Although the location suggests a convenient place for travelers to stop, since it’s right next to a hotel, a morning break at Jackson 20 gives you an opportunity to enjoy breakfast and the everyday rhythm of Alexandria, Virginia.

Two thin rows of wooden slat tables line the brick sidewalk. Everyday people pass by. The sounds of this historic district on a Monday morning are familiar. A small dog jingles and jangles as he leads his human down the street, pausing only for a moment to lap up water from a bowl set out by the restaurant (the patio is dog-friendly). Newly-soled shoes carry a business-casual young man with an unhurried, yet purposeful, clump, clump, clump. Delivery truck engines growl at the curb as uniformed drivers bolt out with package in hand.  Cabbies wait and honk anticipating the needs of hotel guests leaving the Alexandrian next door.

Jackson 20 is a simple little diner in Old Town Alexandria dressed up for its colonial namesake. The first thing you’ll notice is the softball sized brass doorknob that fills the palm of your hand as you open the front door. The second thing you’ll notice is the brass pig.

Rub Bessie’s snout for good luck, they say.

Breakfast options range from popular cereal brands, to fruit parfait, to cinnamon raisin bread French toast, to bagels with salmon and arugula. If you prefer to drink your breakfast, enjoy an “eye opening cocktail” like Blackberry Fizz or Peach Bellini.

The eggs Benedict are acceptable. You’ll appreciate the grill-crisped english muffin. Biting into the golden outside rim there is just the slightest hint of sweetness, a burnt marshmallow flavor which is a delightful surprise.

Stop for a no-fuss breakfast. Located next to the Alexandrian, the prices reflect their shared relationship and the convenience it provides hotel guests.

After your last sip of coffee and easy morning weather (it really was a lovely day), head toward the Potomac, window shopping each step along the way. By then, shop owners should be flinging open their doors and welcoming you in with a smile.