21 Best Restaurants in Williamsburg, VA
Get ready to take a gastronomic journey through the charming city of Williamsburg, Virginia.
Let's embark on this flavorful journey together, shall we?
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself
Casa Pearl
My little slice of paradise in the city is none other than Casa Pearl, a hip seafood eatery housed in a converted gas station.
Dining there feels like a mini vacation.
With a raw bar and a menu that primarily serves oysters and tacos, it's a seafood lover's dream.
I particularly love the oysters, they are always fresh, juicy, and flavorful.
I've tried them all, but the Minnie Pearl oysters with salmon roe are something you won't forget easily.
The tacos, especially the whole flounder taco, is a standout.
That perfect flaky fish wrapped up in a soft tortilla, it's a treat that never disappoints.
But it's not just about the food, the service is fantastic too.
They always have a smile on their face and are ready to help you with anything you need.
Their website does a great job of showcasing their offer.
But honestly, it's nothing compared to experiencing the place.
The decor is simple and comfortable, a blend of casual and sophisticated that instantly makes you feel at home.
The atmosphere is lively and inviting, perfect for a nice dinner or a get-together with friends.
When it comes to drinks, there's a great selection of cocktails and beverages to quench your thirst.
The drinks are well mixed and make for a perfect start to your meal.
One of my favorites is the smoked fish dip and BBQ Chicharrons.
It's a match made in heaven with their drinks.
Matchsticks BBQ Co.
There's nothing quite like a Sunday evening at Matchsticks BBQ Co.
I remember it was around 8:10 p.m. when I walked in to find that they were out of a few of my favorites - the barbecue ribs, beef brisket, and smoked turkey - and even one of the sausages.
But let me tell you, my disappointment vanished the moment I bit into their pulled pork sandwich.
Generously filled and served on a fresh brioche bun, it was a delight to the taste buds.
And the mac and cheese on the side? Absolutely divine!
The barbecue sauces, all made in-house, complemented the dishes perfectly.
A nice touch was the marinated pickled onions, and pickles served on the side.
And oh, the desserts!
They looked so tempting that I promised myself to save room for them on my next visit.
Le Yaca French Restaurant
I remember the first time I walked into Le Yaca, intrigued by the promise of traditional French cuisine right here in my city.
Immediately, I was taken in by the refined dining room, complete with a cozy fireplace and charming patio seating.
The place, I must say, radiates an atmosphere that is just perfect, whether you're out for a romantic dinner or a fun night with friends.
One thing that stands out to me about Le Yaca is the quality of service.
Then there's the food - oh, the food!
Every dish is a piece of art, tastefully decorated and, more importantly, delicious to the core.
My personal favorites are the decadent desserts; each one is a treat to the senses.
Another thing that left a lasting impression on me was the wine selection.
Each variety has been chosen with care, perfectly complementing the flavors of the food.
You might have to dig a little deeper into your wallet, but trust me, the experience is totally worth it.
Food For Thought
There's this place I frequent called Food For Thought, and I must admit, the name plays the perfect metaphor for their cuisine.
Their menu is an amalgamation of American fare infused with flavors from around the world.
Every detail in their meals reflects a thought put into it, making your taste buds dance with joy.
The ambiance of the restaurant is a testament to its name too.
It's not just a place to fill your tummy but also your mind, as it's adorned with enlightening words of wisdom that add to the unique dining experience.
It's the perfect mix of wisdom and taste, which makes it a hit among the locals, including myself.
They're well-versed, always courteous, and very efficient.
They go the extra mile to ensure you relish your meal, even showing photographs of each dessert to help you make that difficult choice.
I usually find myself gravitating toward their seafood offerings.
The fish is always cooked to near perfection, and the mussels, oh boy, they are a must-try!
The salmon can be a little dry, but ask for it to be served medium-rare and you won't be disappointed.
One of my absolute favorites is their cilantro chicken, coupled with mashed potatoes and a side of peas and corn.
It's the kind of comfort food that leaves you feeling satisfied yet craving more.
