Oh Nelson County. Land of beer and cheese. A region of delicately crafted spirits, smoked meats, juicy burgers, and so much more. At times, it may feel overwhelming to find and dine when you have dietary restrictions while traveling in Nelson County, Virginia.
When we first visited Afton, we found it challenging to dine out and avoid the foods we were unable to eat. In a place with such delicious produce and locally raised meats, it seemed like everything was covered in cheese, fried, or tossed in between two pieces of bread.
The good news is that dining in Nelson County is very possible while respecting your dietary restrictions. The bad news is that loaded BBQ nachos with cheese dip smell really, really good.
We polled the audience, called owners, and dined all along the Nelson 151 (in the name of research, of course) to find restaurants that are safe and compliant for whatever you’re eating (or not eating for that matter). This guide will help you navigate the gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan dining options in Nelson County so you can enjoy and participate in mealtimes during your vacation. Add on some of our favorite trails and you can live like a local.
Pro tip: Most vineyards allow outside food. This means you can pack a box of your favorite gluten-free crackers or some vegan cheese to accompany your tasting. Not sure about the policy? Just give them a call in advance and ask!
Gluten-free dining
The following restaurants provide gluten-free menu items:
- Blue Mountain Brewery
- The Edge at Wintergreen Resort
- Lovingston Cafe
- Three Notch’d Brewery on 151
- Blue Ridge Pig
While there is no pre-set menu for these places, we have found them happy to accommodate in our personal travels, especially with advanced notice:
Vegetarian
The following restaurants provide vegetarian menu items:
- Chirios Pizza
- Bold Rock Cidery
- Greenwood Grocery’s deli sandwiches
- Scratch Kitchen at the Brewing Tree
- Blue Mountain Brewery
- The Edge at Wintergreen Resort
- Lovingston Cafe
- Three Notch’d Brewery on 151
- Blue Ridge Pig
While there is no pre-set menu for these places, we have found them happy to accommodate in our personal travels, especially with advanced notice:
Vegan
The following restaurants provide plant-based menu items:
- Blue Mountain Brewery
- The Edge at Wintergreen Resort
- Lovingston Cafe
- Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant
For a fully plant-based restaurant in Crozet, check out Bar Botanical.
Looking for something a little extra special? We work with a personal chef, Aaron, who can prepare a meal right here at the Indigo to meet any of your dietary restrictions. Learn more about our private dining.
Did we miss a spot? Drop a comment below with your favorite dish or restaurant near Nelson County that accommodates those with dietary restrictions.