From cheesesteaks to French fine dining, here are the best places to eat in Williamsburg for locals, foodies, and first-time visitors alike.
his is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author’s own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.
Williamsburg might be famous for powdered wigs and cobblestone streets, but let’s talk about what’s really fueling the town: food. Over the last few years, this little city has quietly built up a culinary scene that’s as charming as it is eclectic. Places like Rick’s Cheesesteak Shop, Fat Canary and Le Yaca are great examples of the evolving culinary scene in Williamsburg, Virginia. Think upscale wine-paired dinners, unexpected fusion, cozy bistros, and yes—even incredible cheesesteaks in a college town setting.
Whether you’re here as a tourist or you’re a local looking to try something new, these ten spots capture what’s great about Williamsburg’s food scene right now.
1. Rick’s Cheesesteak Shop – Philly Soul with Williamsburg Heart
Courtesy: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g58313-d7811084-Reviews-Rick_s_Cheesesteak_Shop-Williamsburg_Virginia.html
603 Prince George St
Let’s be honest: nobody expects to find one of the best cheesesteaks in Colonial Williamsburg—but Rick’s delivers. It’s the kind of place where you walk in thinking you’ll grab something quick, and end up craving it for days. The meat is grilled fresh, the hoagie rolls are soft but sturdy, and the fried onions are done just right. Also worth noting is the atmosphere—Rick’s captures a fun, energetic vibe inspired by the colors and spirit of Philadelphia.
But here’s the kicker: their cheesesteak eggrolls might actually steal the show. Crispy, savory, and made to share (but you won’t want to), they’re a brilliant twist that regulars swear by and all of it is made fresh to go. And don’t skip the gravy or cheese fries—they round out the experience perfectly.
Rick’s doesn’t just serve food—it feels like a neighborhood spot. Comfortable, familiar, and quietly excellent.
Best For: Anyone craving bold flavors, hearty bites, and that unique Philly Cheesesteak experience
Must-Try: Classic Cheesesteak, Cheesesteak Eggrolls, Gravy Poutine, Cheese Fries
2. Fat Canary – Refined Dining with Seasonal Roots
Courtesy: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g58313-d560656-Reviews-Fat_Canary-Williamsburg_Virginia.html
410 W Duke of Gloucester St
Fat Canary is Williamsburg’s white-tablecloth champion. Tucked inside the elegant Merchants Square, it’s polished without being pretentious. The service is always top-notch, and the rotating seasonal menu features thoughtful, artfully plated American fare.
Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner or celebrating something big, this place feels like a special occasion. Their beef tenderloin is consistently perfect, and the pistachio crème brûlée? Easily one of the best desserts in town.
Best For: Date nights, anniversaries, elevated dining
Must-Try: Roasted Duck Breast, Beef Tenderloin, Pistachio Crème Brûlée
3. King’s Arms Tavern – Dining Like It’s 1776
Courtesy: https://goodqandeats.com/?p=27…
416 E Duke of Gloucester St
This isn’t just dinner—it’s dinner with a side of time travel. King’s Arms Tavern recreates an authentic 18th-century dining experience, complete with candlelight, costumed servers, and classic colonial recipes like peanut soup and game pye.
It’s hearty, rustic, and honestly, kind of magical. Bring the history buffs in your life, and be prepared to walk away with a new appreciation for what folks were eating during the Revolution.
Best For: History lovers, families, immersive dining
Must-Try: Peanut Soup, Game Pye, Prime Rib
4. Le Yaca – French Fine Dining, Southern Hospitality
ourtesy: https://www.visitwilliamsburg….
1430 High St
Le Yaca is what you book when you want to impress. The atmosphere is classic and elegant, but it’s the food that really makes it unforgettable. From the rich lobster bisque to the dreamy Grand Marnier soufflé, every course feels thoughtfully executed and full of flavor.
The staff is knowledgeable without being overbearing, and the wine list is extensive. It’s French food done with heart.
Best For: Celebrations, romantic dinners, long lunches
Must-Try: Filet Mignon au Poivre, Lobster Bisque, Grand Marnier Soufflé
5. Amber Ox Public House – Southern Comfort Meets Craft Beer
Courtesy: https://williamsburgvisitor.co…
521 Prince George St
Amber Ox is what happens when you let chefs play with tradition—and brewmasters keep the drinks flowing. This modern gastropub nails the sweet spot between creativity and comfort. Think elevated Southern classics, from short rib mac & cheese to smoked chicken, paired with house-brewed beers that are as well-crafted as the menu.
