Falls Church has a small-town charm uniquely its own, as well as a rich history and a diverse dining scene. Residents benefit from convenient access to the nation’s capital, as well as well-rated school districts, local parks, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to call Falls Church home or you’re just passing through, use this local guide to explore the area and see what it’s all about!
The Best Coffee Shops in Falls Church
Need an on-the-go pick-me-up or a place to relax and unwind with a good book and an even better cup of coffee? Check out these local establishments to get your caffeine fix. Who knows, you may even find your new favorite local roast!
Rare Bird Coffee Roasters
Where? 230 West Broad Street
Rare Bird Coffee Roasters is a specialty roaster and bakery that calls Falls Church home. The shop has been thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming, comfortable place where patrons can enjoy high-quality coffee and bites and enjoy lively conversations with friends. Rare Bird procures their coffee from small importers to ensure that the same fundamental values are shared across the board. The menu features innovative takes on your favorite beverages, such as the fan-favorite butterscotch latte and seasonal delights like the rosemary latte. Tea drinkers will be impressed by the available selection, ranging from classic Earl Grey to variations such as the Star of African rooibos and the Gen Mai Cha green tea.
Cafe Kindred
Where? 450 North Washington Street, Suite F
The menu at Cafe Kindred features not only an assortment of delicious coffee, tea, and non-caffeinated beverages, but it also includes delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options like Greek yogurt parfaits and egg and veggie scrambles to keep your day running smoothly. The cafe also offers exciting brunch cocktails, such as mimosas and Bloody Marys. Hit up the espresso bar for macchiatos, cortados, cappuccinos, flat whites, affogatos, and even milk steamers for the little ones! Both indoor and outdoor seating is available at Cafe Kindred, so enjoy the fresh air on a warm summer day or stay cozy indoors during the winter season!
Northside Social
Where? 205 Park Avenue
Northside Social is a neighborhood gathering place for all and offers patrons a wide array of bites and drinks, such as breakfast sandwiches, baked treats, coffee, and wine! Northside Social offers its coffee menu all day long, so swing by or stay awhile while you sip on iced coffee, masala chai, or espresso-based delights such as americanos, lattes, or a traditional macchiato. Try one of the specialty seasonal lattes, such as the rosemary orange or the peppermint mocha to treat yourself! Northside Social also has a mouthwatering bakery selection that features pastries baked fresh each and every day by the talented team of bakers onsite. The current lineup of treats includes muffins, scones, cookies, brownies, and even flourless chocolate cake with vanilla buttercream!
Where to Wine & Dine in Falls Church
Visiting local restaurants is a great way to experience all that a city or region has to offer. From Italian dishes, Southwestern bites, and Irish fare — Falls Church has a little bit of everything. Celebrate a special occasion with a glass of wine or enjoy happy hour at the pub with your friends!
Thompson Italian
Where? 124 North Washington Street
Share a bowl of pasta and great conversation with friends and family or celebrate that big promotion with a round of martinis! Thompson Italian offers aperitivo specials nightly until 6:00 PM at the bar. The dinner menu at the restaurant features saffron arancini, pappardelle, roasted chicken, and even gluten-free pasta options! Save room for dessert as well, as there’s a delicious assortment to choose from such as olive oil cake, rhubarb tiramisu, and a rotating selection of seasonal gelato flavors. Patrons can also delve into the extensive beverage menu, with wines by the glass and bottle, as well as beer, non-alcoholic options, and tasty cocktails.
Open Road
Where? 8100 Lee Highway
The menu at Open Road offers small plates such as nachos, bruschetta, fried calamari, wagyu meatball sliders, wings, and more. The restaurant also features a diverse selection of entrees like mouthwatering jambalaya, steak tacos, and BBQ pork ribs. Diners can also dig into sandwiches, pizzas, and fresh salads like the grilled salmon salad with mixed greens, marinated tomatoes, goat cheese, garlic brioche croutons, and more. The restaurant offers a weekday happy hour from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM in designated bar areas, with $2 off featured small plates and discounted drink options. Open Road hosts a trivia night on Tuesdays from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, as well as live music on occasion!
