The Wharf

Welcome to The Wharf, your premier dining destination for authentic seafood in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Our historic restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood and providing exceptional dining experiences for over two centuries. Our building, which dates back to the 1790s, is steeped in history and has been lovingly restored to maintain its original charm while offering modern amenities.

At The Wharf, we are dedicated to preserving the character of this 200-year-old building while providing an exceptional dining experience for our patrons. Our restaurant is owned and operated by individuals who are passionate about maintaining the historical roots of Old Town Alexandria and sharing this heritage with our guests.

Our Seafood Specialties

We are dedicated to providing you with the finest seafood and service available. We invite you to revel in the aromas, textures, and taste sensations in every lunch, brunch, dinner, and special event. We strive to use the freshest possible ingredients, locally-sourced seafood and produce, throughout our recipes.

Some of our Wharf favorites include Surf and Turf, Oysters on the Half Shell, and our signature Lobster Roll. For dinner, our Filet Mignon with tarragon compound butter, served with mashed potato and seasonal vegetable, is a crowd-pleaser. Our local VA oysters, shucked in-house and served with lemon and homemade cocktail sauce, are always a hit to share with friends. For lunch, our Classic, New England-style made-to-order Lobster Roll on a butter-toasted roll is a popular choice.

The Wharf Events

Consider hosting your next event at The Wharf. Learn more about our options and private dining. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, or family gathering, our dedicated event team will work with you to create an unforgettable experience. Our restaurant offers a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, making it the perfect venue for any occasion.

Hours of Operation

Join us for a delicious meal or special event during the following hours:

• Monday - Thursday: 12:00 pm - 9:30 pm
• Friday: 12:00 pm - 10:30 pm
• Saturday: 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
• Sunday: 11:00 am - 9:30 pm
• Brunch: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm

History Behind Our Building

The Wharf building has a rich history dating back to the 1790s. In May 1749, the Royal Governor of Virginia signed a bill to create a new town along the Potomac River on 60 acres of land owned by John Alexander. Fairfax County surveyor John West Jr., assisted by a seventeen-year-old apprentice George Washington, laid out the streets and lots for the new town of Alexandria. The original lots were purchased by many historic notables, including Lawrence and Augustine Washington, John Carlyle, William Ramsey, George Mason, Colonel William Fairfax, and George William Fairfax.

By the late 18th century, Alexandria had developed into an important seaport. Its economy revolved around exporting the crops of the land (first tobacco, then wheat) and selling the vast diversity of goods that came into the port of great merchant vessels. By 1795, the value to Alexandria's exports was $948,000 and the port was the seventh-largest in the new nation.

In 1785, the Virginia legislature appointed Colonel George Gilpin to resurvey the town and to grade and pave the streets. In regarding the streets, Gilpin cut down the steep bank that existed along Fairfax Street and used the excavated land on which the Wharf building and other warehouses along lower King Street were constructed.

Join Us Today!

We invite you to experience the charm and history of The Wharf Restaurant for yourself. Come enjoy fresh seafood in our cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere, and let us help you create lasting memories with your friends and family. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit our website or call us today.