Mackenzie’s Tunes & Tonics is located at 3950 University Drive was up for approval on November 18, 2025! So we went over to chat with Josh Alexander, the illustrious owner who expressed great joy about moving on as a speakeasy dive to a place where people can create their own experiential events while enjoying fine dining.
“There was no real signage outside, just if people knew that it was here. It was here, you know, a true speakeasy back from, you know, the 20s or whatever you had to, you know, whisper, you know, secret password,” shared Josh.
Mackenzie’s menu takes comfort food classics and gives them a modern twist created by their executive Chef Joe Sullivan whose expertise lies in transforming food and beverages into memorable experiences for their customers. Josh worked with Joe and have become close friends since their days at the legendary Coyote Grille and from working together at other well known dining establishments in the City.
Some of the must-try dishes include Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich a spicy, crispy handful that is perfectly paired with cole slaw and the Smash Burger a juicy, flavorful stacked with fresh toppings – the recommended favorite and hospitable host, the 10-year old Ms. MacKenzie herself who welcomed me and then went off to take care of homework.
“I grew up watching Cheers,” recalled Josh “I still watch it” as we delved into the rest of the story. “I want to build a community where people come here to be happy and be friends. I wanted to have a place like Cheers. You won’t get that at corporate chains.”
Josh shared the devastation of COVID and the shutdown of small businesses. “We have to build that back up again. I have a lot of support that many small businesses did not and don’t. My music stage is supported by the Songwriters’ Association of Washington.” One of Mackenzie’s biggest draws is its live music. Local musicians perform regularly, creating a lively, engaging atmosphere. From acoustic sets to full-band performances, the music adds energy and makes every visit feel special.
The bar at Mackenzie’s is just as impressive as the kitchen, hence tonics made it up on the sign. Their cocktail menu features both classic favorites and innovative drinks crafted with fresh ingredients.
“We are an outpost for Sojourn Fermentory, a brewery located in Suffolk which is owned by Fairfax City people.” Josh said proudly “I try to carry as many of their beers as we can.” Josh highlighted that the Midnight lagger was super popular, very unique and hard to even keep on tap because they run out all the time.
Highlights include their Signature Cocktails – Unique creations that reflect the season and the bartender’s creativity; Craft Takes on Classics – Martinis, mojitos, and old-fashioneds elevated with inventive twists; and Local Beer & Wine Options – Perfect for those who prefer something simple but high quality. Josh highlighted that they are very famous for their old fashioned and Manhattan gimlets, and what’s very, very popular right now made with local honey.
The restaurant’s dog-friendly patio also makes it a fun spot for socializing, whether you’re stopping by for dinner, drinks, or just enjoying the live tunes on a warm evening. Josh also hosts bartending classes twice a year along with cocktail and whiskey classes – so you definitely want to keep an eye on their website at https://mackenziesffx.com.
Mackenzie’s isn’t just about great food and drinks—it’s about giving back. The restaurant participates in programs like Pathfinder Kitchen, a Fairfax County initiative that provides culinary training and job skills to individuals diverted from incarceration.
“I’ve partnered with Brightpaths, once we did a training class for people to get their food manager certification. I’ve done classes for the Girl Scouts,” Josh shared a couple of community impact work they have done. Certainly, diners can feel proud knowing that their visit supports a business committed to making a community impact.
In wrapping up this interview, we asked Josh what he loves about owning MacKenzie’s and what he loves about being a business owner in the City.
“I spend 6 – 7 days here. I want to have fun while I am here and I want people to create their own space from private events to business networking. If anyone brings me an idea, let’s make it work. Let’s make it happen. This space is flexible and people don’t have to fit in a cookie cutter,” chatted Josh with a twinkle in his eyes. He shared that one of the biggest plus is their 500 free parking spaces. !
As for his love of the City, Josh bought his home in 2012, has worked in the city since 2005 and went to George Mason. “I was actually born first living in Fairfax Square but we moved to Falls Church and the rest of the family still lived here in Fairfax,” Josh shared as he got a bit emotional. “Oh, boy! I love this little city. I went to Edwin Gonzalez’s retirement last night at City Hall. 32 years with the City of Fairfax – standing ovation – amazing.”
Josh loves working with City of Fairfax staff. Talking about the respect and admiration he had for Gonzalez during their work at the Asian Festival, Josh shared that Gonzalez’s support for the event was critical to the success of the event and he made working with him fun. Edwin Gonzalez worked for the City’s Public Works Department and supported the festival for 4 years working with Josh, including when he served as the Chair of the Old Town Fairfax Business Association.
On November 18, 2025, City of Fairfax Council voted to approve the special permit for dancing and more fun to be had at Mackenzie’s Tunes & Tonic. Josh is planning evenings for dance, 20s themed roaring holiday party, a who dunnit murder mystery dinner – that man had endless dreams for his beloved community space.
A ribbon cutting is scheduled for December 4 at 4 pm and Josh & Ms. Mackenzie invites everyone to come and celebrate! Mackenzie’s Tunes & Tonics is a must-visit destination in Fairfax City. But for city folks, it is our cheerful place to dine, dance, and drink with friends and family.
