Eat Local: A La Lucia

A La Lucia is the perfect spot for a romantic Italian dinner or a casual lunch of brick oven pizza. The restaurant, located at 315 Madison Street in Old Town Alexandria, has been open for seven years and is a popular spot for locals to catch up. Inside you'll find two dining rooms, a bar, and a private room that seats up to 40 people. The walls are decorated in bright, cheerful shades with eclectic paintings along the walls. There are a variety of seating options available-from booths to cocktail tables.  

Drinks: The wine list boasts an impressive 150 bottles and 12 wines by the glass. Be sure to take advantage of the wine deal - 25% off any bottle of wine when you dine in, offered during dinner hours Sunday, Monday and Tuesday and for lunch Monday-Friday. They also offer a list of unique signature cocktails, such as the Italian Sunrise or the Neopolitan. Prices for cocktails range from $8.50 to $9.50. 

Lunch: Offered from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Lunch options include soups and salads, a variety of paninis and sandwiches, pasta, and brick oven pizzas. There is a three-course lunch menu offered for $19.95 per person, which includes your choice of appetizer, entree and a drink (wine or beer option) or dessert. On average, an a la carte lunch will cost you $8 to $13. 

Dinner: Hours are 5 p.m. to  9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Start with meatballs with polenta for $7.50 or mussels in a spicy white sauce for $9.95 as an appetizer. The entree menu consists of a variety of pasta options, fish, and meat dishes. One of the most popular dishes is rigatoni with spicy sausage, peppers and tomato sauce for $13.95. In addition to the regular menu, expect to find about 20 daily specials, such as poached artichokes, homemade manicotti or grilled rib rack of veal. A three-course dinner menu is also an option-your choice of appetizer, entree and dessert for $31.95 per person. 

The restaurant accepts reservations up to 14 days in advance for dinner. Phone: 703-836-5123.