Without the persistence of City Manager Vola D. Lawson, Alexandria's waterfront would look much different than it did today. In addition to fighting for transparency and justice within the government, Vola also expounded the importance of developing the waterfront. Although she passed away in 2013, her love for her city and the people in it lives on at Volas Dockside Grill & Hi-Tide Lounge, which is named for the local heroine.

Vola's is nestled right along the waterfront that its namesake helped to make a reality, which is why it boasts such a seafood-heavy menu. Start your meal with a round of the local oysters Rockefeller, the Little Neck steamer clams, or the sailor-style mussels in white wine and garlic. Then munch on a sandwich or taco, like the fish tacos topped with citrus slaw, chipotle aioli, and mango salsa. You can also opt for a larger entree, such as the crispy fried chicken, the seafood stew, or the seared scallops with roasted butternut squash, pancetta, and broccoli rabe.

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