23 Unique Restaurants in Virginia: Dining Spots You’ve Got to See to Believe

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Virginia’s dining scene is packed with surprises, serving up unique eats and unforgettable vibes you’ve got to see to believe. From cozy mountain cafés to waterfront seafood shacks, this state’s got something for every kind of foodie. Known for its fresh oysters, Southern comfort food, and farm-to-table goodness, Virginia blends classic flavors with one-of-a-kind dining experiences.

Picture slurping oysters at Merroir right by the water, feasting in a 1900s train car at The Depot Grille, or sipping craft brews surrounded by aviation history at Beamer’s 25. There’s even a spot where dinner feels like a medieval feast—armor and all!

In this guide, I’m sharing 23 unique restaurants that prove Virginia is more than just for lovers—it’s for food lovers, too. Get ready for a dining adventure like no other!

👉 Pro Tip: The Arts District Food Tour in Richmond is a must for foodies! You’ll snack on gourmet tacos, creative small plates, and local desserts while strolling past colorful street art and murals. Wear comfy shoes and come ready to eat—every stop is worth it!

Unique Restaurants in Virginia: 23 Incredible Virginia Eateries

From historic inns serving colonial fare to modern eateries with inventive menus, Virginia’s unique restaurants have something to delight every palate. Let’s explore these gems that make dining in Virginia unforgettable.

1. Swinging Bridge Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Paint Bank
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $25 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern / American Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Rustic general store and grist mill setting, actual swinging bridge to cross, and home-style cooking.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous drives, Southern comfort food lovers, and an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Hold onto your hats for an adventure at the Swinging Bridge Restaurant in tiny Paint Bank! It’s a destination with a rustic general store, a working grist mill, and an actual swinging bridge. The air smells of woodsmoke and country cooking.

Trying their amazing buffalo burgers, raised at the adjoining farm, is a good plan. Their classic chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy, or a hearty plate of beans and cornbread, are also excellent choices. It’s a true taste of Appalachian charm.

2. The Shack

This no-frills gem in Staunton is a chef-driven surprise tucked inside a modest house, but do not let the humble exterior fool you. Chef Ian Boden’s inventive (often locally-sourced) takes on Southern classics are what make The Shack a destination in its own right. Definitely go for the luscious chicken and dumplings when it’s on the rotation, or the rich, perfectly seasoned beef tartare. The vibe: quirky, intimate, and just a little bit rustic, with mismatched chairs and an open kitchen that feels like a cool friend’s dinner party. Staunton’s charming downtown is a stroll away, with old-school theaters and boutique shops. The attention to detail here, both in the food and the playlist, absolutely floored me.

3. Gadsby’s Tavern

• 📍 Location: Alexandria (Old Town)
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $60 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Colonial American / Historic Fare
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic 18th-century tavern, period-costumed servers, historic recipes.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History buffs (especially Colonial history!), educational dining experiences, and stepping back in time.

Dine like the Founding Fathers at Gadsby’s Tavern in Old Town Alexandria! It’s the actual 18th-century tavern frequented by George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Servers in period attire guide you through a menu featuring historic recipes.

Savoring George Washington’s Favorite Duck, slow-roasted and served with a cherry sauce, is highly recommended. The hearty Colonial Game Pie or the Gentleman’s Pye (a savory meat pie) are also popular. The flickering candlelight completes the immersive experience.

• Fuel up at more historic spots: 16 Unique Restaurants in Fredericksburg, VA

4. The Egg Bistro

You’ll want to come hungry to this cheerful Virginia Beach breakfast and brunch spot. The Egg Bistro is all about big flavors – and big plates. Their signature Crab Benedict is a can’t-miss, loaded with real lump crab and velvety hollandaise. Or take a leap with their wild pancake flavors, which seem to change daily. The space bursts with sunlight and feels lively and modern, without trying too hard. Expect friendly crowds and fun local art on the walls. It’s a busy spot on weekends, so go early or plan for a short wait. I’m still dreaming about those buttery biscuits the size of my fist.

• More unique Virginia dining: 24 Unique Restaurants in Williamsburg, VA

5. Havana ’59

• 📍 Location: Richmond (Shockoe Bottom)
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Cuban / Latin American
• 🔥 Standout Features: Pre-revolution Havana ambiance, lush courtyard with cigar rolling, Cuban dishes and mojitos.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Tropical escapes, Cuban cuisine and culture, and an atmospheric night out.

