Never underestimate the power of the post-brunch walk, especially if it’s along the Virginia side of the Potomac River on a sunny spring day. Stroll through Alexandria’s manicured waterfront parks or soak up the scenery on one of the many benches along the way. If the sky opens up, duck inside the Torpedo Factory, the former weapons forge turned waterfront art gallery and shop, to peruse its many studios and perhaps pick up an additional gift for Mom.
It should come as no surprise that the Alexandria Waterfront is known for its seafood, and Hank’s Oyster Bar — now in a new building — is a favorite, especially for its buttery local oysters on the half shell. In addition to its raw bar, brunch includes build-your-own bloody marys, fresh vegetable frittatas, and good old-fashioned biscuits and gravy, plus small plates like Eastern Shore crab dip and clam chowder with bacon. 818 N. Asaph St., Alexandria. 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. $13-$22, though raw bar prices may be higher. To make a reservation: Visit its Resy page.
Augie’s Mussel House and Beer Garden, a cozy red brick building on King Street with its own heated patio, will greet you with its terra cotta exterior and warm you with its mix of earthbound and seafood dishes: Choose between the chicken and waffles or its jalapeño popper grilled cheese, or perhaps you’d prefer its spicy n’duja prawn linguine or scallops with risotto; for the kids, it serves favorites like chicken tenders and hot dogs for $9 each. As its name suggests, its signatures are its shellfish and draft beer collection. The latter varies based on the floor of the restaurant you’re seated on, and it also offers mixed drinks and wines for between $13 and $15 a glass. 1106 King St., Alexandria. 11 a.m. to midnight. $9-$32. To make a reservation: Visit its website or OpenTable.
Trek toward the Potomac River and you’ll find a restaurant with a wooden and brick facade emblazoned with golden lettering: Daniel O’Connell’s pub and restaurant is equally earthy and old-fashioned once you step through the doors. Its Irish and American dishes, including the traditional Irish breakfast of sausage, bacon, white pudding, mushrooms, potatoes and beans on toast, are built to be the ultimate comfort food, relaxing to everyone at the table — though hopefully Mom especially. O’Connell’s offers patio seating on a pedestrianized stretch of King Street. 112 King St., Alexandria. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. $16-$24. To make a reservation: Visit its website.
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