Event Dining

Interested in hosting a banquet or event at Chownings Tavern? Visit Banquets & Events for more information.

Menus (pdfs)

• Garden Bar
• Gambols Menu
• Children's Menu
• Recipes
• Lunch Menu

Address

109 East Duke of Gloucester Street
Williamsburg, Virginia 23185

Find on Google Maps

Reservations

757-229-2141
1-800-HISTORY

Chowning's Tavern

Josiah Chowning opened his tavern in 1766 and appealing to the “ordinary sort.” Popular lore asserts that the modern sandwich has its origin in the 18th century and was named after John Montagu, the fourth earl of Sandwich. Today’s diners can partake of freshly prepared lunch fare featuring stew and sandwiches served by a gracious wait staff. Purchase and refill Souvenir Mugs here. Lunch served 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.

Casual attire.
On Duke of Gloucester Street next to Market Square and the Courthouse.
Reservations are not required — seating is on a space available basis.
Menu items subject to change. Taverns are operated seasonally. Check for availability.

Taverns then and now
In the 18th century, Williamsburg’s taverns provided comfortable lodgings for travelers as well as serving as places to gather for meals, conversation, and entertainment. Proprietors prided themselves on serving filling meals using the freshest ingredients. Today, Colonial Williamsburg’s historic dining taverns carry on these traditions by providing a relaxed and comfortable setting for diners to experience some of the flavor of the 18th century—through atmosphere, entertainments, and food.