Staunton, Virginia, just minutes from our Shenandoah Valley Cabins, has quietly become one of the most talked-about foodie destinations in the South, and it’s easy to see why. This charming small town is home to an impressive lineup of restaurants that rival big-city dining scenes, including a handful that have earned James Beard recognition. Whether you’re savoring farm-to-table fare, indulging in chef-driven tasting menus, or sampling Southern classics with a modern twist, restaurants in Staunton deliver flavor and creativity at every turn.

With fall foliage painting the Shenandoah Valley in vibrant color, there’s never been a better time to plan a getaway. Between unforgettable meals, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the beauty and bounty of fall in Shenandoah Valley. Spend your afternoons wine tasting at nearby vineyards, visiting local breweries, or strolling through Staunton’s farmers markets brimming with seasonal produce. For a deeper connection to the land that grows your food, consider stopping by area farms where you can pick apples, enjoy pumpkin patches, or simply soak up the crisp autumn air.

The combination of culinary adventures and outdoor charm makes Staunton an ideal destination for fall in Virginia. For the ultimate fall experience, a stay at our elevated Shenandoah Valley Cabins is a must. These luxury cabins offer the perfect balance of comfort and privacy, giving you a relaxing retreat after a day spent exploring downtown Staunton restaurants or hiking through mountain trails. With stunning views, cozy fireplaces, and indulgent amenities, our cabins in Virginia were designed for couples who want to enjoy a getaway you’ll be dreaming about long after the last leaf falls. Book your cabin trip in Virginia today!

 

 

 

James Beard Restaurants in Staunton Virginia

There may be no shortage of great places to eat in Staunton, but there are two restaurants in Staunton that stand out above the rest. They are both backed by James Beard Award-nominated chef Ian Boden. Maude & the Bear is the crown jewel of restaurants in Staunton. In 2025, this elegant tasting‑menu venue earned a prestigious semifinal nod for Best New Restaurant from the James Beard Awards, cementing its reputation as a must‑visit culinary destination.

Housed in a charming 1926 Montgomery Ward kit home, it offers a carefully curated multi-course tasting menu Thursday through Sunday, featuring seasonal produce and artful presentations that draw on Chef Boden’s Jewish Ashkenazi roots and local Appalachian influences. There are three different dining experiences available at this Staunton restaurant: a four-course menu ($90), a seven-course menu ($140), and the Kitchen Table (with one seating each night, $300). There’s also a wine pairing option to elevate your time at this most coveted of restaurants in Staunton. If you miss out on reservations at Maude and the Bear, they offer a bar/lounge with an à la carte menu and their regular tasting menu, available on a first-come/first-served basis.

Another top choice among award-winning restaurants in Staunton is The Shack, which is also spearheaded by Chef Ian Boden. This relaxed, 26-seat spot has earned James Beard Award nominations in previous years. Its charm lies in its well-executed menu and casual vibes, all done with a focus on hyper-local ingredients. Everything on the menu is good, but we highly recommend The Shack burger! Though it didn’t land a 2025 nod, it remains widely praised and was the source of Boden’s previous semifinal recognition for Best Chef Mid‑Atlantic. Dining here feels friendly yet refined, and it’s a true gem among downtown restaurants in Staunton.

Other great Staunton, VA Restaurants

1. Zynodoa has long made our list of fantastic restaurants in Staunton. It features delicious farm-to-table Southern cuisine, located right next to the American Shakespeare Center. It is known for its use of local ingredients and creative twists on regional dishes.
2. For another fantastic hyper-local meal in downtown Staunton, head to Seed to Tail. They offer monthly wine dinners, a sandwich shop, a bakery, and a specialty market, and all their food is locally sourced.
3. If you’re in the mood for a perfectly cooked steak (plus so much more), one of the best restaurants in Staunton is the Mill Street Grill.
4. Gloria’s Pupuseria is a casual Salvadoran kitchen offering pupusas and empanadas. It’s ideal as a laid‑back downtown Staunton restaurant option that’s packed with flavor.
5. When the craving for pizza strikes, it’s hard to beat the gourmet pies at Pizza Luca. The spot is casual, fun, and full of flavor on a crisp fall evening.
6. Chicano Boy Taco, owned by a former Shack cook, serves inventive tacos with house‑made tortillas. It’s a local favorite for quick, creative bites.

These places round out the dining scene and include top-rated restaurants in Staunton Virginia, offering everything from upscale tasting menus to comforting local eats.

The Best of Fall in Shenandoah Valley

As good as they are, these restaurants in Staunton are just a small part of your fall getaway to the Shenandoah Valley. In between delicious bites, take the time to explore scenic drives along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park, hike through trails ablaze with autumn color, or sip your way through the region’s wineries and craft breweries. Local farmers’ markets overflow with seasonal produce and handmade goods, making them perfect for leisurely browsing.

Whether you’re visiting historic downtown Staunton or venturing out to nearby orchards and pumpkin patches, the fall in the Shenandoah Valley offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxed, small-town charm. After a day spent discovering all the best things to do in the Shenandoah Valley in the fall, returning to your private retreat at Steeles Tavern Manor is the ultimate way to unwind. Choose from luxury cabins tucked into the hills or elegant rooms in the main manor house, each designed for comfort and relaxation. Soak in a private hot tub under the stars, cozy up by the fire with a glass of Virginia wine, and let the peaceful mountain setting recharge you for another day of exploration.

Pairing award-winning restaurants in Staunton with the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley makes this fall getaway one to remember. From unforgettable meals and breathtaking scenery to cozy evenings in your Shenandoah Valley Bed and Breakfast or cabin, this corner of Virginia invites you to slow down and savor every moment. Book your stay today!