Williamsburg, Virginia, holds a deliciously deep roster of American eateries, from taverns that have served patriots since before the Revolution—to modern kitchens where chefs treat local ingredients like culinary treasures. With visions of smoky barbecue, buttery biscuits, and farm-fresh plates, we set out to find the very best. After many satisfied appetites, here are the top American restaurants in Williamsburg, and what to order at each.
The Huntsman’s Grill
$ | (757) 229-5467 | WEBSITE
This American grill in Williamsburg serves burgers, fish and chips, and other classic dishes, but the service is why it’s so memorable. If you’re scanning the menu of hearty options—everything from juicy burgers and crispy fish and chips, to a sweet peach cobbler for dessert—and wondering, hey, this would be perfect after a day at the Great Wolf Lodge, they can make it happen. But they have a straightforward approach if you don’t want to spend time debating what pairs well with taxidermy decor.
The servers at chain restaurants have nothing on these people. (Also, their peach cobbler is some of the best in town, but don’t let anyone at the fancier spots find out.)
Charly’s Airport Restaurant
$ | (757) 258-0034 | WEBSITE
You might find yourself circling the parking lot a few times before snagging a spot at Charly’s, Williamsburg’s most beloved airport diner. You’ll also want to keep an eye on the kids in the play area, and know exactly which pie you’re after—or get ready to be gently steered by the friendly staff behind the counter. And yes, it’s nearly $15 for a sandwich. A sandwich that, by the way, could probably fuel a small plane for a quick hop down the coast.
Play by Charly’s rules, and you’ll be rewarded with runway-side-seating levels of contentment.
Another Broken Egg Cafe
$ | (757) 808-6532 | WEBSITE
The Order: A Louisiana Benedict with andouille sausage, baby shrimp, and perfectly poached eggs. You’ll be dreaming about that hollandaise sauce for days, and telling everyone you know to get there before the brunch rush.
Amber Ox Public House
$$ | (757) 790-2299 | WEBSITE
The Order: The shrimp & grits, with creamy stone-ground grits, plump gulf shrimp, and a smoky bacon gravy. The AO burger, stacked on a brioche bun, is no slouch either. The hand-cut fries, perfectly seasoned and fried crisp, are a must-try alongside. The Strawberry Rhubarb mocktail arrives beautifully presented, fun and refreshing. The open layout with communal wooden tables and cozy patio creates a chic farmhouse ambiance—rustic decor extends even to the charming bathroom.
Service is impeccable from the friendly staff, and the bright, inviting space works great for families. At around $18 for the shrimp & grits and $16 for the burger, it’s a spot where farm-to-table cuisine and handmade cocktails shine in a welcoming environment.
Chowning’s Garden Bar
$ | (855) 318-9795 | WEBSITE
More Colonial spots should serve a Porter on Tap with their meals, like Chowning’s does. This charming garden bar right in the heart of Williamsburg is one of the area’s most reliable stops for travelers, and they have that lovely outdoor seating where you can enjoy your order—which should be those hearty meals and shout-out-worthy fries, plus friendly service even during busy times.
If it’s your third visit to Chowning’s this trip, the warm Old World feel, with its delightful atmosphere and refreshing drinks, is pretty great too.
Eagles Restaurant
$$ | (866) 991-7863 | WEBSITE
Looking for some of Williamsburg’s very best comfort food? It’s at Eagles Restaurant. On the menu, the smash burger is a crowd-pleaser. On the appetizer list, the wings and nachos make for satisfying starters. And among the regular favorites, the grilled cheese and seafood specials shine—particularly when paired with the great service. In other words, there is no bad time to visit this spot in Williamsburg.
Though lively compared to some of the other American eateries in the area, Eagles’ cozy dining room with its warm lighting and live karaoke nights feels like an instant classic.
Food For Thought
$$ | (757) 645-4665 | WEBSITE
The Order: Absolutely anything that caters to gluten-free preferences—which is most dishes here. But we like the grilled chicken with seasonal vegetables, perfectly sized portions, and a thoughtful presentation. And yes, the service from staff like Eric is top-notch.
Second Street American Bistro
$$ | (757) 220-2286 | WEBSITE
The Order: The Thai Poppin Shrimp or Sesame Encrusted Tuna to start—or the Gouda grit cake if you’re feeling adventurous. Then the Bistro Steak, Shrimp & Grits, or Virginia Style Jambalaya for the main event. Plus a gluten-free option to round things out (try one of their daily specials, always worth asking about).
