My friend invited me out to Crystal Palate for a wine tasting on a Wednesday and I couldn't wait to…read morestop in. As a wine lover, I love trying new places where I can indulge in a variety of different wines. I was pleasantly greeted as soon as I walked in and I couldn't help but notice how beautiful this place was. They not only offer an assortment of wine, but also a variety of crackers, cheeses, olives, honey and other treats as well. We were offered a sample of the Sage Derby Cheese and it was so good, I bought two lol. Once everyone arrived, we went into the Wine Tasting Room to learn about the wines of the Pacific Northwest and to sample wines from that region. The class was very educational and I learned quite a few things. For example, Cabernet Franc is the parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, which is my favorite wine. Once the tasting wrapped up, we were able to socialize with the group and the staff. We inquired about the membership and they even shared that they offer opportunities to wine school as well. Overall, I had the best time at Crystal Palate! The staff were extremely personable and the wines were great! Wine Wednesday EDUtastings are a great way to learn about different wines from specific regions so definitely stop in if you are a wine lover like myself! You will not be disappointed!!!

Okay... I officially have a new favorite spot, and it's Crystal Palate…read more At this point, my Wednesdays might as well be reserved because their wine tastings are THAT good. Each week they feature a different region and really take you on a full deep dive -- this week was the Pacific Northwest, and between the four wine samples and the education behind each one, I left feeling like I actually learned something (while still having a great time, of course). I brought a friend with me this time -- the same one who originally introduced me to Cooper's Hawk -- so it felt a little full circle being able to put her onto a place for once. And let me just say... she was impressed. Like, immediately texting people about it impressed. Now let's talk about that in-house herb cheddar. I don't even remember exactly what herbs were in it, but I DO know it was so good I had to buy some to take home... and my friend liked it so much she bought two. That should tell you everything you need to know. What really sets Crystal Palate apart though is that it's not just a tasting -- it's an experience. They offer classes, events, and even certification programs if you want to really get into wine and learn how to educate others. You can tell they genuinely love what they do, and it shows in every part of the experience. Honestly, I loved it so much I even asked if they were hiring -- that's how you know it's real. Great wine, great atmosphere, great energy... this place is a whole vibe. So if you're wondering where I'll be on Wednesday nights... you can find me and Lexi right here at Crystal Palate

First time here and it was a great atmosphere. Cute small wine spot. Wine tasting was great. $25…read morefor 8 tastings yesterday. My friends said they are usually $5 for 4 tastings but I guess since it was spring break they raised the price. One of the lady pouring upstairs was rude. But that was my only concern about this place. And just a heads up this is a small place so if there is a crowd there's not much space to walk

Stumbled upon this amazing wine store while in downtown Norfolk. It's so cute inside and they have…read morelots of great wines for great prices. We stopped in on a Sunday and they have wine tastings for $5 dollars! I believe they have these every Friday through Sunday. They also do wine tasting events upstairs. The girl doing the wine tasting was so informative and amazing at talking about the wines. I will definitely come back while I'm in town!!

I found this tour on groupon and I called Deanna to get tickets for me and my friend. She was super…read morenice and I was super excited to go on this tour. The tour comes with complimentary breakfast and lunch. We got picked up at the little station behind Freedom Car Wash and Wawa. The bus was brand new and very comfortable. They had a selection of apple cinnamon muffins, sweet potato pastries, grapes, and strawberries with blueberries for breakfast. The muffins and sweet potato pastries made by a contestant on Master Chef Junior and the muffins were great. I didn't have the pastries because I don't like sweet potatoes. We were offered a bag with water and a granola bar with brochures for wineries and some for the ones we were going to. The was also a scent bag with soy candle samples from Pink Zebra. They smelled great. Next on the list was gathering the rest of the group for the trip from Norfolk. Once we got everyone, we were offered mimosas; candor l cranberry or orange. We chose orange. Deanna introduced herself, daughter, and granddaughter. She also introduced those who she knew who were on the trip. She provided some great historic facts like the origin of witchduck. She discussed the history of Virginia wine and information about Virginia Born presidents. Our first stop was New Kent Winery and our host was great and very polite. The tasting was very informative and fun. Their wines were fantastic and the Vineyard was amazing. It wasn't on the itinerary, but Deanna put it on there. Next was Michie Tavern. We had lunch there and the buffet was great. The wine tasting, not so much. Third stop was Baubersville and the wine was ok. We weren't really a fan of the environment because I felt out of place even though I was dressed pretty nicely. Last stop was Horton and our host was amazing! We had so much fun! We will definitely do this tour again in the fall because it was great and it was so much fun! Happy to have been part of the inaugural trip!

