Dinner at Vaulr and Cellar is always a delight! Great service and delicious food! Amazing and unique flavor profiles in every dish! What we ate: WILD BOAR SAUSAGE roasted sweet potato I fried Brussel sprouts I honey mustard | cranberries BEAST BURGER blend of elk, wild boar, bison, and wagyu beef| brie I bacon I blueberries balsamic l Flour & Water brioche bun I fried potato coins COLLARD GREENS bacon braised My rating rationale +1 Service +1 Food~Taste/flavor/quality +1 Presentation +1 Atmosphere/vibe +1 Value You can see my prior reviews below for more detail! read more

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I take no joy from writing bad reviews but feel that you should be able to read about the experience of others when deciding where to spend good money or where to enjoy a delicious meal. The menu reads well, Appalachian cuisine with options for venison tenderloin, boar sausage, duck breast, and rabbit amongst your usual chicken and shrimp. We ordered the fried green tomato appetizer, the venison tenderloin, and the duck. The breading on the tomatoes was so thick it took a knife to cut. The venison (a $50 entree) was ordered medium and came to the table grey and beyond well done. The skin of the duck was inedible as it wasn't seared. The service, too, was lacking. At this price point we expected more attentive, higher-end service. After clearing the appetizer, for example, our server left the side plates saying we could use them in case we wanted to share our entrees, but there remained half-eaten breading and inedible cores form the tomatoes on them, so we would've hoped for clean plates. Neither entree was served with a steak knife and when one of us asked for one, we hoped they would bring one for each of us, but they didn't. Finally, the second round of drinks were made in the same glasses as the first as evidenced by the shrinking ice cube and double cherries. It's the little things; we will not be back and cannot recommend this establishment to anyone else. All we can do is make others aware and hopefully take the overall rating down a peg with this honest review. read more

Vault & Cellar - Venison tenderloin ($50), ordered medium and severely overcooked - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

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The best brunch in town! A small, but eclectic place to eat and drink with friends that never lets you down. The service is always reliable and the cocktails are superb. Always a great time whenever we attend. read more

Vault & Cellar - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

It has been a while since I posted a review for an incredible restaurant. If there be a chance of giving 10 stairs, I for sure would give establishment that. My wife heard about this place and last night we discussed to try it out. Glad we did. The host treated and talked to us like we were old friends. First we tried the Appalachian Egg Rolls as a starter. Highly recommend this to accompany the flight of fine bourbons. I ordered the wild boar sauce that I could not get enough of, and my wife ordered the fried catfish. Now, my wife is not really a fish lover, but this dish was beyond great she said. We ended the meal with the bread pudding that was perfect. Kudos on the chef and staff for an amazing experience. read more

We had an incredible dining experience at Vault & Cellar this evening. My husband ordered the Wild Boar Sausage and I had the Fried Catfish ( perfectly fried with just the right amount of crisp to it). We shared the Scotch Eggs and Pork Belly Bites (if you've never had pork belly with grapes and peanuts.... Omg). They have a variety of libations to choose from so I decided on the Killing Me Softly (Duck fat- washed Bulleit Bourbon, Vermouth, juniper brown sugar syrup, elderberry & black walnut bitters) and wow, it was an experience. My husband had the 1792 small batch. Compliments to the amazing chef and owner Kari Rushing who brought out Appalachian Egg Rolls, Black Walnut Pesto, Pickle Ice Cream w/ shots of Russell's Reserve (incredible) and Bread Pudding for us to try. The service, ambiance and offerings were incredible and we are already planning our next visit back for brunch. read more

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Anthony and Dan were awesome they gave great service to my friends and I The food was amazing and the old fashioned both were made w perfection!!! read more

Yummmm Loved their eclectic and fresh menu, there were so many great sounding dishes. I particularly liked the goat cheese arranccini and the catfish. Plus the chocolate mouse was both light and incredibly flavorful. The actual restaurant has a cool vibe, and the waitress & hostess were friendly and helpful. read more

Vault & Cellar - Menu September 2024 - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

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We stopped by for brunch. The restaurant was packed and but we were able to find seats downstairs at the bar. Our waitress sat us and pretty much forgot about us, thankfully another waitress asked if anyone had taken an order. I had the Shrimp and grits with a side of brussel sprouts with a Bloody Mary and she had the prosciutto Benedict and a side of hot sauce. My shrimp and grits were great, the smell, the look, the texture and the flavor all perfect. The sprouts had so much salt you could choke on it. The Bacon And greens Bloody Mary although strong was a joke as far as size. (Before comments about the saltiness of prosciutto is claimed...We both lived in Italy and know what prosciutto is like.) The Crispy prosciutto eggs Benedict was grotesquely salty and the potato coins that looked like they should have been at least partially crispy were a soggy pile of mushy potatoes. The hot sauce was never delivered. This trip was an unfortunate disappointment. We will be back because we know they can create some great food. read more

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A true gem in the Shenandoah Valley! Food, drink and staff all top notch! Can't wait for my next visit!

We arrived around 7:25 (rsvp 730). We were immediately taken to our table and offered water and menus. Our server, came back and asked for drink orders. We ordered 2 coffees. Atillo came back and let us know a new pot was being brewed (thanks). We then put in app orders (eggrolls and pork belly bites). We received those at 745 (perfect, thanks!) Around 805 we ordered our dinner. 815 we ordered a whiskey flight and received it 833. At 9pm, we still did not have our food. A few times between 9 and 930, we were told it was being worked on (Atillo also asked if we were waiting on the duck and the shrimp and grits. We reminded him it was the duck and the goat). 915 ish, we ordered biscuits. 9:22 we got the biscuits. Around 935 we were told our food was being plated. 949,we received our food. Busy nights are understandable, but almost 2 hours for a meal is excessive. The food was great and we even ordered dessert. We aren't sure where the disconnect was but, if we were to try the venue again, we hope it would be a more efficient experience read more

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Nice place, pretty good service. And yet, we did not love the food. From apps to dessert, everything was Just odd. We saw a family with an older child who understandably was not eating. Can't imagine what he ordered! The cornbread Was dry, paid extra for cheese and jalapeño...which was Sprinkled on top. jalapeños were From a jar. Cocktails were okay, little to no garnish. All in all quite expensive. Not our cuppa tea. read more

Great food. Best Shrimp and grits I've ever had. Thank you for a great meal in that beautiful building.

My husband and I was running around this beautiful town and we decided to try this place. Food was amazing. The tenderloin was flavored and soft. The walnut pesto is something that was never was trying but the taste of this dish is unique and combines with the smell is a enjoying experience. Dessert were not less delicious... Definitely recommend read more

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This is truly a hidden gem! Make this your next destination restaurant. Make a reservation! It's a small venue inside an old small town bank, with exposed brick, and the old vault. The staff and service were extremely knowledgeable and friendly. And the food, well let's just say phenomenal!!! The only thing we would change are the Brussel Sprouts. read more

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The food is always amazing here! Big soft fluffy pancakes. A flaky hearty biscuit smothered in gravy and out of this world beet pickled eggs and Appalachian egg rolls. The wait staff are friendly and attentive! The dining room is cute and comfortable. Feels like being at grandma's house. read more

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There's only a few times in life where you stumble upon a gem when it comes to cuisine in a small town.. Vault and Cellar is an amazing and unique culinary experience that is only once in a lifetime. I have eaten majority of this menu and never have I come across a dish that has not surprised me in the most amazing way! They specialize in whiskey! The staff is warm and welcoming as they were your family! And the food is Michelin star! If you're looking for something delicious, quality and ingredients, and organically fantastic... Look no further!!! Vault and Cellar is where you need to be! ps- try the vault burger , sirloin steak , pork belly - hoisin sauce and picked eggs !!!! I am not joking! This place is special and anyone that says otherwise is a damn liar! read more

Really good food, with a creative menu of artistically rendered tasty and attractive gourmet food served in satisfying portions. Friendly service. Go early on weekdays (before 5:30) or make reservations, especially on weekends because people know about this place now. We ate at the restaurant on the mail level with The Vault, and know nothing of the cellar as we don't drink, though the bar serves patrons on both levels. Interesting decor and wall art, amusing furnishings and tableware. Fine food at a good value. read more

I don't know know how many stars to give. We know the food and cocktails are good; we have eaten here before. But we were disappointed to drive 45 minutes and find the restaurant closed. We called ahead to make sure the restaurant was open since it was a Monday evening. The recording confirmed that yes they were open on Mondays and closed Tuesdays. There was no note on the door explaining new hours or an emergency closing. read more

Local cuisine at its most elevated, highest level. The food was excellent. The service was excellent. The cocktails and dessert were excellent. For me, one of the joys of living in a place is getting to know it, and getting to know its doorways. Appalachian cuisine takes an unfair hit. This restaurant will change your view of it forever. Choose local beverages to complement your meal and you'll understand what makes Vault and Cellar and the Shenandoah Valley to be hidden gems. read more

Visited here on a Friday night with my family and we were blown away! Super cute historical interior and the food was spectacular; every bite kept getting better. Among us we had the boar sausage, catfish, broccolini, burger, and biscuits - don't skip the biscuits, great to share and so perfectly baked - everything was 10/10! read more