And don't even get me started on their desserts.
The portions are generous, and the taste is simply divine.
Christiana Campbell's Tavern
I must admit, I've dined at a fair share of exquisite places around the city, but there's something special about Christiana Campbell's Tavern.
Believe me, when it comes to Southern cuisine, they raise the bar.
Every visit feels like stepping into a time capsule, with the faithfully recreated ambiance echoing the era where Washington himself dined.
Just sitting in the place makes you feel like you're part of the history.
And then there's the food!
Oh, the food!
The fried oysters and crab cakes are simply out of this world.
They're cooked to perfection that they melt in your mouth.
And don't even get me started on their heavenly sweet potato muffins, which you'll instantly fall in love with at the very first bite.
My visits to the Tavern are incomplete without a hearty drink, and their Rummer does the job just right.
It's a cocktail that can warm your soul even on the chilliest nights.
And for dessert, their Rum Cream Tart is something you just can't miss out on.
It's like a sweet cloud that perfectly rounds off the meal.
Now, as delightful as the food and drinks are, the service is what truly stands out.
Waypoint Seafood & Grill
I recently decided to try out Waypoint Seafood & Grill, a local eatery renowned for its locally sourced seafood and diverse wine selection.
Upon entering the place, I was taken in by the modern and elegant surroundings.
The wine pour was considerably generous, a departure from the usual scant serving I’ve come to expect at fine dining establishments.
However, the high point of the evening was the fried oysters; they were cooked to perfection, and every bite was a burst of flavor.
The tart has the right amount of sweetness.
Fat Canary
There's something truly special about Fat Canary, a refined bistro nestled in the heart of Williamsburg.
At Fat Canary, you are guaranteed to experience upscale American fare, an exquisite assortment of wines, and a cheese shop that's a cheese lover's paradise.
The patio provides an excellent location to enjoy a meal and relish the ambiance.
Words can hardly do justice to the delightful culinary adventure that awaits you at Fat Canary.
Every dish that I've had the pleasure to taste has been nothing short of delicious.
I've found myself dreaming about the meals I've had here, just waiting for the next opportunity to go back.
The value you get from the food and overall dining experience is simply unparalleled.
I particularly recommend trying out the mozzarella appetizer, which has quickly become my favorite.
The salad with peaches and goat cheese is a must-try if you're seated here.
For the main course, the large serving of pork chop continues to be a hit among my friends and me.
And, of course, no meal is complete without dessert.
The chocolate mousse, rich yet not overly heavy, is the perfect way to end a meal.
The atmosphere is quite welcoming, inviting everyone to relish a splendid meal in a comfortable setting.
Opus 9 Steakhouse
I swear, there's no other place in the city that can match the culinary excellence at Opus 9 Steakhouse.
It's been a favorite of mine for quite some time now, and each visit reinforces my love for this place.
The last time I was there, I decided to splurge a little and ordered the sirloin with a lobster tail.
What a delightful combination!
Each bite of the steak melted in my mouth, while the lobster tail added that perfect maritime touch to the dish.
But what is a good meal without a perfect wine to go along with it?
The pairing wine that the sommelier recommended was an absolute delight.
It was not just a drink, it was an experience that truly enhanced the flavors of my meal.
The remarkable thing is, even though it was a highly-rated wine, it didn't burn a hole in my pocket.
The service at Opus 9 Steakhouse is another reason I keep coming back.
The rib-eye steak cooked medium rare is another favorite of mine.
It's tender, bursting with flavors, and cooked to perfection.
And if you have room for dessert, don't miss the chocolate concerto.
It's divine.
Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant
Whenever I want a fantastic Italian meal, there's no place like Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant.
There's something comforting about walking into the warm, semi-formal setting, knowing I'm about to enjoy a delicious combination of classic and contemporary Italian dishes.
Oh, and they serve pizzas too!
One of the things that I absolutely love about Giuseppe's is how clean it is.
It creates the perfect ambiance for a nice family dinner.
