Restaurants in Alexandria will face off later this month to determine which eateries have the best cherry-oriented appetizers, entrees, drinks and desserts.
It’s all part of the “Cherry Challenge” culinary contest starting Sunday, Jan. 25, hosted in tandem with other festivities to commemorate George Washington’s birthday by the president’s Birthday Celebration Committee.
“As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday in 2026, it’s only fitting to start the year by honoring the man at the center of it all,” Julie Almacy, a spokesperson for event sponsor Mount Vernon, said in a release. “The Washington family loved cherries — so much that our archaeology team found some perfectly preserved from the 18th Century in glass bottles beneath Mount Vernon in 2024. We’re proud to support the Alexandria restaurant community in this delicious tribute.”
At least 19 restaurants across a range of cuisines are competing, from Don Taco and Jula’s on the Potomac to Buzz Bakeshop and Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub.
Diners will receive QR codes to vote for their favorite cherry dishes based on taste, presentation and creativity. Up to three “cherries” can be awarded per category, and participants are encouraged to share their taste tests online with #GWCherryChallenge or on the George Washington Birthday Celebration Facebook.
The contest will run from Jan. 25 through Sunday, Feb. 8.
“This unique event helps generate buzz for Alexandria restaurants, encourages chefs to get creative, and boosts customer traffic,” said Kristen Eastlick, GWBCC member and event chair.
A list of participating restaurants at the time of publication is available, below.
- A.Lounge+Bar at Hotel AKA Alexandria
- Augie’s Mussel House
- Bastille Brasserie & Bar
- Buzz Bakeshop
- Chadwicks
- Dishes of India
- Don Taco
- Elaine’s
- Frankie’s Kitchen & Cocktail Bar
- Jula’s on the Potomac
- Kiwi Kuisine Pie Shop
- Mason Social
- Murphy’s Grand Irish Pub
- Rocklands Barbeque & Grilling Company
- The Light Horse Restaurant and Bar
- The People’s Drug, Trademark
- Urbano 116
- Vaso’s Mediterranean Bistro on King
- Whiskey & Oyster
The George Washington Birthday Celebration will host a slate of events throughout February, including the president’s Birthday Parade on Feb. 14.
