Northern Virginia isn’t really known for its creativity or entrepreneurship. To be honest, the place isn’t even known for its food. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t lots of great ideas birthed here in the restaurant industry. So besides the great local restaurants, here are the chains that started right here in the area. For some of them, you can even see where it all began - at the original first store.

Five Guys
Arlington

Five Guys is the most famous chain restaurant started in this area. Unfortunately, the original Five Guys started in a strip mall on S. Glebe Road that has now been demolished for redevelopment, but never forget that those peanut oil fries started right here in Arlington.

Elevation Burger
Falls Church

The location at 442 S Washington St in Washington Market was the first of the line for this casual eatery offering premium organic burgers, fresh-cut fries, and shakes. The chain has done well to ur commitment to sourcing the highest quality ingredients, inclusive of 100% grass-fed, organic beef patties, fries cooked in heart-healthy olive oil, and cage-free chicken. Ingredients Matter.

Hard Times Cafe
Alexandria

In 1980, founders Jim and Fred Parker brought their award-winning chili to the world by opening the very first Hard Times Cafe ever to 1404 King Street in Old Town Alexandria. There are currently five locations in Virginia and Maryland. In 2005, USA Today named Hard Times Cafe as one of the 10 best places in the country for a bowl of chili.

Weenie Beenie
Arlington

Established in 1954, Weenie Beenie expanded to six locations before shrinking back to just its original in Shirlington. But I don’t understand why this idea didn’t keep going - who doesn’t love all-day breakfast? Also, who wouldn’t want to dine at a place with its own Foo Fighters song?

Conclusion - Chain Restaurants that Started and Still Exist in Northern Virginia

Good things start in Northern Virginia!