If you’re road-tripping through Virginia or just passing through on I-81, I-95, or Route 29, there’s no reason to settle for fast food. The Old Dominion is packed with delicious hidden gems just minutes off the highway—places locals swear by but most travelers overlook. From roadside BBQ joints to farm-fresh bakeries, here are the tastiest stops to add to your foodie map.
I-81
Stretching through the Shenandoah Valley, I-81 has some amazing pit stops surrounded by mountain views and small-town charm.
Top Picks:
| Stop Location | Hidden Gem | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Staunton | Wright’s Dairy-Rite | Old-school burgers & milkshakes |
| Harrisonburg | Grilled Cheese Mania | Melty, cheesy sandwich combos |
| Christiansburg | Due South BBQ | Pulled pork & banana pudding |
Wright’s is pure Americana—think curbside service and real ice cream. If you’re craving comfort food with a twist, Grilled Cheese Mania is a must.
I-95
I-95 might be Virginia’s busiest highway, but it’s also packed with gems—if you know where to look.
Top Picks:
| Stop Location | Hidden Gem | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Fredericksburg | Foode | Southern-inspired seasonal eats |
| Ashland | Homemades by Suzanne | Chicken salad & fresh pies |
| Petersburg | Saucy’s Sit-Down BBQ | Ribs & house-made sauces |
Foode is farm-to-table without the fuss, located in a historic downtown building. Saucy’s is tucked in a shipping container—seriously—but serves award-winning barbecue.
Route 29
Driving Route 29 between Charlottesville and Lynchburg? Don’t miss these off-the-beaten-path foodie finds.
Top Picks:
| Stop Location | Hidden Gem | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Charlottesville | Bodo’s Bagels | NY-style bagels with local flair |
| Lovingston | The Lovingston Cafe | Southern comfort plates |
| Madison | Yoder’s Country Market | Homemade donuts & deli items |
Bodo’s is a legend in Charlottesville—don’t be scared by the line, it moves fast. And Yoder’s? It’s a country store-meets-bakery with warm apple fritters and Amish cheese.
I-64
Traveling east-west? I-64 runs through Richmond and out to the coast, with plenty of bites along the way.
Top Picks:
| Stop Location | Hidden Gem | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Richmond | Perly’s Delicatessen | Jewish deli classics |
| Williamsburg | Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que | Smoked brisket & slaw |
| Newport News | Indulge Bakery & Bistro | Sweet pastries & egg sammies |
Perly’s is funky and retro, with latkes and matzo ball soup to die for. Pierce’s has been a roadside BBQ favorite since the 1970s—and it still holds up.
Tips
- Exit early: Most gems are just 5–10 minutes off the highway.
- Avoid chains: Look for downtowns, old storefronts, or food trucks nearby.
- Use Google Maps reviews: Search “local eats” or “hidden gem food” near your location.
- Go during lunch hours: Many local spots close early or have limited dinner service.
- Call ahead: Small-town joints sometimes close unexpectedly or sell out early.
Virginia’s highways are more than just concrete lanes—they’re lined with small-town eats, family-run joints, and unforgettable bites that make the trip worth it. So skip the drive-thru, take the scenic route, and eat like a local.
FAQs
Is Bodo’s Bagels really worth the stop?
Absolutely—locals love it, and the bagels are top-notch.
Where can I find BBQ off I-95?
Try Saucy’s in Petersburg or Pierce’s in Williamsburg.
Are these places close to the highway?
Yes, most are within 5–10 minutes of major exits.
Do these spots offer vegetarian options?
Yes, many have plant-based or veggie-friendly meals.
How do I find more hidden food gems?
Search Google Maps using terms like ‘local eats’ or ‘hidden gem’.