Get whisked away to pre-revolution Cuba at Havana ’59 in Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom! This place oozes old-world Havana charm, with crumbling plaster walls, lush tropical plants, and a stunning courtyard. The air is fragrant with mint and roasting pork.

Trying their incredible ropa vieja (shredded beef in a rich tomato sauce) is a must. The classic lechon asado (roast pork with mojo marinade) or the flavorful camarones al ajillo (shrimp in garlic sauce) are also excellent. Don’t skip their mojitos!

6. Fruitive

Located in Virginia Beach, Fruitive is where clean eating and beach-town cool collide. Vegan and plant-based isn’t a compromise here – it’s an adventure. Their hearty quinoa tacos and photogenic avocado toast are actually craveable (seriously!), but for me, the Superberry Bowl loaded with fresh fruit and house-made granola is a beachy, Instagram-perfect breakfast. The decor is modern, bright, and just a little bit surfer-chic, making you want to linger over a smoothie. The boardwalk’s just a few blocks away, so you can take your meal to go for a stroll. Bonus: the recyclable packaging game is strong.

7. Hunter’s Head Tavern

• 📍 Location: Upperville
• 💲 Price range: $25 – $50 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: English Pub Fare / Farm-to-Table
• 🔥 Standout Features: Authentic British pub atmosphere in a historic building, organic and locally sourced ingredients, rustic vibe.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Anglophiles seeking a proper pub experience, supporters of farm-to-table dining, and countryside meals.

Fancy a proper pint in the Virginia countryside? Head to Hunter’s Head Tavern in Upperville! This charming spot feels like an authentic British pub in a historic Virginia building, with cozy fireplaces. They’re serious about farm-to-table, with ingredients from their own Ayrshire Farm.

You should definitely try their classic fish and chips, made with sustainably caught fish and hand-cut fries. A hearty shepherd’s pie made with local lamb, or their Ayrshire Farm beef burger, are also fantastic choices. It’s a perfect cozy retreat.

8. Stellina Pizzeria

If you’re anywhere near Alexandria, Stellina Ristorante is that modern Italian spot you’ve been daydreaming about. It’s all about pizza and handmade pasta here, and the cacio e pepe is pure cloud-like perfection. The squid ink tonnarelli is bold and somehow familiar at once. Expect a breezy, urban vibe with softly glowing lights and minimalist décor, plus a lineup of Italian wines so tempting you’ll want to try a flight. Located in the emerging West End district, it’s minutes from riverside parks and the Torpedo Factory Art Center. On my last visit, I loved how the staff made impeccable recommendations without a hint of snobbery.

9. Lemaire

• 📍 Location: Richmond (The Jefferson Hotel)
• 💲 Price range: $70 – $120+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: New American / Southern Fine Dining
• 🔥 Standout Features: Grand and historic setting within The Jefferson Hotel, Southern-inspired cuisine.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Special occasions, fine dining, and experiencing a Richmond culinary institution.

Prepare for an evening of unparalleled elegance at Lemaire, in the magnificent Jefferson Hotel in Richmond. It’s a grand experience, surrounded by opulent, historic decor and attended by impeccable service. The cuisine is sophisticated New American with distinct Southern influences.

Consider the pan-seared Virginia scallops with seasonal accompaniments. A perfectly cooked heritage pork chop with savory grits, or their renowned peanut soup (a Virginia classic), are also exquisite choices. This is where Richmond celebrates in style.

• Read Next: 12 Perfect Places to Call Home in Richmond, VA

10. Alewife

This Richmond standout is both a culinary adventure and a love letter to the Chesapeake Bay. Chef Lee Gregory’s menu champions sustainable seafood in unexpected ways – the fried catfish sandwich set a new bar for me, and the roasted oysters with XO sauce are knockout. The building is historic but the interior is all sleek angles, with a subtle nautical vibe that works (think: navy trim, not fishnets). Candlelight sets the mood, so it’s perfect for a date or a special night out. Alewife sits in the Church Hill neighborhood, with iconic cobblestone streets and local breweries close by. I left planning my excuse to come back.

11. Leaping Lizard Cafe

• 📍 Location: Virginia Beach
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic American / Cafe / Bakery
• 🔥 Standout Features: Colorful decor in a renovated historic home, beautiful garden seating, creative cafe fare and baked goods.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Brunches, art lovers, and enjoying fresh food in a beautiful garden.

Hop into a world of color and charm at Leaping Lizard Cafe in Virginia Beach! Housed in a beautifully renovated historic home with whimsical, art-filled decor and a stunning garden, this place is a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. The air is filled with fresh herbs.

