Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House Alexandria has swiftly become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, combining the timeless charm of a neighborhood pizzeria with an impressive selection of craft beers and innovative dishes.
Nestled in the heart of Alexandria, Virginia, this establishment offers more than just a meal—it provides a warm, inviting atmosphere where friends gather to share great food and memorable moments. From its hand-tossed pizzas to expertly curated draft beers, every item on the menu reflects a commitment to quality and creativity.
Whether you are craving classic Italian flavors or looking to explore bold new tastes, Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House delivers a culinary experience that appeals to all palates. The menu balances tradition with modern twists, featuring ingredients sourced locally whenever possible and prepared with care.
The focus on fresh, authentic flavors is evident in every bite, making it a standout choice in Alexandria’s vibrant dining scene.
Beyond the food, the draft house component elevates the experience by pairing each dish with thoughtfully selected brews, enhancing both the meal and the atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or simply looking for a cozy spot to unwind, Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House offers an inviting environment that’s as flavorful as its menu.
Signature Pizzas
The cornerstone of Del Ray Pizzeria’s menu is undoubtedly its signature pizzas, each crafted with a perfect balance of crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings. These pizzas highlight both classic Italian traditions and inventive combinations that cater to a wide range of tastes.
The crust is hand-tossed daily, boasting a crisp exterior with a tender, airy interior that serves as an ideal foundation.
Among the favorites is the Margherita Pizza, which showcases a harmonious blend of fresh mozzarella, basil, and house-made tomato sauce. This pizza embodies simplicity and elegance, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine through.
For those seeking more adventurous flavors, the Spicy Soppressata offers a delightful kick, pairing spicy Italian sausage with red onions and a drizzle of honey for balance.
Popular Signature Options
- Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, basil, tomato sauce
- Spicy Soppressata: Soppressata, red onions, honey drizzle
- BBQ Chicken: Grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, red onions, cilantro
- Mushroom Truffle: Mixed mushrooms, truffle oil, fontina cheese
“Our signature pizzas are crafted to offer a perfect blend of classic and contemporary flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone.”
Each pizza is made with care, using a proprietary blend of cheeses and a slow-fermented dough that enhances both flavor and digestibility. The kitchen’s attention to detail ensures each slice is a satisfying experience, whether you prefer a traditional pie or something with a modern twist.
Appetizers and Small Plates
Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House’s appetizer selections are designed to complement their main courses while offering guests a chance to sample a variety of flavors. These small plates are perfect for sharing and provide a great introduction to the kitchen’s style.
Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal or a full dinner, the appetizers bring additional depth to the dining experience.
From crispy calamari to house-made meatballs, the appetizers are crafted with fresh ingredients and bold seasonings. The kitchen also offers vegetarian-friendly options, ensuring that everyone at the table can find something delicious to start with.
Each dish is thoughtfully paired with sauces and garnishes that enhance the primary components without overpowering them.
Key Appetizer Highlights
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly battered and fried, served with spicy aioli
- Meatballs al Forno: Slow-cooked in marinara, topped with parmesan
- Arancini: Crispy risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with balsamic glaze and pine nuts
| Appetizer | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|
| Calamari Fritti | Crisp, savory, mildly spicy | Pale ale or pilsner |
| Meatballs al Forno | Rich, tangy, hearty | Full-bodied red wine or stout |
| Arancini | Cheesy, crispy, savory | Light lager or wheat beer |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Earthy, sweet, nutty | IPA or saison |
These appetizers are thoughtfully prepared to awaken the palate and set the tone for the meal ahead, inviting diners to savor each bite while exploring complementary beverage options.
Salads and Fresh Options
For those seeking lighter fare or a refreshing complement to heartier dishes, the salad offerings at Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House provide crisp, vibrant options. These salads feature seasonal produce and house-made dressings that emphasize freshness and balance.
Each salad is crafted to be more than just a side dish; they are substantial enough to satisfy on their own or serve as a colorful accompaniment. The menu includes classic choices as well as creative combinations that introduce unique textures and flavors.
Featured Salads
- Caesar Salad: Romaine, shaved parmesan, house Caesar dressing
- Arugula & Pear: Fresh arugula, sliced pear, candied walnuts, gorgonzola
- Mediterranean Salad: Mixed greens, olives, feta, cucumber, red onion
- Caprese Salad: Vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, balsamic reduction
The attention to detail in these salads extends to the dressings, which are crafted daily to complement and enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients. The combination of textures—crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and crisp greens—creates a satisfying mouthfeel.
“Our salads are designed to refresh your palate while delivering a burst of natural flavors that elevate your dining experience.”
These fresh options add variety to the menu and cater to health-conscious diners without compromising on taste or presentation.
Craft Beers and Draft Selection
One of the defining features of Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House is its extensive and carefully curated draft beer selection. The draft house prides itself on offering a rotating lineup of local and regional craft beers, thoughtfully paired to complement the menu’s diverse flavors.
Guests can expect a broad spectrum of styles, from crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to recommend the perfect brew, whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or exploring craft beers for the first time.
