Best Restaurants in Williamsburg

Williamsburg offers a unique dining experience — you can eat in colonial-era taverns where costumed servers bring 18th-century recipes to your table, then drive five minutes and get excellent modern BBQ or craft beer.

Colonial Williamsburg Taverns

Christiana Campbell’s Tavern — George Washington’s favorite tavern (he dined here at least 10 times). Seafood-focused menu with crab cakes, oysters, and she-crab soup. Colonial-era atmosphere with servers in period costume.

King’s Arms Tavern — The most upscale Colonial Williamsburg dining. Virginia ham, peanut soup (the signature), and game dishes. Formal by colonial standards.

Chowning’s Tavern — The casual option. Pub food, Brunswick stew, and Welsh rarebit. Evening “Gambols” include live colonial-era music and games.

Modern Williamsburg

The Blue Talon Bistro (Merchants Square) — French bistro adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg. Escargot, steak frites, and a brunch that’s one of the best in the area.

Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que (Lightfoot) — Since 1971. The iconic roadside BBQ stop on Route 199. Pulled pork, ribs, and coleslaw. Drive-through and counter service. A Virginia institution.

Near Busch Gardens

Waypoint Seafood & Grill — Contemporary seafood near New Town shopping center. Craft cocktails and a raw bar.

Food for Thought — Eclectic menu, craft beer selection, and a relaxed atmosphere. Good after a day at the parks.

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