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21 Williamsburg, VA Restaurants to Try in 2024

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Whether you’re visiting town for the first time or are a long time local looking for new Williamsburg, VA restaurants to try, these spots should be on your list!

After multiple trips to the historic triangle over the years, these restaurants in Williamsburg are just a few of my favorites. You’ll find options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner here and the full range from budget-friendly to splurge-worthy!

Here are my top picks for dining in Williamsburg:

  • Breakfast: Tipsy Bean Cafe
  • Lunch: Gabriel Archer Tavern OR Precarious Beer Project
  • Dinner: Amber Ox Public House
  • Splurge: Fat Canary
  • Dessert: Blackbird Bakery

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21 Best Restaurants in Williamsburg, VA

1. Tipsy Bean Cafe

chicken and waffles and shrimp and grits at Williamsburg VA restaurants
  • Popular Dishes: Chicken & Waffles and Shrimp & Grits
  • Ambiance: Casual & Chic
  • Budget-Friendly? Depending on what you order

I am in love with this place and I don’t think my sister has stopped talking about this breakfast since we went here.

They have a whole section of the menu dedicated to lattes and while I don’t typically order those, I decided I had to since it was their specialty. It was probably my favorite coffee drink of all time.

If you love chocolate then I highly recommend the Mudpuddle Latte. For breakfast, I got their chicken & waffles with the vanilla buttermilk waffle.

My sister had the same with sweet potato waffles and raved about them.

They also have a great selection of mixed drinks and very good mimosas for $5 which you can’t beat. On nice days, you can enjoy outdoor seating on their sidewalk patio.

We went here before heading over to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and it was the perfect start to our day.

2. Aromas Coffeehouse Bakery & Cafe

egg scramble with toast
  • Popular Dishes: Omelets & Baked Goods
  • Ambiance: Casual cafe
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

The first time I visited Williamsburg on a weekend, we weren’t able to get in here on a Sunday morning. When I visited during the week in the fall I knew this was the first spot I wanted to go since it’s one of the best breakfast restaurants in Williamsburg.

You walk up to the counter (right side when you walk in) to order and they have menus beside the door outside or at one of the small tables near the counter inside.

This is a cozy spot and I loved visiting when there were fewer people. They have outdoor seating along the street but if you get there early you can enjoy a seat inside by the large windows.

Breakfast is served here until noon and they have many traditional items like omelets, egg scrambles, and waffles. They also have breakfast sandwiches to choose from. I had an egg scramble and it was delish.

They also have an interesting selection of coffee drinks though and I really want to try the S’Mores or Snickers Lattes.

You can get sandwiches and wraps here for lunch starting at 10:30am and they also have a small dinner menu that they begin serving after 5pm. This is one of the top casual restaurants in Williamsburg to grab any meal!

3. Blue Talon Bistro

french toast with bacon and fruit
  • Popular Dishes: French Onion Soup & Breakfast Platter
  • Ambiance: French bistro
  • Budget-Friendly? No

When Aromas was too busy, we walked across the street to Blue Talon Bistro and were pleasantly surprised. They have a large patio covered with a tent and with fans as well as indoor seating.

Their menu is French-inspired and my husband and I got the French Toast and the Blue Talon Breakfast Platter to split. The French Toast was very thick and dense, almost like a cake.

The Breakfast Platter was definitely my favorite (nothing against the French Toast). The ham biscuit was fluffy and light with just the right amount of ham.

The sausage link was one of the best I’ve had and the hash brown cake was crisp and crunchy on the outside.

They also have a great selection of mixed drinks to pair with your breakfast. Their lunch is also highly rated and people love their French Onion Soup.

4. Shorty’s Diner

french toast and breakfast sampler at Williamsburg, VA restaurants
  • Popular Dishes: Pancakes, Omelets, Biscuits & Gravy
  • Ambiance: Retro diner
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

I love old-fashioned diners. The ambiance and the food here really can’t be beat, in my opinion. You’ll feel like you stepped back into the 1950s after walking in here.

Not the place to go if you want something healthy though. Perfect if you are looking for a big, hearty breakfast full of comfort food at a great price.

I had the sampler platter and substituted french toast for the pancake. No regrets.

The hash browns were also crispy and delicious. Our server was super friendly and our food came out really quick.

You can’t go wrong with breakfast here! Definitely one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg.

