The latest addition to the culinary scene in Del Ray, Virginia is Matt & Tony’s, renowned for its creative takes on fried chicken. Guests can enjoy this popular dish in several enticing styles: stacked high with crispy sidewinder fries, nestled in fresh bibb lettuce, sandwiched in soft milk bread-like buns accompanied by slaw, or as an extravagant option garnished with five ounces of caviar for the price of $16 per bite.
At the newly launched Little Birdie, run by chef Eric Brannon, diners will find a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes, featuring everything from cold noodle salad to whole grilled trout. The restaurant’s design incorporates wooden tables, ivory walls, and hanging plants, along with charming blue cottage chairs outdoors, which together create a relaxed, rustic atmosphere. However, the skillfully crafted cocktails and the delightful tuna tartare served on crispy rice serve as a testament to the expertise of seasoned hospitality professionals behind this fresh establishment.
In addition to a carefully curated selection of beer and wine, the cocktail menu ($14 each) and thoughtfully created non-alcoholic mocktails ($10 each) truly reflect the flair of beverage director Michael Riojas. One standout is the Red Hen, a favorite among patrons, which provides the initial taste of a refreshing margarita, complemented by a subtle bitterness from Aperol. Equally appealing, the nonalcoholic offerings include spiced teas that enhance the flavor of the pear-infused, milky green Partridge, and the invigorating strawberry and rosemary Cardinal.
The lively atmosphere of this Alexandria neighborhood is palpable within the restaurant. On my recent visit, I observed a group of middle-aged friends sharing laughs over their meals, a young family thoroughly enjoying their chicken tenders on the patio, and a couple at the bar savoring drinks during their date night. There are numerous seating options to enjoy the ambiance, but I found sitting at the sleek wooden countertop particularly engaging, as it allowed me to watch the chefs deftly assemble sandwiches while soaking in the delightful chatter of fellow diners.
One unexpected highlight on the menu was the pickle flight included with the chicken tender tower or sesame chicken satay. This delightful assortment features small bowls filled with classic slaw that includes thinly sliced cucumber, lightly pickled carrots and daikon, smashed cucumbers paired with crunchy watermelon rinds, and fresh kimchi flavored with bits of japchae. These pickles offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, fried chicken dishes they accompany.
