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Crispy fried chicken wings piled in paper trays

Carry-out soul food and seafood in Green Valley, Arlington

Best Soul Food Near You in Arlington

Northern Virginia's #1 soul food destination. Aaron Green serves authentic soul food in Green Valley Arlington, just minutes from DC.

Call to order (202) 820-2059See the menu
Hours
Tuesday to Saturday, 1 to 8 PM
Address
2534 S. Shirlington Rd
Arlington, VA 22206
Ordering
Phone orders for pickup
Catering for offices and events

A legacy of love and flavor

Aaron Green opened First Impression Soul & Seafood with the influence of his grandfather, who previously ran a carry-out restaurant in Arlington. Now proudly serving all of Northern Virginia, from Arlington to Alexandria, Fairfax to Loudoun County.

Since opening, Aaron has built Northern Virginia's top-rated soul food restaurant. We serve the best fried catfish, mac and cheese, and southern fried chicken in NOVA. Offering takeout and corporate catering for government agencies, federal buildings, and companies throughout Fairfax, Alexandria, Arlington, Tysons, and beyond.

“Every dish tells a story. Every recipe carries the wisdom of those who came before. When you taste our food, you're tasting generations of love.”

Aaron Green, owner and chef
Family recipes
3rd generation
Seafood
Fresh daily
Northern Virginia
#1 soul food
Inside First Impression Soul & Seafood in Green Valley, Arlington
Green Valley, Arlington. Free parking at the door.

What regulars say

Real reviews from real customers who have experienced Aaron's authentic soul food and hospitality.

  • “Holy moly. So fresh and delicious. Not salty, not bland, incredible.”
    Facebook Foodie Group Member, Yelp review
  • “This is the type of fish I grew up eating. Simple, seasoned and fresh. We had the shrimp; they were big and good. The catfish was fresh and tasty as well.”
    Quenton B., Yelp review
  • “First Impression left a spectacular one on me. While it doesn't look aesthetically pleasing on the outside, the inside is full of love and soul. I was warmly greeted by Aaron…”
    Robert M., Yelp review
  • “Really solid food. The fish was well seasoned but the shrimp was just okay. If you do go, order ahead so you're not waiting for the food.”
    Keyin L., Yelp review
  • “Definitely tucked away and a low‑key spot but that mac and cheese…”
    Usamah N., Yelp review

Find us in Green Valley

Conveniently located in Arlington, minutes from Pentagon City, Crystal City, and downtown DC. Free parking at the restaurant.

Address
2534 S. Shirlington Rd
Arlington, VA 22206
Hours
Tuesday to Saturday1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Sunday and MondayClosed

Hours may vary on holidays. Call to confirm.

Phone
(202) 820-2059

Takeout orders, catering, and questions about the menu.

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