Speaking of families, it's also kid-friendly, with a great kids' menu that caters to the little ones' tastes.
It really made us feel special.
Each visit to Giuseppe's feels like a new culinary adventure.
Their gluten-free pizzas are a hit, and the salads are always fresh and flavorful.
The service is consistently good; always attentive and accommodating.
I remember when I was offered a much better table when it became available, even though I was seated next to the door initially.
One of the highlights of dining at Giuseppe's is their amazing selection of appetizers.
The Caprese and calamari are a must-try.
The entrees are just as impressive.
Their Mahi fish special with lentil soup is an unforgettable delight, and the Pesto Gnocci paired with a Caesar salad is a match made in heaven.
But it is their desserts that always keep me coming back.
Their Tiramisu is, hands down, one of the best I've ever had.
Spartan Gyros
One of my favorite spots to grab a bite in the city has to be Spartan Gyros.
You can find out more about them here.
The food here is simply amazing. The flavor is always on point, and all their ingredients are fresh.
The fact that it's run by a family who genuinely cares about their customers and the food they serve only adds to its charm.
I remember once I dropped in for a late lunch, and that day the place was pretty empty but extremely clean.
Fast, fresh, and delicious food is the norm here.
I had a gyro meat salad with Greek dressing, accompanied by a delightful falafel appetizer.
My partner, on the other hand, enjoyed a chicken pita combo with a cup of lemon chicken & rice soup.
We especially liked the tzaziki and Greek dressing, both of which were incredibly flavorful.
The gyros here may not be the best I've ever had, but they are good enough to have me coming back for more.
The lettuce and tomatoes are always fresh, and the portion of gyro meat is just right.
The Greek salad, too, is quite good, fresh, and generously portioned.
Shorty's Diner
There's nothing better than finding a spot in the city that nails the perfect balance between a laid-back atmosphere and high-quality food.
That's exactly what you'll find at Shorty's Diner.
Tucked away on Second Street, it serves as an all-too-welcome retreat from the daily grind for me.
Stepping into Shorty's, you are met with a classic diner ambiance that's just oozing nostalgia.
The menu is as diverse as it is delicious.
From hearty breakfasts to fulfilling lunches, there's something that caters to everyone's palate.
As a fan of the unexpected, I have a soft spot for their Monte Cristo sandwich, a rare gem I've noticed missing on many diner menus.
The prices are fair, especially considering the generous portions.
One tip I've learned is to communicate effectively if you need anything since they're often zipping around.
When it comes to their specialties, I can't help but rave about their biscuits and sausage gravy.
It's a bold statement, but they're even better than my grandma's!
And their Cuban pork BBQ is nothing short of mouthwatering.
K'Bola Cuban Restaurant & Bar
Just another regular weekend in Williamsburg, and I decided to indulge in some Cuban cuisine.
I had heard a lot about K'Bola Cuban Restaurant & Bar, so I thought I'd give it a try.
You can find more about them on their website.
From the moment I stepped in, I felt like I had been transported straight to the heart of Cuba.
The patio was a delightful surprise; it was quite a treat to sit outside and dine, despite the wintery chill.
My meal started with a round of exquisite cocktails.
They were mixed to perfection and really set the mood for the evening.
I opted for a combo plate for my main course - empanadas, croquettes, and yucca fries - which was, hands down, my favorite from the menu.
I still dream about those dipping sauces - a testament to their memorability.
The tostones rellenos with beef followed, which were just as delectable.
No Cuban experience is complete without a traditional Cuban sandwich and a pina colada, both of which were phenomenal.
The sandwich, especially, was authentic and delicious.
It was a perfect end to a perfect night.
The cherry on top was the Latin dance night that was going on.
It added to the authenticity and made me feel like I was indeed in Cuba, minus the travel.
Old Chickahominy House
I've always found something wonderfully comforting about the Old Chickahominy House.
Nestled in the heart of our city, it offers an enticing mix of down-home Southern cooking and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time.
You can find more about it on their website here.
