The Columbia Pike corridor in South Arlington is one of the most diverse areas in the region. Often referred to as “the world in a zip code,” the area is home to residents that speak more than 100 languages. It is also home to numerous small, locally-owned restaurants. This winning combination creates the ultimate international foodie destination for those of us who desperately miss traveling during the pandemic.

And, luckily for us, the restaurant community here has not seen mass closures that several other areas have succumbed to. While they are all still dealing with capacity restrictions and other COVID-19 regulations, the Columbia Pike community has banded together and worked hard to help these local gems survive and preserve the corridor’s identity and diversity.

Many of the restaurants have also been able to implement TOSAs, Arlington’s Temporary Outdoor Seating Areas, that allow you to dine safely outdoors at those restaurants that previously did not have patios.

Here are the top spots to visit along the 3.5 mile stretch of Columbia Pike in Arlington County for a whirlwind culinary experience of over a dozen countries across six regions…no passports required!

AFRICA

  • Other African Cuisine: Ethio Cafe, Idido’s Coffee & Social House

ASIA

Rincome Thai
Photo courtesy of Rincome Thai
  • Top’s China (China)
    Location: 2520 Columbia Pike, (703) 486-8277
    Outdoor Seating: NO
  • Boru Ramen (Japan)
    Location: 2915 Columbia Pike, (703) 521-2811
    Outdoor Seating: NO
  • Rincome Thai Cuisine (Thailand)
    Location: 3030 Columbia Pike, (703) 979-0144
    Outdoor Seating: NO
  • Other Asian Restaurants: Andy’s Carry Out, Bangkok 54 Restaurant, Ginger Beef, Good Fortune Chinese Restaurant, Mrs. Chen’s Kitchen, Panda Bowl Restaurant, Takohachi Japanese Restaurant, Thai Square

CENTRAL AMERICA

Los Chamacos
Photo courtesy of Los Chamacos
  • Los Chamacos (Mexico)
    Location: 922 S Walter Reed Dr, (571) 257-5894
    Outdoor Seating: NO
  • Sofía’s Pupusería (El Salvador)
    Location: 3610 Columbia Pike, (571) 483-0487
    Outdoor Seating: YES
  • Other Central American Restaurants: Abi Azteca Grill & Bar, Atlacatl Restaurant, Burrito Bros, Restaurante El Salvador, Taqueria el Poblano, Tortas Y Tacos La Chiquita

EUROPE

Pupatella
Photo courtesy of Pupatella
  • Pupatella (Italy)
    1621 S Walter Reed Dr., (703) 647-9076
    Outdoor Seating: YES

SOUTH AMERICA

Photo courtesy of Café Sazón
  • Pike Restaurant (Bolivia)
    Location: 4111 Columbia Pike, (703) 521-3010
    Outdoor Seating: YES
  • Café Sazón (Multiple – Colombia, Perú)
    Location: 4704 Columbia Pike, (703) 566-1686
    Outdoor Seating: YES
  • The Café by La Cocina VA (Multiple – Perú, Argentina, Americana)
    Location: 918 S. Lincoln St., (703) 596-1557
    Outdoor Seating: NO

MIDDLE EASTERN

Not looking to travel that far? Check out our top picks for local Americana fare.

Rebellion
Photo courtesy of Rebellion on the Pike
  • Lost Dog Cafe
    Location: 2920 Columbia Pike, (703) 553-7770
    Outdoor Seating: NO