Pat Troy's Restaurant & Pub, Alexandria

What a gem. I and a friend stumbled on this restaurant by accident while taking part in a Volksmarch walk through Alexandria. We both ordered Reubens which arrived with the dressing on the side - no dripping dressing or soggy bread. I don't know why I never thought to request Reubens that way, but I certainly will from now on. We ate while listening to harp music and then the start of the Redskins game. I will go out of the way to find this restaurant again.

Awesome atmosphere, great food, live music, and the owner is a real people person. My wife and kids had gone to my in-laws for Thanksgiving and work load prevented me from leaving, so one night I decided to get a Rueben. New to the area I stumbled upon the pub. Inside has memorabilia from all the Armed Services as well as Reagan's Corner (apparently the former President had eaten there during his presidency), very dark yet warm like a good pub should be. I was seated by myslef in an area of the dining room that was away from everyone else. I sorta felt ostricized, but the wait staff was friendly and chatted with me for a few minutes. Right before my food came out, an older gentleman came out of the kitchen area. As he walked by he smiled and said hello. But right after he passed me he stopped and turned around, pulled out the chair across from me and sat down. He asked (in the very unmistakable Irish accent) if I was alone, and told me if there was anything I needed to make sure I let him know. As my Rueben came out he got up and said I made a good choice. No I didn't...I made a great choice! I've gone back several times on my own and with my family and everytime have enjoyed it. This Alexandria mainstay is a must visit whenever you're in town or looking for some good Irish food, music, and company!

I love Irish pubs, and this one fits the bill. It's dark and feels like a big cave, albeit one with tons of photos of Ronald Reagan and the owner. You know, I don't remembe the food, just the atmosphere!