When it comes to restaurants, a fancy exterior and flashy signs will only get you so far. What really matters is the food. And without a doubt, some of the best food in Virginia comes from the most unexpected places. While every community has its favorites -- those little neighborhood dives that only the locals know about -- we've found 13 of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Virginia that you won't want to miss next time you're in the area. From unexpectedly upscale to good ol' fashioned hot dogs and burgers, these places may not have all the flash and flair on the outside, but trust us, they make up for it on the inside.
Located in a nondescript storefront in Downtown Falls Church, SpaceBar is easy to miss. But don’t miss it. Please. It’s only the best grilled cheese menu you’ll ever find. Spacebar offers 20 grilled cheese sandwich options from vegan to pulled pork. Oh. And there’s beer. Lots of beer. Choose from a 24-tap selection that changes daily or get it to go in a sealed Mason jar. The only other things you’ll find on the menu are a few salads and tater tots. It’s minimalist perfection. Learn more about this beer bar and grilled cheese emporium.
When you go inside a gas station market, what are you expecting to find? Probably not one of the best deli sandwiches you’ve ever had. But stop by the Bel-Air Market at Tiger Fuel and that’s exactly what you’ll get. The market on Ivy Road in Charlottesville has been a long time favorite of University of Virginia students and locals alike with their freshly baked bread, meats, and cheeses. Try one of their specialty sandwiches or build your own. Either way, you’ll look forward to coming back. Here's more on this amazing deli hiding inside a gas station.
Named the best pizza in Virginia in TripAdvisor’s FlipKey.com poll, Pupatella is known for fabulously authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. It may not look like much on the outside…and the parking situation gets a bad rap, but the pizza wins time and again. Some things are just worth it.
Since 1963, The Apple House in Linden, Virginia has been a go-to for Warren County locals and visitors alike. Known for their outstanding BBQ and Zagat-rated Apple Butter donuts, this family-owned business sits just at the start of the Skyline Drive. Stop by anytime for great food and great service - and don’t forget to visit the gift shop for amazing goodies to-go.
Housed in a historic old General Store that operated from 1926-2000, The Palisades is a pleasant surprise. You might not expect handcrafted foods prepared in a brick oven imported from Italy in the heart of Giles County. But after one taste of this incredibly unique menu, you won’t be surprised by anything The Palisades serves up – and most importantly, you’ll never be disappointed. Enjoy live music, an impressive wine and port selection, incredible food, and a warm and cozy atmosphere that will keep you coming back time and again. Learn more about this hidden gem restaurant in Virginia.
Like the name implies, Buffalo and More serves more than just buffalo – but not a lot. On the menu you’ll find buffalo cheesesteak, buffalo loaded fries, buffalo burgers, pulled buffalo barbecue, buffalo hot dogs, and quesadillas with…you guessed it…buffalo. The owners show a clear passion for their work and supply all of the meat from their own buffalo farm just 15 minutes away. Once you’ve had your fill of the main course, be sure to try a dessert – all of which are homemade by the owner’s mother.
The exterior may not be grandiose, but it doesn’t need to be. Once you step inside, you’ll see that Chick-N-Little is all about homestyle goodness. Known for their great food, great service, and great prices, this diner-style family restaurant is a local favorite with items like made-to-order fried chicken, okra, homemade mashed potatoes, and loaded omelets.
What this little joint lacks in size, they make up for in taste. Featuring a menu of Sweet Potato Biscuit sandwiches and a handful of tasty homemade sides and desserts, the Handsome Biscuit serves up specials like the Hella Fitzgerald (fried chicken with bacon, cheddar, and red-eye sausage gravy) and the A.C. Slawter (pulled pork BBQ, apple coleslaw, and Lupo hot sauce). Fortunately, this small space can accommodate a large appetite – so bring it. Learn more about Handsome Biscuit in Norfolk, Virginia.
The original Kuba Kuba sits on an unassuming block in The Fan district of Richmond. Surrounded by neighborhood homes and parks, this Cuban-themed bodega is a treasure you won’t want to miss. Since opening in 1998, this little restaurant has received big reviews. Featuring authentic Cuban foods, Kuba Kuba serves up mind-blowing flavors in a funky atmosphere. And good news for you "West Enders", Kuba Kuba is now open on Lombardy in Henrico.