Trying their creative sandwiches on homemade bread, like the “Lizard Dip” (a French dip variation), is a good plan. One of their vibrant salads with grilled chicken or shrimp, or their legendary sweet potato biscuits served with honey butter, are also fantastic.

12. The Pink Dinghy

In Virginia Beach’s ViBe Creative District, The Pink Dinghy is as quirky as its name. This tropically inspired spot brings a killer mix of Latin flavors and island energy, with must-trys like the tangy chorizo-stuffed papusas and fruity craft cocktails. The inside channels retro Miami with flamingo-pink walls, breezy art, and mismatched tiles. Outdoor picnic tables and a mural-covered patio make it endlessly photogenic. Before or after you eat, explore the ViBe’s buzzing street art and indie coffee shops nearby. Don’t miss their pop-up dessert nights – the coconut tres leches cake is life-changing.

• Discover inland gems: Fredericksburg’s Most Unique Dining Experiences

13. Godfrey’s Drag Brunch

• 📍 Location: Richmond
• 💲 Price range: $30 – $50 per person (Brunch & Show)
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Brunch / Drag Show
• 🔥 Standout Features: High-energy drag performances during brunch, inclusive atmosphere, classic brunch fare with cocktails.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Entertaining brunch, bachelorette parties and celebrations, and supporting LGBTQ+ nightlife.

Get ready to brunch with sparkle and sass at Godfrey’s Drag Brunch in Richmond! Expect dazzling drag performances, high-energy music, and a wildly entertaining atmosphere while you sip on mimosas and enjoy classic brunch dishes. The queens are fierce!

Popular brunch items include the Godfrey’s Classic Breakfast with eggs, bacon, and potatoes. Chicken and waffles or a loaded breakfast burrito are also crowd-pleasers. It’s a fabulously fun and unforgettable way to spend a weekend afternoon!

• Read Next: Top 12 Hidden Gems in Virginia You Won’t Believe Exist

14. The Bee and The Biscuit

Set inside a charming converted cottage in Virginia Beach, The Bee and The Biscuit feels like a cozy farmhouse getaway. Southern comfort is the rule here: flaky buttermilk biscuits smothered in honey butter, and cinnamon roll pancakes bigger than your plate. I can’t get enough of the strawberry mimosas, either. With its creaky floors, floral china, and porch swings, every inch is grandma-chic with serious instagram appeal. Be prepared for a wait on sunny mornings – locals know it’s worth it. A stroll down Princess Anne Road brings you to cute antique shops and sunflower fields in season. Walking in feels like taking a brunch vacation.

• You may also like: 24 Colonial Taverns to Modern Bistros in Williamsburg

15. 1776 Log House Restaurant

• 📍 Location: Wytheville
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Southern / American Comfort Food
• 🔥 Standout Features: Dining in a historic 18th-century log cabin, colonial-era ambiance, and classic Southern home cooking.
• 🎯 Perfect For: History lovers, family meals, and experiencing a taste of colonial Virginia.

Step back in time at the 1776 Log House Restaurant in Wytheville. You’ll be dining in an actual historic log cabin dating back to 1776! The ambiance is pure colonial charm, with rustic wooden beams. The menu is packed with down-home Southern classics.

Trying their famous fried chicken, crispy and juicy, is a must. A hearty serving of country ham with red-eye gravy and biscuits, or their comforting chicken and dumplings, are also excellent choices. It’s a cozy, historic spot.

16. Mas Tapas

Charlottesville’s Belmont neighborhood hides this delightfully sexy Spanish tapas bar. Mas is all about sharing, with small plates flying out of the open kitchen: garlicky gambas al ajillo, delicate jamón-wrapped figs, and the legendary tortilla Española. The walls are peppered with eclectic art and the lighting is dim enough for whispered secrets or slow sips of vermouth. There’s a killer patio for al fresco evenings under the stars. On weekends, expect a hip, lively crowd and maybe even local musicians. Downtown C’ville and the downtown mall are a quick walk away. I’ve never left without making at least one new food friend at the bar.

17. Clare and Don’s Beach Shack

• 📍 Location: Falls Church
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Seafood / Beach Bar
• 🔥 Standout Features: Laid-back beach shack vibe (even though it’s not at the beach!), great seafood, family-friendly atmosphere.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Casual seafood fix, pretending you’re at the beach, and a fun meal with friends or family.

Catch some beachy vibes at Clare and Don’s Beach Shack in Falls Church! This fun, funky spot is decked out like a classic seaside hangout, with colorful decor and a super laid-back atmosphere. They serve delicious, unpretentious seafood and American classics.