5. Berrets Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill

  • Popular Dishes: Crab Cakes & She Crab Soup
  • Ambiance: Casual
  • Budget-Friendly? No

They have double-fried tater tots and that’s really all you need to know to go here. This is the perfect spot for fresh seafood and especially crab cakes.

The food isn’t the only thing that shines here though, they have fantastic service and a great patio when the weather is nice.

They have a good list of craft beers to choose from so you really can’t go wrong here. It’s a great spot for dinner or lunch for any seafood lovers!

6. King’s Arms Tavern

  • Popular Dishes: Peanut Soup & Prime Rib
  • Ambiance: Historic (reproduction) tavern
  • Budget-Friendly? No

When you’re in Williamsburg – especially if you’re visiting for Colonial Williamsburg – you really have to eat at a tavern at least once.

King’s Arms Tavern and Christiana Campbell’s Tavern are two of the most well known.

The tavern originally opened in 1772 and the experience has been recreated to match what you may have seen in that time period from the furniture to the outfits worn by servers.

The menu is also reminiscent of the 18th-century time period but they’ve modernized it a bit. It’s definitely one of the most unique places to eat in Williamsburg, VA.

7. Gabriel Archer Tavern

turkey and brie sandwich with side salad
  • Popular Dishes: Oysters & Seasonal Soups
  • Ambiance: Rustic yet Elegant
  • Budget-Friendly? No

If you love wine then you can’t miss the Williamsburg Winery and their award-winning restaurant, Gabriel Archer’s Tavern. They have the cutest little patio that is shaded so it isn’t too hot.

You can make reservations on OpenTable but only during certain times of the day. We decided to make a reservation for Saturday at 11:30am – we weren’t allowed to make reservations after 12pm as then it turns into first come-first served seating.

Service was fantastic and the winery was peaceful. I chose the red flight and my sister did the sweet flight. They also had a good selection of beers, ciders, and mixed drinks which the guys loved.

We had a big breakfast that morning so we weren’t super hungry but we got the Virginia Charcuterie board and the Turkey & Brie sandwich. The Turkey & Brie was one of my top 10 favorite sandwiches of all time.

Lots of sliced turkey, savory brie, plus crisp apple slices on the bottom. My sister got a cheesecake dish and was very impressed with it as well. I would have loved to try the crab cakes for dinner.

This is definitely one of my personal favorites and I highly recommend checking this out if you’re spending a weekend in Williamsburg!

8. Electric Circus Taqueria

three tacos at Williamsburg, VA restaurants
  • Popular Dishes: Tacos!
  • Ambiance: Casual
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

This cute, funky, casual eatery is located in a beer hall with the Precarious Beer Project which is one of the best breweries in Williamsburg.

Tables are first-come-first-serve and you order at the bar and the taco shop window before sitting down.

My personal favorite was the Circus Shrimp taco and I got a hazy IPA that was perfect for the warm day. They serve food other than tacos like nachos and burritos but the tacos are the main attraction here.

It gets pretty busy around lunch time so I would recommend going early around 11 or waiting until closer to 1 to head here. It’s the perfect spot if you want a light lunch and is very affordable.

It’s one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg if you’re looking for tacos and craft beers.

9. The Cheese Shop

sandwich in front of The Cheese Shop
  • Popular Dishes: Roast Beef & Turkey Sandwiches (get the house dressing)
  • Ambiance: Casual
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

I’ll be 100% honest and say I didn’t have the best experience at The Cheese Shop. My sandwich wasn’t made very well but that HAS to be a fluke.

This place has a cult following and everyone loves their sandwiches so I’m sure we just hit it on a bad day.

This store is literally a cheese shop and specialty food market with a sandwich counter in the back. It’s a neat place to stop in, even if you don’t plan on buying a sandwich.

They also have beer on tap and wine by the glass downstairs at The Cheeseboard. This is the perfect place to stop in and get picnic supplies. They also sell charcuterie boards!

If you go within a couple hours of closing time it shouldn’t be too busy but during lunch it gets pretty hectic especially on weekends.

Call your order in ahead of time and you won’t have to wait in line. They are conveniently located in Merchant’s Square next to Fat Canary.

10. Sal’s by Victor

pepperoni pizza close up
  • Popular Dishes: Subs, Alfredo dishes, Stromboli
  • Ambiance: Casual
  • Budget-Friendly? Depending on what you order (splitting a pizza is most budget-friendly option)

Look no further if you want Italian food. Their pizza is incredible and I had their ravioli which was packed with cheese and smothered in red sauce.

