Our Guide to Em”bark”ing on a Pet-Friendly Trip to Staunton, VA July 19, 2022 by StauntonVA If you’re like most Americans, you rarely leave home without your pandemic pet! Fortunately, there are a lot of pet-friendly activities, plenty of lodgings that cater to paws, and a wealth of restaurants and watering holes that are totally cool with your pet joining you on the patio. Here’s a “pound-up” of where your pet is welcome in Staunton. Pup-cation Fun for People and Pets Get outside to howl, run, and play fetch. Here are our favorite parks and hikes. Montgomery Hall Park has miles of wooded trails as well as big, open fields for playing catch and fetch. Dog owners who like solitude and taking serious hikes with their dogs should sniff out the Betsy Bell Wilderness Area. Gypsy Hill Park has a paved 1.3-mile loop that offers a nice view of the park as well as doggy bag stations and convenient trash cans. The star of the show, however, is the Gypsy Hill Bark Park. Divided into separate enclosures for small and large dogs, it gives pups a chance to meet and greet while their owners make small talk. The enclosures include tunnels, training ladders, “fire hydrants,” and benches for humans to sit. Leashed pets are welcome on the majority of the hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park. It’s actually one of just a few national parks with this perk. For day-trippers and campers, George Washington and Jefferson National Forest stipulates that dogs must be leashed on hiking trails (but may go off-leash in undeveloped areas). Make sure you pack plenty of water for your furry friend and check them for parasites after your outing. Coyner Springs Dog Park in Waynesboro boasts a large, open off-leash area as well as trails for leashed dogs and their human packmates. The nearby Crozet Tunnel trail is a good hike for leashed dogs, especially if you’re afraid of the dark! Make sure you take your flashlight. Leashed dogs are also welcome on the Augusta Springs Wetland trail, but you shouldn’t take your dog if you think he might disturb the waterfowl and other wildlife. Un-Pack Your Bags Kenneling your dog is expensive, sad, and can cause a lot of stress shedding. Fortunately, many Staunton inns and hotels offer luxury accommodations for people and dogs, so you can share that king-sized bed just like at home. Just check the fine print: lodgings may have restrictions on size and number of pets. They may also apply additional fees to bunk your fur baby. Hotel 24 South is both a luxury, historic hotel as well as a pioneer in Staunton’s dog-friendly accommodations. The Blackburn Inn opens select rooms to dogs and has extensive grounds to explore while you walk them. Howard Johnson by Wyndham is steps from downtown shopping, dining, and the farmers’ market. There’s also free parking, light breakfast, and wifi. Sleep Inn Staunton ensures you’ll sleep well in one of their Designed to Dream rooms. Bring your pet: there’s no pet fee! Best Western Staunton Inn boasts comfortable rooms, easy access to I-81, and no pet fee. Comfort Inn Staunton has free breakfast, a pool, and is convenient to both the highway and downtown Staunton. Motel 6 Staunton allows pets and lets kids stay free. You’ll also enjoy free coffee and expanded cable options. Holiday Inn Staunton Conference Center allows up to three pets. It’s convenient to golf, the interstate, and kids eat free with paying adults. Red Roof Inn Staunton is a great budget option. Kids and one pet up to 80 pounds stay for free. Econo Lodge is convenient to the Frontier Culture Museum and downtown Staunton. It’s pet-friendly and offers free coffee. Walnut Hills KOA and Sherando Lake Campground both accommodate families and dogs. Paw-some Patios Staunton has several dining spots where the waitstaff doesn’t mind stepping over Teddy’s outstretched paws. They might even bring him a dish of water! Well-behaved dogs on leashes can join you at a table on the covered, gated patio at Table 44. The patio at Byer’s Street Bistro also welcomes dogs. Spend your lunch hour dining with Rex and watching the bustle of downtown. Bonus: Dogs will find water bowls and often treats. Just want a quick bite? Stop by the outdoor patio at The By & By for coffee drinks, beer and wine, and sandwiches. The patio at Thai Staunton Restaurant is pet-friendly. If you’re feeling like eating Mexican, take your pooch to Mi Rancho’s outdoor dining space where you can get relax with a big, tasty margarita. Prefer Italian? Family-owned Maria’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant has a dog-friendly patio where you can share your spaghetti with Lady. The Pampered Palate, Cranberry’s Grocery & Eatery, The Split Banana, Nu-Beginning Farm, and the Clocktower Eats & Sweets all have delicious food and allow dogs at their sidewalk seating. Get there early and grab a spot at the Peck’s Bar-B-Que’s dog-friendly picnic table. There’s shade and nearby grass for your pet to sniff. There’s also a lone pet-friendly table at Sam’s Hot Dog Stand where you can enjoy a sack of all-beef hot dogs. Share your BBQ and ice cream with your dog at one of the two dog-friendly picnic tables at Hog Wild BBQ and Klines Dairy Bar. Edelweiss Restaurant serves authentic German food like bratwurst and jager schnitzel. If you dine outside at one of the covered tables, Fido can join you and lick knackwurst juice off your fingers. Bark-tastic Breweries Want to spend an evening out having beers with your best fur buddy? Raise a glass because many of Staunton’s breweries are pet-friendly. Redbeard Brewing and Skipping Rock Beer Co. allow well-behaved dogs on the patios, and Shenandoah Valley Brewing and Queen City Brewing actually welcome dogs inside their taprooms. Hang with your pup on the patio at Ciders From Mars. Or if you’d rather have wine, Barren Ridge Vineyards welcomes leashed dogs if there are no ticketed events. Other Staunton Stops that are Mutts about Dogs It’s not surprising to come across a dish of cool water waiting on the sidewalk on a hot day in downtown Staunton. Here are other pet-friendly destinations. Your pet will be the star of the show at the Well Balanced Paw Pet Wellness Shoppe and Barkery. Specializing in nutrient-rich pet nutrition and relaxing small-animal massage, this downtown destination will keep your pet balanced and healthy for years to come. Latitudes has all kinds of fair-trade gifts, including this snazzy puppy place-mat! Locally owned Pets N Pals has been selling pet supplies like habitats, food, and toys since 1989. They also have healthy pets of all kinds for sale if you’re seeking a new companion. Petco has a big selection of supplies as well as fish, lizards, birds, spiders, and rodents. Also, check out Augusta Dog Adoptions and the SPCA for pets that need new homes. It’s common to see happy dogs walking with their owners as they shop for dinner at the Staunton Farmers’ Market. Leashed dogs can also browse the aisles at Tractor Supply Co.
Race to Shenandoah Downs July 18, 2022 by Visit Shenandoah County Strong bodies pull against the weight of the carts behind them. Manes flying, nostrils wide, sucking in as much air as possible, the horses follow behind the moving gate waiting for the moment the wings come in and the race begins. The crowd roars as the race starts and the horses and drivers head into the first turn, jockeying for position. Twice around the track and the winner crosses the line in front of the grandstand to the cheers of the crowd. Shenandoah Downs at the Shenandoah County Fairgrounds in Woodstock, VA, is the only harness racing venue in the state of Virginia. In April and May and mid- September through October, the racetrack is open to harness racers. Previously 188 horses are registered to participate in 25 races over a weekend. Harness racing has been part of the Shenandoah County Fair for more than 100 years. Many local families have participated in the sport over the years as well. One such family is the Lineweavers. Doris “Dee” Lineweaver has been a trainer and driver since she was in her teens and now is the director of Shenandoah Downs. Her young children, Weston and Maggie, help at the Downs, continuing the tradition by working with the horses in their stalls and taking care of them both before and after the races. “It has been something our family has been involved in forever,” Dee said, from her seat in a golf cart as she watched the horses fly by in front of her. When Shenandoah Downs was established four years ago, it was announced as a pari-mutuel track which means that race-goers can place bets on their favorite horses. Pari-mutuel is a betting system in which all bets are placed together in a pool; taxes and the house take are deducted and payoff odds are calculated by sharing the pool among all winning bets for that race. Winnings are awarded to win, place, show and exacta in every race. No entry or parking fee is charged to people who want to come and watch the races. Typical crowds are full of people of all ages who have come to enjoy this historical sport. To draw larger crowds, simultaneous events are held at the track on race day. The race early October will take place at the same time as Autumnfest, a chamber-sponsored event which will feature whole-hog barbecue, chicken barbecue, 35+ crafters, a wood-splitting competition, music and beer, wine and spirits tasting. Dee noted that Shenandoah Downs is sponsored by the Virginia Equine Alliance which is a non-profit association comprised of members from the Virginia Harness Horse Association, the Virginia Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association, the Virginia Gold Cup Association, and the Virginia Thoroughbred Association. The purpose of the Virginia Equine Alliance is to sustain, promote, and expand the horse breeding and horse racing industries in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Standing outside the barn area where the horses are prepared for racing is fascinating and offers an up-close view of these beautiful racers and all that goes into getting them prepared to run. The horses are excited, waiting for their turn on the track. Their ears are pointed and some paw at the dirt in their stall as their harnesses and tracings are checked for a final time. They will get on the track for a brief trot until it is time for the race to begin. Each racer pulls up behind a car which has wings sprouting from its sides. Inside, the back has two bucket seats facing the horses. The rear driver has control over the wings and the gas. The front driver does the steering. He increases the speed of the car until the race is ready to begin and he draws in the wings as the driver moves off to one side to let the horses pass. Shenandoah Downs is a wonderful way to spend the day. For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/Shenandoah-Downs or www.shenandoahdowns.com.
Best Eats in Ocean View and East Beach – Norfolk, VA July 11, 2022 by Visit Norfolk Best Eats in Ocean View and East Beach Ocean View and East Beach are best known for their beaches, but the food scene in this neighborhood is equally worth the exploration. From local seafood to finger-licking bbq and all the international dishes in between, Ocean View has it all. Here are some of our local favorites in the neighborhood. A World of Good Ever wish you could eat more than one type of cuisine and not have to go to multiple restaurants to quench that desire? Lucky for you A World of Good (pictured above, @alyssaboone_) is a globally inspired street food cantina serving up dishes from multiple continents. Their menu offerings range from Bao Buns and Bibimbap to Latin American styled nachos and the classic North American Philly Cheesesteak. Bar-q @bar_q , Instagram Southern wraparound porches will catch your eye when you drive by Bar-Q’s location which is nestled inside Bold Mariner Brewery. Your attention will quickly divert to the oversized meat smoker that resides in their parking lot, leaving you to wonder just how delicious their BBQ must be. Next, the aromas of freshly smoked meat will have your mouth watering almost instantly while you debate what to order on their à la carte menu. We highly suggest filling up a platter with their moist brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, rich mac and cheese, spicy (but not too spicy) jalapeño and cheddar links, classic cornbread and the menu doesn’t end there! Pit Master, Jayme Campbell, is a barbecue pro but embraces his creative side and on occasion hosts BBQ Sushi Nights at the brewery. Captain Groovy’s Raw Bar and Grill A telltale sign a restaurant is well loved is when their parking lot is always full. Captain Groovy’s has quite the local following and attracts lots of attention around happy hour – one of the best in Norfolk! Crowds keep coming back for their fresh seafood platters, raw bar and southern seafood items including their Low Country Boil, Seafood Creole and Crab Cake entrees. They have a laid back atmosphere, plenty of outdoor seating and are a stone’s throw away from the beach. Jessy’s Tienda y Taqueria @_nomarama_, Instagram What better way to end a beach day than with homemade tortilla chips dipped in fresh diced salsa while sipping a cold cerveza or margarita? Jessy’s has been slinging out some delicious Mexican tacos for a few years now and even made their debut on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives back in 2017 – for the avid Food Network fans. Jessy’s also doubles as a tienda – a convenience shop for all your Mexican dish needs. They sell Carne Asada and Chorizo in their butcher shop section, hot peppers and Mexican spices in their grocery section and even have a fresh baked goods area where you can munch on all the Conchas y Borregas to Polvoron you could want. So, go hungry and we promise you will leave full and happy. My Mama’s Kitchen It always seems big tastes come from small kitchens, and in this case My Mama’s Kitchen is that tiny kitchen that packs a big punch. We normally recommend My Mama’s Kitchen for their barbecue or wings, but the whole menu is delicious. Try their Drip Sandwich – a warm fried chicken sandwich covered in drip sauce (their secret sauce) and topped with house slaw, pickles and remoulade on a brioche bun. Treat yourself to one of their classic southern Chicken and Waffle dishes or nibble on one of the seafood platters. Just be mindful of their 5:30 p.m. closing time! Oceanview Diner Chow down at the beach’s classic All-American coastal diner. They have delicious classics on the menu including steak and eggs and chicken and waffles. Don’t forget to also check out their specials board for daily seafood dishes for other options. Ocean View Pier @greenriotgrrrl, Instagram The Ocean View Fishing Pier Restaurant, an icon to this neighborhood, sits high in the air offering views of the Chesapeake Bay for miles. Adirondack high top seats that parallel the Chesapeake Bay invite you to sip on some sweet tea, slurp down she crab soup and relish in the fact that you just saw a dolphin!
Farms, Family Fun and Ice Cream in Shenandoah County May 16, 2022 by Visit Shenandoah County Bring the Family together for a Summer Experience in beautiful Shenandoah County, Virginia! Get closer to nature and build family bonds with a visit to Shenandoah County. Attractions here are no-frills and not fancy, but are guaranteed to bring smiles and warm hearts. Hike in the woods, skip rocks on the river, feed llamas, pick berries and explore caverns are just a few ideas, but imagine a place that allows for together time, marveling at the views, enjoying farm-fresh foods and creating beautiful memories. Agricultural Experiences Once called the “Breadbasket of the South”, Shenandoah County has deep roots in agriculture with many family farms still in operation a hundred or more years after their original ancestor first put a shovel in the land. Nowadays, family farms are diversifying, and creating spaces for visitors to pick fruits and pet the animals. One “Century Farm” has even begun brewing craft beer and serving wood-fired pizzas made with ingredients sourced within a stone’s throw. Here are some of our favorite farm experiences in the area: Swover Creek Farms– is a Virginia Century Farm offering pick-your-own berries in several varieties including raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and black raspberries, and gooseberries. Their kitchen also offers wood fired pizzas, farm crafted sausages and home-made pretzels and well as farm crafted beers. Woodbine Farms– is a family owned and operated farm market offering a huge variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs including peaches, plum, cherries, apricots, apples, tomatoes, green beans and much more. Their bakery also serves up some of the best cookies around as well as fresh baked pies, artisan breads, and apple dumplings. Enjoy local cheeses, jams, ciders and more inside the market or venture outside for their children’s play area complete with mining sluice. Rivers, Caverns and other outdoor destinations Bryce Resort– This four season resort offers a variety of summer activities including biking, boat rentals, and golf. Beginner cyclists can take a lesson on their state of the art mountain bike trail which allows visitors to coast down the mountain and take in the spectacular views. Lake Laura is also part of Bryce Resort’s summer fun where the family can enjoy paddleboarding, canoeing and tubing. Shenandoah Caverns Family of Attractions– Beat the heat in an underground landscape- At a constant 56°F, the beauty and wonders of Shenandoah Caverns is a family experience like no other. Check out Shenandoah County’s beautiful scenery below the surface and learn the story of two young boys who discovered it over a hundred years ago and made it their secret hideaway. Shenandoah Caverns has working elevator service and is home to the famous “bacon formations” as featured in National Geographic Magazine. Included with your ticket to the Caverns there are several other attractions that are definitely worth seeing: Main Street of Yesteryear, the Yellow Barn and American Celebration on Parade. American Celebration on Parade is a favorite among families who enjoy seeing floats from the Rose Bowl Parades, Thanksgiving Day Parades and Presidential Inaugurals up close and personal. Many even come to life with the push of a button. Strasburg River Walk– This park offers a one of the most family/kid friendly river access points in the area suitable for canoes, kayaks and shallow aluminum boats. Fish for redbreast sunfish or small-mouth bass along the shores or enjoy a stroll along the gravel path running alongside the river. Woodstock Tower– Take a short 1/3 mile round-trip hike to one of the most spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley. The Woodstock Tower was originally built as one of the first Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) projects now offers stunning 360 degree views of the Seven Bends of the Shenandoah River, the Town of Woodstock, and Fort Valley. It’s a perfectly short hike for little ones and the views are breathtaking. Note: The drive to the trail head is filled with switchbacks as it climbs over Massanutten Mountain. RV’s Trailers and buses are not allowed. Hike to Big Schloss– For your tough-and-mighty trail warriors this 4 mile round trip hike offers a perfect day on the mountain with places to stop for a picnic. A beautiful rock outcropping at the end makes a perfect spot for a family photo. You can’t beat the views here! At the trail head are several places to set up a tent and campfire for the night. Memories made. Ice Cream Stands: No matter what part of the county you visit, there’s always a good place to stop and cool down with a sweet treat. After your adventures, on the rivers, trails or underground it’s easy to find a place to stop at one of the many ice cream stands around the County. Offering classic treats such as hand-dipped cones, custard and milkshakes as well as chillers filled with your favorite candy bars. Most places are open seasonally and are enjoyed by locals and travelers alike. Ice Cream Depot 363 E King St, Strasburg Katie’s Custard 870 S Main St, Woodstock Edinburg Ice Cream 101 Jillian Ct, Edinburg Smiley’s Kustard 1562 Orkney Grade Bayse (near Bryce Resort) Sugar Creek Snowy & Sweet 154 E King St, Strasburg Pack’s Frozen Custard – 211 East Lee Hwy New Market
What’s Cooking? Shenandoah County for Foodies May 16, 2022 by Visit Shenandoah County When you’re zipping along on the interstate, it might be easy to assume that Shenandoah County is a county full of fast food. But while there’s plenty of convenience food to be found, there’s also a wealth of restaurants serving fresh-cooked food that emphasizes local meat, produce, and other ingredients. From bakeries and cafes to brew pubs, wine bars, and even a restaurant in a greenhouse, the “Breadbasket of the South” is a wonderful place to enjoy farm-to-table dining. Basye When you’ve worked your body hard – as you surely will skiing, biking, or hiking at Basye Resort – you’ll be hungry for the choices at the Cooper Kettle Bar & Lounge the ultimate venue to relax après ski or after a round of golf. Offering soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and entrees of braised beef and spring salmon. Catch live music on the weekend in the evenings. For an upscale experience at an extensive wine bar, try RHouse Wine & Cafe. Share plates from their menu, including charcuterie platters and dishes like mushroom fontina fonduta, which is mushrooms baked with fontina and drizzled with truffle oil. Other decadent dishes include baby back ribs with maple sauce and mashed potatoes. Save room for decadent desserts like key lime cheesecake and Spanish flan. New Market If you’re exploring the area around New Market and indulging your appreciation for history at the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Stop at the Jackson Corner Cafe in the Lee-Jackson building for a light meal of salad, quiche, pastries, and soups and sandwiches. Don’t skip that good-smelling cup of Crazy Fox Coffee Roasting Co. coffee. This local small-batch, artisan roaster buys beans from farms that emphasize sustainability. For a nostalgic treat, a view of a retro neon sign, and true Southern cooking, plant yourself in the locally-owned Southern Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Not only can you get classics like peanut soup, and sirloin barbeque beef tips, you can also gnosh on something called a 50/50 burger that’s made from a mix of ground beef and ground bacon. If you’re around on a Wednesday evening, indulge in the all-you-can-eat fried chicken wing special. Follow that up with some homemade apple fritters or fruit or meringue pie. Mount Jackson Mount Jackson is a terrific place to start a day of biking. Explore the quiet country roads surrounding the town, making sure to stop for photographs of the Meems Bottom Bridge and the landmark water tower that’s decorated with Shenandoah County apples. Spread out a blanket and catch some Second Sunday music at Mayor’s Park if you happen to be in town for it. A nice place to have a meal is the Curtain Call Coffeehouse Cafe. The interior is decorated with cool classic movie posters, and you’ll love the lattes, scones, and other items freshly made by local bakers. The cafe specializes in sandwiches and wraps, as well as other breakfast and lunch items. You also won’t want to leave Mount Jackson without a tour of the Route 11 Potato Chip factory facilities and a taste of local, kettle cooked goodness Edinburg A day in Edinburg isn’t complete without a visit to the Shenandoah Valley Cultural Heritage Museum at Edinburg Mill. The 1848 mill, known for being spared when Sheridan burned the Shenandoah Valley, provides hands-on history exhibits about the Civil War and America’s first Civilian Conservation Camp. Head downstairs to dine on pub-style food in the Edinburg Mill Restaurant. Chefs Jason Burns and Dennis Stickley emphasize local products in their seasonal menu items. Start with an order of braised pork belly prepared with local apples and fresh herbs. Next, dig into an entree of blackened Virginia catfish or pecan chicken. The restaurant also serves steaks, burgers, as well as breakfast and lunch selections. You won’t leave hungry after a meal at Beans BBQ, but you’ll want to pack a cooler and take some with you to eat at home the next day. The eatery is low frills, but the food is simple, but it’s to die for. Choose from pork bbq, ribs, chicken bbq, andouille sausage, brisket and a selection of sides. Edinburg is also centrally located for touring five nearby vineyards: Muse Vineyards, Shenandoah Vineyards, Cave Ridge Vineyard, Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery, and the Winery at Kindred Pointe. Woodstock Whether you’re hiking or biking the trails in Seven Bends State Park or hunting for treasures in the antique shops lining Woodstock’s main drag, eventually you’ll want to slow down for a meal. Check out the bread schedule, peruse the pastry menu, and see what’s on the drink specials menu at Flour and Water. Your favorites will probably include olive sourdough, bacon, cheddar, and chive scones, and marigold lattes, but there’s much more to choose from on the menu of chef-designed sandwiches, fresh soups, and more. Chef Jose at Woodstock Cafe serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. Standout menu selections include D’Artagnan grass fed ribeye with fries and Shenandoah ramp butter and the homemade mafaldine pasta with asparagus, hen of the woods mushrooms, bacon, and parmesan fondue. Save room for a seasonal dessert or swing by Sugar Creek Snowy and Sweet for hand-dipped Pennsylvania Dutch-style ice cream. Choose from more than two dozen delicious flavors like orange creamsicle, coffee crunch, and coconut. Plant enthusiasts will dig eating inside the Fort Valley Greenhouse at Woodstock Garden Cafe. The cafe emphasizes the use of fresh, local ingredients from area producers like Mowery Orchard, Shenandoah Spice Company, and Dayton Produce. They also grow ingredients onsite and change their menu seasonally to reflect what’s fresh. Strasburg A fun way to explore downtown Strasburg is to look for the colorful murals painted on the sides of buildings. Afterwards, widen your pancake horizons with The Pancake Underground’s savory fried chicken and pancakes doused in house-made Nashville hot or apple bbq sauce. Your tastebuds will sing with a serving of Elvis-inspired peanut butter, banana, and bacon cakes doused in bourbon-maple syrup and powdered sugar. You can even get a stack of s’mores cakes, which are flavored with cinnamon and piled high with marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker crumbles. If you’d rather have fresh seafood, Crabby Maggie’s offers a wide selection at fair prices. Try the crabcakes or a cluster of snow crab legs with sides of hush puppies and cole slaw. If you’re sick of the hockey puck burgers and dried up hotdogs coming off your grill, take the family to Old Dominion Doggery and Burger Shoppe. Start with Bavarian pretzel logs dipped in beer cheese sauce and then build your own kosher all-beef dog or 100% local grass-fed beef burger. The extensive list of toppings includes classics like chili and cheese as well as pork rinds and crushed pineapple. The Box Office Brewery taproom is located in a renovated 1918 theater – the first in Shenandoah County. The bar is constructed from a local reclaimed bowling alley lane and flights of beer are served in cool film reel-inspired trays. You can order local wine, cider, and a dozen refreshing craft beers on tap. Accompany you drinks with brick oven pizza, sandwiches like cheesesteaks and smash burgers, and starters like wings and nachos.
When you’re zipping along on the interstate, it might be easy to assume that Shenandoah County is a county full of fast food. But while there’s plenty of convenience food to be found, there’s also a wealth of restaurants serving fresh-cooked food that emphasizes local meat, produce, and other ingredients. From bakeries and cafes to brew pubs, wine bars, and even a restaurant in a greenhouse, the “Breadbasket of the South” is a wonderful place to enjoy farm-to-table dining. Basye When you’ve worked your body hard – as you surely will skiing, biking, or hiking at Basye Resort – you’ll be hungry for the choices at the Cooper Kettle Bar & Lounge the ultimate venue to relax après ski or after a round of golf. Offering soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and entrees of braised beef and spring salmon. Catch live music on the weekend in the evenings. For an upscale experience at an extensive wine bar, try RHouse Wine & Cafe. Share plates from their menu, including charcuterie platters and dishes like mushroom fontina fonduta, which is mushrooms baked with fontina and drizzled with truffle oil. Other decadent dishes include baby back ribs with maple sauce and mashed potatoes. Save room for decadent desserts like key lime cheesecake and Spanish flan. New Market If you’re exploring the area around New Market and indulging your appreciation for history at the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park you’ll definitely work up an appetite. Stop at the Jackson Corner Cafe in the Lee-Jackson building for a light meal of salad, quiche, pastries, and soups and sandwiches. Don’t skip that good-smelling cup of Crazy Fox Coffee Roasting Co. coffee. This local small-batch, artisan roaster buys beans from farms that emphasize sustainability. For a nostalgic treat, a view of a retro neon sign, and true Southern cooking, plant yourself in the locally-owned Southern Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Not only can you get classics like peanut soup, and sirloin barbeque beef tips, you can also gnosh on something called a 50/50 burger that’s made from a mix of ground beef and ground bacon. If you’re around on a Wednesday evening, indulge in the all-you-can-eat fried chicken wing special. Follow that up with some homemade apple fritters or fruit or meringue pie. Mount Jackson Mount Jackson is a terrific place to start a day of biking. Explore the quiet country roads surrounding the town, making sure to stop for photographs of the Meems Bottom Bridge and the landmark water tower that’s decorated with Shenandoah County apples. Spread out a blanket and catch some Second Sunday music at Mayor’s Park if you happen to be in town for it. A nice place to have a meal is the Curtain Call Coffeehouse Cafe. The interior is decorated with cool classic movie posters, and you’ll love the lattes, scones, and other items freshly made by local bakers. The cafe specializes in sandwiches and wraps, as well as other breakfast and lunch items. You also won’t want to leave Mount Jackson without a tour of the Route 11 Potato Chip factory facilities and a taste of local, kettle cooked goodness Edinburg A day in Edinburg isn’t complete without a visit to the Shenandoah Valley Cultural Heritage Museum at Edinburg Mill. The 1848 mill, known for being spared when Sheridan burned the Shenandoah Valley, provides hands-on history exhibits about the Civil War and America’s first Civilian Conservation Camp. Head downstairs to dine on pub-style food in the Edinburg Mill Restaurant. Chefs Jason Burns and Dennis Stickley emphasize local products in their seasonal menu items. Start with an order of braised pork belly prepared with local apples and fresh herbs. Next, dig into an entree of blackened Virginia catfish or pecan chicken. The restaurant also serves steaks, burgers, as well as breakfast and lunch selections. You won’t leave hungry after a meal at Beans BBQ, but you’ll want to pack a cooler and take some with you to eat at home the next day. The eatery is low frills, but the food is simple, but it’s to die for. Choose from pork bbq, ribs, chicken bbq, andouille sausage, brisket and a selection of sides. Edinburg is also centrally located for touring five nearby vineyards: Muse Vineyards, Shenandoah Vineyards, Cave Ridge Vineyard, Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery, and the Winery at Kindred Pointe. Woodstock Whether you’re hiking or biking the trails in Seven Bends State Park or hunting for treasures in the antique shops lining Woodstock’s main drag, eventually you’ll want to slow down for a meal. Check out the bread schedule, peruse the pastry menu, and see what’s on the drink specials menu at Flour and Water. Your favorites will probably include olive sourdough, bacon, cheddar, and chive scones, and marigold lattes, but there’s much more to choose from on the menu of chef-designed sandwiches, fresh soups, and more. Chef Jose at Woodstock Cafe serves brunch, lunch, and dinner. Standout menu selections include D’Artagnan grass fed ribeye with fries and Shenandoah ramp butter and the homemade mafaldine pasta with asparagus, hen of the woods mushrooms, bacon, and parmesan fondue. Save room for a seasonal dessert or swing by Sugar Creek Snowy and Sweet for hand-dipped Pennsylvania Dutch-style ice cream. Choose from more than two dozen delicious flavors like orange creamsicle, coffee crunch, and coconut. Plant enthusiasts will dig eating inside the Fort Valley Greenhouse at Woodstock Garden Cafe. The cafe emphasizes the use of fresh, local ingredients from area producers like Mowery Orchard, Shenandoah Spice Company, and Dayton Produce. They also grow ingredients onsite and change their menu seasonally to reflect what’s fresh. Strasburg A fun way to explore downtown Strasburg is to look for the colorful murals painted on the sides of buildings. Afterwards, widen your pancake horizons with The Pancake Underground’s savory fried chicken and pancakes doused in house-made Nashville hot or apple bbq sauce. Your tastebuds will sing with a serving of Elvis-inspired peanut butter, banana, and bacon cakes doused in bourbon-maple syrup and powdered sugar. You can even get a stack of s’mores cakes, which are flavored with cinnamon and piled high with marshmallow, chocolate, and graham cracker crumbles. If you’d rather have fresh seafood, Crabby Maggie’s offers a wide selection at fair prices. Try the crabcakes or a cluster of snow crab legs with sides of hush puppies and cole slaw. If you’re sick of the hockey puck burgers and dried up hotdogs coming off your grill, take the family to Old Dominion Doggery and Burger Shoppe. Start with Bavarian pretzel logs dipped in beer cheese sauce and then build your own kosher all-beef dog or 100% local grass-fed beef burger. The extensive list of toppings includes classics like chili and cheese as well as pork rinds and crushed pineapple. The Box Office Brewery taproom is located in a renovated 1918 theater – the first in Shenandoah County. The bar is constructed from a local reclaimed bowling alley lane and flights of beer are served in cool film reel-inspired trays. You can order local wine, cider, and a dozen refreshing craft beers on tap. Accompany you drinks with brick oven pizza, sandwiches like cheesesteaks and smash burgers, and starters like wings and nachos.
12 Best Brunch Spots in Norfolk, VA May 1, 2022 by Visit Norfolk 12 Best Brunch Spots in Norfolk, VA From pillowy soft, savory biscuits to fluffy pancakes topped with delicious syrup, brunch in Norfolk never disappoints. No matter what your taste buds are craving, these popular brunch spots have all the essentials. Gather your brunch squad and get ready to dig in! Photo above: @veronilynne Downtown Brick Anchor Brew House Those looking for a more boozier brunch with a Southern twist can head to Brick Anchor Brew House. They have three different types of Bloody Marys on their menu as well as a mimosa flight. Their offerings range from traditional omelettes and buttermilk pancakes to spicy Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles and scrumptious Cajun Parmesan Cheese Shrimp and Grits. Cafe Milo @cafe.milo_va, Instagram Tucked within the NEON Arts District, enjoy a mimosa at Cafe Milo alongside their Savory Hash – a gluten-free smash up of potato, sweet and salty bacon, bell peppers, onions, mustard greens and egg, topped with Red Eye gravy. Vegan and Vegetarian options are also available, including Avocado Toast – avocado drizzled with Green Goddess dressing, topped with pickled onion, radish and field greens on top of Sourdough toast. Brunch is served on Saturday and Sunday. Cork and Co. Wine and Martini Bar Why be limited to Sunday brunches when you could enjoy brunch six days a week? At Cork and Co. you can, with their delicious brunch menu available Tuesday through Sunday, and we are not complaining! The menu is filled with distinctive brunch items like their Down South Benedict – buttermilk golden fried chicken breast on an english muffin, topped with two poached eggs and finished with jalapeno hollandaise. The food is delicious, but it’s their Grande Mimosas that will keep you coming back for more. Grain @chelsemily_, Instagram Every Sunday, locals and visitors alike flock to the fifth floor of 100 Granby Street to enjoy the rooftop brunch at Grain. The incredible views of the waterfront, paired with an all-you-can-eat brunch buffet will make for a picture perfect Sunday brunch. Enjoy specialties like fresh oysters and made-to-order omelets and tacos. Brunch is offered only on Saturday and Sunday. Four Eleven York @fourelevenyork, Instagram Arguably the classiest of brunches in Norfolk, Four Eleven York knows how to whip up some fabulous dishes. From classic French Toast, made with housemade brioche and topped with maple syrup, to their Fried Oyster Benedict which has Wicked Salt oysters and crispy bok choy served an english muffin with hollandaise, you will not be disappointed with anything you order. Brunch cocktails are traditional in concept but have unique flares of flavor thrown into each to spice it up. A favorite is an orange crush Man-mosa – orange infused vodka, gin, lime juice, orange juice and prosecco, topped with orange blossom water. Spoiler alert, they give out complimentary fresh baked flavored donuts upon ordering. The flavors are constantly changing and range from blackberry glazed to peachy donuts, made with Blue Bee Cider’s Peach Madness – like a dessert Bellini! Don’t worry, our taste buds are watering too. Omar’s Carriage House Originally an 1840s carriage house, Omar’s is located along the cobblestone streets of the historic Freemason District and serves up classic dishes such as Egg Benedict, Pancakes and more. One item that you can only find at Omar’s is their Crepe Bretonne — a French dish with ham, gruyere, spinach and mushrooms with béchamel, breakfast potatoes and fresh fruit. Press 626 Cafe and Wine Bar @press626_awinebar, Instagram Wine isn’t the only thing that Press 626 does well, their brunch is just as wonderful, with so many tasty options it makes it hard to decide what to order. You’ll find exquisite dishes like their Cast Iron Skillet Veggie Frittata, Croque Madame, Dark Chocolate and Brie French Toast and R’s Duck Confit and Sweet Potato Hash. Brunch is offered on Saturday and Sunday. Chelsea Smartmouth Brewery’s Second Sunday Jazz Brunch Looking for an atypical sit-down brunch? Smartmouth Brewery’s monthly Jazz Brunch hosts food trucks, pop-up coffee vendors and live jazz musicians to help set the relaxed vibe for your Sunday morning. Every other month they host a Vegan brunch catered by Desmond’s Island Soul Grill. Forget the bacon and dive into one of their Vegan dishes like their Escovitch Krabcakes and Coconut Grits – seared Crab Cake made with chickpeas, hearts of palm and sauteed vegetables over creamy coconut grits, topped with a spicy pickled vegetable medley. Riverview Clementines at Riverview @_nomarama_, Instagram This Southern-styled hidden gem located in Riverview is pumping out some exceptional brunch dishes. Your mouth will water after you take a bite of their King’s French Toast – thick sliced challah and melted peanut butter topped with bananas and applewood bacon drizzled with hickory smoked maple syrup. Ease into your Sunday with a house-made cocktail, or ‘remedy’, as they refer to them, or enjoy their Sunday Morning Coming Down – cold brew coffee mixed with Bulleit bourbon and Demerara syrup (amber-hued simple syrup which yields a caramel and toffee flavor palate). Ocean View and East Beach Stony’s Dockside Bar and Grille Brunch with a view! Stony’s is owned and operated by Chef Stony and Laura Johnson and is located in the neighborhood of East Ocean View, offering complete views of the East Beach Marina. Their brunch menu offers typical dishes like Cinnamon French Toast and eggs benedict, but they also have Southern classics like scrumptious Shrimp and Grits and, of course, Chicken and Waffles. We know bloody marys and mimosas are a must at any proper brunch, but try a local favorite cocktail that rivals the mimosa, the Orange Crush. This cocktail has orange juice, Sprite and flavored vodka making it a perfect mimosa substitute. Railroad District Handsome Biscuit While this isn’t your typical brunch outing, you can ask any local for a brunch recommendation and we can guarantee that Handsome Biscuit is at the top of their list. This trendy biscuit shop popped up in 2013 and has been slinging the best breakfast sandwiches ever since. Stating the obvious here: they specialize in biscuit sandwiches, like fried chicken biscuits, pulled pork biscuits and more. Their more breakfast-forward biscuit, the Hot Betty (fried egg with seared greens, garlic and topped with their specialty Lupo hot sauce), can be paired with their crispy hashbrowns to really tie in the brunch vibe. It’s common for Handsome Biscuit to have a line out the door, but the wait is well worth it. Toast Toast, located in the Railroad District, is known very well for there, uh, toast. This isn’t your average slice of bread; Toast makes their bread in-house and tops them with everything under the sun. For a healthier brunch option choose their Eggs Italia – soft boiled eggs with kale, roasted veggies, Vegan bolognese, parmesan and toast – or dive into their French Toast – BP bread pudding made with brioche, cinnamon, eggs and cream served with maple syrup and whipped Nutella cream. Brunch is offered Friday through Sunday.