Wonderful food, service, and a venue with an amazing history for the history buff. I highly recommend the Half Way House.

Had an outstanding experience here -- all I can say is wow. This is an incredibly historic restaurant that somehow manages to pair its classic atmosphere with truly gourmet food. The staff was excellent throughout the evening and graciously accommodated special requests, which was greatly appreciated. We started with the fried green tomatoes appetizer, and they were fantastic -- huge portion and full of flavor. I ordered the short rib entrée, which was absolutely delicious and melt-in-your-mouth tender. The portion size was generous enough that I couldn't finish it all. Unfortunately, I had no room left for dessert. Highly recommend this restaurant, especially if you appreciate historic ambiance paired with elevated food and service. Definitely make reservations in advance. read more

Half Way House - Short Rib, Garlic Mash, Collard Greens (WOW) - American Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Safe to say we're fans of the Halfway House! My wife and I spent date night tonight eating like 18th-century royalty. I had the filet mignon & crab cake special, my wife had a stellar off-menu veggie pasta creation, and we both loved seeing GW's and TJ's fingerprints on those 1760s bricks. Tomato bisque (today's special) and french onion soup for starters were both off the hook. The Pinot Noir didn't hurt, either. Honestly, I'm just glad they let us in without powdered wigs. It did not disappoint! It was also nice to meet owner Sue Y. She was great and so was our waiter. Dinner for 2 with tip ran just over $200. We'll be back. read more

I was in the area to see the monks passing thru. I knew I would need to find some dinner after. I did my research on the good ol Yelp app and came across Half Way House. The vibes I immediately got was dinning in Williamsburg, VA. They also had great reviews, so why not. They had a reservation option via Yelp. I doubted I need it but opted just incase since there were a lot of people in the area. When you park walk to the right go down the steps and straight into the cellar dining room. I was greeted and seated right away. I was seated towards the back near the fireplace. The ambiance was just what I needed. Soft classical music. I started out with the soup du jour, which was a creamy tomato bisque. It really hit the spot after being in the cold the past few hours. After the soup I had the Chesapeake Crab Cake appetizer. It was $24 for 2. They were perfect. The sauce really adds great flavor to the crab cake. My main meal was the salmon piccata. It was paired with asparagus, and a baked potato. I ended my evening with a cup of hot tea and strawberry cheesecake. It was the perfect ending to a nice night out. Service was fantastic. Brandon and Heather worked well together and were very efficient. They were soft spoken, well mannered and dressed well. Any questions I had they were delighted to answer and provide opinion if needed. read more

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Had a fabulous dinner last night. Wonderful historic home turned into a beautiful restaurant. Wait staff welcoming and attentive. Well worth a trip if you're close to the area. read more

Went on Mother's Day, they had a special menu for the occasion. I had the Prime Rib my husband had the crab cakes & my mom had the filet tenderloin. All of it was excellent. We enjoyed checking out the grounds (kitchen is in separate building). Property has a lot of history. Service was impeccable. Highly recommend the Halfway House! read more

Half Way House - Kitchen - American Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

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Exceptional service, ambience, and food. The Half Way House has been consistently excellent for the 20 years I've been visiting.

Wanted a historic dining experience and this was the perfect destination. The staff was very knowledgeable of the history of the building and let us visit the upstairs area freely. The steak was buttery and tender, the fireplace and soft lighting was such a beautiful experience. They do have quite a few dinner options with seafood, if you have a shellfish allergy your options may be limited. It's a perfect destination for a dinner date. read more

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I made reservations for my husband and I to come here as a late birthday slash Valentine's Day date. My husband's birthday is conveniently the day after Valentine's and what better way than to spend it in a little piece of history. This was our first time coming to the halfway house and it has been on my bookmark list for I don't know how many years now. I recently saw an influencer had visited the halfway house and she shared her experience on Tik Tok. I felt this was a good opportunity for my husband and I to finally give it a try. Upon entering we were graded by one of the servers she asked for our name and lead us to our table. Each table is lit with a candle and it really puts you back in time. The fireplaces on either end of the dining room the original brick exposed as well as the bare floors. If you're needing to use the restroom you'll have to go back outside of the stairs and down to your left and if you're over I'd say 5'10'', you're going to have to duck down just to get to the bathrooms. When our server greeted us at the table she asked if she could get her drink order my husband had an old fashioned and I ordered a simple gin and tonic. She placed a bread basket on the table of regular bread as well as cinnamon rolls. The cinnamon rolls seemed rather hard like they were getting close to being stale. Again this is my first time here so I'm not sure if they make sure they're a little bit more crisp and firm versus soft. The menu had some very wonderful options; to start we ordered the fried artichokes for my dinner I had the salmon piccata because of course I needed more artichokes as well as capers and my husband had the prime rib. Our meals came with asparagus and a twice baked potato. My husband's prime rib looked very enticing it's not something I typically eat I did have a try and it was very flavorful and tender. My salmon... I'm really not sure how they cook the salmon here but it was mushy and that is kind of strange for me. I wish I had asked for lemons to enjoy my meal further, I ended up taking half of it home. We ended up ordering dessert which was the chocolate truffle cake, We probably should have let it sit for a bit because it wasn't easy to put our fork into it . It was clearly refrigerated but it made the cake hard and with the top layer being thick with the icing we both struggled getting our forks to go through. The service was top notch and it wasn't where only our server was helping us there were two other servers that were also helping too. I would like to come back during daytime hours to get better photos outside to get more pictures inside. read more

