Jackson's (Reston Town Center)

11927 Democracy Drive
Reston, VA 20190
Phone: (703) 437-0800

Website: http://www.greatamericanrestaurants.com/jacksons

If there is one thing I truly love, it is a nice succulent piece of meat. Make it medium rare please? Jackson’s has got me covered for my need to feed. Here is the skinny, or pleasantly plump if you prefer. Jackson’s is one of several restaurants owned by a local chain, Great American Restaurants (From now on known as GAR). They own the likes of Coastal Flats, Sweet Water Tavern, Arties, Silverado’s, Carlyle’s, Best Buns, and Ozzie’s. All of them located in the Northern Virginia area.

Jackson’s is in Reston Town Center and has one of the most hopping happy hours I have ever seen. It is completely outside on a sort of porch. If you are like me, and prefer a quieter repast, eat indoors where the noise is down to a dull roar. Preferably away from the inside bar as well.

When you arrive make sure to ask for their gluten free menu, which they label as the “Low Gluten Menu”. This alarmed me, so I asked for clarification. They call it the Low Gluten Menu to cover their butts. As all those who are sensitive and/or are allergic to gluten, or have Celiac disease know, there is always some risk of cross contamination when dining out. The manager assured me that every precaution is taken to prevent such things from occurring.

He was attentive and very knowledgeable about their menu items and what could also be altered to be gluten free. For example, I wanted their delicious prime rib, but it is not listed on the low gluten menu. I asked him if this was an item that could be altered. As long as you order without the au jus, you are good to go.

Let me tell you that their prime rib is the best I have ever tasted. Most restaurants viciously over season their prime rib, making the outside inconsumable. Jackson’s only seasons with salt and pepper and it is the epitome of meatiness.  One of the few sides available is the Wild Rice Salad with Almonds. It has such a unique flavor and texture. Crunchy wild rice with vegetables, cranberries and figs. A superb accompaniment.  But the best is always last right?

To my knowledge, all of the GAR have this dessert. It was so heavenly I swear my eyes rolled back in my head. I crave it even now. The Warm Flourless Chocolate Waffle with vanilla ice cream. Never has there been a more decadent or more blissful dessert than this triangular sweetness that could NEVER be compared to a lava cake. I believe angels concocted this recipe and spoke to the owners in dreams to make this divine example available to the masses. In fact, I believe I need to have one, RIGHT NOW. See you next time.