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8 of the Best Restaurants in Colonial Williamsburg You Need to Try
Want to make sure you’re experiencing the best of the best during your trip to Virginia?
Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or some cozy Southern comfort food, the restaurants in Colonial Williamsburg are sure to satisfy your appetite — and even immerse you in American history!
Treat yourself to supreme cuisine when you drop by the historic area by dropping by any of the spots on the list, and we guarantee your weekend getaway will be one you remember for a long time after you leave.
1. Christiana Campbell’s Tavern
Feeling presidential? Or maybe just craving some crab cakes? Either way, you should head to Christina Campbell’s Tavern – a place once favored in the 18th century by President George Washington himself for its delicious seafood, such as scallops and shrimp.
In addition to the main dining room, “The Cellar” at this tavern promises authentic, colonial ambiance and savory treats to a limited number of guests each night.
Christina Campbell’s Tavern can be found at 101 S Waller St, Williamsburg, VA 23185. The tavern does close seasonally, so check their website ahead of time to make sure that they’re open during your trip.
2. Rockefeller Room at the Williamsburg Inn
If you have a taste for the finer things in life, then the Rockefeller Room is the perfect spot for you. It’s located at the iconic Williamsburg Inn – one of the most beautiful spots to stay in the city – and features a set menu of five courses paired with exquisite wines. Once you’re finished eating, you can step out onto the Terrace and enjoy drinks and, depending on the night, live music.
While Christiana Campbell’s offers you the ambiance of a historical tavern – the Rockefeller Room offers you a taste of the high life. Your experience here will be nothing short of luxurious. You do need to call ahead and make reservations with a $50 deposit to dine here.
If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, you also have to check beforehand to make sure they can modify their set menu to accommodate them. Also – they do have a dress preference of “Evening Elegant Casual.” That may sound like a lot, but trust us, it’s worth it.
You can find the Williamsburg Inn at 136 Francis St E, Williamsburg VA 23185. Like Christiana Campbell’s Tavern, it closes during the winter season and reopens in March, although it often hosts special events. Make sure to check their website for closures and call them at (855) 318 -0835 to make your reservation.
3. Fat Canary
This award-winning bistro is perfect for those who might be just a little bougie (in a good way, of course). It offers seasonal menus that change regularly throughout the year, but each menu is sure to have something to delight the most refined and curious of palates.
We’re talking fricassee of rabbit and seared foie gras, all designed by the bistro’s executive chef, who has worked with cooking experts all over the world. Every entree on the menu is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Still not tempted to visit? This location is also the home of Fat Canary’s sister restaurant, The Cheese Shop, where you can gorge yourself on fancy cheeses and wines.
You can find the Fat Canary and the Cheese Shop at 410 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185.
4. King’s Arms Tavern
Ever wish you could savor the flavors of the past? No need for a time machine, just head to The King’s Arms Tavern over at 416 East Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185.
This isn’t just any old American chophouse; it’s an authentic 18th-century experience. The King’s Arms Tavern takes your taste buds on a trip through time by offering Colonial-style dishes designed to delight modern tastes.
The King’s Arms Tavern is designed floor to ceiling with the utmost care in detail – from the recipes to the pewter candlesticks. If you’re a history buff, this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the history of America while enjoying some of the finest food you’ll ever taste, like French-styled stewed pork and game pyes.
5. Sal’s By Victor
Sal’s is the best Italian eatery in the city – hands down. Perhaps even the best one in all of Virginia. The chef worked at some of the best European eateries before bringing his culinary skills to the historic triangle. The menu is stacked with Italian classics, including fettuccine alfredo, homemade veggie lasagna, and mouth-watering chicken alfredo.
You can also pick up some absolutely delicious pizzas at Sal’s. Feeling the need for some ambiance while you eat? Every Friday evening, the restaurant is filled with sweet, live serenades from Italy.
Sal’s is located at 1242 Richmond Road, Williamsburg, VA 23185.
6. Sweet Tea & Barley at the Williamsburg Lodge
Come get your fill of southern comfort food at Sweet Tea & Barley. It’s a great place to drop in for breakfast or a delicious Sunday brunch. Or, if you’re feeling peckish in the evening, grab some of their southern fried chicken wings.
Speaking of the evening – you won’t find a better cocktail anywhere else in the world. Drinks at Sweet Tea & Barley are handcrafted using locally sourced ingredients. If you want a truly wonderful night, you can’t do much better than relaxing with some sweet spirits on Sweet Tea’s outdoor patio.
When you’re ready to experience true Southern charm, stop on by. They are located at the Williamsburg Lodge, 310 S England St, Williamsburg, VA 23185.
7. Berret’s Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill
Christiana’s isn’t the only place in Williamsburg that has award-winning crab cakes. According to many locals, Berret’s is the winner. (You may just have to stop by both and come to your own conclusions.)
There are two unique dining options offered at Berret’s: a seafood menu and a classic American grill. All the seafood is locally sourced and expertly cooked. From the rockfish filet to the cajun andouille sausage – no matter what dish you get, you’re going to love every bite.
Berret’s is a quaint little spot with indoor and outdoor seating, located at 199 S Boundary Street, Williamsburg, VA 23185.
8. Amber Ox Public House
The Amber Ox offers an ever-changing menu of dishes made from locally farmed ingredients. No matter what the dishes are when you show up – be it BBQ braised ribs or delicious shrimp and grits – you’re sure to be in for a treat. This is a great place to take in the fresh flavors of the season.
When you’re ready to taste the day, you can find the Amber Ox at 525 Prince George St, Williamsburg, VA 23185.
Get More From Merchant’s Square
Are you hungry yet?
If the best restaurants in Colonial Williamsburg didn’t manage to tempt you, then maybe you need to work up an appetite first. We can help you out. Check out our blog for all the museums, beaches, and walking trails in and around Williamsburg, VA. There’s always more to see – and eat – when you vacation here. Check out some walking tours in Colonial Williamsburg as well!