Reader Poll: Does Vienna Meals Tax Hike Affect How Often You Dine Out?

VIENNA, VA — The price to eat out will go up in the Town of Vienna after Town Council approved a 1 percent meals tax increase.

Last Monday, Town Council voted 6-1 to approve a 1 percent meals tax increase, effective Jan. 1, 2026. That will make the meals tax rate 4 percent for prepared meals. Consumers also pay a 6 percent sales tax.

A council member's alternative motion to sunset the increase after 10 years did not get enough support from Town Council members. The council instead adopted the 1 percent increase without a sunset date.

MORE: Meals Tax Increase Approved By Vienna Town Council, Temporary Option Rejected

Likewise, Fairfax County will charge a meals tax for the first time on Jan. 1, 2026. The 4 percent Fairfax County meals tax will not apply in the Town of Vienna since the town already has its own.

Before the Town Council's meal tax vote, our Vienna Patch poll received over 500 responses, with 78 percent indicating they don't support a 1 percent temporary meals tax to fund an indoor pool and fitness center. The Town Council's discussion on the meals tax indicated the proposed pool and fitness center is not a sure thing, and revenue could more generally help the town's capital funding needs.

Will the meals tax have an impact on your dining habits? Will the increased cost make you eat out less frequently? Will you eat out more often to help the town's businesses stay afloat? Or will it have no impact?

Let us know in the poll below, and feel free to leave a comment about the impact of the meals tax on businesses, consumers, or revenue for capital projects.