standby nigiri, but consider the specials on the board for the freshest options available. Order takeout by calling the restaurant directly.

This former food truck now has a permanent location on Lee Highway that is consistently packed with fans. They specialize in halal tacos, tortas, and more (try the “halal pastor”).

This unassuming little restaurant with an expanded patio is a great destination for Bolivian dishes. Don’t miss the silpancho — a breaded steak dish topped with egg — the ceviche, or the giant sandwich. There’s also a limited selection of Tex-Mex dishes. Takeout available here.

It’s almost impossible to choose from the many excellent Vietnamese options presented by Eden Center. Rice Paper is one of the MVPs, with an expansive menu, cooking precision, and a spare but stylish design. Order online here.

Falls Church has several solid options for pollo a la brasa, but Spin Pollo takes it to the next level with their impressive variety of sides, from fragrant pinto beans to chaufa to mac and cheese. Other Peruvian dishes are available as well, such as lomo saltado. Always order extra green sauce. Takeout/delivery available on Toast, GrubHub, DoorDash, and Seamless.

Bertrand Chemel’s European-influenced destination restaurant has widened its options over the years to be both a place for special occasions and random nights out. Fish dishes, pastas, and soups are among his specialities, all served in a picturesque setting complete with a koi pond. The serene scene attracts many wedding parties.

This restaurant started it all for D.C.’s Lao cuisine ambassador, Seng Luangrath. Previously called Bangkok Golden, the menu here has shifted to focus more on Lao dishes, though a Thai menu is still available. Carryout through the restaurant website; delivery through DoorDash (reservations suggested for dine-in).

A longtime destination for the area for Sichuan fare, including beef in hot pepper broth, spicy flounder, cumin lamb, and more. The restaurant also does a fine job with American-style Chinese food, whether it be General Tso’s or Happy Family. Ask about the specials on the wall. Online ordering here.

It’s easy to miss this restaurant, hidden in an industrial strip off of Seminary Road. But that would mean missing out on excellent versions of doro wat, various tibs dishes, kitfo, and more. The vegetarian combo is a must. Order online here.