This place is weird in the best way! Menu always has something that makes you really question it, but I've never been disappointed here. Everything is fresh and has great flavor. Tried the breakfast shots which included a quail egg wrapped in scrapple - delicious! Also highly recommend their burgers, you can tell the beef is high quality. read more

Vault & Cellar - Breakfast flight - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

Vault and Cellar is one of our "go-to" places in the area when we want a great meal in a nice atmosphere. Their bourbon selection is top notch and always look forward to my Angels Envy old fashioned. The food is always a winner and if you haven't tried it, the pickle ice cream is worth a try. read more

Vault and cellar is located in Middle Town VA, and frankly is a 5 star venue that could be transported any where in the US where there is gourmet fair. It was a little hard to find because it blends in with the houses that surround it. There is parking right in front. Vault and Cellar is housed in an old building with lots of character. There are tables throughout and a full bar in the back with more Bourbon in that one bar than there probably is in the entire city. The service was absolutely splendid, which matched the food and drink options. We started the night with a craft beer and wine. Fir the appetizer we chose the egg rolls. They were absolutely scrumptious. Also had a Bourbon flight of the Rabbit Hole. OMG great! For entrees we had the Shrimp and grits and the fried catfish. The shrimp and grits were the star. The grits were made from blue corn, velvety and super delicious. The catfish was good, but it took a little bit to get the perfect bite. The catfish tasted frozen, but it was still good. The batter was a little salty and it came with a mint slaw which had lemon citrus and cooked barley. The key to the perfect bite was to take the fish, a little barley and slaw. It paired perfectly. Also tried the fish with some of the blue corn grits, that was also amazing. If I order the catfish again, I'm going to request it with the grits. All in all, Vault and Cellar was a wonderful time. Can't wait to go back and try the Rabbit Food, duck and the cabbage steak. Vault and Cellar is delicious and delightful with an ambiance to match. read more

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Great restaurant. Solid selection of everything... bourbons appetizers salads entries dessert. Fun atmosphere. Service cares about your experience. It can be expensive for a special night celebration or modest... menu helps you navigate. read more

One of the best dining experiences I've had. Fantastic cuisine, incredible cocktails, and a vast whiskey/bourbon menu. The service was great. The ambiance of an old bank is a cool dining venue. If you love meat/game, the dining choices are for you, but there are loads of options if that's not your preference. Can't wait to eat here again. read more

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This is my favorite restaurant ever. The Appalachian egg rolls and pork belly bites often come up in conversations when I talk about this place! read more

10/10 ! Loved everything from pulling up to the cool building through the whole dining experience. Attentive, friendly service. Food came out quickly, was delicious and beautifully plated. Must try the biscuits with hot honey! Can't wait to go back. Worth the hour drive. read more

I really wanted to like the place. Nice outside, cute outside. The appetizers - cornbread and pork belly very nice to start. Spaghetti noodles very salty but okay. Venison a little tough and a small portion for $40. The shrimp and grits was the worst part - I'm from the south but still anyone that's had shrimp and grits will probably think the same as me. It was very small and the shrimp was 3 cocktail shrimp warmed up - not a joke, the grits looked like quinoa. The taste was what I expected, quinoa and cocktail shrimp. I had one bite and swapped for a beast burger. I didn't finish the burger is all I can say. It's a regular cheeseburger. Try the place and maybe you'll have better luck. Service was slow but that looked like a staffing issue as the person that served was nice. read more

We arrived on a weekend with reservations, as my boyfriend planned to treat me for my birthday at the Vault & Cellar as a surprise. They seated us downstairs, offering privacy but it was quite chilly. I believe the ambiance might have been better upstairs. The lower level was dimly lit, making it challenging to read the menu. However, I appreciated the historic charm of the old building housing the restaurant. I opted for the shrimp and grits, featuring a distinctive wine sauce. My boyfriend enjoyed the wild boar sausage. We also sampled the onion fritters, reminiscent of cornbread and accompanied by a dipping sauce. While our dishes were aesthetically pleasing, they seemed rather small in portion size. I wished they were a bit larger in size since we ran to get snacks after. We both enjoyed our cocktails. Overall it was a cool place with a good vibe and I would return to have drinks at the bar if I am in town again. read more

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The food is awesome, service is good, ambiance is nice and quiet. Music selection is good. I've been coming in for a few weeks now, wanted to try the venison, ended up trying many of their other menu options. They have an extensive selection of bourbon read more

Food was very tasty with lots on the menu. Enjoyed our waiter. The place was very busy at lunchtime and she was not in the weeds, Just enough attention. Ambiance , well you can tell, it was holiday decorum by our photo. Would not miss stopping at this place on our way through to Basye Resort . read more

