Old Town: A Premier Progressive Date Locale

Maybe you’ve heard of it, maybe you haven’t. Maybe you’ve done it and didn’t even realize! Whatever your exposure to the “progressive date,” it’s becoming more and more popular – bringing its followers to multiple restaurants or venues throughout an evening (or morning, or afternoon), enjoying a different course at each stop.

Given Alexandria’s burgeoning restaurant scene and considering the overall walkability of Old Town, this article will be the first of several aimed at presenting ideas for your next progressive date and an opportunity to rack up some steps and experience more of what Old Town has to offer. Over the coming weeks and months, I will share a group of four restaurants all falling within a theme.

This week we’ll look at an Al Fresco combination for those who want to soak up every ounce of summer dining outdoors.

Cheers! Bon Appetit! Enjoy!

The Al Fresco Date Night: For those making the most of summer

Start the night with a wine flight on that back patio of Sonoma Cellar. It’s a quiet little oasis you’d never expect right in the heart of Old Town.

Then meander over to one of Old Town’s newest additions - The People’s Drug. Take a seat at one of the curbside tables, people watch and enjoy a light bite - the three-meat meatballs are a total crowd pleaser!

When you’re ready to move on, hop over to Columbia Firehouse. Tucked just a half block off King Street, Columbia Firehouse never disappoints - and their patio is kind of a hidden gem! Plus, the new(ish) menu includes an expanded raw bar as well as a section devoted to small plates, allowing you to try a little of everything. (Hint: the tuna tacos and beef tartare are both A+!)

If you’re looking for a sweet treat to close out your night, there’s no better way to do that than strolling down King Street with something delicious from Pop’s Old Fashioned ice cream. Pop’s is the real deal with dozens of homemade ice cream flavors to choose from any given day.