Barca Pier & Wine Bar is part of the Alexandria Restaurant Partners, which also includes some of the top Reasons 2 Eat in the area, like Mia’s Italian Kitchen, Palette 22, and Ada’s On The River. What makes Barca truly unique is its location on the Potomac River—yes, literally on the water. With three distinct dining areas, you can enjoy an outdoor patio next to Ada’s, an indoor space with stunning river views, or a dining area perched on the pier over the Potomac itself, offering an incredible atmosphere and unmatched scenery, including the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge.
For those looking to sit on the pier, reservations are available, and can be made online or by phone. On a beautiful day, the ambiance is hard to beat, creating one of the most pleasant dining environments in the area.
The menu offers Spanish-Mediterranean flavors with a heavy focus on small plates, making it perfect for sharing. There are plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options available, ensuring something for everyone. One of the standout dishes is the whipped goat cheese, a highly recommended dip for sharing. With the tapas-style format, it’s easy to try multiple dishes and really get a sense of what the kitchen can do—a huge plus for foodies who like variety.
Like other ARP establishments, the service at Barca is top-notch, and the atmosphere is both relaxed and professional. Despite the stunning location, which could easily lead some places to rely too heavily on scenery alone, Barca excels with a well-executed menu and attentive staff.
Barca also continues the ARP tradition of offering a fantastic brunch, following in the footsteps of Ada’s as well as Mia’s and Palette 22, which are known for their all-you-can-order brunch options. Whether you’re visiting for brunch, dinner, or just drinks and small plates with friends, Barca Pier & Wine Bar delivers a memorable dining experience with one of the best settings in Old Town Alexandria.
