The Perfect Day Trip to Williamsburg for Foodies & History Lovers

If you’re searching for a memorable day trip in Virginia that blends small-batch flavors, untold stories, and hands-on food traditions, then I hope that you'll enjoy this mini-guide to Williamsburg. It’s ideal for foodies, history lovers, and travelers who care about supporting local, independently owned businesses.

First Stop: Brunch at Hohl in Toano

Start your morning with a scenic drive out to Hohl, a hidden gem in Toano offering one of the best brunches in the region. This locally owned restaurant features a seasonal, Virginia-grown menu and a bright, wood-and-stone interior.

It’s welcoming spot that reminds me of places in Brooklyn. You might find buttermilk pancakes with local fruit, creamy grits, or farm eggs with roasted vegetables. Their kitchen celebrates ingredients from local farms and purveyors.

Local Tip: Call ahead or check their hours—weekend brunch fills up quickly.

Midday Wander: Hidden History at the Bray School

Next, head to Colonial Williamsburg to visit the Bray School—the oldest known school in the U.S. dedicated to educating both enslaved and free Black children. Tucked into Colonial Williamsburg, this site brings deeper meaning and context to the region’s colonial story.

Recently rediscovered and now preserved, the Bray School is a must-visit for travelers interested in African American history and educational reform in early America.

The Highlight: A Culinary Heritage Class at Jolly’s Mill Pond

After lunch, return to Toano for a hands-on culinary experience at Jolly’s Mill Pond. This hidden gem hosts immersive culinary heritage classes rooted in Black and Indigenous food traditions of the South.

You’ll prepare traditional dishes over an open fire or hearth, work with heirloom ingredients, and hear stories that connect food to land and legacy. This is more than a cooking class—it’s a living history lesson and a soulful culinary experience.

Perfect for families, food lovers, and anyone seeking deeper cultural connections through food.

Dinner: Casa Pearl or Amber Ox

Ready for dinner? You’ve got two fantastic, locally owned options:

Casa Pearl: A gas station-turned-oyster bar offering seafood tacos, raw oysters, and Southern fusion dishes.
Amber Ox: A modern brewpub with scratch-made Southern cuisine and an on-site brewery. Try the seasonal small plates or house beers.

Both restaurants are independently operated and prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Optional Sip: Silver Hand Meadery

If you have time, you could squeeze in a stop at Silver Hand Meadery in Williamsburg. This small-batch meadery offers tasting flights of honey wine infused with fruits, spices, and herbs.

They also offer honey tastings and educational displays about bees and pollination, making it a fun and family-friendly stop.

Let me know if you go—I’d love to hear what you thoughts on our culinary heritage classes or your favorite dish at Hohl.

Want a Full Weekend Guide?

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