21 Williamsburg, VA Restaurants That You Shouldn’t Miss

When I first think of Williamsburg I think of Busch Gardens or Colonial Williamsburg. Never did I think of Williamsburg, VA restaurants right off the bat.

However, that has all changed with my recent trip.

We ate at some absolutely incredible restaurants with not only good food but great vibes as well. I would honestly go back to Williamsburg just to try out some more local restaurants.

So here are a few of the restaurants that we tried plus some that come highly recommended! Make sure to add these to your Williamsburg weekend itinerary.

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Map of Restaurants in Williamsburg, VA

Breakfast Restaurants in Williamsburg, VA

1. Tipsy Bean Cafe

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.

Address: 1430 High St Ste 709B, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Tipsy Beans

2. Aromas Coffeehouse Bakery & Cafe

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.

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!

Address: 431 Prince George St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Aromas Coffeehouse

3. Blue Talon Bistro

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 both couples got 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.

Address: 420 Prince George St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Blue Talon Bistro

4. Shorty’s Diner

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 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 Williamsburg, VA restaurants.

Address: 627 Merrimac Trail, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Shorty’s Diner

Lunch & Dinner Restaurants in Williamsburg, VA

5. Berrets Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill

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 microbrews to choose from so you really can’t go wrong here. It’s a great spot for dinner as well as lunch!

Address: 199 S Boundary St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Berrets Seafood

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6. King’s Arms Tavern

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.

Christiana Campbell’s has been closed for the last few years but they are supposed to be reopening soon.

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.

Address: 416 E Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: King’s Arms

7. Gabriel Archer Tavern

If you love wine then you can’t miss the Williamsburg Winery and 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 so it was first come-first served.

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.

This is definitely one of the best restaurants in Williamsburg so you shouldn’t miss it!

Address: 5800 Wessex Hundred, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Gabriel Archer Tavern

8. Electric Circus Taqueria

This cute, funky spot 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.

Address: 110 S Henry St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Electric Circus Taqueria

9. The Cheese Shop

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.

Address: 410 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: The Cheese Shop

10. Sal’s by Victor

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 delish. 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.

Address: 1242 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Sal’s by Victor

11. Casa Pearl

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

The blend of flavors in the food is second to none, they have fun cocktails, and fair prices. What more can you ask for?

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.

Address: 722 Merrimac Trail, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Casa Pearl

12. Rocco’s Smokehouse Grill

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.

They also had incredible-looking desserts 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.

Address: 207 Bypass Rd, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Rocco’s Smokehouse

13. Second Street American Bistro

Second Street has a menu with varied options 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 here.

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 up-scale lunch spot.

Address: 140 2nd St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Second St. American Bistro

14. Amber Ox Public House

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.

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

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

Address: 525 Prince George St, Suite 102, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Amber Ox

15. Fat Canary

If you are looking for fine dining in Williamsburg then this 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 and innovative dishes to choose from. You’ll want to order appetizers, a main course, and dessert just so you can try everything.

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 Williamsburg, VA restaurants that you’ll find.

Address: 410 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Fat Canary

16. The Rockefeller Room at Williamsburg Inn

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 Prix Fixe Menu where you can choose between the three or five-course 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 something special like that.

Address: 136 Francis St E, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Rockefeller Room

17. Le Yaca

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.

Address: 1430 High St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Le Yaca

18. Paul’s Deli

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.

Address: 761 Scotland St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Paul’s Deli

Bakeries

19. Blackbird Bakery

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.

They bake a variety of cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats fresh daily. In addition to sweets, they also sell fresh bread!

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.

Address: 407 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Blackbird Bakery

20. Raleigh Tavern Bakery

This is an old-fashioned bakery located in Colonial Williamsburg and a cheaper lunch alternative to one of the main taverns. They serve sandwiches as well as baked goods.

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.

Address: 410 E Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA | Site: Raleigh Tavern Bakery

21. The Bake Shop

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.

From Thursday to Saturday in the evenings, they also sell Detroit-style deep dish pizza. So whether you stop by in the morning or later in the day, you’re in for a treat.

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

Address: 204 Armistead Ave, Williamsburg, VA | Site: The Bake Shop

FAQ’s About Williamsburg, VA Restaurants

What food is Williamsburg known for?

Williamsburg is known for its Colonial-style taverns where you can dine in 18th-Century style. You can find a few of these in Colonial Williamsburg.

The Peanut Shop of Williamsburg located near Merchants Square is also very popular since Virginia is known as the Peanut State.

What was the most famous tavern in Williamsburg?

Christiana Campbell’s Tavern was likely the most famous as it was one of George Washington’s favorite stops for seafood.

Why are there so many pancake places in Williamsburg?

In the past, hotels didn’t offer breakfast so people needed a place to eat when they came to town. This seems to be why so many pancake houses sprung up so quickly. Hotels would recommend guests head to the local pancake places to eat.

What is famous about Williamsburg?

There are a few things that Williamsburg, VA is famous for. It’s most famous as being home to Colonial Williamsburg which is the world’s largest living history museum. It’s also home to the College of William & Mary which is the second-oldest college in the US.

Another major draw to Williamsburg is Busch Gardens and Water Country USA – one of the best theme parks on the east coast.

Wrap Up: Williamsburg, VA Restaurants

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. There are some fantastic Williamsburg, VA restaurants!

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

Are there any great Williamsburg, VA restaurants that I missed? Send me an email at anna (at) stuckonthego (dot) com and let me know!