Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
It’s September in Alexandria, which means pumpkin spice lattes, cooler temps, and football at Joe Theismann’s restaurant!
General Manager Matt Pigott joins us this week to discuss this long-time Alexandria staple. With multiple football games on at all times, visitors will surely find another table rooting for their favorite team — maybe even a full section! The lively atmosphere includes an array of draft beers. Their newest addition, “Bye Dan,” seems to be their most popular pour these days!
With the renewed energy around football in Washington, put this upscale neighborhood pub on your shortlist for fun, and be sure to get there early on game days!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Warm hospitality, urban beach food, and the ONLY place you can order the freak’n Catalina wine mixer!
We were lucky enough to be joined by Corporate Chef Terri Cutrino, who supervises all three of Hank’s Washington, D.C., and Virginia spots. However, the Alexandria venue is the only location with a fantastic three-season rooftop bar. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of North Alexandria while dining on delicious and creative options. And if you want a burger? They’ve got you covered!
Nobody gets left out of this menu!
If you’re craving a little “sea-in-the-city,” drop into Hank’s Oyster Bar located at the corner of Montgomery and N. St. Asaph Street.
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
A big part of building a life you love in Alexandria is finding the right home, but it’s also about having favorite faces and places. Just as your home is a place to relax and refuel, your favorite places are too. They’re like a haven.
The Haven is this week’s feature, and we couldn’t be happier to highlight this quintessential classic neighborhood gem.
The Haven is located in Belle Haven and used to be Pat’s Market (throwback for those of you who’ve been here as long as I have — lol!) The owners have done a magnificent renovation and turned the space into an inviting restaurant. Charming indoor and outdoor spaces provide ample space to enjoy tasty and terrific menu options.
As if The Haven wasn’t enough, you must step next door and visit The Custard Shack. It’s the perfect summertime treat and a sister shop to The Haven.
This terrific duo is one part Brady Bunch and one part Cheers. Warm, wholesome, and something for everyone!
Just don’t take my spot at the fire pit!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Ada Lovelace is widely recognized as writing the first computer program and is regarded as the most famous mathematician of the 19th century. Her ingenuity was an inspiration point for Ada’s On The River, one of Alexandria’s best waterfront restaurants.
Don’t worry. You don’t have to complete a math equation to get a reservation. Even if you failed algebra, Ada’s will treat you like royalty.
Dave Nicholas, the co-founder of Alexandria Restaurant Group, joins us this week to give us a glimpse into what it took to bring Ada’s On The River to Alexandria and why it’s one of Alexandria’s best places to dine.
Whether you’re looking for patio, indoor, or private dining, Ada’s will give you an elevated dining experience.
Save me a seat because I’ll see you there!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
I haven’t seen a unicycle yet. However, given the amount of pedal power in our town, it wouldn’t surprise me!
Whether you’re rolling on a regular bike or an e-bike, you can experience the best of Alexandria with a little pedal power.
Locals know how popular the bike-share has gotten for short rides, but did you know our city is the halfway point of The East Coast Greenway? It’s the longest protected walking and biking corridor in the United States, running from Maine to Florida! Some start the Greenway and find Alexandria so charming, they stay!
Alexandria also marks the halfway point on the Mount Vernon Trail, the 18-mile path between Washington, D.C., and George Washington’s famed estate. Those of you who use it to commute in and around the city know what a great ride it is!
Don’t get left out of the fun. Learn more about how to rent, own, or use your pedal power by clicking here. Link to shops, rentals, and routes and take advantage of these Summer months!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
Buying or selling a home in Alexandria has become a little intense these days.
The landscape of residential real estate seems to change every day. Interest rate hikes, bidding wars, and a lack of inventory are very real challenges. But, amidst all of it, one thing remains unchanged: Our desire to build a better life.
When it comes to buying or selling real estate, I don’t see my job as merely helping you find a better address. I see it as helping you build that better life, whatever that may look like, wherever that may exist.
I do that by cutting through the noise and introducing clarity.
I do that by bringing more to the table than an endless stream of listings.
I do that by asking questions and by taking it upon myself to ensure you don’t do a big thing badly.
I’m not here to help you find a different address. Any agent can do that. I’m here to help you build the life you want in a home you love.
When you need a realtor, call me. I got you. 571.259.2673.
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
There’s no shortage of amazing restaurants in our city. But what if you’re trying to live a healthy lifestyle?
Eating out and living healthy don’t always go hand-in-hand. A dinner invitation from friends can be a conundrum unless you have an alternative.
True Food to the rescue!
Currently, their closest location is a short drive to Fairfax.
Hopefully, we’ll have an Alexandria location soon!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
We’ve brought you a small sample size of business owners that make Alexandria such a vibrant and enjoyable place to call home.
- Made in ALX
- TLC Design
- Salon deZen
- NBHD – Crossfit
- Passionately Pets
- Fort Hunt Massage & Spa
- Bodnar Chiropractic
- The Greenery
Who have I missed? I want to hear from you.
What are your favorite local businesses in Alexandria that help you build a life you love? Let me know in a comment below, and we may feature them here!
P.S. If you see us filming around town… don’t be shy. Say hello!
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
If you’ve ever had back or neck issues, you know how painful a misalignment can be. Having the right chiropractor in your corner can be life-changing.
Today we’re highlighting Dr. Yi with Bodnar Chiropractic, where the entire staff is dedicated to helping you get aligned and get moving.
After a consultation, Dr. Yi will come up with your personalized treatment plan, which can be complimented with acupuncture, massage, and more.
The friendly staff will help you schedule your consultation and appointments can be easily scheduled… just don’t take mine! Click or call today! 703-721-0500.
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
Explore Alexandria living in this bi-weekly column sponsored and written by Sandy McMaster of McEnearney Associates. Got a question or comment? Contact Sandy at [email protected].
We live in the shadow of Amazon’s HQ2, and while that comes with some serious perks, Amazon doesn’t do cute and community like our neighborhood bookstores!
Today we’re featuring three local bookstores where you can enjoy a personalized shopping experience. These local bookstore owners are dedicated to providing excellent customer service. Visit and discover new books and authors that you may not have found otherwise!
Hooray for Books is a children’s bookstore that has been a fixture in Alexandria since 2008. They have an extensive selection of books for kids of all ages and a knowledgeable staff that can help you find the perfect book for your child. They also have regular events like story time and author signings to create a sense of community around reading for our younger readers! Visit them at hooray4books.com.
Old Town Books is another independent bookstore that has been operating in Alexandria since 2018. They also host a variety of events, including Puppy Storytime with Guiding Eyes for the Blind. As part of their training to become guide dogs, puppies practice socializing with humans of all ages during storytime (so cute!). Twenty percent of all proceeds from the time slots go to Guiding Eyes for the Blind. To register or learn more, visit them at www.oldtownbooks.com.
Harambee Books & Artworks is a bookstore that has been serving Alexandria since 1987. They specialize in books by and about people of African descent and have a vast selection of titles that are difficult to find elsewhere. They also sell art and crafts from Africa and the African diaspora. Visit them at harambeebooks.org.
These local bookstores continue to thrive and offer an alternative option for locals who value community, a personal touch, and the discovery aspect of book buying. Whether you’re an avid reader or looking for a unique gift, they’ve got you covered (pun intended).
To get to know more about me and how I help people build lives they want in homes they love, follow me @SandyMcMaster on IG or visit  www.