I typically start my day with breakfast at this charming little spot.
It's become somewhat of a tradition for me to order eggs over-hard, with toast and bacon.
One thing I love about the Old Chickahominy House is the way it intertwines history with great meals.
The lovely gentleman who seated me during my last visit shared his recommendations for sites to see in the area.
It's a beautiful reminder of how rich our local history is.
But the Old Chickahominy House isn't just a place to eat—it also houses a cute little gift shop filled with a variety of unique and charming items.
It's the perfect place to find a special gift or a keepsake to remember your visit.
Of course, if you're in the mood for something other than breakfast, the Old Chickahominy House doesn't disappoint.
King's Arms Tavern
One of my favorite places to spend an evening in our charming city of Williamsburg is the King's Arms Tavern, an authentic recreation of an 18th-century tavern.
There's a special kind of magic about the place, or maybe it's the warm, cozy surroundings that transport you straight back to the colonial era.
Initially, I was skeptical, thinking it might be just another tourist gimmick.
But the food and ambiance are genuinely exceptional.
The menu, although limited, is thoughtfully curated with a variety of hearty American classics.
It's hard to pick a favorite, but the vegetarian "steak" is a revelation.
And yes, do not miss out on the bread pudding and pecan pie for dessert.
They're nothing short of heavenly.
But it's not just the food that makes the King's Arms Tavern stand out.
KEΦI Greek Kitchen
Let me tell you about this gem in our city - the KEΦI Greek Kitchen.
This warm and relaxed eatery is my go-to place whenever I crave authentic Greek food.
The traditional Greek classics like gyros and chicken souvlaki are to die for.
One of the things I appreciate most about KEΦI Greek Kitchen is their attention to detail.
Every dish is carefully crafted, and the quality of their ingredients is top-notch.
From the drinks to the desserts, everything is made to perfection.
Plus, they even filter their water, which really enhances the flavor of the dishes and drinks.
Trust me when I say this, the baklava cheesecake is a dessert you don't want to miss!
The service at KEΦI Greek Kitchen is also commendable.
Anatolia Bar & Grill
It was just another Tuesday evening in the city, and my partner and I were feeling adventurous for dinner.
We decided to treat ourselves and take a culinary trip to the Anatolia Bar & Grill.
The first thing that caught our eye upon entering was the delightful ambiance, beautifully decorated with intriguing Turkish decor.
The menu was a delightful surprise.
We shared the Manti dish - an authentic Turkish delight - and it was nothing short of spectacular!
The food was fresh, and the flavors were out of this world.
The serving size was generous, making it a great value for the price.
And speaking of delights, we couldn't resist and indulged ourselves in an assortment of Turkish Delights for dessert.
The sweetness of these treats provided the perfect ending to our meal.
One of the things that made our evening special was the attentive service we received.
What added to the unique atmosphere was the Turkish music playing softly in the background.
It gave us a feeling of being in a quaint café in the heart of Istanbul.
The seating was a bit close, but it didn't dampen our spirits.
In fact, it added to the warmth and coziness of the place.
On a special note, the Anatolia Bar & Grill offers a large selection of wines, but what caught our interest was their Pomegranate Tea.
The vibrant color of the tea in the clear cups was visually appealing, and the flavor was refreshing, pairing well with our meal.
Cochon on 2nd
If you ever find yourself hungry in Williamsburg, Cochon on 2nd is the place to be.
The moment you step in, you're immediately immersed in the warm and inviting atmosphere of this convivial open-kitchen restaurant.
The ambiance is upscale yet simple, with dim lighting that sets the mood just right.
Their open kitchen concept is a treat to the eyes and adds a certain charm to the overall dining experience.
It's not just about the atmosphere though, the food, oh the food!
I started with their firecracker shrimp, which was fresh, crisp, and paired perfectly with fresh veggies.
After that delight, I moved on to their Scottish Salmon.
It was simply delicious, rich in flavor, and cooked to perfection.
My friend opted for the duck and was equally satisfied.
