An Honest Review of Middleburg, VA
The Middleburg Vibe
Driving past the multitude of vineyards and open fields was the first sign that Middleburg could be for me.
Upon arrival, the 19th century architecture gives you that crisp small-town charm city goers seek out during the fall and winter months. It definitely feels like a weekend vacation spot for girlfriends, families, or couples. Couple that small town charm with delicious food and wine, and you’ve got an affordable luxury spot in the DMV!
Middleburg, Virginia, established in 1787, is very old money and horses. You can tell by the many stables nearby as well as high-priced boutiques in town. If you’re looking for affordable shopping, you won’t find it here. Mostly expensive antique shops and $400 jackets and blouses. However, you will find affordable meals and quality wine labels for foodies and wine admirers alike.
Places to Eat & Drink
Wine for lunch.
Upon arrival, I first stopped at Tremolo Bar, an intimate small-plate winery that made Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurant’s of 2024 list. Tremolo is extremely cozy and welcoming as soon as you arrive. They have outdoor and indoor seating, as well as an upstairs area. Tremolo is best for couples or small groups as it’s a fairly tight space with an open-facing kitchen producing mezze-style menu items. You won’t find large entrees, but you will discover warm and satisfying smaller plates that can still get the job done. You will need $20+ for each small plate. Glasses of wine range from $16 and above, with the average being $28.
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp hits the spot.
They have an extravagant wine selection and the staff are very knowledgeable. I mentioned I was looking for something like a Merlot, and the staff member advised me on a safe choice (a Bordeaux) or a wild card (a spicy Sirah). I love when wineries can help you discover new labels based on what you’re used to. They encourage you try something new and interesting which someone like me definitely needs.
When you’re ready to pay, they bring you the check in an actual book, which is adorable.
After popping into a French gift shop and novel-hunting in Middleburg Books, I popped into Knead Wine. Knead is a pizza and wine shop where you can leave with wine by the bottle and a freshly baked pizza. I find restaurants with a specific niche do very well. Less is more in this case. Fresh pizza and quality wine is a simple concept, but so well paired!
I left Middleburg with a thoughtfully recommended romance novel, a bottle of Burgundy, a freshly baked cookie, gingerbread from Paris, and a calming feeling. I definitely recommend Middleburg for a day trip or overnight spot for foodies and wine lovers, but it doesn’t have a plethora of shopping options if you’re on a budget.
Tremolo Wine Bar in Middleburg, Virginia