Two of my favorite things… road trips and savory meals.
Virginia is the perfect venue for both, with renowned culinary talent in and out of Richmond complementing our dynamic agriculture and beautiful scenery stretching from the coast to the mountains. If you’re craving an out of town adventure with a meal you can write home about, check out some of the best menus in the region.
A short drive west to Charlottesville offers exceptional dining options, not to mention the serene beauty of the Piedmont. Near the University of Virginia grounds, the Ivy Inn serves up locally-inspired seasonal American cuisine. This James Beard-nominated gem is top-ranked for its elegant presentation and upscale selections.
Tavola is another one of my favorites in Charlottesville and a cozy neighborhood spot to indulge in rustic Italian cuisine that’s inspired by local ingredients.
Venture north to Fredericksburg for historic charm and another noteworthy Italian eatery – Orofino. This destination restaurant is so true to its origins that the menu is offered in both Italian and English. Celebrating the diverse regions of Italy, Chef Danilo Orofino brings to the table both his passion for authentic fare and an impressive pedigree that includes Manhattan’s famed Eataly.
If you want a water view, make the short trip to White Stone for a memorable meal at Adrift. Set in a picturesque community by the Rappahannock River, Adrift draws on Virginia’s marine bounty with shrimp, scallops, fish, and – of course – oysters.
Wherever your palate takes you this fall, enjoy the journey!