Ask any local where to find the best food and drinks in Williamsburg, and the answer will always be the same: these spots. Not only do they offer historic charm (think colonial-era ambiance and cobblestone streets), but they also serve up cocktails and dishes that are worth your time, whether you’re just visiting or you actually live here. Oh, and craft brews. Get ready for a lot of those.
Keland Louisiana Seafood Grab -N- Go
$ | (757) 920-5244 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in Williamsburg, Keland Louisiana Seafood Grab-N-Go feels like a roadside stop that’s worth seeking out. It looks like somebody raided a Louisiana fish camp to stock this place with crab dip, po’boy sandwiches, and crispy catfish fillets, but somehow it all works. The menu is straightforward, ranging from gator bites to perfectly seasoned shrimp, and Mr. Keland will happily reassure you that everything tastes great on the spot.
DoG Street Pub
$$ | (757) 293-6478 | WEBSITE
At DoG Street Pub, you can share a Ploughman’s Lunch Board and a flight of beer with friends. But you can also have a Fried Cod sandwich and a side of bread chips with beer cheese all by yourself. Or enjoy a Rail sandwich and split some fish and chips with your family. The overall versatility of this spot makes it one of our favorite places to eat in Merchant Square. Plus, the name is a solid conversation starter.
The Corner Pocket
$$ | (757) 220-0808 | WEBSITE
This casual hangout would be voted “most likely to become your regular spot” in a neighborhood poll. The Corner Pocket works perfectly for a leisurely after-work unwind (or a quick lunch), and here you’ll find classic comfort options like the steak sandwich, burgers, and a well-loaded BLT, all served with crispy, well-seasoned waffle fries.
The steak sandwich’s tender beef holds up well when paired with caramelized onions and melted provolone on a toasted roll, but the BLT is by far the best sandwich on the menu. Stacked with thick-cut bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato, it has that perfect balance of smoky, crisp, and juicy in every bite. Pool or no pool, this is a place that deserves more than just a casual nod on your way out the door.
Grogan’s Irish Pub
$ | (800) 343-7946 | WEBSITE
Sometimes we just want to enjoy a pint and the sanctity of being alone without bearing witness to a theme park-wide PDA contest. At this enthusiastically cozy Irish pub, the only romantic vibes are between us and a plate of fresh-made potato chips—despite their soundtrack of Celtic folk tunes. Grogan’s menu is loaded with cider and beer, but lean into the Irish nachos dressed in toppings like rich, cheesy goodness or a sour cream-topped creation jazzed up with jalapeños and bacon.
And whatever you do, make sure there’s an order of seasonal cocktails on your table. This spread of special drinks served with that amazing bartender service is such an outstanding experience that you may want to tell everyone you know, except your friends who hate paying theme park prices.
The Brass Tap
$ | (757) 808-5014 | WEBSITE
The Brass Tap is a Williamsburg ale house mainstay. And while one could theoretically sip a local Alewerks brew and discuss the merits of Brown Sugar Bourbon wings with friends here, one could also grab a Ragin’ Cajun dry rub order and catch some football on the big screens with a Brisket Grilled Cheese on the side. That’s what we’ll be doing.
Tipsy Beans Café
$ | (757) 808-5011 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to unwind, there are only so many times you can settle for basic brunch before the routine feels tired. But Tipsy Beans Café should reignite that weekend comfort spirit. From the perfectly cooked Morning After Burger and flavorful Jackfruit BBQ Sandwich to some of the best chicken and waffles in town, it’s worth the reasonable price tag.
Daddyo’s Tavern
$ | (757) 645-3610 | WEBSITE
Let’s say you were craving something indulgent somewhere in Williamsburg. You might end up eating a greasy burger, or a heavy Italian sub, or literally anything smothered in marinara sauce. Head to Daddyo’s instead—it takes less time to get there. This is a dive with vegan pizza, fried mushrooms, chicken parm, and a lot of welcoming energy from the staff, especially Amber C, who keeps things lively with her multitasking.
Go for the vegan pizza with amazing crust and perfectly melted vegan cheese or the Italian sub, packed with flavor, served with a side of fun during events like drag queen bingo.
Pitchers Taphouse
$$ | (757) 220-2500 | WEBSITE
At this casual sports bar, the loaded Low Country fries alone are worth pulling up a stool for, but you’ll find other satisfying options, too. The burger comes juicy and well-seasoned, crispy curly fries arrive golden and hot, and attentive service from waitress Wendy makes everything feel hotel-quality.
The Doubletree hotel setting may not have the intimate atmosphere and refined menu to make it a fine dining destination for those seeking gourmet experiences, but it’s a great place to linger with young kids who can play in the game room or have an easy family meal that involves those fries.
El Sabor Mexicano
$ | (757) 259-9916 | WEBSITE
Looking for authentic Mexican flavors while avoiding the typical crowded tourist traps is usually a challenge—but that’s exactly what you’ll find at El Sabor Mexicano, a warm and welcoming restaurant perfect for both regulars and newcomers (you can even enjoy consistently excellent service year after year).
If you’re not into their famous mango margarita, El Sabor also offers freshly fried chimichangas packed with flavorful chicken and queso, as well as perfectly grilled chicken fajitas with lots of meat, peppers, and onions.
King’s Arms Tavern
$$$ | (855) 240-3278 | WEBSITE
Turns out, colonial ambiance and tavern fare go together excellently. King’s Arms Tavern is a restaurant with 18th-century decor, historical staff who are exceedingly friendly and conversant with the food, and some of Williamsburg’s best dining experiences. There’s live music including a harpist playing colonial tunes if you’re with friends, and, if you’re by yourself, you can enjoy the limited but delicious menu and look pensively at the attractive room while receiving impeccable service.
Sweet Tea & Barley
$$ | (757) 220-7688 | WEBSITE
Step aside, standard pub grub. Southern comfort done right makes all the difference at this very welcoming Williamsburg spot with Virginia roots. As a purveyor of creamy-cheesy grits, you’ll find Sweet Tea & Barley’s signature dish served alongside juicy burgers, smoky chicken, and other satisfying fare like crispy fries, buttery cornbread, and tangy coleslaw.
All that—plus a lively lounge atmosphere and staff that can be genuinely polite—makes for a dining experience that’s equally affordable and fun.