Lynchburg, known as the “City of Seven Hills,” should also be known for its food and fabulous restaurants. Lynchburg has no shortage of dining options from longstanding town favorites like Texas Inn and The Cavalier to hip downtown restaurants with southern charm. Enjoy the Virginia mountains while enjoying all of the delicious eats Lynchburg has to offer.
BREAKFAST
My Dog Duke’s Diner: Bring your best friend and your appetite to My Dog Duke’s Diner. With a dog-friendly outdoor patio, beautifully renovated interior, and delicious brunch options, it’s a very popular spot for brunch.
Bacon St. Bagels: Small bagel shop serving up plenty of unique bagel sandwiches. Hurry on the weekends because parking is limited and bagels sell out fast at this popular spot. New location is open now in Forest.
The White Hart Cafe: Affectionately known as Lynchburg’s living room, stop by White Hart for breakfast and pair it with one of their specialty coffees and teas that are seasonally offered.
More breakfast options:
LUNCH
Texas Inn "T Room": Beginning as a ten-seat diner in 1935, the Texas Inn is a landmark of Lynchburg. Whether you’re coming for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you must try the Cheesy Western.
Depot Grille: Located along the James River in downtown, Depot Grille has been a staple of Lynchburg dining. The restaurant was converted from a freight train station, giving it a unique charm and a spacious interior. For brunch, lunch, and dinner, Depot serves casual American fare that is sure to impress.
Magnolia Foods: On Rivermont Avenue, Magnolia Food’s is the perfect spot to dine in or takeout for lunch, with a picnic at Riverside Park just a few blocks away. Aside from delicious sandwiches and deli items, there’s a full wine and cheese shop and beer store inside.
More lunch options:
DINNER
Rivermont Pizza: Open since 2008, this pizza spot is tucked away on the corner of Rivermont Avenue. Check out Ned’s Beer Shop in the back of the restaurant for eclectic local brews. Try the Leland Melvin or Paris Lenon pizzas to pay homage to famous Lynchburg locals.
The Water Dog: Focused on craft brews and tasty food with several oyster specialties. Dog-friendly patio and beautiful outdoor space in the downtown scene.
The Cavalier Store: With delicious burgers, fries, and draft beers, the Cavalier is a local icon. While waiting for your food, play a game of pool or take a look at the dozens of license plates and college pendants hanging around the store. But, make sure to bring cash or stop at the ATM inside because it is a cash-only establishment.
Fleming Mountain Grill: Honoring the legacy left behind by Mitchell’s Grocery on Route 501, this steakhouse serves exceptional food and drinks with the addition of Mitchell’s fried chicken, keeping ties to a Lynchburg landmark.
More dinner options:
- Aji Ramen and Sushi
- Inka Grill
- William & Henry Steakhouse
- Bootleggers
- Waterstone Pizza
- Iron and Ale
- RA Bistro
DRINKS
Skyline: Skyline offers some of the best views of the city as a rooftop restaurant and cocktail bar. Known for its elegant eats and elevated drinks, Skyline’s view will take your breath away.
3 Roads Brewery: Housed in a former Ford dealership, this taproom combines local beer and entertainment with weekly offerings for games, trivia, and live music.
More drink options:
DESSERT
Mrs. Joy’s Absolutely Fabulous Treats: Mrs. Joy’s is serving some of the best treats and baked goods in town. Chef Tarsha Joyner has been featured on Food Network several times for her baking masterpieces that are baked every day in Lynchburg.
Maylynn’s: With a brick and mortar location downtown and a trailer location in Boonsboro, Maylynn’s is a very popular ice cream spot offering dozens of customizations to their soft serve ice cream. They also offer frozen bananas, ice cream sandwiches, and edible cookie dough if ice cream isn’t your thing.
Cinn City: Quick-serve cafe with a variety of unique pastries. Try a signature bun or New Orleans style beignet or create your own cinnamon bun complete with frostings, drizzles, and an array of sweet toppings.
More dessert options:
This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it can help you get started enjoying all of the great food the Commonwealth has to offer. Comment your favorite Lynchburg spot down below!