why we heart old town
Rentlingo recently named Old Town, Alexandria the 7th most charming small city in the U.S. Reading their rationale, we felt a little burst of pride at the place we’ve called home for so long: collectively, The Patterson Group’s six members have lived in Alexandria for over 200 years!
When we reflected on why we find Old Town so charming, we identified certain common features that make us so fond of the area. Among them are Old Town’s medley of local businesses and ubiquitous staples and its array of options for outdoor activities (can you tell we’re ready for nice weather?). Food, of course, plays a huge role in our attachment, too. Below, we’ve shared our favorite activities, restaurants, and places to stop for coffee in this super charming small city and its surrounding neighborhoods.
What’s your favorite restaurant/place to grab a bite to eat?
Joanne: Faccia Luna.
Maria: Columbia Firehouse or Landini’s.
Tracy: Fontaine with friends or Red Rocks with the family. Also, Southside 815, because our neighbors own it and it is consistently cozy and delicious.
Susie: Tie between Virtue Feed & Grain, Society Fair, and Taverna Cretekou.
Brittany: Sonoma Cellar. I also love the bourbon slushies at Front Porch in Del Ray—looking forward to sitting outside when the weather’s warm!
Phyllis: I like Cedar Knoll, overlooking the Potomac and GW Parkway. I am also now obsessed with Occasionally Cake, who won Food Network’s “Cake Wars” in last month!
Where do you like to stop for coffee?
Maria: Firehook—right by our office.
Susie: Killer ESP or Sugar Shack (not a coincidence that these places also offer gelato and donuts).
Joanne: Misha’s. So good and such friendly service.
Brittany: Stomping Ground in Del Ray.
Tracy: Starbucks on the corner of St. Asaph and King so I can wander through the stores with a warm cup of coffee in hand!
What is your favorite local activity?
Brittany: Walking my dog along the river.
Phyllis: Exploring new local spots and shopping at local stores with friends, family, and neighbors.
Tracy: Coming to work…I mean it! I love the Patterson team and love working in real estate.
Maria: Running along the river.
Susie: Grabbing food or drinks close to the water with friends. Pretending I’m a foodie/restaurant critic.
Joanne: Hands down, running along the river.
The Patterson Group street view from Google; all other photos by Lindsey Welsh.
- About the team
The Patterson Group is one of the most experienced and trusted real estate teams in the area, serving Alexandria, VA for over thirty years. We offer professional, hardworking, detailed and friendly service and a large network of contacts and resources accrued over our many years in Alexandria real estate. Comprised of seven Alexandria locals, six of whom are licensed realtors and three of whom are accredited staging professionals, The Patterson Group is passionate and knowledgeable about Alexandria, VA and here for all of your Northern VA real estate needs. Allow us to help you find your home here and discover all that the Alexandria lifestyle has to offer.
400 South Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.310.6201
