Culinary Journey Through Historic Williamsburg: A Foodie’s Ultimate Vacation Guide
Vacations are a sacred time for relaxation, exploration, and, for many of us, pure indulgence. As a self-proclaimed foodie, my travel plans often revolve around the delightful prospect of culinary discovery. This recent getaway was no exception, proving that a truly memorable trip is often defined by the incredible meals shared and the vibrant flavors experienced. Join me as I recount a delightful week spent exploring the historic charm of Williamsburg, Virginia, where every meal was an adventure and every moment was savored. From savory appetizers to decadent desserts, and lively local spots to elegant dining, our trip was a celebration of good food and great company.
Relaxation and Spirited Indulgence
My partner, affectionately known as “Squirrel,” and I embraced a wonderfully relaxed pace during our Williamsburg vacation. While he found tranquility casting his fishing line into serene waters, I relished the chance to cycle through picturesque landscapes and dive into a stack of long-awaited books. It was the perfect balance of activity and pure leisure, allowing us to unwind fully from our daily routines. Amidst the serene daytime activities, we certainly didn’t shy away from spirited indulgence as evening approached. Our evenings often concluded with expertly crafted cocktails, adding an extra sparkle to our tranquil days.
Our explorations led us to discover some truly outstanding libations. The Champagne Cobbler from Second Street Bistro was a revelation – effervescent, perfectly balanced, and utterly refreshing. And for a bolder experience, the Jumbo Margarita at Plaza Azteca truly hit the spot, offering a robust and zesty kick that perfectly complemented our meals. Squirrel, ever a creature of habit and appreciative of the classics, remained loyal to his trusty Jack and Coke throughout the trip, a testament to his simple yet satisfying pleasures. These moments of shared drinks, laughter, and lighthearted conversation were invaluable, cementing the sense of a true getaway.
Lively Evenings at the Resort Pub
Our very first evening in Williamsburg set a playful tone as we discovered the resort’s charming on-site pub. It was more than just a convenient spot for a drink; it was a hub of lively entertainment and camaraderie. We stumbled upon a “Name That Tune” party, an irresistible challenge for any music enthusiast. The bartender would play a snippet of a song, and our mission was to correctly identify both the title and the artist. While our collective musical knowledge might not have been top-tier – landing us a respectable second-to-last place, much to our amusement – the sheer enjoyment of participating made it a definite highlight of our arrival evening. Laughter flowed freely, and the competitive spirit was infectious, making for a memorable start to our trip.
But beyond the tunes and jovial atmosphere, the pub held another culinary treasure: the most incredible hot wings. Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, generously sauced, and bursting with a fantastic blend of flavors, they were a culinary masterpiece that I’ll undoubtedly crave for weeks to come. The experience of enjoying such perfectly executed comfort food in a relaxed, fun-filled setting underscored the importance of embracing spontaneity and savoring simple, well-prepared dishes. We definitely shared some fantastic laughs and fantastic food that night.
A Step Back in Time: Exploring Colonial Williamsburg
Beyond the delicious meals and spirited evenings, our vacation offered a wonderful immersion into history with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg. Stepping onto its meticulously preserved grounds felt genuinely like traveling back in time. The meticulously restored old buildings, the authentic dirt roads, and the vibrant, period-appropriate colonial attire worn by interpreters instantly transported us to a bygone era. We watched horse-drawn carriages gracefully transporting visitors to different areas of the historic town, saw ladies adorned in grand hats with billowing ribbons, and gentlemen in historical tights and belted shoes, moving with purpose and authenticity. It was an incredibly immersive and educational experience, offering a tangible, living connection to America’s past.
The attention to detail in the architecture, the skilled tradespeople demonstrating historical crafts, and the engaging living history exhibits made for an unforgettable afternoon of exploration and discovery. Every corner seemed to reveal a new facet of 18th-century life, from bustling markets to quiet residential streets. Amidst our exploration, we encountered a charming local resident – a handsome horse I affectionately named Mr. Ed, adding a touch of whimsical personality to our historical journey. Mr. Ed seemed to enjoy the attention, embodying the gentle spirit of the past. Colonial Williamsburg truly offers a unique blend of education, entertainment, and nostalgic charm, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone fascinated by American history and eager to experience it firsthand.
