Clare and Don’s Beach Shack is a taste of Florida smack dab in the heart of Falls Church. This restaurant combines the classics with the innovative, and its quaint and casual environment is ideal for a gathering of friends and family. A sweet escape from the bitter cold, guests will feel like they have just stepped inside a beach shack on the boardwalk. 
Clare and Don’s Beach Shack is a taste of Florida smack dab in the heart of Falls Church. This restaurant combines the classics with the innovative, and its quaint and casual environment is ideal for a gathering of friends and family. A sweet escape from the bitter cold, guests will feel like they have just stepped inside a beach shack on the boardwalk. Flip flops adorn the walls and a foosball table is set up for customers to enjoy while waiting for their meal, making it the perfect place to sit back, unwind and wait for the snow to clear out.
Guests can enjoy some great seaside favorites without traveling far. This boardwalk-style restaurant offers a widely varied menu, featuring fresh seafood, creative vegetarian selections and a little something for everyone. Customers can sample traditional favorites without burning a hole through their wallets.
This writer recommends starting the evening with some Dill Pickle Chips ($4). These breaded and deep-fried pickles may raise a few eyebrows, but will sure please the stomach. Those who are looking for something a little more adventurous to start off the evening can sink their teeth into the Lake Alice Gator Tail ($6.50). This seasoned and lightly fried gator tail is a mouth-watering starter and a Florida favorite. Guests can also enjoy many of Clare and Don’s more traditional appetizers, such as Tator Tots ($3.50), Chili Cheese Fries ($5.50) and classic melt-in-your-mouth Hush Puppies ($3.50).
Patrons looking for the main course can savor classics like Fish and Chips ($9.75) or boardwalk-style Chili Dogs ($8.50). Complete with sandwiches, beach favorites and a fresh catch of the day, this seaside-inspired menu is full of choices for all. Clare and Don’s also offers classic burgers cooked to order and served with fries. For those looking for a little something extra, Clare and Don’s Jackson Burger ($9.50) is the way to go. A half-pound beef patty, this tasty treat is topped with a fried egg, Wisconsin cheddar and bacon.
Vegetarian diners can substitute most of the meat dishes with tofu. For craving something specific, try the Cluckless Tacos ($8.75) or Fried Tofu ($6.50).
Finish off the meal with one Clare and Don’s heart-warming desserts. This writer recommends classic Key Lime Pie ($3.50) or fresh Strawberry Shortcake ($5.50).
With a warm and friendly setting, guests can mingle with one another. Patrons looking for live music, great food and a taste of the beach seem to pour into the local spot.
Clare and Don’s Beach Shack is open after dinner hours, when the restaurant transforms into more of a bar scene. Heated outdoor tents add an extra perk for those who want to step outside to take a quick break from the evening. With music and drinks, guests can party till 1:30 a.m. In the summer, patrons can unwind with a delicious cocktail on the sunny patio.
Clare and Don’s Beach Shack also offers full catering service, both at the restaurant and on-site.
Clare & Don’s Beach Shack
130 N. Washington St., Falls Church, VA
clareanddons.com • 703-532-WAVE (9283)
Sunday – Thursday, 11:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Friday – Saturday, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 a.m. (or last call)
