Menus (pdfs)
Address
109 East Duke of Gloucester Street
Williamsburg, Virginia 23185
Reservations
(757) 229-21411-800-447-8679
Chowning’s Tavern
Josiah Chowning opened his tavern in 1766 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.
A full evening menu is now offered featuring main courses to satisfy townspeople and travelers alike. Dinner offered from 5 p.m. Reservations required.
Casual attire.
On Duke of Gloucester Street next to Market Square and the Courthouse.
Menu items subject to change.
Chowning’s Gambols
Experience an evening in an 18th-century alehouse! Join in rousing period sing-alongs and learn to play popular games of the day. Snack on Virginia peanuts, light fare, and local wines and ales, and select from a wide variety of other refreshments.
Gambols will be returning April 1, 2012.
Gambols will be available during President’s Day Weekend, February 18–20, 2012.
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.
