Making its mark on national and international waters alike, Virginia is a foodie’s dream destination. From heirloom grains and vegetables, heritage meats, savory cheeses, and signature Virginia oysters to patisseries, bakeries, and Michelin-starred titles, the chefs here tell the story of the State and its roots through each dish. We’ve rounded up some places where you can enjoy the amazing F&B scene in Virginia for a delicious meal or scrumptious snacks. What’s more? You don’t necessarily need to sit down at a restaurant—you can explore markets on foot, visit farms, and go on food tours.
1. FARMER’S MARKETS
There’s something very refreshing about picking out a selection of locally grown plants, fresh fruits, and vegetables. In Virginia, you’ll have plenty to choose from. Two of the oldest running farmers’ markets reside here—the Historic Roanoke City Market and the Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square Farmers Market. Here, you will find more than 70 vendors offering fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, cheeses, breads, pastries, fresh pasta, pickled vegetables, cut flowers, potted plants, soaps, jewelry, and even art. Be sure to stop by and visit the market area’s oldest continuous vendor, Martin’s Plant Farm—its long-standing presence will speak for itself.
2. FOOD TRAILS
If you’re visiting with friends or family, Virginia’s food trails are a great way to bond over the tastiest, most unique meals you could have. Begin with the Virginia Oyster Trail, where you can explore the many flavors of oysters and the distinct aquaculture coastal way of life. Next, you can explore the Brunswick Stew Tour, where you will discover numerous ways to have the famous stew created in the State. Lastly, go for the Virginia Maple Syrup Trail, which originated as the annual Highland County Maple Festival, where you will get the chance to witness the process of making syrup firsthand.
3. LOCAL DELIGHTS
Get out on the Chesapeake Bay with the Virginia Watermen’s Heritage Tour Program, a tour series that highlights the local history, culture, and flavors of the tidewater area. There are many different tours on offer here, including trips out on the water to catch your own crabs, tong for oysters, or fish the waters of the Chesapeake. The most exciting thing is, each tour provides you the opportunity to taste fresh seafood as you catch it!
4. MICHELIN STUDDED
While local food in Virginia is a delight, the State is not behind on fine dining. The Inn at Little Washington is the only three-star restaurant in Washington D.C. Michelin Guide and one of only two Michelin Green Star restaurants in the U.S. East Coast. It is a 1.5-hour drive outside the District of Columbia. Nestled in Virginia’s sprawling farmland, you can rest assured that only fresh local products will make their way onto your plate here. Between The Gastronaut’s and The Good Earth menu, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
5. HANDPICKED BY YOU
Discovering where the food on your plate exactly comes from is an enlightening experience. Go straight to the source and visit one of Virginia’s pick-your-own farms, where you can handpick fresh produce to take home. You can find apples and peaches at the Carter Mountain Orchard nears Charlottesville, ripe berries at You-Pick Strawberries at Greenbrier Farms, and herbs at Beagle Ridge Garden and Herbs Farm. If you’re a cheese lover, consider making a trip to Caromont Farms for fresh-made cheese.
All Image Credits: Visit Virginia
