I worked in Leesburg for two years and in that time got to eat at quite a few restaurants there. Along with descriptions of my favorites, here are some tips about parking. While it’s nowhere near as bad as DC, parking in downtown Leesburg can be maddening depending on the time of day. The town is vigilant about its meters, too, so don’t neglect them.

When you want to impress someone

Bacchus Cafe
9E Catoctin Circle SW
Don’t be fooled by its location in a little strip mall, Bacchus Cafe is a quiet oasis that serves Italian and Mediterranean fare. I’ve only sampled their Mediterranean meals and have been pleased with all of them. Ample parking in the lot.

The Dock at Lansdowne
19286 Promenade Drive
While The Dock does offer turf (Hickory Smoked Filet Mignon, Chipotle Glazed Pork Chops) on the menu, surf is clearly the star, with Macadami Mahi Mahi and Potato Crusted Alaskan Halibut as my favorites. Menus online. Limited parking in front; extensive parking in the back of the center.

Eiffel Tower Cafe
107 Loudoun St. SW
Authentic French cuisine tucked into a charming little house in downtown Leesburg. Read their glowing reviews online from area publications, including the Washington Post. Menus and reservations also online. Park in the downtown garage (free for the first hour, 50 cents each hour for the next four hours) or on the street (meters).

Lightfoot Restaurant
11 North King St.
Elegant dining in a restored bank from the turn of the century, The People’s National Bank of Leesburg. And here’s a cool service: Instead of gift certificates, they offer gold Gift Coins in increments of $25, and they come with a little pouch as well. Available for order online. Menus and reservations also online. Park in the downtown garage or on the street.

Silk Road
19385 Promenade Drive
When you want more exotic fare or have a visiting gourmand to feed, you can’t go wrong with this upscale Afghan restaurant at the far end of Lansdowne Town Center as you enter Promenade Drive. If you haven’t tried the cuisine before, the lunch buffet (Tuesday through Friday, $9.99) is a great introduction. Online menu does not include prices.

Tuscarora Mill
203 Harrison St.
Known locally as “Tuskies,” this sophisticated restaurant located in a restored grain mill at Market Station brings Big City dining to the county seat. Gift certificates, menus and reservations available online. Parking is tight in front of the restaurant; drivers of larger vehicles should opt for the adjoining parking lot.

Vintage 50
50 Catoctin Circle NE
Two venues in one, Vintage 50’s lounge area screams hip compared to the more understated dining area. They especially pride themselves on their spirits: in addition to an extensive wine and spirits menu, they brew their own beer on site. While not as extensive, the menu reflects the chef’s creative streak. One child’s meal free with every adult entree at dinnertime, although I’d save this place for child-free dining. Menus and reservations online. Ample parking in the lot.

Zeffirelli Ristoranti Italiano
5 Catoctin Circle SW
Fine Italian restaurant that calls its Veal Chop the best in the region; never had it, but everything else I’ve ordered on the menu has been made with fresh ingredients and a fine eye for presentation. Menus online. Parking on the left side of the restaurant.

When you want to dine where the locals do

Blue Ridge Grill
955 Edwards Ferry Road
Their menu goes on forever, with interesting standouts such as Steak & Cheese Eggrolls nestled among classic American fare. They have lots of seating, but it’s really popular and you may find it a bit cramped in the booths. 

Giovanni’s New York Pizza
520 East Market Street
703-777-8440
When you see law enforcement types eating at a place, you know it’s got to be good, and this family-friendly restaurant is packed with ‘em. My friends, lifelong Loudouners, can vouch for the rest of the menu because every time I go I only order the Chicken Florentine with gnocchi as the pasta. It’s heart-stoppingly good. Probably literally.

Leesburg Restaurant
9 South King Street
703-777-3292
Classic comfort food in a classic diner setting, complete with counter seating. Don’t leave without getting a chocolate malt milk shake, either with lunch or as dessert. Great if you have the kids with you.

For more information about restaurants in Leesburg, visit the Loudoun Convention and Visitors Association.