I've been on two wine tours, as well as a wine tasting at a friend's house. I had so much fun that…read moreI recently hosted a wine tasting of my own. My friends raved! The Virginia wines were excellent, and everyone loved the history lesson. Now I have another group of friends who are jealous and want me to host a wine tasting for them. I also love the fact that it's a local business. Deanna's (the owner's) friends and family love to help with her tours, and they are the nicest people. I plan on continuing to support Fruits and Roots Wine Tours, and I'd recommend them to EVERYONE!

I can't wait for ours in Indian Land to open because tonight's dining was a WONDERFUL experience…read more While in town visiting family for the Labor Day weekend, they suggested this spot. Hubby and I were thrilled because one is opening near our home outside of Charlotte, NC. Make reservations! This place was packed and we quickly figured out why. Everything is so good. We didn't quite figure out the "lay of the land" but there appeared to be a designated place for tasting that was packed. We enjoyed looking at the "wine toys" while we waited for our table. There are sooooo many unique things that I can't wait to purchase from a location closer to us when it opens; traveling with glass didn't seem too smart. Our server was great and I wish I knew her name to shout her out. Ask to sample any wine you're curious about. And let me say... the sampling pours are more than just a sip. I was astonished! I chose the red flight as rendered. Everything was good. I'm not a fan of Spanish reds and should have substituted that one. Next time! They are so conscientious about food allergies and preferences that you can customize everything (except the jambalaya). I already knew before arriving (because I look at menus ahead of time) that I was getting the scallop and shrimp risotto, especially after I learned I could have it without the disgusting peas and asparagus (but with extra spinach.... I do love some veggies). It was AMAZING and will probably be the dish I always end up getting at the Indian Land, SC location when it opens. No room for dessert so you'll have to read my next review for that. 10/10

While out on a Wednesday evening, my daughter and I decided to stop by Cooper's for a quick wine…read moretasting, but the wait was far too long, so we ended up sitting at the bar and dining in. The bartender was very sweet and provided us with menus right away. Since I had a "Dine-In Only Bottle" available as a member, I ordered a bottle Cabernet Sauvignon, which is my absolute favorite. We also decided on the House-Made Meatballs (another favorite), the Crispy Barbacoa Arancini, which is a "featured" item, and the Classic Cheeseburger. While we waited, we chatted with others at the bar and since we all wanted to sample the Wine of the Month, the Blanc de Noirs, our bartender was able to provide us with a tasting, which we enjoyed. It took about 40 minutes for our food to arrive but everything tasted amazing, as always. The House-Made Meatballs never miss and the Crispy Barbacoa Arancini were amazing! My daughter enjoyed her Cheeseburger as well. Cooper's Hawk will forever be my one of favorite restaurants and I can't wait to return!!!

Love this neighborhood wine bar! Shaina and her team are so personable. We came for paella night…read morewhich they do on a regular basis. They have a wide variety of events ranging from trivia to live music, and even international wine trips! Hopefully I can sign up one of these days.

Let me preface the review with this- This review is limited to their paella night. We've been twice…read moreand both were wonderful. The wine pairings were unique and enjoyable. (On at least one occasion we left with several bottles). The atmosphere is cozy and very family like. The service was excellent both times. Really need to go back for a "regular " evening.

Mermaid winery dinner experience was excellent! We ordered…read morethe recommended wine and it was quite good. The appetizer of calamari was just ok. A bit overcooked and needs a step up on quality. Every other part of the meal was excellent. I had lamb shank , wife had Tuna and daughter had Duck. Why daughter said that it was the best meal she had ever had! Dessert if crème brûlée and carrot cake both very good. Surprise of the night was the beat salad- wonderful! Final not that the service was excellent as well . Overall would definitely recommend the Mermaid winery restaurant in Virginia Beach.

Cute winery for a little break from heat and rain. Our waiter was a delight, food was nice. The…read morewine list is pretty extensive, and the whites, new world and old word wine flights were enjoyable.

I went here for my 1st time. I am glad that we made a reservation. The place is tiny....it is a…read morewine shop, not a restaurant. Very cute inside and the wine is all nicely displayed by price. Great for a 1st stop before dinner, 1st date or just something different especially if you like wine. The owners are very nice. I also met an employee Carolyn that was so sweet. We enjoyed a HH wine from 3 to 5. And then stayed for the grilled cheese Wednesday night special. Grilled cheese and a glass of wine for $20. Even though the sandwich was delicious, it was not a grilled cheese so we were a bit disappointed. I was expecting a true grilled cheese with melty cheese and warm and crusty. This was a warmish sandwich with cheese and meat. We did see other menu items that looked delicious and I definitely want to go back and try. If you love wine...especially from Portugal then you have to try this place.

