Eddie Merlot's

The story

Crafted with passion, served with love

Eddie Merlot's describes itself as "an upscale contemporary American steakhouse where we strive to provide an Exceptional Experience for all of our guests" — and the accolades back that up. The Ashburn, Virginia location earned Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence in 2023, recognition that reflects the seriousness with which the restaurant approaches its wine program.

Prime Beef and Fresh Seafood

The menu centers on USDA Prime beef aged to perfection, alongside fresh seafood prepared with equal care. Buttery lobster, perfectly seared scallops, and fire-grilled jumbo shrimp appear alongside the steakhouse classics — ribeyes, filets, and the kind of cuts that reward a well-chosen bottle of red. The kitchen's attention to pairing extends beyond the plate: the restaurant publishes detailed guides to wine and steak pairings, and wine and seafood pairings, signaling that the wine list is genuinely curated rather than an afterthought.

A Steakhouse Built for Events

Beyond the main dining room, Eddie Merlot's Ashburn is well equipped for private occasions. Elegant private dining rooms accommodate everything from intimate business dinners to larger corporate gatherings, with AV equipment available and a team that helps coordinate logistics down to floral arrangements and guest lodging. For groups larger than twelve, dedicated private dining options take over.

The restaurant also runs recurring special events that showcase the kitchen's range. The Master Chef Grilling Experience — a five-course, cocktail-paired tasting led by the Executive Chef — has featured dishes like dry-rubbed baby back ribs with house-made Memphis BBQ sauce, slow-cooked smoked beef brisket with charred street corn, and a concluding peach cobbler with caramel sauce. Each course arrives alongside a handcrafted cocktail, making it as much a drinks experience as a food one.

Atmosphere and Accessibility

The setting is polished without being stiff — the kind of room where a business dinner and a celebratory family meal feel equally at home. Takeout and delivery extend the Eddie Merlot's experience beyond the dining room, and catering brings the full steakhouse and seafood offering to off-site events. The Ashburn location is part of the wider Dividend Restaurant Group network, with the same standards applied across all properties.