My husband and I stayed in Alexandria, VA for a few days last week before Christmas, and happened upon a local institution for dinner one chilly evening. At the Hard Times Cafe, newcomers are served a complimentary sampling of the house specialty, really salty chili (“so you order more beer,” my husband said). Peruse the often crayon-encrusted menu underneath ceiling decorations of cow hides and framed cartoon strips; oddly soothing countrified carols played in the background. A rusty pick up truck bearing an American flag and a large deer strewn with Christmas lights was parked in front.
Despite my desire for a tangy Southern plate of bbq ribs to go with my sweet tea, I chose a Terlingua chili bowl with chopped onions, cheddar, diced tomatoes, and sour cream which was, as expected, too salty and big to really enjoy or finish. The next day, a bowl of Cincinnati chili with a hearty addition of saltines helped absorb a little of the salty overflow. The beer batter onion rings that we shared were crunchy and tasty with an addictive horseradish sauce, but the complimentary corn bread was gelatinous and not warm enough to melt the rock hard butter served with it. Service was attentive and efficient; prices are reasonable for this small franchise.
1404 King St., Alexandria, VA 22314
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