Trying local cuisine and libations while traveling is an excellent way to become better acquainted with a region’s community and culture, and this is certainly true in Virginia.
One of the reasons Virginia’s culinary scene is so dynamic is due to its varied topography. With the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay, and many other waterways, at its front doorstep, fresh seafood is bountiful and served up in restaurants all over the state, particularly in Coastal Virginia and on the Eastern Shore. Oysters, blue crabs, clams and various types of fish—from striped bass to flounder to offshore species such as tuna and wahoo—fill local menus and are prepared all different ways. If you have never tried Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs, you’re in for a treat no matter how you eat them—steamed, as a sandwich or in a soup.
Agriculture is a major industry in Virginia and a significant part of its heritage. With access to some of the freshest produce available thanks to its sprawling farmlands, it’s no surprise that Virginia’s dining scene has such a strong farm-to-table emphasis. Chefs in the Commonwealth create innovative dishes full of artisan flavors made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. (Tip: During your next visit, be sure to stop by one of Virginia’s countless farmers markets.)
Boasting diverse menus in its restaurants, Richmond is a highly regarded food destination. Also not to be overlooked, Northern Virginia is home to a large selection of restaurants serving up savory international cuisine including Vietnamese, Turkish, Ethiopian, Mediterranean, Salvadoran, plus many more.
Virginia and high-quality peanuts go hand-in-hand. Suffolk, Virginia, is a longtime hub for peanut farming and processing, with the City even holding a “Peanut Capital of the World” title through the years. Breakfast lovers will want to spend time in Williamsburg, Virginia, the self-proclaimed “Pancake Capital of the World” and home to the world-renowned Pancake Festival. A short ferry ride away is the “Ham Capital of the World,” Smithfield, Virginia, the headquarters of Smithfield Foods, a leader in pork products and packaged meats.
In the spirit of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, there’s no better time than now to experience an 18th-century inspired culinary journey reflective of the flavors and traditions of Virginia’s colonial days. Dine on a warm, hearty meal by candlelight at a rustic tavern or inn with menus featuring dishes like peanut soup, southern spoon bread, meat pies, seafood dishes, pork chops and fried chicken. Authentic dining experiences await at restaurants such as Colonial Williamsburg’s King’s Arms Tavern and Shields Tavern, Charlottesville’s Michie Tavern and Alexandria’s Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant.
With more than 300 wineries, 200 breweries and cideries, and 60 distilleries, Virginia is also a perfect destination for sampling high-quality local libations, a nice complement to any tasty meal. Wine trails and tours are available throughout its various regions, with Central Virginia a key location for award-winning wines.
Food trucks continue to be a popular movement throughout the nation, and this is definitely true in the Commonwealth, where they are a common sight serving high-quality, innovative fare at breweries, wineries and all types of events. Dining al fresco amongst scenic water views further enhances spending time in a Virginia city and connecting with its local communities through good food and company.
Whatever entices your tastebuds and budget, Virginia has the culinary experiences you are craving.
Author: VisitVirginia
