“A great restaurant is one that just makes you feel like you're not sure whether you went out or you came home and confuses you. If it can do both of those things at the same time, you're hooked.” - Danny Meyer
One thing that I love is, going to a unique and cozy restaurant that feels like home. Today, I am sharing a few of my favorite spots, some new and some old. Each place has it’s own little something that makes it absolutely special.
This wonderful spot, is right on the Oceanfront, located in Virginia Beach, VA. The eclectic eatery, serves up some of the best raw oysters, and speciality cocktails that’ll knock your socks off. This restaurant is quaint, cozy, and the staff is oh so helpful and very kind.
Favorite Order: Fried Eastern Shore Oysters
The coolest bar setup ever.
Enjoying a lovely glass of Cabernet Franc.
Enjoying the neatest artwork in a restaurant.
Williamsburg Winery, is one of my favorite Virginia wineries - for a variety of reasons. One reason in particular is, that G and I had one of our first dates here, and we had lunch at Gabriel Archer Tavern. Recently, I went back to visit with a few girlfriends, and the restaurant completely upped their game. The food was always delicious, but the sandwich and salad I ordered was a delight, and my girlfriends loved their entrees! Also, we were able to enjoy a yummy bottle of Malbec with our lunch, which was an added bonus!
Favorite Order: Caprese Sandwich with a side Caesar Salad
The yummiest lunch: Caprese Sandwich - Mozzarella, Tomato, Baby Arugula, Basil Pesto, Bacon and Balsamic on a French Baguette with a delicious Caesar Salad.
Eating vegan-based meals is something I’ve been enjoying a lot lately. Fruitive has been a favorite of mine for awhile now, and I love visiting this spot after a morning workout. Also, their juices are one of my favorites, and they have the best flavor combinations. The restaurant, phased out one of my fave drinks, and replaced it with one that actually topped the original. This spot is always serving their customers top notch, quality ingredients.
Favorite Order: Blue Algae Limeade & Avocado Herb Toast
The Blue Algae Limeade - Lime, Pineapple, Blue-Green Algae, Ginger
The best Avocado Herb Toast, ever - Flax and Spelt Bread, Basil Pesto, Avocado, Black Pepper, Sea Salt, and Oregano.
Tinto has been an old favorite for years, ever since G and I went to try out this local wine shop back in 2015. We have always enjoyed their wonderful wines and delicious food! Recently, we finally tried out one of their Dinner Parties, G and I were blown away with Tinto’s Rome themed dinner. Ever since our winter vacation to Italy, we have been longing for an authentic Italian meal - and this party did not disappoint.
Favorite Order: Pretty much everything!
Antipasti: Prosciutto, Fig, Salami, Mini Mozzarella, Grilled Eggplant, Olives, and Roasted Peppers. This was the perfect pairing with the Orlando Contucci Pecorino 2017.
House Made Black Pepper Pasta - Reggiano and Olive Oil. This was perfectly paired with the Pertussa Schioppettino 2016.
The perfect Summer salad: Radicchio, Arugula, Artichoke, and Orange Viniaggertte - paired with Avogadro le Fonticchie Vermentino.
Nordstrom is one of my favorite stores. Recently, the department store has left my neighboring city, Norfolk, VA, and their wonderful Marketplace Café has been deeply missed by our community. Their restaurant is so delicious, and absolutely convenient when shopping all day!
Favorite Order: Handmade Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza
Handmade Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza - Basil Pesto, Fontina and Parmesan Cheese, topped with a Lemon Arugula Salad
What are some of your favorite restaurants in your city? Share below!
XO, Analise