Trying their awesome fish tacos, grilled or fried, is a good idea. A basket of perfectly fried shrimp or their popular crab cake sandwich are also local favorites. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax, and enjoy tasty grub.

18. The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm

If fairy-tale farm dinners are your thing, this Lovettsville spot is your new must-book destination. The dining room sits literally in a greenhouse, with postcard views of the Potomac River Valley on all sides. Menus shift daily, reflecting what’s grown onsite, and the seasonal tasting menu is a masterclass in hyper-local cuisine – think: sun-warm tomatoes with edible flowers, or lamb raised just steps away. The vibe is tranquil, with twinkling lights and soft acoustic music. The farm’s walking trails are open before dinner for a romantic stroll. I was totally blown away by the care put into every plate and the sense of peace at sunset.

19. Pocahontas Pancake and Waffle Shop

• 📍 Location: Virginia Beach
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American Breakfast / Pancakes & Waffles
• 🔥 Standout Features: Native American-themed decor (including a teepee entrance!), huge variety of pancakes and waffles.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Classic beach town breakfast, families, and satisfying your pancake or waffle cravings.

Start your beach day right at the legendary Pocahontas Pancake and Waffle Shop in Virginia Beach! This iconic spot is a beloved institution, famous for its massive menu of pancakes, waffles, and all things breakfast, served in a fun, kitschy setting with a teepee entrance.

Trying their fluffy Pocahontas pancakes (a short stack is plenty!) is essential. A crispy Belgian waffle piled high with fruit and whipped cream, or a classic country ham and egg breakfast, are also fantastic. It’s a classic, family-friendly breakfast experience.

• Read Next: 12 INSANE Things to Do in Virginia Beach at Night

20. Clementine Cafe

In downtown Harrisonburg, Clementine Cafe is an artsy, unpretentious oasis packed with locals. The menu skips around global comfort food: their Thai peanut bowl is always bright and satisfying, and the fried chicken sandwich is pure crowd-pleaser. Walls are covered in murals and rotating art shows, and there’s live music or trivia pretty much every week. The patio feels like a secret garden on warm days, perfect for people-watching with a craft beer. Bonus points: you can wander to Harrisonburg’s vintage shops or the nearby farmer’s market. On my last stop, I loved how everyone – regulars, students, random travelers – all felt right at home.

• Continue your foodie adventure through Virginia: 16 Incredibly Unique Places to Eat in Fredericksburg

21. Pink Cadillac Diner

• 📍 Location: Natural Bridge
• 💲 Price range: $10 – $20 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Classic American Diner / 50s Style
• 🔥 Standout Features: Bright pink retro 50s diner decor (complete with a Cadillac!), jukebox tunes, classic diner fare.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Nostalgic meals, lovers of 50s memorabilia, and classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

Cruise on back to the fabulous fifties at the Pink Cadillac Diner near Natural Bridge! This place is a full-on retro dream, decked out in gleaming chrome, checkerboard floors, and, of course, plenty of pink – including a pink Cadillac! The jukebox plays the classics.

Slide into a vinyl booth and order up a juicy cheeseburger and a side of crispy fries. A thick, creamy milkshake (chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry) or their popular BLT sandwich are also great choices. It’s a fun, nostalgic blast from the past.

22. L’Opossum

• 📍 Location: Richmond (Oregon Hill)
• 💲 Price range: $60 – $100+ per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: Eclectic Fine Dining / Whimsical American
• 🔥 Standout Features: Quirky “maximalist” decor, playful cuisine, James Beard Award-winning chef.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Adventurous fine diners and special occasions.

Prepare for a dining experience as delightfully eccentric as it is exquisitely delicious at L’Opossum in Richmond’s Oregon Hill! Chef David Shannon has created a wonderland of “maximalist” decor as the backdrop for his highly inventive and playful fine dining cuisine.

Dishes are creative and names are whimsical. Consider the “Swanky Mac & Cheese” with Surryano ham & escargots de Bourgogne. The vegan “scallops” made from mushrooms, or the rich Fabergé Egg á la Cary Grant (a savory custard), are also highly praised.

23. The Black Sheep

• 📍 Location: Richmond (Carver)
• 💲 Price range: $15 – $30 per person
• 🍽️ Cuisine Style: American / Creative Sandwiches / Eclectic
• 🔥 Standout Features: Over-the-top “battleship” sandwiches.
• 🎯 Perfect For: Sandwich fanatics with huge appetites and adventurous eaters.

