Posted in Virginia Attractions, Sights & Landmarks November 02, 2017 by Beth

This Restaurant In Virginia Used To Be A Church And It’s Absolutely Incredible

Many of Virginia’s historic buildings have served various purposes throughout the centuries. Perhaps it’s a bed & breakfast that was once a Civil War hospital. Or a gas station that now offers a fine dining experience. Another striking example of this is the Freemason Abbey Restaurant in Norfolk. As you may have guessed from its name, this eatery is located inside of a renovated church that dates back to the 19th century.

Here’s more on this fascinating site and the delicious food you’ll find there:

Freemason Abbey Restaurant is located inside a nearly 150-year old renovated church at 209 W Freemason St Norfolk, VA 23510.

Remodeling of the building began in 1988, when the owners planned to create a warm and friendly tavern atmosphere inside this breathtaking historic space.

A visit to the restaurant today reveals plenty of signs of the building's early life that blend harmoniously with the atmosphere of the restaurant.

Stained-glass windows provide unique lighting and the tall ceilings offer a unique ambiance to your dining experience.

And speaking of dining, the menu at Freemason Abbey Restaurant will not disappoint. For an appetizer, you can start with a round of bite-sized salmon cakes.

If you're in the mood for a great burger, the Downtown Cheeseburger is a must.

Another menu favorite is the crab and shrimp pasta, photographed below.

Freemason Abbey Restaurant also makes for a wonderful place to bring out-of-town guests. You can stop by on the weekend for a delectable brunch before sightseeing in downtown Norfolk.

It's no wonder why locals and visitors alike cite this spot as one of the city's most unique dining experiences.

For additional details, including the extensive history of the church, you can visit the restaurant’s website here. Have you dined at the Freemason Abbey Restaurant before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences there!

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