If you’re looking for a solid spot to grab a drink and a bite after work, the Ballston Lakeview Tavern menu with prices is exactly what you need to check out. This local favorite in Arlington, VA, serves up hearty American fare that hits the spot without breaking the bank. Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour or settling in for a full dinner, knowing what’s on offer and what it costs makes planning your visit a breeze.
Ballston Lakeview Tavern menu with prices features classic pub grub, from juicy burgers to crispy wings and fresh salads. The atmosphere is relaxed, the service is friendly, and the food is consistently good. Let’s break down everything you can expect to find, so you can order with confidence on your next visit.
Ballston Lakeview Tavern Menu With Prices
This section covers the full lineup of food and drink options, organized by category. Prices are approximate and may change slightly, but they reflect the current offerings as of early 2025. Always check with the restaurant for the most up-to-date pricing.
Appetizers And Shareables
Start your meal with something to share. These small plates are perfect for a group or a light bite before the main course.
- Classic Buffalo Wings (10 pieces) – $12.95. Served with celery and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Loaded Nachos – $11.50. Tortilla chips topped with melted cheddar, black beans, jalapeños, sour cream, and salsa.
- Fried Calamari – $10.95. Lightly battered and served with marinara sauce.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip – $9.50. Creamy dip served with warm tortilla chips.
- Pretzel Bites – $8.25. Soft pretzel bites served with beer cheese dipping sauce.
These appetizers are great for sharing, but they’re also filling enough for a light meal. The wings are a standout, with a nice balance of heat and flavor.
Burgers And Sandwiches
The burger selection is the heart of the menu. Each one comes with a side of fries or a small salad.
- Classic Cheeseburger – $12.50. Half-pound beef patty with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on a brioche bun.
- Bacon BBQ Burger – $14.25. Topped with crispy bacon, cheddar, and tangy BBQ sauce.
- Mushroom Swiss Burger – $13.00. Sauteed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese.
- Black Bean Burger – $11.75. Vegetarian option with avocado and chipotle mayo.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich – $12.00. Marinated chicken breast with lettuce, tomato, and honey mustard.
- Philly Cheesesteak – $13.50. Thinly sliced steak with grilled onions, peppers, and provolone on a hoagie roll.
The burgers are cooked to order, and the buns are always fresh. If you’re hungry, go for the Bacon BBQ Burger – it’s a mess but worth it.
Salads And Bowls
For a lighter option, the salad selection is solid. Each salad can be topped with grilled chicken for an extra $3.50.
- Caesar Salad – $9.95. Romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan, and classic Caesar dressing.
- Grilled Chicken Salad – $12.50. Mixed greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and balsamic vinaigrette.
- Southwest Salad – $11.75. Black beans, corn, avocado, and cilantro-lime dressing.
- Cobb Salad – $12.25. Bacon, hard-boiled egg, blue cheese, and ranch dressing.
The salads are generous portions, so you won’t leave hungry. The Southwest Salad is a refreshing choice with a bit of a kick.
Main Entrees
If you want something more substantial than a burger, the main entrees deliver. These come with two sides of your choice.
- Fish and Chips – $14.95. Beer-battered cod served with tartar sauce and coleslaw.
- Grilled Salmon – $16.50. Atlantic salmon fillet with lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables.
- Steak Tips – $17.25. Marinated sirloin tips served with mashed potatoes and a side salad.
- Chicken Parmesan – $14.00. Breaded chicken breast topped with marinara and melted mozzarella, served with pasta.
- BBQ Ribs (half rack) – $15.50. Slow-cooked pork ribs with house BBQ sauce and fries.
The Fish and Chips are a crowd favorite, with a crispy batter that doesn’t get soggy. The Steak Tips are cooked perfectly medium-rare if you ask nicely.
Kids Menu
For the little ones, there’s a separate menu with smaller portions and lower prices.
- Grilled Cheese – $6.50. Served with fries or apple slices.
- Chicken Tenders (3 pieces) – $7.25. Served with fries or apple slices.
- Mini Burger – $7.00. Small patty with cheese, served with fries.
- Mac and Cheese – $6.75. Creamy pasta with cheddar.
Kids meals come with a drink and a small dessert like a cookie or fruit cup. It’s a good deal for families.
Drinks And Happy Hour
The drink menu is extensive, with a focus on craft beers and classic cocktails. Happy hour runs from 4 PM to 7 PM Monday through Friday.
- Domestic Beers (bottle) – $4.50. Bud Light, Coors Light, Miller Lite.