Usually I am skeptical of places that are in shopping malls (I need to get over that) but this place was wonderful. From the outside, it looks small but the dining area is huge once you get in the building.

You can also find coupons for Sal’s in many of the free Williamsburg coupon pamphlets and magazines.

11. Casa Pearl

  • Popular Dishes: Oysters & Tacos
  • Ambiance: Trendy & Hip
  • Budget-Friendly? No

Here is an upscale restaurant for Virginia oysters and tacos. Yes, that does sound like an odd combination but it works well.

The blend of flavors at Casa Pearl is second to none, they have fun cocktails, fresh seafood, and fair prices. What more can you ask for? Oh, and they have a raw bar.

It helps that the food is beautifully presented as well. Makes my mouth water just looking at it. The hushpuppies and brussel sprouts appetizers come highly recommended.

12. Rocco’s Smokehouse Grill

barbecue with sides at Williamsburg, VA restaurants
  • Popular Dishes: Ribs & Crab Cakes
  • Ambiance: Casual
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

Think mounds of tender barbecue, tangy sauce, and southern sides when you think of Rocco’s. The barbecue itself was fantastic but the sauce really brought it up to the next level.

I was a big fan of their potato salad too. The mayo taste wasn’t overpowering and there was a hint of mustard. Southern comfort food at its best!

They also had an incredible-looking dessert menu but I was way too full to try any. Rocco’s is right off of a major road so it’s very convenient to many hotels in the area.

13. Second Street American Bistro

  • Popular Dishes: French Onion Soup & Lasagna
  • Ambiance: Cozy
  • Budget-Friendly? No

Second Street has a menu with varied options and classic dishes so it’s perfect if you aren’t quite sure what you want to eat or if you have a big group. Everyone should be able to find something they like here!

The portions are large so while the prices are a bit high, you actually get what you pay for here. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu but their gourmet burgers are extremely popular.

They have a nice patio for outdoor seating but the indoor area is welcoming as well. They also serve lunch if you need a more upscale lunch spot.

This is one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg for classic American food with a twist.

14. Amber Ox Public House

ham platter
  • Popular Dishes: Cured Ham Board and Shrimp & Grits
  • Ambiance: Eclectic & Intimate
  • Budget-Friendly? No

If you love biscuits and jelly then be sure to get the Biscuit Board appetizer here. This is a trendy spot and I believe they said that 90% of their menu is sourced within 100 miles. This also means that their menu changes often!

They have their own brewery next door – Precarious Beer Project – and they make cocktails with small batch liquors.

Amber Ox Public House was one of our favorite meals here and it’s one of the most popular restaurants in Williamsburg so I recommend making a reservation.

I had shrimp & grits while Tyler got the lamb shank but as I said, their menu changes pretty often. No matter what you have here it’s sure to be delicious though!

15. Fat Canary

  • Popular Dishes: Rabbit & Foie Gras
  • Ambiance: Elegant
  • Budget-Friendly? No

If you are looking for fine dining in Williamsburg then Fat Canary is your place. Located adjacent to The Cheese Shop, head here if you are celebrating or if you just want to splurge on a meal.

They have a fantastic cocktail menu and wine selection plus innovative dishes to choose from. You’ll want to order appetizers, a main course, and dessert just so you can try everything.

Their menu changes seasonally so what you see on their website may not be exactly what’s available.

Make sure to make a reservation here if you’d like to go during your time in Williamsburg! It’s absolutely one of the best places to eat in Williamsburg that you’ll find.

16. The Rockefeller Room at Williamsburg Inn

  • Popular Dishes: Everything
  • Ambiance: Elegant
  • Budget-Friendly? No

The Rockefeller Room is one of the most iconic restaurants in Williamsburg since it’s located in the prestigious Williamsburg Inn.

Check their website before considering visiting here though because they are currently only open on weekends and they only offer a five-course menu with a small number of choices. They also offer a wine pairing option.

It’s very pricey but most people who go here say that it’s totally worth it. It would be the perfect spot to celebrate an anniversary or another special occasion. This is much more of a dining experience than just a meal.

Note that they have a “Dress Preference” of Evening Elegant Casual.

