Old Dominion Boat Club

First, The Old Dominion Boat Club (ODBC) is not a restaurant or a bar — though it does have those on-​site — so comparing it to one of the local eateries is not valid. Rather ODBC is the oldest boating club in Virginia with members from all walks of life and a wide array of backgrounds. The Club is actively involved in many humanitarian activities such as Christmas and Spring parties for the children with special needs of Alexandria; picnics for the Wounded Warriors; fund raisers for cancer research, Leukemia Lymphoma Poker Run, annual bell ringing for the Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, and a host of other local and national charities. The ODBC has been a continuous supporter to the social, recreational, civic and material progress of the City of Alexandria. The Club is a proud part of Alexandria history and its tradition for the sporting life on the Potomac. It’s also a great place to have a drink, a quick bite to eat, and spend time with members and guests.

If you have an opportunity to come to the ODBC, I would ask one of the older members to give you a run down on the history. It has played an exquisite part of the history of Alexandria.
The views offered by the ODBC are great. The bar is a simple bar and the space doesn’t offer any exceptionalities except great company and times. Tiki bar is great if you can get to it on the weekends and there sometimes is music.

2.25 stars. I was expecting something more breathtaking. Instead, it was a simple semi-​circular bar with large windows providing an excellent view of the shore. The flooring was a deep blue carpet that look like it had not been replaced in over a decade. The wood paneling was not unlike what one would see at any other seafood restaurant. The paneling was adorned with tiny portraits of individuals who had served as president of the club. I had never heard of any of them.
The service was very friendly, but the special for the day was relatively average. The corned beef and cabbage was fine, but there was nothing about the preparation that was awe-​striking. The cabbage was cooked in a large crock pot that was communal for all viistors. Particularly shocking was the use of French’s mustard to go along with the dish. Clearly, this was an example of a place that did not place a high cache on quality ingredients.
Ironically, I would only return if to do otherwise would not be in my best networking interests. I don’t see how this place could be anything more superior to The Chart House next door, and I have heard that place is merely average. I wouldn’t get too excited if you get invited here.