This is such a cute little bistro. The service was excellent. Our server was very attentive. The food was delicious and memorable. Perfectly cooked and seasoned. The medium cooked lamb was amazing. The steaks were juicy and the cuts chosen with care. The salmon could have been a little more rare but the glaze was so perfect that it didn't even matter that much. We now have a place to get perfectly cooked food. The chef came to our table and gave us some samples which elevated our experience. We will definitely be back.
Went to 21 Great American Bistro for my friend's 50th birthday.
We were each served an individual Crab porcupine starter with a mushroom salad when we first sat down. It was delicious!
Forbour appetizers, we had the Grilled Beef Lollipops and the Grilled Cheese Bruschetta. My husband said he would like about 17 more of the beef lollipops and he would be in heaven!
The bruschetta was nice and refreshing & flavorful.
They had a garlic shrimp special but I am allergic to garlic so they made it with out the garlic for me and the birthday gal! It was delicious and the shrimp was cooked perfectly and it came with some wonderful ravioli and a rose cream sauce.
The men got a lamb shank and the Duroc pork chop.
They enjoyed their meals as well.
We finished off our meal with the chocolate cake for dessert and it was heavenly. They even put a candle in it for the birthday gal!
The service was wonderful and they really do a great job treating their customers right!
I highly recommend this restaurant and I can not wait to go again!
This review is long over-due, but it was such a memorable visit that I can remember every single detail. It's also a safe bet that I would have never known this place existed had it not been for a work dinner that was planned here. Found in the heart of Fairfax, this quaint restaurant is putting out Michelin-worthy food. We came in a group of 15, but the level of attention and hospitality made it seem as though the group was much smaller. Let's get into the food...
I ended up ordering one of the specials, which was a pan-seared Barramundi filet atop wilted baby spinach and roasted cauliflower puree, garnished with a herb tomato relish. This plate was artfully prepared and seasoned beautifully. The herb tomato relish add the perfect amount of acidity to lift the whole dish to next-level flavors. Of course, it wouldn't be a work dinner if we didn't indulge in some sweets. We ordered cannoli and chocolate cake for the table. I don't have an Italian grandmother, but if I did, I'm sure she would enjoy the cannoli that was drizzled with chocolate. The chocolate cake sitting in a perfectly balanced raspberry sauce was worth every guilty calorie.
Overall, the service and food rival the top-rated restaurants in DC or NY. Whether it's a casual night out with some friends, date night, or a celebratory event, this spot is great for every occasion. Bottom line - Family owned, quintessentially local, and exceptionally good.
Food was great, and dessert was beyond delicious! (Seriously, get the chocolate cake) Staff is friendly, wait time for service was minimal. Would definitely come here again
Quiet restaurant with delicious dishes, perfect for your next “special” date night. As soon as we sat down, we were greeted with a “gift from the chef”, a tasty surprise of pickled veggies and a mini fried brie ball! For a teaser, we ordered the “Crab Porcupine”: Blue Crab fritter, fresh sweet corn, bayou aioli. - unique and tasty! We also recommend the “Lamb Rack Provençale” for dinner and finish with a dessert, the Chocolate Nutella mousse torte. The desserts change often so you always have an opportunity for a sweet & tasty surprise!
Notable bourbon whiskey offered: 1792 single, Woodford reserve, Four roses small batch, Angel’s envy, Blanton’s, Bowman’s small batch
The prices are high for the small portion sizes, but the meals are delicious so come for special occasions and “bring your paycheck”!
We used 21 gab for our rehearsal dinner and it was delicious! Everyone enjoyed the food from the salad to dessert. They made us a special menu to fit our budget and dietary restrictions. They were good to work with and the service the day of was great.
My new favorite restaurant in the heart of Fairfax City. Plenty of free parking in the public garage, attentive wait staff, delicious food with a exciting flair for presentation. And don't forget the desserts. They are amazing. Highly recommend.
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