Full of delightful surprises, hidden gems, and friendly small-town spirit. The 465 miles of shoreline, eight great small towns, and hundreds of unique attractions invite visitors to enjoy the wonder of a perfect oyster, the promise of a back road or secret cove and the pleasure of sharing a table with friends. A place where you can catch your breath, calm your mind and live your dreams.
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The tide-to-table spirit is alive here in Virginia’s River Realm. But don’t take our word for it – come taste for yourself! We recommend starting with some of our signature dishes, including Tide’s Inn’s Angry Oysters, Merroir’s stuffed oyster cakes (featured in the New York Times), and Dredge’s Fried Whole Yellowtail Snapper prepared the island way, served with black beans & rice and fried plantains.
Rappahannocks, lightly roasted and tossed in a butter-based hot sauce, served with traditional watermelon rind relish
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Drive up or boat into some of our favorite waterfront spots.
Boat right up to the dock and enjoy this casual, outdoor restaurant serving up seafood so fresh it’s never been on a truck.
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Meet the flagship drink of the Tides Inn, the #7 Resort in the U.S. according to the Conde Nast Traveler Readers Choice awards. Featuring fresh lemon, limoncello, vodka, and fresh garnishes, the Lancaster Lemonade is a must-do on your Virginia’s River Realm culinary bucket list.
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We have the authentic, real deal, oyster events – you won’t find any fussy white table cloths here! Instead you’ll find plywood tables piled high with steaming oysters fresh from the water. Gather around the table, make some new friends, and get messy – it’s the Virginia’s River Realm way!
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These folks know their stuff. Ask away!
Known for her passion for family recipes passed down through the generations, an unassuming creative flair and homegrown ingredients.
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Fresh picked crab, wild caught oysters, local wine, rivah dip, deviled crabs, live crabs, shrimp, rockfish,… you name it, these local markets sell it. Whether you’re buying fresh seafood to take home and prepare or you’re just looking for a picnic snack, these spots have got you covered.
This is the place for gourmet foods and the freshest seafood around. Fish from around the world, clams, mussels & seasonal River Realm favorites.
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Yep, we’re telling you our secrets. Check out some of the local’s favorite hangouts.
Watch Brian create his oyster tacos or Soft Shell crab bites at Dredge, his restaurant in Irvington. His dishes & wines are perfectly paired.
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Once you sample these unassuming treats you won’t be able to stop thinking about them. Check out some of our favorite delights that keep us coming back.
50+ handcrafted flavors from savory to sweet. Too amazing to miss and all made fresh in the store.
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Foodie stops that bring out the good times.
Looks like a convenience store (it once was), now home to a #1 Trip Advisor spot to get your breakfast and lunch on!
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Home of the Righteous Ribs and Bodacious Butts, Something Different smokes their own meats, touts award winning BBQ, and blends their own dry rubs, sauces and seasonings. Bonus: check out their in-house roasted peanuts and coffee, too!
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Our chefs bring their authentic cuisine to the River. Check out these delights.
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We even name some awesome foodie things for them. Woof!
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Get ready to be delighted, charmed and romanced in these unique Rockwellian spots.
Only 1/2 block from downtown shops & a short drive to anything in the River Realm. Dine in the historic home or on the courtyard deck.
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Are you the type that loves an outdoor adventure? Or are you looking to spend quality time with your loved ones splashing along our shorelines?
Discover your perfect path for exploring the wonders of Virginia’s River Realm.
