Top 10 Restaurants You Must Try in Lynchburg, VA
The Lynchburg food scene has plenty to offer, but you have to do a little digging to find the real gems. Fortunately, we’ve done it all for you!
Here’s our top 10 list of the best Lynchburg restaurants! Some are casual and some are more special occasion, but we’re confident you’ll love them all.
Skyline
Downtown Lynchburg
If it's your first time in Lynchburg and it's a lovely evening, you've gotta try Skyline! It's on the roof of the beautiful historic Virginia Hotel. The city views are gorgeous, and the atmosphere is perfect for a night out on the town.
The menu is all about the seafood. The baked stuffed trout and Cajun seafood over pimento cheese grits are personal faves, but don't forget about their tasty burgers, steak, and big salads, too.
Local Tip: Share some small plates instead of ordering large entrees. It's a great way to sample a bunch of yummy things! Grab the coconut shrimp, tempura oysters, and crab cake, then add a couple of sides like zesty corn relish and the sautéed gnocchi and broccoli.
Reservations: Definitely recommended.
*FYI, we’ve got 3 luxe townhome stays within walking distance of Skyline! Check out The Jameson, Courtside, and Artist House!
The Water Dog
Downtown Lynchburg
Everybody loves The Water Dog! It's fun and super chill, like hanging out at a best friend's house. They've got 36 beers and ciders on tap, fresh oysters, and a laid-back menu that has plenty of options to keep everyone happy. Plus, you can usually catch live bands playing outside in the backyard, where your pup can dine with you, too!
Besides the oysters, the peel-and-eat shrimp are dynamite, or you can get the East Coast trio (oysters, clams, shrimp). If you're not in the mood for seafood, check out their specialty hot dogs, the burger, or any of their mouthwatering handhelds (tacos, sandwiches, etc). Plus, they always have fantastic seasonal specials.
The artwork and decor are super funky and eclectic. They have sports playing on TVs at the bar, and the staff is always on point with top-notch service. You won’t go wrong with The Water Dog.
Local Tip: Did somebody say rosé??? Every Thursday you can grab discounted bottles of rosé AND The Water Dog will donate $2 from each purchase to a local charity. Do good, feel good!
Reservations: Only available for parties of 16 or more.
The Glass House
Downtown Lynchburg
The Glass House is where you want to go for a date night or fun with friends. It's fancy but not fussy, with a variety of seating options inside - regular table or sofa lounges. You'll loooooove the gorgeous interior - it's a definite must for taking selfies!
They also have some of the best cocktails in town. And if you want a "wow moment," order the drink "I Put a Hex on You." You'll see... ;-)
The food menu is all about small plates, which are perfect for sharing and going on a little foodie adventure. It's always fresh and always seasonal, so each time you go, there's a new twist.
Local Tip: Be sure to check out the music calendar. The patio is usually jamming with awesome local and out-of-town bands, especially during the warmer months.
Reservations: Recommended
Waterstone Pizza
Downtown Lynchburg
Waterstone Pizza is nice and cozy, which makes it great for the family or a date. Their fire-roasted pizzas are soooo good, yet “civilized” in size, which means super-hungry parties can order a few to share. And you can also get them gluten-free! Some local favorites are the Greek and CBR (chicken, bacon, ranch), but, seriously, they're all fantastic. The salads are awesome too!
If it's nice out, try to grab a table outside on the patio. This restaurant is in the heart of historic downtown, and the atmosphere is super cute.
Local Tips: Before or after your meal, be sure to snap a photo in front of the red LOVE sign, just a 3-minute walk away. Or cross the old train bridge and go for a stroll on beautiful Percival's island, just around the corner.
Reservations: For large parties only.
*Waterstone is within walking distance from the River House Apt, James Station caboose, Park Place, and the Candy Apple!
Truss
Rivermont Area
Truss is the spot for a truly special dining experience. It’s the most swanky and consistently exceptional restaurant in town. The menu is seasonal and innovative, and the cocktails and wine list are outstanding.
There aren’t any rules for what you wear, buuuuut trust us - dress like a million bucks, baby, because you’re gonna feel like it! And if you really want to go all out, book the chef’s table for your small party.
