Recently, my husband, daughter and I visited Burton’s Grill and Bar that recently opened in the southern end of Alexandria. I had heard great things about Burton’s from friends who know it from its other locations so was anxious to try it out.
Burton’s is located in the relatively new Hilltop Village Center, at the intersection of Telegraph Road and Beulah Street. If you have not been to this area, be sure to check it out. Not only is it home to my new favorite grocery store, Wegmans, but many great shops and restaurants such as Peet’s Coffee, Sola Salons, The Green Turtle, LA Fitness, and more.
Although Burton’s is in a shopping center, as soon as you enter, you are transported to a chic urban scene. The decor is modern, slick, and very airy with high ceilings. Burton’s features a generous bar area (with two large TVs showing sports, which made my husband happy) plus plentiful seating including tables and booths. Outdoor seating is also available, including an area anchored by an inviting firepit. We chose to sit inside on the blazing hot day.
Before we were even seated, our hostess asked if we had any gluten or other food sensitivities, as Burton’s offers special menus and accommodations as needed. We had noticed in advance that they have a vegetarian menu as well, which my newly minted vegetarian daughter appreciated.
We started with drinks: a lovely, crisp Ponga Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand for me and iced teas for my dining companions. In addition to nice plentiful beer and wine options, Burton’s features quite the cocktail menu, categorized by shaken, stirred, muddled, crushed, etc.
Our appetizer arrived quickly – arancini, or Italian rice balls, made with spinach, goat and provolone cheeses, and pesto, served with a tomato cream sauce. It was truly divine; I could have eaten the whole plate of warm cheesy goodness!
Our entrees were equally delicious. My husband devoured his steak sandwich with caramelized red onions. My daughter was thrilled with her black bean burger, served with guacamole and a tomato jalapeño relish. Both of them raved about their accompanying fries. I loved my fresh and light Mediterranean salad of cucumbers, grape tomatoes, peppers, red onions, and feta, topped with grilled chicken.
I was stuffed but my fellow diners saved room for dessert. They shared a serving of key lime pie (the single serving was more than enough for two people), which received rave reviews. The cool treat was the perfect end to a great summer dinner.
We will be back to Burton’s for sure!
I hope to try one of their many happy hour specials or return on a “Military Monday” to enjoy a 20% discount. I think Burton’s will be a very welcome addition to south Alexandria. Let us know what you think by commenting below!