Brace yourself for sandwich warfare at The Black Sheep in Richmond! This legendary spot is famous for its “battleships” – absolutely colossal, over-the-top submarine sandwiches packed with creative and delicious fillings that are practically a meal for two. The vibe is cool and quirky.

Trying one of their behemoths is essential. The “CSS Virginia” (peach-glazed pork belly, smoked sausage) is a popular choice. The “USS Wisconsin” (Cajun-blackened catfish, coleslaw) or the “USS Brooklyn” (roast beef, provolone, au jus) are also fantastic.

• Read Next: Discover Virginia: 12 Exciting Attractions and Fun Things to Do

Frequently Asked Questions About the Unique Places to Eat in Virginia

Got questions about eating out in Virginia? Our Virginia restaurant guide is here to help, with answers to some common queries.

What is the oldest restaurant in Virginia?

The oldest restaurant in Virginia is the White Horse Tavern in Newport News, established in 1683. It’s a place where history comes alive, offering a glimpse into the past with its colonial architecture and traditional American fare. Dining here is like stepping back in time, with each dish telling a story of Virginia’s rich culinary heritage.

What is the best food to eat in Virginia?

The best food in VA is a tough choice, given the state’s rich culinary scene. However, seafood, particularly Chesapeake Bay blue crabs and oysters, stands out. These local delicacies are prepared in various ways, from classic crab cakes to raw oysters on the half shell, showcasing the fresh flavors of Virginia’s waters.

What is the official dish of Virginia?

The official dish of Virginia is the ham biscuit. This simple yet delicious food reflects the state’s agricultural heritage and Southern culinary traditions. Made with country ham served between a freshly baked biscuit, it’s a staple at Virginia gatherings and a must-try for visitors.

Where can I find scenic places in Virginia to eat?

For scenic places in Virginia to eat, look no further than restaurants along the Blue Ridge Parkway or those overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. These spots offer breathtaking views that enhance the dining experience, making every meal memorable. Whether it’s a mountain vista or a waterfront setting, Virginia’s beauty adds a special touch to your dining experience.

How can I find cheap eats in Virginia?

Finding cheap eats in Virginia is easy, thanks to a variety of options across the state. From food trucks serving up gourmet bites to cozy diners with hearty, affordable meals, Virginia has something for every budget. Local farmers’ markets are also a great place to enjoy fresh, inexpensive food while supporting Virginia’s farmers.

What are some must-visit fine dining restaurants in Virginia?

For fine dining in VA, consider restaurants that offer a blend of exquisite cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service. Located in some of the top places to live and visit in Virginia, cities like Richmond, Alexandria, and Charlottesville are home to many fine dining establishments that feature locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes prepared by renowned chefs.

Can you recommend vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Virginia?

Virginia boasts a wide array of vegetarian-friendly restaurants that cater to all tastes. From vegan cafes offering plant-based versions of Southern classics to international eateries with extensive vegetarian menus, there’s no shortage of options for those seeking meatless meals.

What are some unique dining experiences in Virginia?

Virginia offers unique dining experiences that range from historic taverns to modern eateries with themed decor. For an unforgettable meal, consider dining in a converted train car, eating inside a historic mill, or enjoying a meal on a farm where the ingredients on your plate were grown.

Where can I enjoy outdoor dining in Virginia?

Virginia’s beautiful landscapes and mild climate make it perfect for outdoor dining. Many restaurants offer patios, gardens, or rooftop dining areas where guests can enjoy meals with a view. From waterfront restaurants in Norfolk to mountain-view terraces in the Shenandoah Valley, outdoor dining in Virginia is a treat.

What are some iconic foods to try in Virginia?

Iconic foods to try in Virginia include Smithfield ham, peanut soup, and Brunswick stew. These dishes reflect the state’s agricultural roots and culinary traditions. Don’t miss the chance to try Virginia peanuts in various forms, from boiled to roasted, showcasing the state’s status as a top peanut producer.

Final Thoughts On Unique Virginia Restaurants

Our journey through the flavors and sights of the Old Dominion comes to an end, but the adventure doesn’t have to stop here. With our Virginia restaurant guide, you’ve got a treasure map to some of the most delightful dining experiences the state has to offer. From the oldest eateries steeped in history to the coolest spots with views that dazzle, Virginia’s foodie scene is as diverse as its landscape, reflecting the Southeast US charm. Remember, whether you’re craving the freshest seafood, looking for the perfect spot for a scenic meal, or wanting to indulge in fine dining, Virginia has a table waiting for you. And for those on a budget, the state’s array of cheap eats ensures that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank.