A culinary road trip through the flavours of Virginia

Virginia’s story of culinary flavours is closely woven together with the state’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural tapestry. Embark on a 5-day flavour road trip, exploring exquisite tastes, local traditions, and culinary delights on this gastronomic adventure through Virginia.

Day 1

Arrive at Dulles International Airport and drive to The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner, a luxury hotel recognised among the top 50 hotels in the US by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Relax with Afternoon Tea, featuring canapés, desserts, fine teas and piano entertainment, before exploring the nearby Tysons Galleria, home to luxury brands including Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue.

For dinner, visit 2941 Restaurant, where Executive Chef Bertrand Chemel combines contemporary American cuisine with French and Mediterranean influences. Set among koi ponds, waterfalls and lush landscaping, the restaurant offers an elegant dining experience. Return to the Ritz-Carlton for dessert and cocktails at ENTYSE.

Day 2

Travel west towards the Blue Ridge Mountains and the charming town of Washington, known as “Little” Washington. Explore wineries including Quièvremont Vineyard & Winery and Little Washington Winery & Brewery, and browse local art at Gay Street Gallery and R.H. Ballard Shop & Gallery.

Stay at The Inn at Little Washington, where a welcome cocktail sets the tone for an indulgent evening. Its three Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative American cuisine, an extensive wine list and a multi-course dining experience. Chef Patrick O’Connell, the restaurant’s proprietor, has been recognised with the James Beard Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Day 3

Continue to Orange, travelling through scenic countryside to the historic Inn at Willow Grove. Explore the Monticello Wine Trail with visits to Early Mountain Vineyards or Barboursville Vineyards, both known for wine-focused dining and locally sourced ingredients. The Charlottesville region was named Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Wine Region of the Year.

Return to the Inn for dinner at Vintage, its Forbes Travel Guide four-star restaurant, which highlights produce from Central Virginia. Private chef tastings are also available for a personalised culinary experience.

Day 4

Begin with fresh, house-made beignets before heading east towards Richmond. Stop at The Jefferson Hotel for lunch at Lemaire Restaurant, a Forbes Travel Guide five-star property serving seasonal New American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. If your schedule permits, experience the hotel’s champagne brunch.

Continue to Virginia Beach and check into The Historic Cavalier Hotel & Beach Club, a restored 1927 landmark overlooking the Atlantic. For dinner, visit Orion’s Roof, located high above the ocean and known for Asian-fusion cuisine, sushi, cocktails, wine and sake.

Day 5

Explore Virginia Beach’s ViBe Creative District, with its art studios, independent shops and cafés. Then head to Pleasure House Oysters for a memorable Chef’s Table Tour among the oyster beds of the Lynnhaven River, offering an immersive farm-to-table experience.Stroll along the three-mile Virginia Beach Boardwalk and stop at Waterman’s Surfside Grille for its famous orange crush. End the journey at Becca, The Historic Cavalier’s AAA Four Diamond restaurant, before enjoying an award-winning drink at Tarnished Truth Distilling Company.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The Hans India