Best Historic Restaurants in South Riding

A Night to Remember at Zeffirelli Ristorante Italiano From the moment the breadbasket arrived, brimming with an assortment of warm, crusty loaves and creamy butter, it was clear that Zeffirelli Ristorante Italiano understands the art of a proper welcome. Though fresh-squeezed lemonade wasn’t on the menu, they didn’t hesitate to make it happen—an early sign of the exceptional service to come. And let me tell you, it was refreshingly perfect. The Feast Lasagna de La Casa – Delicate layers of house-made pasta enveloping two rich cheeses, ground veal, and a light tomato sauce. Every bite was a masterclass in balance—comforting yet refined. Petto di Pollo Marsala – A beautifully sautéed chicken breast paired with shiitake and portobello mushrooms, all bathed in a velvety Marsala wine sauce. Earthy, deep, and utterly satisfying. And then, the grand finale: House-made Tiramisu. Light, creamy, and perfectly soaked—this wasn’t just dessert; it was an experience. Possibly the best tiramisu to ever grace my spoon. Naturally, no meal is complete without a cappuccino, and mine was as rich and foamy as I’d hoped. Service & Atmosphere As impeccable as the food was, our evening truly shined thanks to our server—affectionately dubbed “Elizabeth Taylor.” With her effortless charm, sharp humor, and flawless recommendations, she elevated our night from simply enjoyable to truly memorable. The setting only added to the experience. Housed in a historic building dating back over a century, Zeffirelli has been a staple of Herndon’s dining scene since 1991. The interior exudes timeless elegance, from its leafy green carpet to its classic, intimate ambiance. Final Thoughts Zeffirelli isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a culinary institution where both food and hospitality take center stage. If you appreciate masterfully executed Italian cuisine in a warm, historic setting, this is a must-visit. And if you’re lucky, you just might find yourself in the capable hands of Elizabeth Taylor

Clyde's at Willow Creek remains one of the top destinations for brunch in Loudoun county and surrounding area. Every plate was carefully made so that every constituent of the meal was the best it could be. The biscuits were a great beginning delivering a sweet taste to start followed by the quiche where not only the eggs were cooked to perfection, but the crust delivered its own unique and complimentary taste. The salad that comes with the quiche was undeniably crisp and fresh complemented by a good vinaigrette. Tye service was also on point.

The Russia House owners are running La Bonne Vie. All of the things you loved about Russia House remains with La Bonne Vie. The food, atmosphere and service are all there. If you haven't been, come back!