If you’ve never tried Water Bar in Crystal City, you’re in for a real treat. I recently stumbled across this Arlington gem after watching a movie at the nearby Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. First impressions? It’s a real oasis in the city.
Water Bar is operated by Atlanta-based hospitality group, STHRN and sits in the 1.6-acre outdoor food hall and park in Crystal City.
There are a number of eateries there, including Tiki Thai and Falafel Inc., among many others.
Water Bar serves a variety of seafood – from crispy calamari, shrimp po’boys and a variety of oysters to fish dishes. There’s also a burger on the menu in case you’re not a seafood lover.
They have a few signature cocktails and mocktails for those who want a sexy drink minus the alcohol.
Those looking for a light snack can nosh on the restaurants’s chunky guacamole, crispy wings, white bean hummus or salads.
The restaurant also has a few featured cocktails, including the Mezcal Margarita and Aperol Spritz and a few draft beers and wines.
The ambience
Let’s talk about how stunning this restaurant is. Firstly, it sits perched atop a hill giving excellent views of Crystal City.
As you walk up to the restaurant, you will immediately hear the refreshing sounds of their man-made water sculpture that look like a miniature waterfall.
I have to say, it reminds me so much of the waterfall structure at Baha Mar Resort in Nassau, Bahamas, but just way smaller. If you’ve been there, you know what I’m talking about.
The is also a nearby gazebo-like structure that is designed for live performances. The restaurant itself is well laid out with large blue umbrellas over some tables. It honestly felt like I was on a tropical island, far away from Virginia.
There was a combination of low and high tables and I saw a variety of customers there from families with small children to couples, to girlfriends who were out getting drinks.
Ok, but how was the food and service?
So, my friend and I just wanted something light because we had been snacking in the theatre, so I ordered the calamari and she had the chunky guacamole.
The guacamole was delicious. It wasn’t the best I’ve had, but it was tasty. It came with a little sauce that we are still trying to figure out what it was. It was kinda gross.
I happen to be a calamari snob and unfortunately, while the plate was gorgeous, it just wasn’t pleasing. It tasted unseasoned. So, I barely touched it. Luckily, my server noticed my full plate when he came to clear the dishes and removed the item from my bill, which was lovely.
In fact, the entire staff at the restaurant who attended to us was fabulous. Everyone was kind and attentive and they seemed to enjoy showing us a good time.
I really enjoyed my Strawberry Sunset Mule mocktail. My friend had a cocktail, it was beautiful, sadly, I don’t remember the name of it, neither does she.
What I wish I knew about Water Bar
So, because this was my first time at Water Bar, I didn’t know what to expect. Now, that I’ve been there, the first thing I want to let you know is not to expect a Cheesecake Factory-type menu.
The menu is light. So, if seafood isn’t your thing, the pickings will be slim.
Second of all, it can be very hot. It is an outdoor bar, and while they did their best to offer some respite with fans at every table, it was still a scorcher. I think this place would be fantastic for early fall. I do wonder what they plan to do in the winter.
I definitely plan to return soon.