Sweetwater Tavern
Where? 3066 Gate House Plaza
Sweetwater Tavern offers handcrafted beer, as well as Southwestern eats in a welcoming, friendly space! The microbrewery provides outdoor patio seating, making it a prime destination on days when you want to sit back, relax, enjoy the breeze, and sip on award-winning brews! On tap year-round, you’ll always find Naked River Light, Great American Pale Ale, and Aces High IPA, alongside a rotating selection of seasonal and specialty brews. For the latest lineup, check out the website. Pair your pint with fan-favorite dinner dishes like the Crispy Fish Tacos, the Berkshire Pork Chop, and the Wood Grilled Chicken Breast—all of which can be found on the separate Gluten Sensitive menu.
Ireland’s Four Provinces
Where? 105 West Broad Street
Hailing as one of the area’s favorite Irish pub atmospheres, Ireland’s Four Provinces is a lively place to enjoy a meal and a cold beer in Falls Church City. The restaurant offers a Sunday brunch with Irish eggs Benedict, breakfast chili, chicken and waffles, and a classic American breakfast with eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries, and toast! Ireland’s Four Provinces only serves lunch Friday through Sunday. Dive into Irish specialties, such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, and an expertly poured Guinness while you catch up with friends and make new ones with the regulars!
Where to Indulge in a Sweet Treat in Falls Church
Satisfy your sweet tooth with freshly baked goods, hand-scooped ice cream, or gluten-free desserts! Falls Church offers an abundance of sugary goodness, including specialty pastries at Bakeshop and matcha-centric deliciousness at Kyo Matcha!
Bakeshop
Where? 100 East Fairfax Street
Bakeshop has a handful of locations across the DMV region, with the Falls Church location garnering a loyal local following since opening in 2019! When you’re craving something sweet, you’ll find just that and then some at this beloved bakery. Enjoy cupcakes, cookies, pies, macarons, and decadent treats like banana pudding, ice cream cookiewiches and flourless chocolate brownies! Whatever you’re in the mood for, Bakeshop has you covered. The menu features vegan options, as well as gluten-free treats. Buy five cupcakes and get one free or place an advance order for one of the shop’s renowned layer cakes for an upcoming celebration!
The Happy Tart
Where? 410 South Maple Avenue #110
The Happy Tart is a 100% gluten-free bakery and café where culinary artistry takes center stage. From handcrafted crêpes and savory focaccia to espresso drinks and exquisitely decorated pastries, every offering is thoughtfully made to delight gluten-free and gluten-loving guests alike. Standout treats include a blackberry lemon cupcake with lemon curd center, a creamy strawberry éclair, and a spiced carrot cake with smooth cream cheese frosting—all part of a menu that’s gluten-free by design and delightful in every detail.
Lil City Creamery
Where? 114 West Broad Street
Lil City Creamery is situated in the heart of Falls Church, making it a convenient destination for when that sweet craving strikes. Enjoy hand-scooped ice cream from Woodside Farm Creamery and Bassetts Ice Cream (America’s oldest brand)! Enjoy the fresh air outside under the covered canopy or grab a pint to take home! The shop also offers a unique display of retro toys, cartoons, comic book figures, and more. Splurge-worthy treats on the menu include root beer floats, ice cream sandwiches, brownie sundaes, and plenty of unique ice cream flavors to keep you coming back time and time again. Flavors run the gamut from blue raspberry cotton candy, butter pecan, chocolate thunder, coconut, and cookies and cream to no sugar added vanilla, salty caramel, and Steam Oil — which features rich coffee ice cream swirled with chocolate and green caramel.
