How A Historic Chocolate Factory Created The BIGGEST Food Legend in Arlington VA

Most chefs are told to pick a specialty and stick to it, but Matt Hill and Todd Arredondo built a culinary empire by breaking every rule in the book.

By reclaiming the shell of the historic 1950s Old Dominion Chocolate Company factory and anchoring it with a custom wood-burning hearth, they transformed an industrial relic into Ruthie’s All-Day.

It is this relentless commitment to “low and slow” Southern flavors within a mid-century landmark that created Arlington’s most famous community heartbeat—a place where the smoker never stops and the quality never dips. 🍳🔥

How Ruthie’s All-Day Won Arlington Hearts

While the building is a historic 1950s chocolate factory, the soul of the restaurant is named after Matt Hill’s grandmother, Ruthie—a woman who defined the kind of selfless Southern hospitality the Hills wanted to bring to Glebe Road.

When Matt and his wife Stephanie opened the doors, they didn’t just want to serve meals; they wanted to create a “third home” for the community.

By treating every customer like a neighbor and every staff member like family, they quickly transformed a large industrial space into Arlington’s most beloved community gathering spot. 🏆

What really won over local hearts was the restaurant’s commitment to being there for the neighborhood at every hour of the day.

In an era where many high-end kitchens feel exclusive or rigid, Ruthie’s All-Day became a reliable anchor for everyone from exhausted morning commuters to families celebrating major milestones.

This “all-day” accessibility, combined with the genuine warmth of the staff, earned them a James Beard Award nomination and—more importantly—the unwavering loyalty of the North Arlington community. 🌟

Beyond the smoke and the award-winning sides, the vibe is anchored by a sense of effortless charm.

The sprawling patio and sun-drenched dining room were designed specifically to be a sanctuary for locals to slow down and reconnect.

Whether it’s a quick coffee at the counter or a full wood-fired feast on the weekend, the experience is proof that the fastest way to a city’s heart is through authentic, heritage-driven hospitality. 🏠💓

The Lineup & Must-Try Bites

• The Ruthie’s Biscuit is a verifiable local legend. Flaky, buttery, and made fresh every morning, it serves as the foundation for their famous fried chicken and brisket breakfast sandwiches.

• The Slow-Smoked Brisket represents the heart of the smokehouse. Using their custom pit, the meat is rendered until tender, serving as the star of both the “Biscuit House” morning menu and the dinner plates.

• Skillet Cornbread arrives at the table with honey butter and a perfect crust, a nod to the Southern roots that inspired the restaurant’s name.

• Smoked Wings offer a deep, wood-fired flavor that sets them apart from standard pub fare, typically served with creative house-made dipping sauces like white BBQ or spicy soy.

• Sticky Spare Ribs are a signature evening dish, featuring a five-spice rub and a Korean-inspired glaze that highlights the kitchen’s global influences.

A Vibe That Feels Like a Discovery

The interior is the perfect blend of a nostalgic diner and a sophisticated grill.

From the floor-to-ceiling windows to the bustling open kitchen, the energy is consistently inviting.

It’s the essential destination for an Arlington weekend brunch or a celebratory wood-fired dinner. 🍷☕

The Final Verdict on This Arlington Legend

To understand why this smoke-infused kitchen is the most talked-about spot in the city, you must visit Ruthie’s All-Day. They prove that when you combine a passion for the pit with a love for the neighborhood, you don’t just build a restaurant—you build a landmark. 🥇

📍 3411 5th St S, Arlington, VA 22204

📞 (703) 888-2841

🕔 Mon-Thu: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM, Fri: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Sat: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Sun: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM