🍒 Alexandria Picks Its Favorites in 2026 Cherry Challenge

ALEXANDRIA, VA – The 2026 Cherry Challenge Alexandria winners have been announced, with diners selecting their favorite cherry-themed dishes from restaurants across the city.

“After two delicious weeks of sipping, sampling, and savoring cherry-themed creations across the city, diners have selected their favorites in the 2026 Cherry Challenge, held January 25 through February 8,” said Sue Johnson, Chair of the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee.

The annual event, sponsored by George Washington’s Mount Vernon, invited local restaurants to showcase their most creative cherry-inspired dishes and drinks.

From festive cocktails to decadent desserts, participating restaurants infused winter with a burst of bright cherry flavor — and a little friendly competition.

Here are this year’s sweet (and savory!) winners:

🍸 Beverage (Tie)

The Light Horse Restaurant — “Pink Horsey Club”

The playful and perfectly pink “Pink Horsey Club” from The Light Horse Restaurant galloped into a first-place tie. Bright, fun, and Instagram-ready, this cocktail proved that cherry season can sparkle even in the heart of winter.

The People’s Drug — “Cherry Poppins”

Also topping the beverage category: the whimsical “Cherry Poppins” from The People’s Drug. With a name that practically sings, this cherry creation clearly struck the right note with voters.

Two drinks. One tie. Zero complaints.

🍽️ Entrée Winner

Dishes of India — Cherry Chicken Biryani

Savory met sweet in the winning entrée from Dishes of India. The Cherry Chicken Biryani brought bold flavor and a creative twist to a classic dish — proving cherries aren’t just for dessert.

🍰 Dessert Winner

Vaso’s — White Chocolate Cherry Bread Pudding

When it comes to comfort food, Vaso’s delivered. Their White Chocolate Cherry Bread Pudding captured voters’ hearts (and sweet tooths), earning top honors in the dessert category.

👏 Honorable Mentions

Even more cherry creativity earned recognition this year:

Beverage

• Frankie’s Kitchen and Bar — Mon Cherry

Dessert

• Bastille — Cherry Coupe Cheesecake

• HomeGrown — Cherry Pop’d Heart

“What I love about the Cherry Challenge is how it connects our restaurants and our residents,” Johnson said. “It encourages people to try new places, support local businesses, and celebrate the season in a uniquely Alexandria way.”