“Where should we eat tonight?” “I don’t know what’s good on the Williamsburg, VA restaurants scene. Should we just drive around until we see something that looks good?” Does that conversation sound familiar? There is so much to think about and plan for when you go on vacation. What should you pack? Where should you stay? (A Williamsburg White House Inn, obviously) What attractions should you visit? Where should you eat? Let us help you out with a list of recommended restaurants in Williamsburg, VA.
Fine Dining Restaurants Williamsburg, VA
Cochon on 2nd boasts locally-sourced ingredients and eclectic flavors. If you are looking for an extra special treat, the Chef’s Table overlooks the open kitchen. The table can be reserved for two to ten people and includes a multi-course dinner with wine pairings. You can also peruse the extensive wine and handcrafted cocktails list in the vibrant bar lounge.
- Fat Canary has the distinction of receiving the AAA Four Diamond award every year since they opened in 2003. The menu changes seasonally but a recent one featured a rabbit appetizer, duck entree, and a macadamia nut pie dessert. Fat Canary is attached to The Cheese Shop and a wine cellar if you are looking for a made-to-order sandwich or a light cheese plate. Downstairs at Fat Canary is a casual small plates addition which is first come first serve and reservations cannot be made.
Opus 9 Steakhouse has plush booths and fireside dining that are perfect for a romantic evening. As the name suggests, the restaurant offers a variety of steak options as well as an extensive seafood menu. Their Sunday brunch is a true experience with an omelet station, chef’s carving station, Belgian waffles, and desserts.
French Restaurants Williamsburg, VA
Blue Talon Bistro focuses on “serious comfort food.” Diners will find entrees from the French Bistro tradition alongside others steeped in American roots. They are open Thursday through Monday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Knowing that people want a variety of meal options throughout the day, the “All-Day” menu features sandwiches, lighter fare, and full dinner entrees; it is available from 11:30 am until closing.
- Le Yaca is a fine dining establishment based on the original Le Yaca in the French Alps. Along with an a la carte menu are lunch and dinner prix fixe menus. Go on a Thursday for the special lamb trio. Do not pass up the baked escargot appetizer. They offer indoor and outdoor dining. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Italian Restaurants Williamsburg, VA
Giuseppi’s Italian Restaurant is a locally owned establishment that has been serving authentic Italian food for 30 years. A quick glance at the reviews proves it is one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg, VA. “We are super foodies and this has quenched our desire for fine dining, reasonable prices, and excellent customer service.”
- Sal’s By Victor is another on the list of family-owned, long-standing restaurants in Williamsburg, VA. They have been serving residents and visitors since 1974. Go on a Friday evening to be serenaded by live Italian music. The lasagna is amazing and they offer both a meat and a veggie version.
Japanese Restaurants Williamsburg, VA
Kyoto Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar is delicious and fun. Teppan showman chefs cook your meals right in front of you with a side of laughter. They also boast an award-winning sushi bar.
- Oishii is a casual Asian eatery as well as a mini-bakery. Go here for hibachi, ramen, sushi, and bubble tea. Then save room for a fun twist when you order macarons, egg tarts, or cheesecake. The baked goods are made on-site and can be pre-ordered for a special surprise.
Seafood Restaurants Williamsburg, VA
Berret’s Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill offers two different dining options. Make a reservation (highly recommended) for the indoor dining room or opt for a first come – first served table in the casual outdoor area. They pride themselves on offering fresh catches from the York and James Rivers, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Locals often vote Berret’s as having the best crabcake around.
Latin/Mexican Restaurants Williamsburg, VA
K’Bola Cuban Restaurant and Bar is one of the restaurants in New Town Williamsburg, VA. Created by three native Cubans, the restaurant is comfortable and the staff is knowledgeable. It is definitely the place to go for yucca and platanos and their version of a Philly Cheesesteak.
- La Tolteca has been serving the community since 1996. Like nachos? This authentic Mexican restaurant boasts seven different options for nachos on the menu. They like to blend traditional methods with unique twists. The extensive menu features tacos, enchiladas, seafood entrees, vegetarian options, and more.
- Pisco 51 is another New Town They offer a Peruvian menu and the founder is a native of Peru who spent 22 years in Lima. Want to try a few different things on the menu? Go for the three-course Executive Pre-Fix Lunch option.
Vegan Restaurants Williamsburg, VA
- Culture Café is right across from William & Mary and the owners strive to have something for everyone. Just look at their story on the webpage: “Come on in you vegans, vegetarians, omnivores, flexitarians, pollotarians, carnivores, and fruitarians.” The current menu features tofu tacos and a cauliflower burger. Open 8am-4pm.
- Mellow Mushroom is not just an option in Williamsburg, VA. It is one of the best vegan pizza options found in 17 states. Most of the pizzas on the chain restaurant menu can be made vegan upon request.
- The Second Street American Cafe is another restaurant with a little bit of everything on the menu. Not only do they have a couple vegan/vegetarian options on the menu, diners can substitute marinated grilled tofu instead of beef and lettuce instead of a bun for any of the burgers on the menu.For those gluten free diners, they offer an entire gluten free menu.