The portions were generous, and we were filled to the brim that we could not save room for dessert.
And the drinks, wow!
They invite you to peruse their designer drink list and wine list even before presenting the menu.
It is an impressive selection, though I was more focused on satisfying my hunger that night.
Second Street American Bistro
I'm lucky enough to have Second Street American Bistro right around the corner from my house, and it's become my go-to spot for delicious meals.
On my latest visit, I was greeted warmly as soon as I walked through the door, which set a welcoming tone for the dining experience that followed.
The presentation of the food is always a visual treat, and this time was no exception.
I chose to start with the Thai shrimp and pork belly appetizers.
The shrimp was savory and full of flavor, and the pork belly was perfectly cooked and melted in my mouth.
I followed that up with the tuna poke bowl as my main course.
The dish was fresh and colorful, and the sauce tantalizing.
My partner, on the other hand, ordered a burger.
Complementing it was a crisp and flavorful grit cake.
The drinks were generously poured and added an extra layer of enjoyment to the meal.
And as we were leaving, we were thanked warmly for our visit.
I also need to mention the carrot cake - it was big enough to share among the three of us and was probably the moistest cake I've tasted in a while.
Amber Ox Public House
The other night, I found myself at Amber Ox Public House, a place known for its seasonal New American fare served in a modern pub setting.
The long bar and banquettes, combined with an industrial vibe, make it a unique place to dine.
As a food enthusiast, I was excited to try some of their farm-to-table dishes.
They were reasonably priced for the variety of flavors they delivered.
I, too, was impressed by the excellent customer service we received that night.
The Amber Ox really stepped it up with the first two courses.
The poutine and the duck were impeccable - flavorful, complex, and cooked to perfection.
The cocktails, too, packed a delightful punch.
Maurizio's Italian Restaurant
In Williamsburg, when you're craving good Italian food, there's no better place to go than Maurizio's Italian Restaurant.
The ambiance is warm, welcoming, and family-friendly.
They offer a variety of traditional Italian dishes that are sure to impress even the most discerning foodie.
One of my absolute favorites is their chicken pasta dish.
It reminds me of a particular dish from Northeast China - a mouthwatering chicken stew with mushrooms.
The pasta is always cooked to perfection, and the Alfredo sauce, which is beautifully paired with cheese, provides a creamy richness that is simply unforgettable.
What really sets Maurizio's apart, though, is the service.
I would be remiss not to mention the garlic bread and desserts.
The garlic bread is hands down the best I've ever had, and the dessert drinks are a must-try.
I'm not typically one to finish a meal with a sweet treat, but the desserts at Maurizio's are too good to pass up.
I always find myself devouring them before I even think of taking a photo!
Captain George's Seafood Restaurant
Oh, how I love the unmistakable seafaring theme of Captain George's Seafood Restaurant.
It's a regular haunt for me, and there's no denying that it's one of the best places around to indulge in a seafood feast.
The inviting decor, from the flower arrangements outside to the marine-inspired interiors, perfectly sets the stage for the delicacies that await.
My meals here often begin with crab legs, which are nothing short of awesome.
As a lover of all things seafood, I usually make my way to the fried scallops and oysters, She-crab soup, Oysters Rockefeller, mussels, and clams of two different sizes.
Each dish offers its own unique taste explosion, and I've never been disappointed.
One thing I've learned from my regular visits is to always save room for dessert.
They offer a wide selection, and I'm always impressed.
From Baklava to Flan, each dessert is a perfectly sweet ending to the meal.
Final Thoughts
Every dining experience in Williamsburg, Virginia, is unique, from the adventurous flavors at K'Bola Cuban Restaurant & Bar to the classic American dishes served up at Second Street American Bistro.
Being able to relax with a plate of mouth-watering barbeque at Matchsticks BBQ Co. or indulge in a fine dining experience at Opus 9 Steakhouse is just part of our everyday life.
The diverse array of restaurants truly reflects the melting pot of cultures in our beautiful city.
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