- Craft Beers (draft) – $6.00 to $7.50. Rotating selection from local breweries.
- Wine (glass) – $7.00 to $9.00. Red, white, and rosé options.
- Cocktails – $8.00 to $11.00. Margaritas, mojitos, old fashioneds, and more.
- Happy Hour Specials – $2.00 off all draft beers, $1.00 off wine, and $3.00 off select appetizers.
The happy hour deals are where the value really shines. You can grab a beer and some wings for under $15.
Desserts
Save room for something sweet. The dessert menu is small but satisfying.
- Chocolate Lava Cake – $7.50. Warm chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream.
- New York Cheesecake – $6.95. Classic cheesecake with berry compote.
- Apple Crisp – $7.00. Baked apples with a crumb topping and caramel sauce.
The Chocolate Lava Cake is rich and decadent – perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
Ballston Lakeview Tavern Menu With Prices Breakdown
Let’s look at the average cost for a full meal. This will help you budget your visit.
| Meal Component | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Appetizer (shared) | $10.50 |
| Main Course | $14.00 |
| Side (if not included) | $3.50 |
| Drink (beer or soda) | $4.50 |
| Dessert | $7.00 |
| Total per person | $39.50 |
Of course, you can spend less by sticking to happy hour or skipping dessert. But for a full experience, expect to pay around $40 per person including tax and tip.
Tips For Ordering On A Budget
If you’re watching your wallet, here are some strategies to keep costs down.
- Go during happy hour. Discounted drinks and appetizers make a big difference.
- Share an appetizer. The Loaded Nachos or Pretzel Bites are enough for two people.
- Order a burger. They’re filling and come with a side, so you don’t need extra food.
- Skip dessert. Or share one with the table.
- Drink water. Soda and beer add up quickly.
Following these tips, you can enjoy a meal for under $25 per person.
What To Expect From The Service
The staff at Ballston Lakeview Tavern are known for being attentive without hovering. Servers are quick to refill drinks and check on your food. During peak hours, like Friday nights, there might be a short wait for a table, but the bar area is usually open for walk-ins.
The atmosphere is casual and lively, with TVs showing sports games. It’s a good spot for groups, but also fine for a solo dinner at the bar.
Ballston Lakeview Tavern Menu With Prices Comparison
How does this menu stack up against other local spots? Let’s compare a few similar restaurants in the Ballston area.
- Ballston Lakeview Tavern – Average burger price: $13.25. Happy hour: 4-7 PM daily.
- CarPool – Average burger price: $14.00. Happy hour: 3-6 PM weekdays.
- Rustico – Average burger price: $15.50. Happy hour: 4-6 PM weekdays.
- Whitlow’s on Wilson – Average burger price: $12.75. Happy hour: 4-7 PM daily.
Ballston Lakeview Tavern sits right in the middle in terms of pricing. It’s not the cheapest, but the quality and portion sizes justify the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Ballston Lakeview Tavern have vegetarian options?
A: Yes, they have a Black Bean Burger, several salads, and the Spinach Artichoke Dip. The kitchen can also modify some dishes upon request.
Q: Is there outdoor seating available?
A: Yes, there is a small patio area that’s open during warmer months. It’s first-come, first-served.
Q: Can I make a reservation?
A: Reservations are accepted for parties of 6 or more. For smaller groups, it’s walk-in only.
Q: What are the hours of operation?
A: The tavern is open Monday to Friday from 11 AM to 11 PM, Saturday from 10 AM to midnight, and Sunday from 10 AM to 10 PM.
Q: Does the menu change seasonally?
A: Yes, they occasionally rotate seasonal specials, especially for holidays and summer. The core menu stays consistent year-round.
Ballston Lakeview Tavern Menu With Prices Final Thoughts
Ballston Lakeview Tavern menu with prices offers a reliable and enjoyable dining experience. The food is straightforward, the portions are generous, and the prices are fair for the area. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s a solid choice for a casual meal.
The variety means there’s something for everyone, from meat lovers to vegetarians. The happy hour deals make it even more appealing for after-work gatherings. If you haven’t been yet, give it a try – you’ll likely find yourself coming back.
Remember to check their website or call ahead for any daily specials or seasonal items. Prices can shift slightly, so it’s always good to confirm. But overall, you can’t go wrong with a stop at Ballston Lakeview Tavern.
So next time you’re in the Ballston area and wondering where to eat, keep this menu guide handy. You’ll know exactly what to order and how much it costs, making your visit smooth and satisfying.