This summer, Arlington, Virginia, is brimming with exciting new dining destinations. A standout addition is the American brasserie, Noble Fox Bar & Terrace, which officially opened its doors on Monday, July 27, situated on the fourth floor of the rejuvenated Le Méridien hotel located at 1121 19th Street N., Arlington, Virginia.
Under the guidance of Executive Chef Francecil Ponte, the menu showcases a variety of dishes, including steak frites, blackened shrimp tacos, flatbreads, club sandwiches, chopped salads, and a signature burger that she takes particular pride in. The Noble Fox offers a charming terrace that provides stunning views of Georgetown, the National Cathedral, and the flight paths of passing aircraft, all nestled within a recent comprehensive renovation of the hotel, which originally opened in 2012.
The landscape of Arlington has evolved significantly since the hotel’s opening, particularly within the last few months. “There’s a vibrant community of young people around us. Our location makes it easy to access D.C. or Alexandria quickly,” Ponte shared with Eater.
Notable newcomers to the Arlington dining scene include the Latin-themed supper club Cielo and the sophisticated American eatery Boulevard, complete with a rooftop bar located in Clarendon. Additionally, the Ballston area has welcomed D.C.-origin bistro the Angie. Well-known D.C. establishments like Duke’s and Pizzeria Paradiso have recently introduced outdoor stalls at National Landing, accompanied by a brand new cafe, wine bar, and listening lounge just across the street. Fast-growing brands such as the ice cream shop Van Leeuwen and bagel shop Call Your Mother have also expanded their presence in the area. Clarendon is set to welcome a major addition in August with the debut location of Xi’an Famous Foods, a beloved Chinese chain famous for its hand-pulled noodles and a memorable visit from Anthony Bourdain.
At Noble Fox, guests can enjoy a beautifully curved marble bar, adorned with a brass chandelier, along with plush lounge seating featuring velvet and floral upholstery. The cocktail menu includes creatively named drinks like the Fuego del Zorro, a spicy mango margarita, and the Le Renard Spritz.
Ponte began her culinary journey at the young age of 15, gaining experience in various restaurants, country clubs, and hotels across Southern California before moving to the D.C. area in 2018. Here, she has worked at notable establishments such as Marriott Wardman Park, Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, and the restaurant at Westin Arlington Gateway, known as the Commentary.
Her passion for cooking was largely inspired by her Venezuelan grandmother, who is now 85 years old and continues to share her culinary knowledge, including details about her elaborate four-course meals prepared for Ponte’s 95-year-old grandfather in Caracas.
Noble Fox offers all-day dining in the hotel setting, which also brings some enticing deal options. A happy hour is available on weekdays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring $6 beers and $8 wines. Dinner entrees are mostly priced in the mid-$20s range, ensuring a variety of affordable dining options.
Breakfast options include decadent French toast made with croissants and overnight chia coconut oats, and the breakfast service begins at 6:30 a.m. during the week and 7 a.m. on weekends. Dinner is served from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., with plans to introduce brunch service soon, taking advantage of the incredible views.
