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Welcome To Shields Tavern
Shields Tavern, located in the heart of Williamsburg, Virginia, invites diners to experience authentic 18th-century fare in a beautifully decorated historic setting. Guests are treated to a prix fixe menu served family-style, featuring delightful dishes like expertly prepared Fried Chicken and Beef Olives Another Way. The culinary offerings showcase seasonal vegetables and classic desserts such as Strawberry Cream, delighting both the palate and the senses. The warm, attentive service enhances the dining experience, making it a perfect educational stop following a day of exploring Colonial Williamsburg. Every meal at Shields Tavern is not just food; it’s a journey back in time.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
To Make a Grand Sallet
Beef Olives Another Way
To Fry Chicken
Potato Pudding and Mr. Shields Vegetables of the Season
About
Shields Tavern
Welcome to Shields Tavern, a remarkable dining destination nestled in the heart of historic Williamsburg, Virginia. Located at 422 E Duke of Gloucester St, this tavern encapsulates the essence of 18th-century dining, providing guests with a unique culinary experience that transports you back in time. With its charming period-style decor and inviting ambiance, Shields Tavern invites you to enjoy a meal that feels both historic and heartwarming.
As you step inside, the beautiful interior, adorned with artifacts and furnishings reminiscent of the 17th century, sets the scene for a memorable meal. The atmosphere here is more than just charming; it is a delightful tribute to the past, enhancing the overall dining experience. Reviews from visitors like Louis and Elaine highlight the attentive service and delicious family-style dining, making it clear that Shields Tavern is committed to creating an inviting and satisfying experience.
The menu at Shields Tavern is nothing short of a culinary journey. Start your meal with the Grand Sallet, a vibrant dish featuring crispy lettuce, sliced pippins, and a delightful mix of cheese and pickled vegetables dressed in fresh lemon juice. It’s a refreshing way to kick off your meal. For the main course, don't miss the Beef Olives or the classic Fried Chicken. The beef is expertly pounded and stuffed with a savory blend of vegetables, while the fried chicken is marinated to perfection, creating a dish that resonates with comfort and nostalgia. Each dish showcases the traditional cooking methods that would have been employed in the 1700s, which fascinates patrons like Z T, who appreciate the historical context behind the meal preparation.
Lastly, indulge in the exquisite Strawberry Cream, made with thick cream, sugar, and lemon peel, complemented by warm doughnuts. It’s a delightful way to end your meal, echoing the indulgences of colonial dessert culture. Reviewers like Robin Thompson find the all-you-can-eat option appealing, allowing guests to savor each dish fully. The value is unbeatable, with plates lovingly crafted to be shared among family and friends.
Every aspect of the dining experience at Shields Tavern is designed to evoke a sense of history while delivering remarkably delicious food. As Sachiko notes, enjoying lemonade on a hot day with a musician serenading nearby adds to the overall charm. So whether you are here for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Shields Tavern promises an authentic and delectable taste of the 18th century. Don't miss out on this historic culinary gem during your visit to Colonial Williamsburg.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ We had lunch at Shields Tavern and the building is truly lovely. The many rooms are decorated in period style, like stepping into the 17th century. The food is a prix fixe, served family style, and is delicious. The fried chicken was great. Service is also very good, friendly and attentive. ”
“ We had a great meal and a most enjoyable experience. The meal is served family style. It was one of the highlights of our day at Colonial Williamsburg. ”
“ Really enjoyed dinner at Shields Tavern. The atmosphere inside is great after a day touring around the historic area. The food was delicious, well portioned, and reasonably priced. It was interesting to hear about how the preparation would have been done in the 18th century. ”
“ Loved the experience of 18th century dining. 76. For two all you can eat, with optional dessert. Of course my husband ate the desert before I could snap a picture. ”
“ Decent price for all you can eat in a 1700s atmosphere. We enjoyed lunch as a family. It was a very hot day, so the lemonade was much appreciated. There was also a musician playing a flute, adding to the pleasant atmosphere. ”
“ I was here with a group with a set menu of a colonial salad, fried chicken, mashed potatoes (potato pudding), and veggies served family style. The strawberry mousse dessert was to die for! A great experience! ”
“ Wow! For 29/person, you get a groaning board menu. Bread to start, then salad, next came the fried chicken and beef roll-ups with mashed potatoes and delicious veggies. Drinks were included: tea or soda. Everything was so wonderful! We didn’t have room for dessert, but that was not included in the price anyway. ”
“ Lovely place, definitely worth visiting! The food was delicious, the service was pretty good and overall experience was amazing ”