Local Tip: The bar is just as lovely as the restaurant. Arrive early for your reservation and sip in style. And if you can’t get a table, have your dinner here!
Reservations: Definitely Recommended.
The Dahlia
Rivermont Area
The Dhalia is Lynchburg’s good old pub. They’ve been serving super yummy surf-and-turf dishes inside their cozy den since 1947! It’s a local institution, and you will feel it when you step inside. The shrimp & grits and fish & chips and surefire winners, same for the ribeye.
There’s a great bar scene here, too, if you’re just wanting to pop in for a drink.
Local Tip: There are two dining areas. If you want an intimate ambiance, dine upstairs on the main level. If you want to spread out, head downstairs for the larger tables.
Reservations: Recommended
*The Dahlia is under 5 minutes to the Gem and the Minimalist
Taco Jesús
Rivermont Area
Legit Mexican tacos in Lynchburg??? Si! Si! Si!
Taco Jesús (“hey-zeus”) has been a smash hit since it opened in late 2023. This casual, bright, festive taco joint is a real crowd-pleaser for the whole family, and it’s easy on the wallet! There’s plenty of seating, including picnic tables outside, so even if it’s busy, you won’t have to wait long.
Local Tips: Don’t be scared of a little adventure! Share some different tacos like lengua (beef tongue), camote (sweet potato), or chorizo in addition to the more traditional tacos. And be sure to check out their Mexican sodas - (Jarritos),
Reservations: Not Available
Rivermont Pizza
Rivermont Area
Rivermont Pizza, or “RP” as the cool kids call it, has been slinging wildly different, tasty pizzas (along with more traditional ones) since 2008. Thai sauce, tofu, red onion, jalapeños and cilantro? Sure! Goat cheese, Italian sausage, spinach, roasted red peppers and feta? Count me in!
It’s right next to Randolph College, so the scene is young and lively, but it’s also chill enough for families.
Local Tip: Monday nights at 9 pm are for trivia! Three rounds, with a prize for each round and a grand prize for the overall winner. Oh, and you may need your patience hat for busy nights, but snag a drink at the lively bar inside while you wait.
Reservations: Not available.
The Farm Basket
Linkhorne
For a little lunch and shopping, head over to The Farm Basket! Tucked away in quiet central Lynchburg, this cafe sits inside a darling gift shop that sells home decor, women’s clothing and accessories, a children’s collection, and more.
The cafe has some of the most yummy sandwiches and salads around. If it’s nice outside, you can sit under the shade near a babbling brook. A couple of favorites for sandwiches are the Virginia Ham & Swiss and the Pimento Cheese & Cucumber. For salads, check out the Blackwater Dip, or go super healthy with the Teriyaki Power Bowl!
Local Tip: Snag some of their Virginia specialty foods for uniquely awesome gifts! Cheese straws, apple butter, or Virginia peanuts are always a hit. And you can’t go wrong with the line of Virginia Gentlemen sauces.
Reservations: Not available.
Isabella’s
Boonsboro
For a quiet date night, you can’t go wrong with Isabella’s! It’s an Italian Trattoria located in the heart of the Boonsboro neighborhood.
It’s sophisticated yet casual, and every single item on the menu is sooooo good because they use fresh, local, seasonal ingredients! Just ask any local. And definitely get the bread basket with dipping oil. You will love it. They also have a great wine list and craft cocktails.
Local Tip: If you have to wait for a table, dip in next door to Mi Patron and grab a margarita. They give a good pour ;-)
Reservations: Recommended.
*If you’re staying at Stone Cottage, Isabella’s is only 4 minutes away!
So no matter what you're in the mood for, we hope you’ll agree the Lynchburg restaurant scene has you covered.
Have you tried any of these restaurants? Do you have a favorite spot in Lynchburg that didn't make the list? Let us know in the comments below! And if you're planning a visit, don’t forget to make your reservations in advance.
Happy dining, and bon appétit!
Don’t forget if you’re visiting the ‘burg and need accommodations, you can browse our 25+ properties here.
Stay tuned for our next post about the best wineries and breweries around Lynchburg.
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