LongHorn Steakhouse
$$ | (757) 229-7700 | WEBSITE
LongHorn Steakhouse is the kind of steakhouse where, if you order your ribeye medium-rare, they’ll bring it out perfectly pink and juicy, just as you imagined. (It’s outlaw ribeye, not just any steak.) But once you get past that, and receive your meal from this very popular Williamsburg spot, any lingering hunger will melt away. Served on very hot plates, these portions aren’t tiny and delicate fine-dining affairs, but generous, expertly cooked, and made with very high quality ingredients.
They have great attentive service for celebrations, and if you’re anywhere near here, you’d do well to make yourself a regular.
Southern Pancake & Waffle House
$ | (757) 220-5542 | WEBSITE
The Pancakes: fluffy and golden if you appreciate tradition, Chicken and Waffles if you’re willing to put it all on the line in the name of a life-altering breakfast. You’re probably also curious about the Shrimp and Grits. Order it.
Williamsburg Winery
$$ | (757) 229-0999 | WEBSITE
If we had an award on this guide for the most delightful wine tasting experience in the region, it would probably go to Williamsburg Winery. It’s a charming destination nestled in the heart of Williamsburg, from the people behind the Gabriel Archer Tavern, one of the area’s best dining spots, and did we mention how superb their locally produced wines are?
They use them to complement an array of delectable dishes, entertaining and informative tours led by staff like Tracey, and to create fun soda tasting flights for children.
The Hound’s Tale
$$ | (757) 221-6678 | WEBSITE
At The Hound’s Tale, everything on the menu is crafted with a playful canine spirit. Sure, you’ll find stuffed flounder and a delicious seafood medley, but we actually prefer going for the bison hanging tenderloin, which has emerged as a standout dish. The Hound’s Tale offers a unique dining experience with its dog-themed decor, featuring funny pictures of dogs on the walls that create a cozy and fun atmosphere.
The restaurant is known for its creative drinks and kid-friendly options, making it perfect for families and visitors alike. Outdoor seating is available and enjoyable, while the inside has a more ‘fancy’ feel, ideal for a midday walk-in. Service is swift and friendly, with attentive staff providing excellent recommendations for dishes like the mussels and creme brulee, which remain notable favorites.
Overall, the staff is very nice, and The Hound’s Tale is a great choice for a relaxed yet delightful meal.
The Jefferson Restaurant
$$ | (757) 229-2296 | WEBSITE
The Jefferson Restaurant in Williamsburg, VA offers some of our favorite Southern comfort food, and no part of our affection depends on the fact that it’s a hidden treasure tucked away from the main strip, sometimes requiring a reservation weeks in advance. Instead, it’s all about the incredible dinner rolls, served with homemade ranch dressing, and the day’s specials: Hot Crab Fifi a la Crème, peanut soup, crab stuffed flounder, or a broiled fish platter.
Show up for dinner, and chat with the owner—you can sometimes get the recipe for the peanut soup without even asking, and skip the dessert menu in favor of the key lime pie.
Berret’s Seafood Restaurant and Taphouse Grill
$$ | (757) 253-1847 | WEBSITE
Berret’s makes some of Williamsburg’s best seafood, and all the dishes on their menu are around $28. The sit-down restaurant is dine-in only, so head to a table in the charming dining room for your first taste of the shrimp and grits. Creamy grits, a world of shrimp, crispy, fried oysters, and pimento cheese, plus apricot sauce if you went sweet (go sweet), all washed down with a local craft beer.
Once you’ve come off the seafood high, walk 20 minutes to another premiere Williamsburg seafood spot, and do a highly scientific, side-by-side comparison.
The Social Terrace
$$$$ | (855) 318-0835 | WEBSITE
The Social Terrace. The Williamsburg Inn. The King’s Arms Tavern. You might be wondering, “Why are these traditionalists talking about historic Virginia establishments on a modern dining guide?” That’s because they, like The Social Terrace from the team behind Williamsburg’s best beverage programs, took a beloved colonial-era concept, and refreshed it.
The Social Terrace has the look and feel of classic Williamsburg taverns and gathering spots, but a cocktail menu that has the quality that put their beverage program on the map in the first place.
King’s Arms Tavern
$$$ | (855) 240-3278 | WEBSITE
This spot comes from Williamsburg’s best historical dining, King’s Arms Tavern, and known colonial atmosphere enthusiasts. There’s a limited menu, and it’s excellent: delicious, reasonably tasty dishes served with impeccable service in an attractive 18th-century room with live harp music playing colonial tunes. The staff are properly dressed, exceedingly friendly, and conversant with the food’s historical background, making for a great experience not to be missed.