We absolutely love Tinto Wine & Cheese, especially the Hilltop location! We only wish we had…read morediscovered it sooner. We lived here for two years before finally walking through the door, and that was definitely a mistake. From our very first visit, Mary and her amazing staff, Ashley and Carolyn, made us feel welcomed and appreciated. Their hospitality is truly exceptional and creates such a warm, inviting atmosphere that keeps us coming back week after week. The wine selection is outstanding, and the food is equally impressive. It has quickly become our favorite place to relax, enjoy great company, and discover new wines. We also hosted a private event here, and Mary and her team went above and beyond to make it special. Every detail was thoughtfully handled, and our guests had a wonderful experience. Most recently, we returned from Tinto's wine tour in Italy, and it was beyond anything we could have imagined. The trip was beautifully organized, and we felt cared for every step of the way. It was an unforgettable experience filled with incredible wine, amazing people, and memories we'll cherish forever. Tinto is truly a special place. Whether you're looking for a great glass of wine, a delicious meal, a private event venue, or even an unforgettable travel experience, we highly recommend it. Five stars all the way!

Mary was easy to work with over email to craft our personal chef dinner menu for 13 people. She…read moresent Chef Mackenzie and her assistant to our house to prep, cook, present, and clean. The food was unique and very flavorful. They even provided custom printed menus.

Last year, friends of ours got married on our anniversary and we thought it would be nice to have a…read moredouble date on their first (and our 18th) anniversary. We have had two great experiences with Chef in My Kitchen, so had them to our home again. One of our group doesn't eat meat, so they created a fish centered meal that was delicious, inventive, and looked beautiful on the table Everything was perfect. Chef Emily was skilled and very friendly. We had good conversations with her and an amazing meal. When we realized you could see the aurora borealis from our house that evening, she joined us outside for pictures. It was a lot of fun.

Went out here to support the VHS band and it was a great reminder to why we enjoy this place. First…read moreoff, the band - always amazing :) Second, what a venue. Coming out here and I loved the fact that they were sooo supportive of our daughter coming with us. It was a full house and they were still able to be accommodating. With our daughter, it gets tough b/c they couldn't sit us at the bar. They talked with a couple at the sofa area and they were super cool with us being close by. Between the super awesome old fashioned and wine they gave us, I loved how creative and unique they are with their menu. Overall, this place is such a win. We look forward to our next visit! Food Taste: 5 Overall Service: 5 Value of food to cost: 4 Facility: 5 Ambiance: Small facility that is simple, yet tasteful. Repeat customer: yes Dog Friendly: no

Great experience here - I happened to be in town visiting and this was across the street from my…read morehotel - from the time I walked in I felt very welcomed - I was handed a menu and given the low down on how the tastings work - I decided to go with a glass of wine - I ended up meeting some folks and the bar and just hung out - it's really a cute set up - huge bar - plenty of tables a sitting area with couches - it's also really clean - they also offer a small food menu but I didn't eat anything this visit

Virginia Beach Winery is not my typical winery as I'm use to visiting but definitely worth the…read morevisit. The winery had a vintage style. Maria the owner was such a doll. Wine is made on site in the distillery and she has been in business for 8 years. We visited on a Saturday and there was a couple of vendors on site selling merchandise. 5 bucks for 6 samples is definitely reasonable. We indulged in the fruit infused wines, draft wines and slushies. I must say the draft wines were delicious and I wished those were bottled so I could have brought them home. All in all great places and would definitely stop in again.

We were on a Filipino food crawl and needed a break and decided to stop in at the Winery. We love…read morewineries and look for opportunities to visit new ones. We were the only patrons for much of our visit. My birthday daughter and I ordered wine sample flights and chatted up the owner. Wife shopped the gift area and picked out a nice bauble. The good: the owner was very engaging and told us about the wines (and wine slushies) they offer. We asked where the grapes came from and she explained that some came from Chile, some from California (I believe) and other places, and that she blends them here. (This would be expected with no attached vineyard.) The place was very clean, and the restrooms were easily accessible and spacious. The price of the flights was a mere $5 for six communion cup sized samples -- you choose 6 of I guess 12 - 15. Mulled wine is a welcome option on a winter day. The disappointing: While there is a good assortment of wines, and many were on the good side of okay, none stood out and said BUY A BOTTLE OF ME. The fruity sweet wines were VERY sweet, not really good for dessert wine or sipping. (Sorry.) But again, the reds especially were drinkable and pleasant. Verdict: a good stop if you need a break and a glass or two to go with your conversation. Just don't set expectations too high and you'll be fine.