Savour Local Flavours in Prince William County Virginia
11 Sep 2024
Prince William County, Virginia, is a region rich in history and natural beauty, but it’s also a burgeoning destination for food lovers. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler passing through, the county offers a variety of culinary delights that reflect its diverse cultural influences. From the smoky aromas of Southern barbecue to the delicate flavours of authentic Italian cuisine, Prince William County’s food scene is as varied as it is flavourful.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through some of Prince William County’s best dining spots, each offering a unique taste experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a gourmet meal, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Dixie Bones BBQ
For those who crave the deep, smoky flavours of Southern barbecue, Dixie Bones BBQ in Woodbridge is a must-visit. This no-frills barbecue joint has been a local favourite for years, thanks to its commitment to authentic, slow-cooked meats and traditional Southern sides. They feature tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, but the pulled pork, pulled chicken, and beef brisket are equally mouthwatering. Each dish is smoked to perfection, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavour. The star of the menu are the Giant Stuffed Potatoes (Idaho # 1 potato with butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and onions on the side, topped with your choice of BBQ). To complete your meal, choose from classic sides like creamy coleslaw, baked beans, and Muddy Spuds (baked potatoes, sliced with the skins on & rebaked with homemade ranch dressing, onions & cheddar cheese). And if you still have room, a slice of their homemade Coconut Cream Pie is the perfect way to end your Southern feast.
Dixie Bones BBQ is located at 13440 Occoquan Road in Woodbridge, Virginia.
Farm Brew LIVE
Farm Brew LIVE in Manassas is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a full-on experience. This vibrant venue is part of the Innovation Park complex and offers a unique blend of craft beer, live music, and farm-to-table dining. The centrepiece is 2 Silos Brewing Co., where you can sample a variety of craft beers brewed on-site, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts. The food options are just as impressive, with The Black Sheep restaurant serving up contemporary American cuisine with a Southern twist. Think Wagyu Beef Sliders, Southwest Chicken Egg Rolls, and hearty entrees like Jambalaya Pasta and Grilled Ribeye. Whether you’re here for the beer, the food, or the lively atmosphere, Farm Brew LIVE is a place where good times are always on tap.
Farm Brew LIVE is located at 9901 Discovery Blvd in Manassas, Virginia.
Taste of Old Country
A visit to Taste of Old Country is like stepping into a cozy trattoria in the heart of Italy. Located in Manassas, this family-owned gem offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic Italian dishes prepared with passion and care. The menu features a variety of traditional Italian favourites, including Artisan Sandwiches, Signature Paninis, wood-fired pizzas, and an assortment of Charcuterie plates that serve 2-4 people. Whether you’re indulging in a starter of pita chips and dip (lemon hummus, tzatziki, baba ghanoush, spicy feta, fig spread) savouring a perfectly baked Margherita pizza, every dish here is a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of wine from their curated selection of Italian and local Virginia wines.
Every neighbourhood in Europe is dotted with small specialty shops offering essential food items like oils, vinegars, pasta, spices, desserts, pastries, wines, and what are often considered gourmet products for the home. These items, however, are not as easily found in Northern Virginia. Taste of Old Country bridges this gap by providing a variety of unique, clean-label, sustainable, and small-batch products that perfectly complement Mediterranean cuisine, meticulously chosen by founder and owner, Elias Zarkadoulas. The selection includes award-winning extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, flavoured oils and vinegars, dry pasta, honey, imported wines, and other specialties available exclusively at this gourmet food shop.
Taste of Old Country is located at 10427 Balls Ford Road in Manassas, Virginia.
Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano
If you find yourself in Haymarket, Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano is the perfect spot for an intimate dining experience. This charming restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for over 25 years, earning a loyal following in the community. The menu is a delightful mix of classic Italian dishes, each prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Start your meal with Arancini (deep fried rice balls stuffed with ground beef, green peas and prosciutto ham) or a Caprese Salad (fresh mozzarella, basil, artichoke and sliced tomatoes, olive oil and balsamic), then move on to one of their signature pasta dishes like Spaghetti & Meatballs Siciliane (spaghetti with Giuseppe’s homemade meatballs in fresh marinara sauce), Gnocchi alla Vodka (potato pasta served with vodka sauce), or the Fettuccine Carbonara (fresh fettuccine with prosciutto ham and peas in our own creamy alfredo sauce). Surf lovers will appreciate dishes like Jumbo Shrimp Siciliana (jumbo shrimp with roasted red peppers in a creamy rosé sauce over linguine) and Ravioli d’ Aragosta (homemade ravioli stuffed with lobster served with vodka rosé sauce), while Turf enthusiasts can enjoy dishes like Ribeye (bone-in 14oz grilled ribeye served with fresh-cut french fries or baked potato) and Chicken Piccatta (fileted chicken breast sautéed in butter and lemon-caper sauce over angel hair pasta). The warm, inviting atmosphere, combined with the attentive service, makes Giuseppe’s a go-to destination for a special night out.
Giuseppe’s Ristorante Italiano is located at 15120 Washington Street in Haymarket, Virginia.
Not Your Average Joe’s
As its name suggests, Not Your Average Joe’s in Woodbridge offers a dining experience that’s anything but ordinary. This popular spot is known for its creative takes on American comfort food, with a menu that features a mix of familiar favourites and inventive dishes. Start with an order of their famous Wicked Pretzels (oven-baked pretzel sticks, garlic butter, everything spice seasoning, pepper jack queso), then dive into a plate of Mustard-Crusted Chicken (mustard-marinated and panko crusted, with green beans and mashed potatoes) or a Shrimp Scampi Pizza (hand-formed dough, garlic shrimp, diced tomatoes and mozzarella, sprinkled with romano-red pepper cheese). For those seeking something lighter, the menu also offers a variety of fresh salads, flatbreads, and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it a great choice for a relaxed meal with family or friends. With an extensive selection of dishes and cocktails, there’s always something new to try at Not Your Average Joe’s.
Not Your Average Joe’s is located at 15101 Potomac Town Place in Woodbridge, Virginia.
Savour the Best of Prince William County
As you explore the culinary landscape of Prince William County, Virginia, you’ll find that each restaurant offers its own unique flavour and charm. Whether you’re indulging in a plate of slow-smoked barbecue at Dixie Bones or enjoying a glass of wine with your pasta at Taste of Old Country, the county’s dining scene is a reflection of its diverse community and rich traditions. So the next time you find yourself in Prince William County, make sure to explore these culinary treasures — you’re sure to leave with a satisfied appetite and a desire to return for more.
Craig Silva
Craig is a passionate and seasoned travel, food, and lifestyle writer, whose words paint vivid pictures of the world's most captivating destinations. His work not only inspires others to embark on their own adventures but also fosters a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our world. He captures the essence of each locale, offering readers a glimpse into the cultures, landscapes, cuisine, and experiences that make travel so enriching. Craig is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and the International Travel Writers Alliance (ITWA). If you are a PR agency or brand and would like Craig to review a travel destination, vehicle, restaurant, product or service, please send him an email.
