Clifton is a beautiful Virginia small town with plenty of history to explore, but finding the best place for dinner might be challenging.
There are a lot of different restaurants to enjoy, but we are sharing the five most popular ones! These restaurants have something for everyone- from a quick lunch to a long night out on the town!
By the way, don’t get Clifton and Clifton Forge, VA confused! They are two very different towns in different areas of the state!
Our Picks for Best Restaurants in Clifton, Virginia
1. Trattoria Villagio
Trattoria Villagio is an upscale Italian restaurant with an extensive menu of authentic Italian dishes, as well as tapas and a raw bar. It is frequently voted as one of the best restaurants in the area and known for its extensive wine collection.
They serve lunch and dinner daily, along with a weekend Sunday brunch.
Our Recommendation:
We like visiting during Happy Hour during the week. It’s a great way to enjoy an early meal and save some money!
2. Trummer’s
Trummer’s Restaurant (formerly known as Trummer’s On Main) is a fine dining establishment serving lunch, dinner and brunch set on Main Street in the heart of Clifton.
It is the most formal and expensive of all the restaurants in town (although the bar is very casual).
If you love craft cocktails, then you’ve got to come here!
The perfect place for a special occasion, Trummer’s is constantly named as one of the best restaurants in Clifton, VA.
Our Recommendation:
Try the Chestnut Soup! It’s a unique delicacy that you can’t find many places!
3. Clifton Cafe
Clifton Cafe is owned by three generations of a family who love this casual eatery in town.
great place to eat in Clifton. The Veteran-owned cafe has a cozy atmosphere and a large patio for enjoying your meal.
Clifton Cafe is in a home that’s a historic landmark in the heart of Clifton. It has been in continuous operation for over 100 years, serving up some of the best food in the area.
Our Recommendation:
Try their crepes, which are available for both brunch and dinner!
4. Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot
Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot is a Main Street institution serving up some of the best ice creams in town. In fact, they make their own hard ice cream.
They have everything from classic sundaes and shakes to hot dogs and other kid-friendly fare.
Look for the huge cow out front and the train that circles the building; then head to the window to order your food. The menu is extensive, but be sure to try one of Peterson’s famous sundaes.
Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. There’s a big shady patio, but no indoor seating.
Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot is a much-loved institution in the summertime. People go there to get their ice cream fix, and it’s an essential part of summer for many.
Our recommendation:
Every time we come here, we get a hot dog and a scoop of mint chocolate chip. Bring your furry friend and relax.
Related Post: 11 Nostalgic Ice Cream Parlors in Virginia
5. Main Street Pub
A great choice for breakfast or brunch, the Main Street Pub is a friendly and casual spot to eat.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they have a huge menu with everything from pancakes and bacon to burgers and sandwiches.
The Main Street Pub is the spot to be for drinks at any time of day or night!
Our recommendation:
We love coming here for breakfast most of all. Be sure to try the breakfast sandwich and get a mimosa too.
Looking for more Virginia small towns and dining destinations? Check these out next:
- There are lots of historic and fun things to do in Manassas, which is right down the road.
- If you like the small town feel of Clifton, you’ll love exploring Del Ray, too. It’s about 45 minutes to the east near Alexandria.
- For another excellent foodie destination in Virginia, be sure to spend some time exploring Alexandria’s best restaurants.