An Exquisite Evening at Second Street Bistro
Monday evening brought a much-anticipated culinary highlight: a sophisticated dinner at Second Street Bistro. I had diligently researched this restaurant prior to our trip, and its stellar online reviews had set incredibly high expectations. I’m absolutely delighted to report that the reviews did not exaggerate; it was an exquisite dining experience that left a lasting and delicious impression, truly living up to its reputation as one of Williamsburg’s top dining establishments.
For our appetizer, we decided on the sweet tea pork belly – a decision that proved to be pure genius and an absolute revelation for our taste buds. Oh my goodness, this dish was simply divine! The pork belly was expertly prepared, boasting a delightful smokiness that permeated every fiber, a subtle sweetness infused from the unique sweet tea brine, and perfectly crispy edges that offered a satisfying textural contrast. Each bite was a harmonious blend of rich, savory flavors and textures, truly sending my palate to culinary heaven. It was an unforgettable start to our meal, perfectly setting the stage for the courses to follow.
For his main course, Squirrel, known for his discerning palate, opted for the cornbread and goat cheese stuffed quail, served alongside a creamy sweet potato risotto. From the moment he took his first bite, his expressions spoke volumes – a cascade of contented sighs and delighted exclamations. He couldn’t stop raving about how incredibly good it was, punctuating his enthusiastic descriptions with contented “ooohs” and “aaahs.” It was quite an amusing sight to behold a “big guy” like him delicately munching on the petite bird, holding its tiny drumsticks between his thumb and index finger. The image was reminiscent of an adult at a child’s tea party, trying to sip from an impossibly small, pretend teacup – a moment that sparked shared laughter at our table. His enjoyment was truly infectious.
My choice for the main course was the shrimp and andouille sausage, artfully presented over smoked Gouda grit cakes. This dish was a symphony of flavors: smoky from the Gouda, wonderfully spicy from the andouille sausage, and subtly sweet, all working in perfect harmony. The richness of the smoked Gouda grits provided a comforting and deeply flavorful base for the succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp and the piquant, flavorful sausage. It was a perfectly balanced and incredibly satisfying dish that I devoured with immense pleasure, savoring every forkful.
No fine dining experience is truly complete without dessert, and Second Street Bistro certainly did not disappoint in this regard. As I scanned the dessert menu, my eyes immediately landed on the vanilla ginger creme brulee. Its alluring description was undeniable, and I simply couldn’t resist its tempting call. The flavor profile was extraordinary. Ginger, when used sparingly and skillfully, can add a wonderful warmth and zing, and in this instance, perfectly combined with the mellow sweetness of vanilla, it created a dessert that was both sophisticated and incredibly comforting. Each spoonful of the creamy custard beneath the perfectly caramelized sugar crust was a delightful culmination of our exceptional meal, leaving us with sweet memories.
Authentic Flavors at Plaza Azteca
On Tuesday, seeking an invaluable local recommendation for our final dinner in Williamsburg, I had a delightful chat with the chef and manager at the resort’s pub. Their advice was straightforward and invaluable: always ask the locals where they eat! They enthusiastically pointed us toward a particular Mexican restaurant, Plaza Azteca, promising authentic flavors and an unforgettable experience. As a fervent admirer of Mexican cuisine – I could happily eat it every single day if given the chance – their recommendation sparked immediate excitement and high hopes.
That evening, we made our way to Plaza Azteca, and it proved to be a culinary revelation. This was, without a doubt, the best Mexican food I had tasted since our trip to Texas several years prior, truly a testament to its authenticity and quality. From the moment we walked in, the vibrant atmosphere and enticing aromas promised an unforgettable meal. We started with fresh, house-made guacamole, prepared with a generous kick of spice that awakened our palates. It was creamy, perfectly seasoned, and incredibly addictive – a true testament to the quality of their fresh ingredients and masterful preparation. We couldn’t get enough of it.
