Purchasing a Virginia historic home can inspire a million different projects or ideas. You can turn amazing Victorian homes into bed and breakfasts. Cozy cottages into a personal Virginia historic home or how about a plantation into an epic wedding venue? But what about turning a piece of Virginia history into a local eatery or elegant restaurant? You can even gear the menu and dƩcor towards the era of the property. Besides having a beautiful piece of history, options are numerous for tranforming a Virginia historic home. Check out these local Virginia historic homes turned popular restaurant.
Virginia Historic Home Restaurants
Manor House at Locust Thicket, Lynchburg VA
Built by Samuel Beverly Scott in 1790 after serving under George Washingtonās Revolutionary Army. This picturesque Virginia historic home survived three centuries and center of the Battle of Lynchburg. This father/daughter team, owners Paul Hughes and Sarah Quinn preserve history by creating the menu to retain Samuel Scottās vision. Customers can enjoy an abundance of fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruits from on premise garden. Dining atmosphere radiates history while enjoying a tasty meal with friends and family. Exactly what Samuel Scott enjoyed at every meal. Locust Thicket also sources local fare from local farmers, wineries, and breweries. Examples include: 1855 Angus Beef, Devils Backbone, and Carolina Mountain Trout. Check out their website for menu offerings and a selection of events.
The Old Mill Room at Boars Head Resort, Charlottesville VA
Dating back to 1730, when this Virginia historic home was the site of Terrellās Ordinary. This was a place where westward travelers could stop for a warm meal and a good nightās rest. It is now a historical landmark named theĀ Boars Head Resort. The Old Mill Room is the center of this historic site. Original buildersĀ constructed the Old Mill Room from timbers of an abandoned gristmill that the builders pulled out of the banks of Hardware River. The timber of heart pine and grist stone survived burning from Civil Warās General Grant and Cluster! Also, this artifact was resurrected piece by piece throughout Boars Head Resort. You can see this elegant dining room features historic ambiance, century old millstones, and spectacular service.
Lemaire Restaurant, Richmond VA
Lamaire is located inside one of Virginia’s known historic sites: The Jefferson Hotel. It is a one of a kind dining experience. Featuring Virginia grown ingredients and Southern fare that will taunt the palates of everyone. Tobacco baron Lewis Ginter opened Jefferson Hotel opened in 1895. This hotel was for those wanting to enjoy extravagant conveniences such as electricity, hot/cold running water and elevators. When a fire ruined the lobby of this grand estate, restorations took more than 6 years but then reopened in 1907. This celebrated restaurant was named after Etienne Lamaire who served as maitre dāhotel to Thomas Jefferson. Lamaire honors history with classic cocktails, comforting yet modern dishes and elegant atmosphere.
Check out some properties at Virginia Historic Homes
Opening your own Historic Home Restaurant
Interested in transforming a historic home?
Are you thinking about opening a restaurant of your own?
There are a few things to think about and to tell your real estate agent.
- Zoning
- Size
- Location
- Nearby Farms
- Nearby Attractions
Zoning and location are the most important. You will need to check the zoning of any potential properties. If you find a property you love that is zoned incorrectly, you will need to do your research. Changing the zoning may be possible, and you will want to find out if it is a possibility. You need to be sure to tell your realtor your plans so that they can best assist you. Location, location, location. You’ve heard that before, right? It rings especially true when opening a business. If you have a beautiful building and incredible food, then it will be all for nothing if no one ever visits.