17. Le Yaca

  • Popular Dishes: Crab Cakes, Lobster, French Onion Soup
  • Ambiance: Upscale & Intimate
  • Budget-Friendly? No

Like the Blue Talon Bistro, Le Yaca’s specialty is French cuisine. While I have this under the lunch and dinner options, they also serve a fantastic brunch on the weekends.

Everything is top notch at Le Yaca from the food to the service to the atmosphere.

This is another spot that most would consider fine dining so the price tag is a bit hefty but most people find that what you get is well worth it.

They have an outdoor patio that is absolutely beautiful and makes the experience even better during nice weather.

Reservations are strongly recommended here since it’s one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg so make sure to call ahead of time.

18. Paul’s Deli

  • Popular Dishes: Subs & Gyros
  • Ambiance: Casual
  • Budget-Friendly? Depending on what you order

If you’re looking for something more casual then head to Paul’s Deli. It is close to the College of William & Mary though so it can get busy at peak times during the school year.

It has a tavern atmosphere and they serve mostly Italian and Greek food. People love how large the portions are for the price!

They also stay open late so it’s a late-night hangout for the college students. There are two different restaurants with similar names, this one is at 761 Scotland St.

Bakeries

19. Blackbird Bakery

  • Popular Dishes: Cookies & Tarts
  • Ambiance: Funky bakery (no inside seating)
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

Right off the main plaza in Merchant’s Square, you’ll find Blackbird Bakery. This is the perfect place to go to get your sweet tooth fix – true comfort food for me.

They bake a variety of cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats fresh daily. In addition to sweets, they also sell fresh bread! My grandma and I tried a muffin and a scone on my last visit to Williamsburg and both were delicious.

Their shop is a little small so try going at off-peak times so you aren’t crowded in there. You can grab a snack and drink though and take it to the seating area in Market Square so you can people watch.

Stop in for breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up to get a pastry and coffee.

20. Raleigh Tavern Bakery

hand holding brownie
  • Popular Dishes: Ginger Cakes & Hot Cider
  • Ambiance: Historic
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

This is an old-fashioned bakery located in Colonial Williamsburg and a quick stop for a snack. They serve sandwiches as well as baked goods, but the sandwiches are a bit pricey for what you get.

Most people love the ginger cakes (or ginger cookies) here. There is a shaded picnic area just down the path from the bakery where you can sit and eat your food.

I don’t love ginger cookies so I went with the chocolate-chip brownie. It was gooey and rich – the perfect brownie in my opinion. My grandma tried the ginger cookie and loved it.

21. The Bake Shop

  • Popular Dishes: Bagels & Lattes
  • Ambiance: Trendy Bakeshop
  • Budget-Friendly? Yes

Here you’ll find fresh baked breads, sticky buns, muffins, and more – they also serve some of the best coffee around. Their menu changes seasonally and they serve sandwiches and bagels in addition to their pastries.

The food is fresh and delicious making it one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg, VA!

Map of Restaurants in Williamsburg, VA

Wrap Up: Williamsburg, VA Restaurants

girl in front of meadow

When dining out in Williamsburg – especially during peak tourist months – it’s best to make a reservation. Many restaurants have their own reservation system or you can find them on OpenTable.

There were so many great options for dining that it was hard for us to choose during our trip! I’m so glad that we got to try a few gems though.

We will definitely be back to try many more of these places. I’m always looking for the best restaurants in Williamsburg!

If you love wineries, here are 8 great wineries in Williamsburg, VA!

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12 Comments

  1. Always saying I should make a quick trip here. I’m from New York and haven’t been to Willimsburg since I was a kid but some of these spots might get me out there.

    1. Oh, I hope you can! As a kid all I cared about was Busch Gardens but there is so much more to this area.

  2. That is a really extensive list of cafes and restaurants in Williamsburg you’ve put together! It’s a shame your sandwich wasn’t made properly at the cheese shop, but I do love cheese so I would definitely try it out on my trip to the city!

    1. I would definitely try it again just because so many people rave about it! Sometimes you just hit places on a bad day.

  3. I haven’t been to Williamsburg yet but have been meaning to go! The food sounds amazing!! *-* (+ now Im’ craving chicken + waffles, haha.)

    1. The food really was a highlight! I understand, I’m always craving chicken & waffles lol.

    1. Adding these to my saved list on Google maps! Will definitely try some of them when I go back.

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