If you live in the Chantilly, Centreville, or Western Fairfax area, and you’d like an original dining experience, read about this gem we visited out in Upperville, Virginia. Head west on Route 50, and after you have passed South Riding and Stone Ridge, you come up to the intersection of Route 50 and Route 15. Keep going, past historic Middleburg, and let the stress fade as you enjoy the rolling hills and gentle views along this road.
Before long, you are in the very small town of Upperville. You’ll see a few businesses along either side of the road, and just after you enter the town, on the right side you’ll notice the
We “field tested” – I guess I should say “field tasted” – the Hunter’s Head in preparation for this feature, and it came up with a straight “A”. Occasionally, there is a dining experience that provides not only good food, but a setting that makes the experience memorable. I’d put Hunter’s Head clearly in that category. You can get the historical synopsis of the building, as well as other information about the philosophy and approach of Hunter’s Head by visiting their website.
For anyone who appreciates a space with history on its side, the Tavern is a treat. What is now the Hunter’s Head Tavern, and was previously The Carr House, was a log cabin build in 1750. With a great deal of time and effort, the building has been preserved with much of its original structure intact. Sitting inside this space gives you that unmistakable sense of walking back in time. The Hunter’s Head has any number of “distinctives.” Three are apparent when you discover the interesting background and operating philosophy behind this restaurant: first, the focus on organic food products; second, support and participation in the practice of localized, family farming; and third, belief in and practical application of humane livestock practices. Hunter’s Head and its affiliates, including Ayrshire Farm, are providing leadership around these issues.
But back to the experience of dining at the Hunter’s Head. The food is a combination of “Pub grub” and…I would call it “Fresh American.” The daily specials don’t knock you back with fancy “holier than thou” titles. They are understandable entrees, along with Pub inspired classics, that will put you in the comfort zone of comfort food. We had an absolutely superb dinner, and plan on returning.
The Tavern’s General Manager, David Stephens, is passionate about both the quality of the food and the philosophy behind its production. His dedication is apparent in the results.
So..if you’d like relief from the ADD (Authenticity Deficit Disorder) that plagues much too much of the food service world these days, you will definitely want to put Hunter’s Head Tavern on your list.
And if you do visit, let us know what you think.
[The Kathy O’Neal Team serves home buyers and sellers in Northern Virginia, with special focus on Chantilly, Centreville, and the communities of the Western Fairfax region.]