Virginia is where American history begins—from the first permanent English settlement at Jamestown in 1607 to the birth of the Constitution and eight US presidents born within its borders. The Commonwealth stretches from Atlantic barrier islands and the Chesapeake Bay in the east to the Blue Ridge Mountains and Appalachian Plateau in the west, offering visitors an extraordinary mix of Colonial history, Civil War battlefields, mountain wilderness, wine country, and vibrant coastal cities.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
The Inn at Little Washington
Popular New American / French-influenced restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: 2-Michelin-star New American; Patrick O'Connell's farm-to-fork masterwork in Virginia wine country
Middle and Main St, Washington, VA 22747
L'Opossum
Popular Eclectic American restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: Wildly eclectic; James Beard Award semifinalist; theatrical Richmond landmark
626 China St, Richmond, VA 23220
Brenner Pass
Popular Alpine American restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: Appalachian Alps-inspired; fondue, schnitzel, local Virginia charcuterie
3108 W Leigh St, Richmond, VA 23230
The Fearrington House Restaurant
Popular New American restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: Virginia ingredient-driven New American in the opulent Jefferson Hotel dining room
101 W Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23220 (inside The Jefferson Hotel)
The Roosevelt
Popular New American / Southern restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: Seasonal Southern-inflected menu; Church Hill neighborhood gem
623 N 25th St, Richmond, VA 23223
Stony Man Grill at Skyland
Popular American restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: Only full-service restaurant inside Shenandoah National Park; mountain views from dining room
Skyland Resort, Skyline Dr MP 41.7, Luray, VA 22835
The C&O Restaurant
Popular New American / French-inspired restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: Charlottesville's most revered special-occasion restaurant since 1976
515 E Water St, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Tiger Lily
Popular Asian Fusion restaurant in Virginia.
Known for: Eclectic Pan-Asian; Norfolk's most creative restaurant for two decades
806 Baldwin Ave, Norfolk, VA 23517
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Seafood
Chinese
Fusion
Italian
Mediterranean
Southern Soul Food
Vietnamese
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |