6 of the Best Places to Enjoy Rappahannock River Oysters

Who doesn’t love delicious, fresh river oysters? Oysters are a wonderful summer treat — whether you’re opening them fresh at an oyster bake, or ordering them from an amazing seafood restaurant. Here in Irvington, VA, you absolutely must try the local oysters. There’s simply nowhere that can compare! Here are the places you can get the best and most delicious Rappahannock River oysters this summer.

Where to Eat Fresh Rappahannock River Oysters

The Dog and Oyster Vineyard

View of Slurp oyster stand

This one has a special place in our heart. The Dog and Oyster Vineyard is the vineyard of the Hope and Glory Inn! Not only is this vineyard excellent for its fruit, but we also have a special oyster stand set up here called SLURP. We love fresh oysters ourselves and take pride in the opportunity to serve them to guests. The Dog and Oyster Vineyard is the perfect and most convenient location if you’re looking for delicious oysters near our inn. It’s less than half-a-mile walk from Hope and Glory! Feel free to walk over and stop in for fresh seafood at SLURP and wine at SIP, our tasting room. We hope to see you there!

Rappahannock Oyster Company

This one’s a bit of a no-brainer. Rappahannock is right there in the name! The Rappahannock Oyster Company is a major distributor of Rappahannock oysters to major restaurants as far away as Los Angeles. They’re bringing that good old-fashioned Virginia seafood flavor to the country! You can order them on their online store, but, of course, the local restaurant is one that simply can’t be beaten. Find their oysters at Merrior in Topping, VA, just minutes from Hope & Glory Inn and Vineyard. Here, the oysters are the freshest and the tastiest. 

Relish

Head up to Warsaw, VA, to enjoy even more delicious oysters at Relish Restaurant & Wine Bar. They are committed to using fresh, local ingredients for their food and also offer seasonal wines from around the area. Browse the menu for options like oyster po boy bites and fried Rappahannock oysters served with cheese grits and pickled red peppers. Relish is open each evening from Wednesday to Saturday. Feel free to stop by and enjoy their contemporary southern cuisine!

Denson’s Grocery

It may be a longer drive, but it’s well worth it to visit Denson’s Grocery in Colonial Beach. Family owned for three generations, Denson’s is not your average grocery store. Here, you can find fresh deli meats, local produce, craft beers, wines, and more. If you’re in the mood for fresh oysters, check out their oyster bar and restaurant. Employees are happy to serve you brunch, lunch or dinner here. Enjoy oysters cooked in a variety of styles including grilled, fried, or ice cold.

The Tides Inn

The Tides Inn offers stunning waterfront views and delicious food. They have several excellent eateries for you to enjoy, including the Chesapeake Restaurant, Chesapeake Terrace, Overlook Dining, Commodore’s, and Golden Eagle Grill. Grab a table at Chesapeake Restaurant and enjoy their seasonal menu with fresh, tide to table options. Try their award-winning, house special “Angry Oysters”! These crispy, buffalo-style oysters are bursting with flavor!

Stay at the Hope and Glory Inn For Oysters and More

Outside view of Hope and Glory Inn

We hope you agree that oysters are an amazing dish, full of that authentic Virginian touch that is unlike anywhere else. It’s definitely worth coming just to take a tour of all the amazing oyster restaurants in the area! Of course, if you do come to Virginia for any reason, make sure you book a stay with us at the Hope and Glory Inn.

Here at the Hope and Glory, we take pride in our heritage and our exquisite customer service. We provide comfortable accommodations for all our guests and tons of amenities. Wake up in the morning to a delicious gourmet breakfast from our expert culinary staff. Soothe your body with our Gilchrist and Soames soaps. And take a complimentary bicycle out around the town for a day of fun and recreation.

There’s so much to see and do here in Irvington, VA. Make sure you stay comfortable and well taken care of while you explore! Visit our website today to check our availability and book your stay. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Summer Lodging & Dining Special!

Stay & Dine

Book between now & May 31 two nights (Thursday-Sunday) this Summer along with a dinner reservation for 2 in our fine dining restaurant The Colonnade and receive a $50 credit to your folio upon check out!