Vault & Cellar - Lunchtime at Middleburg, Va - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

Visiting from out of state, we happened to find this while looking for somewhere to eat and now we're planning trips around being able to come back. The food was exceptional, the bourbon selection is almost too much and the service was wonderful. read more

Vault & Cellar - Venison steak and wild boar sausage - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

We traveled over an hour to have a night out with dinner and drinks but I wasn't impressed. The shrimp and grits with red wine sauce was just strange... the biscuits and honey butter were phenomenal but when it came to pricing on the bourbon list I was shocked to see some of the specialty bourbons being sold at the same price per oz as 1/4 the bottle cost. Over all the place was ok, but I wanted to impress my partner and it was a let down for me. read more

This little gem is well worth the visit. Housed in an old bank, it is loaded with charm - and an excellent whiskey selection. Had the shrimp and grits and it is literally the best I've ever had (and I've had a lot in a lot of different big and small cities). The country ham is a flavorful substitute for bacon and the grits were creamy with just the right hint of chew. Do yourself a favor and get a soft poached egg on top for an amazing brunch dish read more

Tonight we went to Vault & Cellar for our date night. To say we were impressed would be a major understatement. Every single item we ordered was a 10/10. The cocktails that we ordered were The Golden Girl, an Old Fashion, and Bonnie & Clyde. The entrees we ordered were the vault burger and the wild boar sausage meal. We finished off with the bourbon apple crisp. We will be going back... hopefully very soon! read more

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Holy smokes! Best food on our trip! Literally just driving by hwy and needed food and found this scrumptious place. I had the watermelon salad and hubs had the sweet potato hash with wild boar sausage. We could have licked the plates. The people working there were obviously foodies and gave us tips for places on our route. What a gem! read more

Vault & Cellar - Sat in the padded high Queen seats at the bar! - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

We really enjoyed this place. I didn't really know what to expect coming here. The atmosphere is laid back and casual. It was cozy and we didn't feel rushed at all. We were there for probably 2+ hours. Our server was very nice and asked the chef questions we had about a couple menu items that she didn't know. Which was nice as some servers pretend they know the answers and when you get the food it's not what you were told and expected. They have an extensive bourbon menu and have some rare finds to try if you're into that sort of thing. Their cocktail menu is nice too. I had a Gin drink that was very good (I forgot the name) and my husband got the Boulevardier that was great and presented with a nice clear large square ice cube. Food was rustic and well done. We shared a few appetizers; biscuits, boiled peanuts, scotch eggs, and pork rillette, and all were very good. I got a bowl of Boar Pickle soup and it was amazing!! I like to try different things and I'm glad I ordered this! It wasn't 'weird' tasting at all.... It was savory and none of the ingredients overpowered another. I'd order a big bowl of that alone! It was on their nightly special menu, but I hope it become a staple to the regular menu, or at least for the winter months. The entrees we ordered were the Rabbit, shrimp and grits and the duck. Everyone enjoyed their dishes and no food was left behind. The portions are perfect. We left there satisfied without feeling full. The cooking style is simple but good. The flavors were well balanced In each dish. We will definitely return. read more

Vault & Cellar - This made me laugh on our way in - Diners Near Me - Middletown, Virginia

This place was so good! My family of 6 went for dinner. The appetizer was delicious(Scotch Eggs), every entree was very good(we had catfish, wild boar sausage, pork chops), cocktails were great(I had the devil went down to Georgia), and desserts were amazing(chai ginger crème brûlée and s'mores mousse).Everyone was happy with their choices. I highly recommend this place!! read more

Let me first say that this is probably the best restaurant in the Middleburg/Woodstock/Strasburg area. This is the only place to go if you want a nice date night and a fancy cocktail. Overall I wish this restaurant would just simplify the menu. Some flavor pairings were just odd; like the duck and corn cake dish. The corn cakes just didn't add anything to the dish. That being said, the boar sausage was really good. We were frankly confused by the panna cotta. It came out with an enormous potion of curd and only a dollop of the cream. The cheesecake tasted like it had been in the fridge a long time and had very little custard. The crust was so hard you couldn't break it with a fork. Finally, portions are small for the price you are paying. read more

Driving down 81 passing through and found this place on Yelp. Not a bad drive off the highway at all and wow... so worth it! Cocktails were amazing. Food was amazing. I ordered things I normally would not have an was so pleased. Very friendly and efficient staff. I was lost on some of the menu items and they talked me through options and it was a hit. Cute atmosphere and amazing cocktail/bourbon selection. I ate the pesto spaghetti squash and I so wish I could make this at home. For a gluten free vegetarian dish it was filling! Looking forward to having the leftovers later :) read more