Clifton is a beautiful Virginia small town with plenty of history to explore, but it can be hard to find the best place for dinner.
There are tons of different restaurants around to enjoy, but here are five of the most popular ones. These five restaurants have something for everyone- from a quick lunch to a long night out on the town!
Here at the best restaurants in Clifton, Virginia
1. Trattoria Villagio
Trattoria Villagio is a high-end Italian restaurant located in Clifton, Virginia. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of authentic Italian dishes. It is frequently voted as one of the best restaurants in the area.
If you’re looking for a delicious Italian meal, look no further than Trattoria Villagio. A popular Italian restaurant in Clifton VA, they serve lunch and dinner daily, along with a weekend Sunday brunch.
Some of their most popular dishes include chicken parmesan, shrimp scampi, and lasagna.
Attached to the restaurant is a shop that offers a wide variety of authentic Italian dishes, from pasta to pizza to calzones. Plus, the market sells a variety of imported olive oils and vinegar, spices and sauces, gourmet pasta, and other Italian specialties. You can also purchase prepared food to go, including delicious pizzas and calzones.
Our recommendation: sit outside in summer, and order the arancini and the burrata appetizers.
2. Trummer’s
Trummer’s Restaurant (formerly known as Trummer’s On Main)is a fine dining establishment located in Clifton, Virginia. It’s the most formal and expensive of all the restaurants in town (although the bar is very casual).
The menu changes regularly, but there are some standards that never go out of style. The restaurant has been praised for its inventive and unique menu, as well as its outstanding service.
Many of the dishes are perfectly sized for sharing. That way, everybody can try a little bit of everything! The restaurant also offers a wine pairing option to go with each meal. (They have an extensive wine list, with many wines available by the glass or half-bottle.)
The perfect place for a special occasion, Trummer’s is constantly named as one of the best restaurants in Clifton, VA.
Our recommendation: Make a reservation, and try either the scallops or the risotto. The wine menu changes, so ask your server for advice.
3. Clifton Cafe
Clifton Cafe is a 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 open for breakfast and lunch, with dinner on some nights of the week. Be sure to enjoy one of their crepes!
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.
The restaurant is under new management as of November 2023, with three generations now under one roof, including a science fiction writer and art collector.
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. They have everything from classic sundaes and shakes to hot dogs and other kid-friendly fare.
Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot is a local favorite in Clifton. The restaurant has been around for over 60 years, and it has the quirkiness to prove it.
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.
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.
More Virginia Small Towns and Dining Destinations
- 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
- And for the best dining spot in Virginia, be sure to spend some time exploring Alexandria’s best restaurants.
Clifton VA has many great restaurants for you to enjoy. These five are some of the most popular, and they each offer something different! Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or an elegant dinner out on the town, Clifton is sure to have what you need.