Kyo Matcha
Where? 920 West Broad Street
Matcha lovers can’t miss indulging in a sweet treat at Kyo Matcha! From crepe layer cakes, cheese mousse cakes, roll cakes, and more — you can enjoy this delicious green tea in an assortment of goodies! Not a fan of the earthy flavor profile? Try other flavors such as peach oolong, chocolate, passion fruit, strawberry milk, and more. Kyo Matcha also offers matcha parfaits and ice cream cones. Can’t decide? Try a swirl! Make your creation your own by mixing and matching toppings, such as Oreo crumbs, sprinkles, rice mochi, brown sugar, and red beans. You can even get your matcha latte as a float!
Falls Church’s Parks & Green Spaces
Parks provide locals with sports and recreational opportunities, as well as family-friendly outings for parents with little ones in tow. Falls Church offers several parks and green spaces, equipped with playgrounds, picnic facilities, sports courts, trails, and more!
Cherry Hill Park
Where? 312 Park Avenue
Cherry Hill Park features a lit basketball court and two tennis courts, as well as picnic tables, grills, benches, and play equipment for the little ones. Described as the city park system’s “crown jewel,” the park welcomes residents and visitors alike to enjoy the amenities and take advantage of the central location to enjoy the fresh air. The park holds various special events and activities throughout the year, making it the most heavily trafficked park in Falls Church!
Roundtree Park
Where? 3320 Annandale Road
Roundtree Park amenities span from tennis courts, basketball courts, and a playground, to trail options for those looking to connect with nature! There are seasonal restrooms onsite during the busy season and two outdoor pickleball courts. The 73-acre park has a picnic pavilion, as well as parking spaces off of Annandale Road. The park was upgraded in 2020, with improvements such as repaved trails, resurfaced courts, and a new bridge!
Cavalier Trail Park
Where? 590 South Maple Avenue
If you’re looking to soak up the sunshine, Cavalier Trail Park offers a variety of amenities to do so. Enjoy the bike and hike trail or the basketball court! There are also pickleball courts available by reservation only. The park features tennis facilities, grilling equipment, picnic spots, and a playground. Spend your afternoon birdwatching or relaxing in the shade as you take in the sights and sounds of the natural landscape. Dogs are welcome, so bring Fido along for the fun!
Points of Interest in Falls Church
Falls Church was founded in 1734, meaning it has a rich and fascinating history to tell for those interested in learning more! Check out the story of the Cherry Hill Farmhouse Museum or grab tickets to a live show at the iconic State Theatre.
Cherry Hill Farmhouse
Where? 312 Park Avenue
The Cherry Hill Farmhouse is a house museum that provides important testimony about 19th century Victorian buildings. The farmhouse is part of the National Register of Historic Places and was originally erected in 1845 as a farmstead in Greek Revival architectural style. The Cherry Hill name refers to the fruit orchards that surround the property. The city purchased the house in 1956 and since this time, local history lovers have created the Friends of Cherry Hill to diligently restore the house and make the museum accessible to the public. The museum contains the household’s authentic 18th and 19th-century furniture, as well as other historical pieces that provide insight into the lifestyle of prosperous families that called Falls Church home.
State Theatre
Where? 220 North Washington Street
The State Theatre was originally constructed in 1936 and served as a popular movie theatre until the late 80s. The theatre closed its doors after a final showing of Die Hard and since reopening as a music venue, it has become one of the region’s most iconic spots to catch a live show. The theatre features full-service dining, as well as standing and dancing areas and two full-service bars. Hailing as the centerpiece of the Falls Church’s Historic District, history buffs and live music lovers alike won’t want to miss a visit to this unique venue.
Interested in Learning More About Virginia’s Falls Church? Let Us Help!
Falls Church combines urban convenience with all of the small-town appeal that many families are searching for. The city offers plenty of culinary options from upscale dining to casual family-friendly eateries, as well as coffee shops and cafes that are waiting to welcome you as a regular. If Falls Church is calling and you can’t wait to pick it up, our friendly, knowledgeable team of realtors at Realty Group would love to help you search for your dream home!