A Culinary Tour Of Virginia's Most Famous Dishes & Restaurants
When it comes to food, Virginia has a rich culinary history that spans from colonial times to the present day. The state's location on the coast, as well as its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, has created a unique blend of Southern and coastal flavors. Here's a culinary tour of Virginia's most famous dishes and restaurants.
Virginia Ham Virginia is famous for its ham, which is dry-cured and smoked in a process that dates back to colonial times. The state's most famous ham producer is Smithfield Foods, which produces a range of hams that are popular throughout the country. In addition to enjoying Virginia ham on its own, it's also a key ingredient in many Virginia dishes, such as ham biscuits and Virginia ham with red-eye gravy.
Chesapeake Bay Seafood Virginia's location on the coast means that seafood is a key component of the state's cuisine. Chesapeake Bay blue crabs are a local favorite, and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from crab cakes to steamed crabs. Other popular seafood dishes in Virginia include oysters, scallops, and rockfish.
Virginia Peanuts Peanuts have been a key crop in Virginia for centuries, and the state is known for producing some of the world's best peanuts. Virginia peanuts are larger and sweeter than regular peanuts, and are often enjoyed in a variety of forms, including roasted, boiled, and in peanut butter.
Virginia Wine Virginia is also becoming known for its wine production, with over 300 wineries located throughout the state. Many of the wineries are located in the central part of the state, and offer tastings and tours for visitors. Popular Virginia wine varietals include Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay.
Colonial Williamsburg Restaurants Colonial Williamsburg is a popular historic site in Virginia, and it's also home to several restaurants that offer a taste of Virginia's colonial past. Popular dishes include Virginia ham and spoonbread, as well as more modern dishes such as crab cakes and oysters.
The Inn at Little Washington Located in Washington, Virginia, The Inn at Little Washington is one of the state's most famous restaurants, with three Michelin stars and a reputation for serving some of the finest cuisine in the country. The menu changes frequently, but dishes have included foie gras, venison, and Virginia oysters.
The BBQ Exchange Barbecue is a staple of Southern cuisine, and The BBQ Exchange in Gordonsville is a must-visit for barbecue lovers. The restaurant serves up slow-smoked meats, including pork, brisket, and chicken, as well as classic Southern sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
The Dogwood Located in Charlottesville, The Dogwood offers a modern take on Southern cuisine, with dishes that include fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, and smoked pork belly. The restaurant also has a focus on locally-sourced ingredients, with many of the menu items featuring produce from nearby farms.
Whether you're a fan of seafood, barbecue, or fine dining, Virginia has something to offer when it comes to food. From the state's historic dishes to its modern culinary scene, Virginia is a destination for food lovers looking for a taste of Southern and coastal cuisine.