Skeeter’s World Famous Hot Dogs has been a Wythevilles staple since 1925. With lunch counter service and a bottle of Texas Pete hot sauce on every table, this classic joint is a favorite, not just for their tasty southern-style "red" hot dogs, but for the toppings that include minced onion, homemade chili, and classic southern slaw.
There are those that would argue that King’s BBQ could take anyone in a head-to-head BBQ battle. As a long time favorite, King’s has been serving up hand-cut, slow-smoked pork for more than 75 years. Don’t let the humble outside fool you, King’s is fit for royalty.
Last, but not least, our list of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Virginia concludes with a small but mighty burger shop. Texas Tavern has been serving up great meals at great prices since the 1930s. Not only is it a local favorite with $1.50 hamburgers and hot dogs, it even has it’s own language for ordering. "A bowl" is their famous chili and "with" means you want onions. Tell them you’re "walkin’" for a to-go order and ask for "sissy sauce"
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if you want ketchup.
What are your thoughts on our list of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants in Virginia? Tell us about your favorite local dive, hole-in-the-wall, or unexpected surprise-of-a-restaurant. We would love to check it out for ourselves! Let us know in the comments below and in the meantime, happy eating!
Restaurants in Virginia come in just about every shape and size. From the chains off of highway exits to the personalized farm-to-table spots, there's no shortage of options when it comes to the dining scene. And then there are some endearingly quirky, downright bizarre spots with no rhyme or reason. Just outside of Lexington, you'll find the Pink Cadillac Diner in Natural Bridge, a local gem that's every bit as lovable as it is unique. If you've got a weakness for Elvis, delicious diner food, and the '50s, this is the place for you. Without further ado, here's everything you need to know about planning your visit to The Pink Cadillac Diner, a quirky diner in Virginia.
The food at The Pink Cadillac is great, but folks stop in at this local joint for a little something more. Walk through the doors, and you'll be taken back in time a few decades. You'll arrive in a place filled with music, chatter, malts, and more.
You'll even get a chance to visit with Elvis. He's made his way to just about every corner of the diner. Look for his photos on the walls and the menu, and if you're lucky, you might even run into the King himself (well, an impersonator). Flip through the tunes on the old-school jukebox, and choose your favorites. Perhaps an Elvis single?
While the Elvis theme is alive and well, there are plenty of other eclectic treasures in store. With themed bathroom stalls and a retro ambiance, it's safe to say you can expect the unexpected when you visit The Pink Cadillac Diner in Virginia. You can even buy Pink Cadillac t-shirts and coffee mugs to commemorate your visit.
Marvel at the decor while enjoying some of the fine cooking. Perusing The Pink Cadillac diner menu is sure to get your stomach growling. You might be craving an Elvis cheeseburger, a massive plate of spaghetti, a homemade breakfast, or a tasty combo of any of the 24 flavors of Hershey's ice cream. Pair your entree with a milkshake, topped with whipped cream and a cherry, for a real blast from the past. Ask about the day's desserts, too, which might include old-school banana splits, hot fudge sundaes, and ice cream sandwiches.
Banana Split
The Pink Cadillac is my favorite old-school diner in Virginia, and no matter what my entree, I always order a side of fries. Grilled cheese? Fries. Spaghetti? Fries. The golden fries are simply heavenly, the kind I'll go out of my way to find. But it's so much more than the food that draws me to this Rockbridge County gem. The vibe is chill, and the people are friendly. It's more than a meal; it's an experience.
And don't forget about the inspiration for the diner: the Pink Cadillac, parked right by the diner, itself. Snap selfies with this famous Cadillac before or after your visit.
Whether you're stopping by for a quick breakfast, or plan on spending a leisurely dinner here, you're sure to make some fine memories at The Pink Cadillac. Find more information on the official Facebook page of The Pink Cadillac Diner.
If you're up for a day trip, start your adventure at Virginia Safari Park, an animal park in Natural Bridge, where you can feed giraffes and get an up-close look at a variety of animals. The park is less than two miles from The Pink Cadillac Diner. Or, if you feel like a hike, head out on the Lace Falls Trail, a waterfall trail at Natural Bridge State Park. Don't forget your camera.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
