Aimee Pimentel 
Hidden in Old Town Alexandria is a new coffee-and-wine bar designed for the community. Cherry on Top, located at 1021 Queen Street, is a welcoming space where families and friends can unwind and enjoy life’s little moments together. The Fairfax Girl chatted with the owner, Ksenia Varakina, to learn more about the inspiration behind Cherry On Top, her journey to opening the cafe, and her vision for this new neighborhood spot. Read on to learn more about Cherry On Top in Alexandria.
Behind Cherry On Top
Ksenia Varakina was born and raised in Moscow before moving to New York City, where she spent nine years. Ksenia moved to Alexandria in late 2024 after falling in love with it – she described the city as having “such a charm, like European charm.” After years of a fast-paced lifestyle, she was ready to settle down and found that here in Alexandria.
Before moving to Alexandria, Ksenia attended Baruch University, where she worked at a small coffee shop in Manhattan. It was through this job and her former boss that she was introduced to the world of coffee. From learning how to roast beans to crafting speciality coffee, her passion continued to grow. Ksenia’s former boss is now her coffee supplier and remains a huge supporter of the business.
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This experience inspired her to open her own cafe. She envisioned a place where locals could gather over coffee during the day and wine in the night, as she believed “it was a good idea to do coffee for the morning and wine for the evening.”
While walking through Alexandria with a friend, Ksenia stopped by a space on Queen Street that is now home to Cherry on Top. Ksenia, a data scientist, knew that it would be just right for her vision, but that it would take a lot of work to get there.
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The space was formerly an art studio, requiring nearly a year of renovations before it became Cherry On Top. From plumbing and electrical work to permits and health department inspections, the process was challenging. Ksenia said, “I knew it was going to be hard. I didn’t know it was going to be that hard.” Despite the obstacles, she explained, “It took a lot of time to do that, and a lot of passion… a lot of support from my family,” highlighting their encouragement throughout the journey.
What to Expect
Ksenia shared that she “wanted it to be not just a commercial place… more like a hidden gem.” That vision is reflected throughout the space. When guests first arrive, they are welcomed by the cafe’s front garden, a feature not commonly found at other cafes. With plenty of outdoor seating, it is an ideal place to enjoy the weather with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine in hand.
Inside, the cafe features comfortable seating alongside a long communal table. The bright, clean, and cozy atmosphere makes it suitable for any occasion, whether it is catching up with friends, grabbing coffee while working, or spending time with family.
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Beyond the space itself, the menu offers a wide selection of speciality drinks, fresh pastries, and an assortment of wines. From our visit, one of The Fairfax Girl’s favorites was the Iced Banana Matcha Latte. Ksenia also recommends trying some of Cherry On Top’s signature drinks, including the cold brew with grapefruit and the Nutella drinks.
Looking Ahead
Ksenia wants guests to know that Cherry On Top is more than a cafe and wine bar. It is a space meant to bring the community together. She plans to host workshops, book clubs, collaborations with other local businesses, and other community events, all while keeping her vision in mind of wanting “it to be a kind of place where local people can meet.”
Ksenia is looking forward to continue growing the business. Along with community events, she hopes to expand into private events, bridal showers, birthday parties, and even small weddings. She is open to new opportunities that come her way. Ksenia hopes every guest leaves with a memorable experience, sharing that she wants Cherry On Top to be “the little cherry on top of your day.”
Cherry On Top is now open at 1021 Queen Street in Old Town Alexandria. The cafe is open Monday and Tuesday from 7 AM to 9 PM, Wednesday and Thursday from 7 AM to 5 PM, Friday from 7 AM to 10 PM, Saturday from 8 AM to 10 PM, and Sunday from 8 AM to 9 PM.
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