Three times named in USA Today’s “Best Small Town Food Scene” top picks, Abingdon, Virginia, has an amazing collection of local, independent restaurants. Easily accessible from many metro areas, Abingdon is a popular spot for weekend getaways and foodie excursions. And with its approximately three dozen local restaurants and an eclectic mix of specialty beverage spots, it’s no wonder! It’s about 3 hours from I-75, just off I-81, minutes north of Bristol, Tennessee, and two hours northeast of Asheville, North Carolina, and its food scene is satisfying the hunger of many a visitor.
Specialty drinks come in all flavors here and celebrate all seasons. Whether you’re looking to start the morning right or celebrate into the night, you’ll find a concoction sure to please.
I’ll drink to that
At the White Birch Kitchen and Juice Bar (170 East Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-608-0541) the drinks are described as “fresh, nutritious and delicious” and that goes for the food menu, too. The menu features fresh-pressed juices and craft cocktails along with locally sourced breakfast and lunch fare.
On a visit to The Spring House (112 Court Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-477-7444) visitors are encouraged to relax and enjoy a beverage from three specially curated menus. Wolf Hills Coffee offers single-origin and blended coffees, roasted in-house. At Tumbling Creek Cider Company they take pride in the variety of rich apple flavors they serve, made from southwest Virginia apples that are on-site. Appalachian Teas & Botanicals is a retail shop, tearoom and gathering place filled with products designed by the owner, using local plants and herbs and a wealth of experience.
Down the street and later in the day, local craft beer and wine are favorites. Wolf Hills Brewing (149 Deadmore Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-477-1953) creates year-round and seasonal brew and Abingdon Vineyards (20530 Alvarado Road, Abingdon, Virginia 24211; 276-623-1255) serves world-class wines. Both are popular for their family-friendly venues and year-round live music as well as their outstanding beverages.
Let’s eat!
New hot spots have joined long-time favorite restaurants in Abingdon.
Foresta (190 East Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-206-8490) has added variety and upscale flair to Abingdon’s food scene with a creative and ever-changing Italian/Mediterranean menu and an ethereal atmosphere. Reservations are the best way to ensure a spot at the table here.
The Girl & The Raven (380 East Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-698-3333) is a lovely cafe featuring dishes created from regionally sourced ingredients, paired with premium craft coffees roasted in small batches, using ethically sourced beans.
At Jack’s 128 Pecan (128 Pecan Street SE, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-698-3159), diners choose from a menu of popular sandwiches with unique twists, special dinner entrees and house-made desserts, all in a friendly, quirky atmosphere.
Luke’s Café (823 West Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 34210; 276-623-2233) features unique salads, burgers and sandwiches and a full dinner menu that all has an artistic flair. Fresh food and an art-and-music-inspired setting combine an outstanding dining experience with a casual atmosphere.
Rain (283 East Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-739-2331) is a local favorite that has an extensive menu and artsy atmosphere. From soups, seafood and steaks to distinctive drinks and desserts, the choices are creative and yummy. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
Bone Fire Smokehouse & Musictorium (260 West Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-623-0037) is a smokehouse and restaurant popular for both outstanding food and amazing music. Located in an old hardware store, Bone Fire serves slow-smoked meats with “Southern high-country sides” and is an excellent venue for original music from local and regional artists.
Dinner at The Tavern (222 East Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-628-1118) is a tradition here! Located in one of Abingdon’s oldest buildings (built in 1779), The Tavern has a fascinating atmosphere, both indoors and in its courtyard. Its diverse menu, coupled with an extensive beer and wine list and full bar, make for an excellent dining experience. Reservations are recommended.
Abingdon has been described as one of the coolest small towns in the country. It combines these great local eateries with historic charm and easy proximity to spectacular outdoor recreation. For more Abingdon adventure, a visit to VisitAbingdonVirginia.com offers online itineraries, a full list of restaurants, and more.
Where to stay
In Abingdon, the lodging is as eclectic as the dining.
An Abingdon landmark, the Martha Washington Inn and Spa (150 West Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 276-628-3161) offers 61 guest rooms and suites, fine and casual dining and a variety of activities to ensure a memorable stay. It is a member of Historic Hotels of America and has both a Mobil Travel Guide’s Four-Star Award and a AAA Four-Diamond Award. There are bed and breakfasts to choose from, like the popular Gather Inn (155 East Main Street, Abingdon, Virginia 24210; 540-623-3876). This historic home offers downtown access, a beautiful setting and the best of Virginia hospitality. For a more rustic experience, the exceptional Grayson Highlands State Park (Mouth of Wilson, 829 Grayson Highlands Lane, Abingdon, Virginia 24363; 276-579-7092) offers yurts, primitive and RV camping sites as well as bunkhouse lodging.
These, along with a variety of other lodging options, give visitors a complete array of accommodations to fit any need.
For more I-75 information, visit www.i75exitguide.com, the Internet’s largest and most complete website devoted to America’s Interstate 75. Detailed exit service listings… discount lodging, camping, food, gas and more for every exit from Michigan to Florida!
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