Draft Beer Categories
- Lagers & Pilsners: Light, crisp, and refreshing options
- IPAs: Bold, hoppy, and aromatic varieties
- Stouts & Porters: Dark, rich, and full-bodied brews
- Sours & Specialty Brews: Tart, funky, and seasonal selections
| Beer Style | Flavor Profile | Ideal Food Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Lager | Clean, crisp, mildly sweet | Margherita Pizza, Caesar Salad |
| IPA | Hoppy, bitter, citrusy | Spicy Soppressata, Roasted Brussels Sprouts |
| Stout | Roasty, creamy, chocolate notes | Meatballs al Forno, Mushroom Truffle Pizza |
| Sour | Tart, fruity, refreshing | Arugula & Pear Salad, Arancini |
Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House’s commitment to craft beer culture is evident not only in their selection but also in their dedication to educating guests and fostering appreciation for the brewing process.
“Pairing the right beer with your meal transforms dining into an elevated sensory journey.”
Sandwiches and Specialty Entrées
Beyond pizzas and appetizers, the menu features a thoughtful selection of sandwiches and specialty entrées that cater to varied appetites. These dishes embrace robust flavors and generous portions, perfect for those looking for a satisfying main course with a twist.
The sandwiches are crafted with artisan breads and a variety of fillings, ranging from classic Italian meats to grilled vegetables and cheeses. Specialty entrées often highlight seasonal ingredients and inventive preparations that change regularly to reflect the freshest available produce.
Noteworthy Sandwiches
- The Italian Stallion: Capicola, salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, house dressing
- Grilled Chicken Panini: Marinated chicken, mozzarella, roasted peppers, pesto
- Veggie Delight: Grilled zucchini, eggplant, goat cheese, arugula, balsamic glaze
Specialty entrées may include dishes like braised short ribs or pan-seared salmon, showcasing the kitchen’s versatility beyond traditional pizza fare. These dishes are crafted with an emphasis on bold seasoning and balanced presentation.
“Our sandwiches and entrées are designed to offer hearty, flavorful alternatives for guests looking to explore beyond pizza.”
The use of fresh, high-quality ingredients is a hallmark of these dishes, ensuring every bite delivers satisfaction and depth.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
To round out the meal, Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House offers a selection of desserts that satisfy the sweet tooth without overwhelming. These treats are thoughtfully crafted to provide a delightful finish to your dining experience.
The dessert menu includes classic Italian-inspired options as well as contemporary favorites, often featuring seasonal fruits and house-made components. Each dessert is designed to balance sweetness with texture and visual appeal.
Popular Dessert Choices
- Tiramisu: Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, rich chocolate cake with a molten center
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: Fresh fruit atop a delicate pastry crust
- Gelato Selection: Rotating flavors made in-house
Pairing desserts with sweet or fruity beers from the draft list can enhance the overall dining experience, creating harmonious flavor profiles to end the meal on a high note.
“A great dessert is the perfect bookend to a memorable meal, tying together all the flavors and emotions experienced.”
Beverage Options Beyond Beer
While the draft house is celebrated for its craft beer inventory, Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House also offers a diverse selection of beverages beyond beer to cater to all preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail, a glass of wine, or a refreshing non-alcoholic option, the drink menu has you covered.
The cocktail list features both timeless favorites and inventive creations that often incorporate seasonal ingredients and house-made elements. The wine list is curated to complement the menu’s flavors, focusing on approachable yet quality selections from both Old and New World producers.
Drink Highlights
- Classic Negroni: Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth
- Moscow Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, lime
- House Red & White Wines: Rotating selections
- Non-Alcoholic: Freshly brewed iced tea, artisanal sodas
| Beverage Type | Flavor Notes | Food Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Negroni | Bitter, herbal, citrusy | Spicy Soppressata Pizza, Meatballs al Forno |
| Moscow Mule | Spicy, refreshing, zesty | Grilled Chicken Panini, Roasted Brussels Sprouts |
| House Red Wine | Fruity, medium-bodied | BBQ Chicken Pizza, Italian Stallion Sandwich |
| Artisanal Soda | Sweet, effervescent | Arancini, Caesar Salad |
With such a broad beverage menu, every guest can find a drink that complements their meal and mood perfectly.
“A well-curated beverage list is essential to enhancing the flavors and enjoyment of every dish served.”
Conclusion
Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House Alexandria stands out as a culinary gem that masterfully blends the best of traditional Italian pizza-making with a vibrant craft beer culture and thoughtfully designed menu options.
Each element—from the signature hand-tossed pizzas to the carefully chosen draft beers and fresh, seasonal salads—reflects a passion for quality and an understanding of diverse palates.
The menu’s versatility ensures that whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a lively dinner with friends, or a special occasion, there is something to delight every diner. Their commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative preparation elevates every dish, while the warm, welcoming atmosphere invites guests to relax and savor the experience.
Beyond food and drink, the knowledgeable staff and the rotating beer selection provide an ever-evolving journey through craft brews and culinary flavors. This dedication to excellence and community spirit makes Del Ray Pizzeria & Draft House not just a place to eat, but a destination to enjoy, explore, and return to time and again.