For my main course, I opted for the spinach and chicken enchiladas, generously topped with a rich, roasted poblano sauce. The enchiladas were brimming with savory fillings, and the poblano sauce added a depth of flavor that was both comforting and exciting, making each bite a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. Squirrel, never one to shy away from a culinary challenge, ordered what I can only describe as the biggest burrito on the face of the earth. It was a monstrous, yet undeniably delicious, creation, packed with an assortment of savory fillings that kept him happily engaged throughout the meal, a true feast for his appetite.
To complement my incredible meal, I indulged in a jumbo-sized Patron margarita. Plaza Azteca is renowned for its “Margirona” – a frozen margarita featuring an upside-down bottle of Corona beer nestled within the boozy concoction. While I appreciate the creativity, beer isn’t typically my drink of choice, so I stuck with the classic, perfectly crafted Patron margarita, which was utterly delightful and perfectly balanced. The vibrant flavors, the generous portions, and the lively, authentic ambiance of Plaza Azteca were so captivating that it genuinely made me ponder the idea of relocating to Williamsburg just for the sheer access to such exceptional Mexican fare. This dinner was a spectacular and flavorful conclusion to our gastronomic journey in Williamsburg.
Fitness Amidst Serene Scenery
While food was undeniably a central theme of this vacation, I also made sure to carve out time to stay active, particularly as I’m preparing for an upcoming 5K race. The resort proved to be an ideal location for my training runs, offering both convenience and breathtaking views. The dedication required for marathon training felt less daunting when surrounded by such beautiful natural scenery. My runs took me past elegant geese (initially mistaken for swans, a delightful discovery!), vibrant floral displays bursting with color, tranquil lakes shimmering under the sun, and serene fountains spouting crisp, clear water. The picturesque environment transformed exercise from a chore into a truly pleasurable experience. It’s amazing how much more enjoyable physical activity can be when you have such lovely views to admire, turning each stride into a moment of appreciation for nature’s splendor and the peace it offers.
Fashion and Feeling Fabulous
Remember my recent shopping spree? Well, it certainly came to good use on this trip! Every day in Williamsburg was an opportunity to “fancy myself up,” and it truly made a difference in how I felt. There’s something incredibly empowering and confidence-boosting about dressing up, even when on vacation. It adds a touch of glamor and personal flair to each day’s adventures, making every outing feel a little more special. Take these shoes, for instance – they weren’t just footwear; they were a statement, adding a spark to every step I took and complementing my carefully chosen outfits. Feeling good about how you look can significantly enhance your overall vacation experience, elevating your mood and making every moment feel a little more memorable and celebratory. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact on your overall enjoyment.
Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
As you can tell, this Williamsburg vacation was an absolute delight, perfectly blending historic charm with unforgettable culinary experiences. Every moment, from the quiet relaxation spent fishing and reading to the vibrant dining adventures at local gems, was cherished. We truly savored the unique atmosphere of Colonial Williamsburg and the gastronomic excellence of its restaurants. Now, if only I could win the lottery, every day could be a vacation filled with such incredible food and exploration! Until then, the joyous anticipation for our next beach getaway in June will have to suffice. These trips serve as wonderful reminders of the simple yet profound joys in life: good food, good company, and beautiful surroundings that create lasting memories.
My Weekly Menu: Inspiration from Our Culinary Adventures
Inspired by the amazing food we enjoyed, here’s a look at my upcoming weekly menu, integrating some of that vacation indulgence into our home cooking:
- Sunday: Pulled Pork Chili
- Monday: Torta De Milanesa from Mexican Made Easy (bringing a taste of Plaza Azteca home!)
- Tuesday: Leftovers (always a good idea after a big Monday meal!)
- Wednesday: Slow Cooker Beef and Broccoli from Table for Two
- Thursday: Chicken Caesar Salad from The Messy Baker
- Friday: Family Movie & Take-Out Night (a classic for a reason!)
- Saturday: Date Night (another chance to explore local flavors or cook something special!)