Who doesn't love a good road trip? It's hands-down the best way to experience a brand new place or get to know your home state even better. Well, we've taken the classic road trip and added a new twist. Instead of site-seeing, the purpose of this trip is experiencing some of Virginia's finest restaurants. If you can set aside 3 days, you'll get your fill of homegrown flavors and recipes. Here's the map we used:
1. Harrisonburg: Breakfast at the Little Grill Collective
If ever there was the perfect road trip fuel, it would have to be banana walnut pancakes from the Little Grill Collective. This first stop along your restaurant tour will not disappoint, especially in the breakfast department. This join has gotten plenty of recognition for it's breakfast, and you'll soon see why.
2. Charlottesville: Lunch at Revolutionary Soup
Sometimes lunch is best when it's a casual affair, and that's exactly what you'll find at Revolutionary Soup in Charlottesville. But don't be fooled: casual does not mean bland. It's a great place to sample seasonal flavors and delicious sandwiches. You can't go wrong with the Spicy Senegalese Peanut Tofu Soup and/or the Kickin' Chicken sandwich.
3. Richmond: Dinner at Pasture
For wholesome and delicious, look no further than Richmond's Pasture. Aptly named, this restaurant specializes in local sourcing and Southern fare. You won't want to miss the fried clams or pimiento cheese.
And if Richmond is your last stop for the evening, be sure to sample the local brews with this happy hour flight.
4. Petersburg: Breakfast at Demolition Coffee
Day two of the road trip will start off with a hearty breakfast at Demolition Coffee Co. in historic Petersburg. After you've had your fill of delicious homemade cooking, you'll enjoy strolling around town. Also be sure to grab some of their coffee for the road -- it's a must-have.
5. Newport News: Lunch at Midtown Eats
It's lunch time, and this special spot in Newport News will be your answered prayer. It's a wildly popular little place (approximately six tables) that serves American fusion dishes such as yock-a-mein (photographed above) burgers, and a little something known as the Redneck Benedict.
6. Chesapeake: Dinner at Passion
No Virginia road trip is complete without a taste of fresh Chesapeake seafood. Your dinner at Passion will provide just that. And if you happen to be traveling with that special someone, this place is charming and romantic. In addition to seafood, you'll have plenty of other entree options to choose from. Photographed above is the Virginia crab cake dinner complete with asparagus and au gratin potatoes.
7. Emporia: Breakfast at Farm To Fork
Farm To Fork is a barbecue joint that also knows how to whip up a mean breakfast. This spot has plenty of southern flare, especially with dishes such as the famous chicken and waffles. Some other non-breakfast entrees include shrimp and grits and fish tacos.
8. Lynchburg: Lunch at Farm Basket
Locals agree that Farm Basket is a hidden gem. And after a heavier breakfast in Emporia, a delicious sandwich might be exactly what you're craving. The outdoor patio seating is charming and will make for the perfect pit stop if you're planning on spending some time exploring the town. The smoked turkey and brie sandwich served on a croissant is heavenly.
9. Lexington: Dinner at the Red Hen
To conclude this epic 3-day road trip, there's no better place to celebrate than Lexington's Red Hen. Plus, it completes the "farm" theme of the day. This is Lexington's first farm-to-table restaurant, and in a town with such a strong farming community, you're in for a real treat. Some incredible dishes include the crispy smoked trout or roasted pork shoulder.
What do you think of this road trip itinerary? Which stops would you add along the way? For another road trip idea, be sure to check out this Road Trip Through Virginia's Most Picturesque Small Towns.
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