Good pasta that’s made in house but it wasn’t obvious from the taste or texture (should be). Burrata appetizer and olive oil cake were excellent. Service was average: host not the most welcoming person, and server seemed busy (it was Sunday night, not busy) … might need more people working.
Overview
When you're looking for a great place to grab a delicious meal in Falls Church, VA, Thompson Italian on 124 N Washington St is one that should definitely be on your radar. Known for its cozy atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant brings a little taste of Italy to Northern Virginia. Whether you're a local or just passing through, a visit to Thompson Italian promises a culinary experience that’ll leave you craving more.
The moment you step into the restaurant, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting ambiance that makes you feel right at home. The lighting is soft, the decor stylish but not over-the-top, and the friendly staff ensures that you feel comfortable from the moment you sit down. It’s clear that Thompson Italian cares about the whole dining experience, not just the food.
Speaking of the food, the menu is a delightful mix of classic Italian dishes with a modern twist. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty plate of pasta, a crisp, fresh salad, or a decadent dessert, Thompson Italian delivers. One of their most popular dishes is the homemade lasagna, which is rich, flavorful, and perfectly layered with just the right amount of cheese and sauce. For pizza lovers, the wood-fired pizzas are a standout, with crispy crusts and fresh, high-quality ingredients that make every bite a joy.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, the chef’s specials are always worth considering. On a recent visit, I had the chance to try their truffle ravioli, which was a luxurious combination of creamy ricotta and the earthy taste of truffle. The dish was both comforting and elegant, showcasing the restaurant's ability to balance rich flavors with refined techniques.
Of course, no Italian meal would be complete without a glass of wine, and Thompson Italian offers an impressive wine list that pairs beautifully with their menu. From bold reds to crisp whites, there’s something for every palate. If you’re unsure which to choose, the staff is more than happy to recommend a wine that complements your meal.
One of the things that really sets Thompson Italian apart from other Italian restaurants in the area is its focus on authenticity. Many of the dishes are made using traditional Italian techniques, but the ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible. This commitment to freshness and quality shines through in every dish, from the salads to the desserts. The tiramisu, for example, is a must-try. It’s light, flavorful, and the perfect way to end a meal.
Another impressive aspect of Thompson Italian is their attention to detail in terms of customer service. The staff is not only friendly but incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, making recommendations based on your preferences. They make it clear that your dining experience matters, and they go the extra mile to ensure that you’re well taken care of.
The location on 124 N Washington St is also ideal. It’s easy to find and offers plenty of parking nearby, making it a convenient option for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re popping in for a quick bite or planning to linger over a leisurely meal, Thompson Italian provides a welcoming space for all kinds of occasions.
The restaurant has garnered great reviews from both locals and visitors alike, with many praising the quality of the food and the excellent service. People have consistently mentioned how much they appreciate the cozy, intimate vibe that makes it feel like you're dining at a family-owned restaurant in Italy, even though you’re in the heart of Falls Church.
If you’re wondering whether Thompson Italian is worth the visit, let me tell you: it absolutely is. From the moment you enter, to the last bite of dessert, everything about this restaurant makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're looking for a casual dinner with friends, a romantic night out, or a special family celebration, Thompson Italian offers the perfect setting with food that truly satisfies.
Good to know
From the business
âś“ Identifies as women-ownedService options
âś“ Outdoor seating âś“ No-contact delivery âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Great cocktails âś“ Great dessert âś“ Great wine listPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible car park âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Alcohol âś“ Beer âś“ Cocktails âś“ Coffee âś“ Comfort food âś“ Small plates âś“ Spirits âś“ Vegetarian options âś“ WineDining options
âś“ Brunch âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ Bar on site âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Cosy âś“ Romantic âś“ Trendy âś“ UpmarketCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Transgender safe spacePlanning
âś“ Dinner reservations recommended âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairs âś“ Kids' menuParking
âś“ Free multi-storey car park âś“ Free parking lotPhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 557 reviews
My niece was looking for an Italian restaurant that could accommodate her new gluten and dairy sensitivities. We were so impressed with Thompson Italian because not only to they offer gluten free pasta, but our waitress listed a large amount of options that could be make without dairy. They were very helpful and my niece said it's on of the best gluten free pastas she has had!
We started with two cocktails: the Olive Oil Martini and the Purple Rain Martini. The Olive Oil Martini was crisp, with bright notes from the citrus vodka that really stood out. The Purple Rain leaned toward a dirty martini profile, smooth, briny, and well-balanced. Both were distinct yet equally enjoyable. For appetizers, we ordered the spicy meatballs and the mozzarella carrozza, both were a hit. The carrozza had a perfect golden crunch, and it disappeared from the table almost instantly. For our mains, we tried the rigatoni, saffron linguini, and conchiglie. Each dish brought something unique to the table, but the saffron linguini stole the show for me with its rich, delicate flavor. Although the entrées took a little longer than expected, the staff brought out a complimentary appetizer of artichokes, which we all loved, especially my daughter. We ended the meal with affogatos, limoncello, and dessert, a perfect finish. This spot is a gem tucked away in Falls Church. If you asked me where I want to go for pasta any night of the week, this would be my answer.
Tried first time myself and took my friends there. Highly recommend. Their focaccia with olive oil is chewy and the olive oil is perfect. I like their beet salad. For noodles try the squid one and the shrimp ones! I like the mocktail showing in the picture
Thompson Italians was an excellent experience. When you walk in you see a bar filled with people and then as you walk towards your left, you see a very tranquil and beautiful dining area. This dining area is filled with dim aesthetic lights. Overall, you can expect a high-end high-quality and delicious Italian dining experience as you’re offered salads, appetizers, and dishes that will make your taste buds melt. I personally had the spaghetti and it was so rich: the thick al dente noodles captured my heart and the red sauce was so flavorful, I ate my plate clean. It is safe to say, my taste buds, belly and my brain were all happy with the experience as I shared this beautiful meal with my family. Shoutout to our kind and helpful waiter, Sandro!
Absolutely loved this Italian restaurant! The food was authentic, flavorful, and clearly made with care. The pasta was perfectly cooked, the sauces were rich and comforting, and the portions were generous. The staff was friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even better. Cozy atmosphere and great service—definitely a place I’ll come back to and recommend to friends.
As a returning customer, I had the joy of bringing friends to Thompson Italian to celebrate a dear friend’s retirement and once again, the experience was nothing short of exceptional. We started with a beautiful selection of appetizers: arancini, burrata with focaccia, artichoke alla Romana, summer melon, and the Little Gem Caesar salad. Each dish was vibrant, well-balanced, and full of fresh flavor, an elegant prelude to the meal. The entrées were equally impressive. The summer squash agnolotti was delicate and layered with subtle richness. The roasted chicken was cooked to perfection, juicy with a crisp finish and the arrabbiata pasta delivered just the right level of spice. The real highlight was the dessert spread. From the ethereal mixed berries tiramisu to the silky coconut tapioca pudding, each bite was a celebration in itself. The upside-down blackberry cake was both rustic and refined, and the chocolate almond torte offered the perfect finish. Even the refreshing sorbet stood out. Elizabeth, our server, was a true professional—warm, attentive, and effortlessly gracious. Her thoughtful presence elevated the entire evening. The rest of the staff, who kept everything flowing so smoothly, also deserve applause. Thompson Italian continues to impress, and sharing this experience with friends made it even more special. We’ll be back again soon.
Excellent pasta and service. Probably best pasta in the DMV. We had the saffron shrimp linguine and the squid / lobster pasta special. Both were delicious.