Check out the Brunch at Cowboy Cafe

Cowboy Cafe is the kind of place Arlington doesn’t make anymore — a genuine, unapologetic dive bar and neighborhood restaurant that has outlasted waves of development, gentrification, and gastropub openings to remain stubbornly, lovably itself. Located at 4792 Langston Blvd in the Waverly Hills area of North Arlington, the Cafe traces its roots to a building erected in 1948 as the Clam House. Current owners Mike and James Barnes, along with two friends from Yorktown High School, took over in 2011 and have maintained its dive identity with deliberate care — keeping the décor unchanging, the prices reasonable, and the atmosphere the kind that makes regulars call it their “Cheers bar.”

The food is better than a dive bar has any right to be. Burgers are the undisputed star — The Duke (a half-pound double patty with all the fixings), the ChiliBurger, and the California Burger are neighborhood legends. Tuesday is half-price burger night. The menu also includes loaded nachos, Cajun chicken pasta, fajitas, and a vegetarian burger that has developed its own following. A sprawling beer selection, full bar, outdoor biergarten, and live music on select evenings round out the experience. Weekend brunch is served until 3 p.m. Hours are Monday–Friday 11 a.m.–2 a.m., Saturday–Sunday 9 a.m.–2 a.m.

Address: 4792 Langston Blvd | Website: thecowboycafe.com | Phone: (703) 243-8010