Being in the kitchen is in Aaron Green’s blood.
Green’s grandfather once ran a carry-out in Arlington, so it’s no surprise to see Green behind one of his own. That family pedigree is the foundation for First Impression Soul & Seafood, which Green opened last year in Arlington’s Green Valley neighborhood.
Green’s ancestral influence is clear. After one walks past the family photos on display outside, Green can usually be found in the kitchen dishing out recipes passed down from those before him.
Thanks to its tried and true approach, the eatery has garnered a five-star customer rating across Yelp and Google since opening 15 months ago — despite its minimal two-person staff.
“It was true soul food with hearty portions,” one reviewer wrote. “They give you plenty of fish and everything was well seasoned.”
“Reminds me of my Mom’s home cooking,” said another. “Need a little comfort food and nostalgia in your life… try First Impression.”
The restaurant has also been winning new business this year thanks to a video review posted on TikTok in late December, which went semi-viral locally.
What the First Impression menu lacks in length it makes up for in offering many of the traditional soul food favorites.
There are seafood dishes like crab cakes, croaker and jumbo shrimp, in addition to smothered pork chops and fried chicken. Certain specials, like fried catfish, are not featured on the menu but are frequently available.
A variety of traditional sides, including mac and cheese, hush puppies and collard greens, supplement the main offerings. Funnel cake is available for dessert, as are other off-menu options like bread pudding.
Some patrons say that a restaurant doesn’t need a big menu as long as it prepares the food well. And the consensus seems to be that First Impression checks that box.
“I will be back weekly,” a reviewer wrote. “Simply put… home cookin’ done right! And it’s obviously seasoned with love.”