The space is lively but approachable, perfect for group dinners or a relaxed night out.
Best For: Groups, beer lovers, upscale comfort food
Must-Try: Pimento Cheese Fritters, Short Rib Mac & Cheese, In-House Craft Beer
6. Blue Talon Bistro – Bistro-Style Dining, Big on Comfort
420 Prince George St
Blue Talon feels like a Parisian bistro fell in love with Virginia. The menu is grounded in classic French technique but keeps things warm and accessible. Whether you’re digging into their famous French onion soup or their dreamy apple galette, every bite feels cozy and intentional.
It’s great for brunch, casual dinners, or when you just want a well-made steak frites in a charming setting.
Best For: Brunch dates, cozy dinners, casual elegance
Must-Try: Steak Frites, French Onion Soup, Apple Galette
7. Casa Pearl – Seafood, Tacos, and a Little Southern Swagger
722 Merrimac Trail
What do you get when you put raw oysters and hot chicken sandwiches in the same kitchen? Casa Pearl—a former gas station turned culinary hotspot. This place is fresh, inventive, and full of surprises.
With its Southern-meets-Mexican fusion menu, it somehow makes char-grilled oysters and tacos feel like a natural pairing. And it works. Don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you—the flavors are bold, balanced, and incredibly satisfying.
Best For: Casual dates, seafood lovers, adventurous eaters
Must-Try: Char-Grilled Oysters, Hot Chicken Sandwich, Pork Rinds with Pimento Cheese
8. La Tienda Tapas Bar – Authentic Spanish Flavors in a Relaxed Setting
Courtesy: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g58313-d7364099-Reviews-La_Tienda_Tapas_Bar_Market-Williamsburg_Virginia.html
1325 Jamestown Rd
More than just a restaurant, La Tienda is also a Spanish market, making it easy to fall in love with their flavors and take them home. The tapas bar offers a wide selection of small plates made for sharing—from croquetas to jamón to beautifully saffron-infused paella.
The pace is slower, the lighting warm, and the sangria always flows. It’s a great place to unwind over shared bites.
Best For: Small group dinners, wine lovers, Spanish cuisine fans
Must-Try: Croquetas, Patatas Bravas, Paella Valenciana
9. Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que – Southern BBQ Staple Since ’71
Courtesy: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pierc…
447 E Rochambeau Dr
If you’re in Williamsburg and craving real-deal BBQ, you go to Pierce’s. That’s just how it works. This roadside favorite has been smoking meats since 1971, and they’ve got the technique (and fanbase) to prove it.
The pulled pork is tangy and tender, the ribs fall off the bone, and don’t even think about skipping the banana pudding. It’s unfussy, comforting, and deliciously consistent.
Best For: Roadside eats, casual family meals, barbecue lovers
Must-Try: Pulled Pork Sandwich, BBQ Ribs, Banana Pudding
10. Berrett’s Seafood Restaurant & Taphouse Grill – Fresh Seafood, Historic Setting
Courtesy: https://www.visitwilliamsburg….
199 S Boundary St
Right near the historic district, Berrett’s brings a coastal sensibility to classic seafood dishes. It’s sophisticated but relaxed, making it perfect for a lingering lunch or an early dinner after sightseeing. The crab cakes are a local favorite, and their She-Crab Soup is comfort in a bowl.
Best For: Seafood fans, patio dining, a break from touring
Must-Try: Crab Cakes, She-Crab Soup, Grilled Rockfish
Williamsburg Restaurant Comparison Chart
Final Thoughts
Williamsburg might be known for its history, but if you know where to look, the food scene here is full of surprises. From upscale French dining to smoky BBQ joints and hidden gems in repurposed gas stations, there’s something for every craving—and every kind of diner.
If there’s one place that captures the spirit of Williamsburg’s food scene—unpretentious, local, and seriously tasty—it’s Rick’s Cheesesteak Shop. It’s the kind of spot you tell friends about after just one bite. Nothing fancy, just food that hits the spot, made with care and served with a little hometown pride.
Wherever you decide to eat, one thing’s certain: Williamsburg is more than just a historic town—it’s a place where great meals and good memories come easy.
This post is an advertorial piece contributed by a Patch Community Partner, a local brand partner. To learn more, click here.