This Peruvian restaurant is a Dunn Loring hit, with fun specials (margaritas are $2 on Thursdays), festive cocktails (some even feature art of llamas in the foam) and an excellent selection of Peruvian apps and entrees, from sharp ceviche to artfully executed lomo saltado. There’s a full brunch menu, too, and some outdoor seating. Takeout available here; delivery on GrubHub and DoorDash.

This outpost of the Northern Virginia family of restaurants has everything residents have come to expect from the quirky brand: goofy dog murals on the walls, pun-tastic dish names (many of them dog-themed), a respectable selection of specialty brews and sandwiches, and plenty of pizza. The Italian Pie, topped with onions and multiple meats, is a fine choice among the pizzas. For sandwiches, the pesto and chicken-stuffed Phoenix is a good bet. Smart diners always order the seasoned waffle fries on the side.

This neighborhood bar always has a festive atmosphere when sports fans show up to cheer on their team of choice. There is spacious seating both indoors and throughout the enclosed patio section outside. Wings are smoky, the beer selection rotates frequently, and even salads can be a nice surprise here.

B Side is one of the best destinations for drinking in this corner of Virginia, a place where beer lovers, wine drinkers, and cocktail aficionados can all find something to love. It’s fine to order a drink off-menu from one of the engaging bartenders, but B Side’s narrow cocktail menu always lists a few interesting options. The bar is tiny, so expect to wait for a seat during peak hours (there are a few patio seats). Drinkers can snack on options like pimento cheese or charcuterie, but hungrier diners can go for something more substantial on the meat-focused dinner menu. B Side shares the space with sandwich and butcher shop, Red Apron. Carryout info here.

This second location of the Vienna-based brewery always seems to draw a crowd (particularly on account of their expansive outdoor seating). The gathering place features their beers, as well as coffeeshop items like pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Dinner brings wings, fried pickles, and other bar snacks.

This burgeoning chain focuses on anti-inflammatory foods, and menu items can read a little eye-roll trendy (think poke bowls, quinoa burgers, and plenty of kale). The end result, though, is a mix of appealing, colorful dishes that won’t put diners into a food coma. Among the standouts: seasonal salads — there’s butternut squash and sprouts tossed with a sharp horseradish vinaigrette for the winter —cocktails spiked with refreshing juices, and charred cauliflower with tahini dressing. A good option for those with dietary restrictions. Pickup and delivery through the website.

Originally an occupant of Vietnamese district the Eden Center, Four Sisters arrived in Merrifield in 2008, long before there was a Mosaic District. This family-friendly destination boasts an extensive menu of Vietnamese dishes, though they have streamlined their offerings since COVID-19. Crispy spring rolls have been beloved for years, and it’s usually a good idea to order anything that’s been prepared in a clay pot. Order online here.

Rich pastas are a great way to go at this outpost of restaurateur Michael Schlow’s Italian eatery, including cacio e pepe and penne a la vodka, but there are hearty portions of chicken parm and milanese as well. Online ordering here.

This new addition to Mosaic District offers all-you-can-eat hot pot for $19.99 at lunch and $29.99 at dinner. There’s a 90 min time limit per table, but customers can order as many broths as they want and as many refills of a variety of meat, seafood, and vegetable components. There’s a fun sauce bar with tons of options and suggested combinations to visit, too. Make sure that lamb, lotus root, rice cakes, marinated shrimp, and enoki mushrooms are among the picks.

This newish Greek arrival has a breezy menu of salads, Greek small plates, and heartier fare like moussaka. There’s a tiny, cute patio outside as well as some additional outdoor seating across the street. Greek wines are among the beverage options. Order online here.

Nestled in a deep corner of an unassuming shopping center off Gallows Road, Elephant Jumps can be tricky to find, but it’s worth the effort. The Thai restaurant doesn’t hold back on spiciness. Some of the more interesting dishes on the menu include a funky tuna curry, a Thai play on spaghetti, and the sen yai ladd na moo mug, a well-balanced mixture of marinated pork, rice noodles, pickled pepper, and Chinese broccoli. Lunch specials are reasonably priced. Order online through the website.