Josiah Chowning's Tavern

About

4.3 ( 49 reviews)
$$, $$$

Gather ‘round at Chowning’s Tavern for hearty, Colonial-inspired pub fare, all served up in an authentic alehouse atmosphere. Try favorites of our founding fathers, including savory Shepherd’s Pye and satisfying trenchers served in bread bowls. Make friends with fellow diners over a frothy pint, or enjoy an ale outside in the beer garden. Want to take a piece of Colonial Williamsburg home with you? Order a local craft beer and keep the traditional salted mug. If you’re in need of a quick bite to fuel your day of exploration, stop by Chowning’s Garden Grill between 11am and 4pm daily for burgers, sausages, stew, BBQ, salads, and sweet treats.

Day of the Week	Opening Hours
Monday	11:30 - 21:00
Tuesday	11:30 - 21:00
Wednesday	11:30 - 21:00
Thursday	11:30 - 21:00
Friday	11:30 - 21:00
Saturday	11:30 - 21:00
Sunday	11:30 - 21:00

Cuisines

🍔 American
🍸 Bar
🍺 Pub

Dining Options

💺 Seating
🍽️ Table service
📅 Reservations
🍷 Serves Alcohol
💳 Accepts Credit Cards
🪑 Highchairs Available
🎶 Live Music
🍱 Lunch
🍽️ Dinner

Accepts Credit Cards

Recommended Reviews

59%

20%

16%

4.3

49 reviews

Add review

😍

Matt Simmons

2018-11-23 on google

The atmosphere was fantastic and the food was great. Really enjoyed the traditional food and the price for everything was very reasonable. We would definitely come back here in the future.

😕

Marten Scheuer

2018-11-05 on google

Even though many have had positive reviews of this place, the most recent experience is sadly one that must be mentioned. I had ordered the shepherds pie with a side of coleslaw and a root beer. The root beer came out already poured in a glass with ice, not in a bottle as I was expecting it, which made me feel a little cheated. But that is a side matter. The main issue is that within 10-20 minutes after finishing my meal and having left the restaurant, I had a running stomach. I had taken all precautions before eating by washing my hands at the restaurant, and wiped off all the utensils before using them. I don't know if this was due to the mishandling of the food, drink, or the food preparation itself, but it was serious enough where I will not be eating at Chowning's Tavern ever again.

😍

Trista Cook

2018-11-01 on google

This is the cutest, coziest place. The beef Trencher is amazing.

Add review

More Reviews (49)

Questions & Answers

Ask a Question

Reservations help during busy times but you can walk up and wait or share a table with others

I don't believe they do. This place is a historical tavern and offer period fare.

Chownings is the only restaurant that does not take reservations. You have to walk up to the door and there'll be a costumed host or hostess that will take your name and give you an approximate time. If you are early enough the wait is only a few minutes.

They're not on Open Table for online reservations, but you may be able to call ahead. (As far as I know they're the only tavern in the historic district that doesn't have online booking.)

Only at the door

Were open 7 days a week 365 a year

It depends on the season. You can always refer to the dining section of colonialismsburg.com, and each historical tavern should list activities and events.

According to the calender they will be open. I would make a reservation just to be sure you get seated when you want to.

Colonial williamsburg site has a shop with some dishes but not the shakers. If you search google for 18th century shakers you may find something similar.