This was my second time dining at The Half Way House and it was just as good as, perhaps even better than, my first visit! I highly recommend to anyone that enjoys history, excellent food, an enchanting atmosphere, and stellar service. I come here mainly for the unmatched ambiance. Few restaurants rival The Half Way House's atmosphere. Built in 1760 as a rest stop between Richmond and Petersburg, its basement dining room features cozy lighting, a crackling fire, historic paintings on 250-year-old walls, and baroque music. The setting evokes the era of famous travelers who passed through. This historic charm sets the stage for the meal. I hold the theory that if a restaurant serves tasty bread, the food will follow suit, and this theory certainly holds at Half Way House. After enjoying the bread, we ordered fried artichoke hearts, a first for me. I found them delicious and am sad it took so long for me to find out! Our mains, both the House Speciality, arrived slower due to a larger party upstairs but were perfect! They had ideal temperature and exquisite flavor. After the main course we each ordered dessert, my mother a chocolate truffle cake and me a strawberry cheesecake. Once again home runs! The last part of what makes The Half Way House stand out is the fantastic service that was provided. The staff left nothing for want, anytime we needed extra sauce or refills they were there without hesitation. Not only did the staff take care of us that way, our waiter also gave us some extra bread and cinnamon rolls to go after we raved about how much we loved them. Truly above and beyond in taking care of guests! read more

Half Way House - The Specialty Of The House (Petite Filet with Crab Cake, Green Beans, and Twice Baked Potato) - American Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

We just finished enjoying a birthday dinner at the Half-Way House which, as a local, has been on the bucket list for many years. To start, the ambience is perfect. The dining room is cozy and dimly lit, with candlelight adding to the overall experience. Since it's still late summer, the fireplace was not in use but I can imagine it is even more magical in the winter. Sparsely but comfortably decorated, the colonial atmosphere is well represented and you can't help but marvel at the legacy of the building. Did the Marquis de Lafayette sit at a table like this one, planning campaigns? Did Grant stand at the fireplace mantle contemplating the fate of the nation? It's quite an experience, especially if you are a history buff. The service is also excellent. Unobtrusive but attentive. Our server (I wish I could remember his name to mention here) was quick to provide warm bread and cinnamon rolls after we were seated and kept our drinks full for the length of the dinner. Plates were cleared quietly without interrupting the flow of the meal. We started with the crab dip, which was absolutely delicious. Large chunks of fresh crab meat were complimented by a creamy dip base which was perfectly seasoned and had just enough spice. There were, unfortunately, not enough crostini to finish the dip but we happily dug in our spoons to eat the remainder because it was too good to send back a half full cup. Our dinners consisted of the broiled seafood platter with rice, portobello chicken with twice baked potato and the vegetable for the evening, asparagus, and the Cajun pasta, which also came with a side of the asparagus. The entrees were hit or miss. The Cajun pasta was very flavorful and slightly piquant without being overpowering. Generous portions of chicken, crawfish and alligator sausage mingled with plenty of tomato, onion and perfectly-cooked penne but I did not see any of the shrimp that was supposed to also come with the dish. Either it was very finely chopped and indistinguishable from the crawfish or it was sadly left off. The portion was also large enough to bring home leftovers - easily the best value of what we ordered. The broiled seafood platter was lacking in flavor and a few lemon wedges would have gone a long way to bringing some freshness to the dish. The scallops were very good quality, with large shrimp and a good filet of fish but the overall taste was bland. The portobello chicken was dull, as well, with the twice baked potato ending up being the highlight. Creamy and luscious, it elevated what would have otherwise been a slightly forgettable plate. The chicken itself was tender but, like the broiled fish, lacked flavor. With all three plates, the asparagus was also a stand out. While most asparagus I've had at any restaurant, fine dining or otherwise, is typically slimy or overcooked, this was fresh-tasting and struck the perfect balance of crunchy and tender. The roasted red peppers added a nice touch, leaving the asparagus garnished in a way that was similar to being tied up with a red bow. Delicious. We finished with the crème brûlée, garnished with a ripe strawberry halve and a twirl of absolutely delicious fresh whipped cream. The caramelized sugar was executed well and the custard was just sweet enough to not be cloying. One of the best I've ever had. While I would love to give the Half-Way House five stars based on the atmosphere and service alone, some of the food left us wanting for more. Everything was well plated and skillfully cooked but the flavors were missing that special something that would have elevated the experience. We will be back to try other dishes because it is overall an excellent restaurant, and it is a can't-miss trip back in time that deserves a visit if you're looking for unique fine dining. read more

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We went for Mother's Day, and it was exceptional! Steaks were cooked to perfection, one rare, one medium rare, and one well done. Desserts were all excellent and made in house! The ambiance is a throwback to colonial days, feel like you could be at Colonial Williamsburg. Only regret is not coming to this place more often! read more

The service was friendly, accurate and timely. Easy to make online reservation thru Yelp. The food I'd spot on delicious. My steak was cooked to perfection. My husband has chicken that was juicy and to die for. We have decided this place to be our yearly anniversary celebration. Its a bit dark inside and rustic. I do like the ambience. You will enjoy. read more

Food was very good and service was very friendly. Would absolutely go back. The history of the location was very interesting.

I wanted to treat my wife to something different for Valentine's Day, so I made a reservation at Half Way House. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was romantic. The service was excellent. We started with an appetizer of Chesapeake crab dip, which was very good. I got the prime rib, and it was probably the best steak I've ever had in my life. My wife had the crab stuffed halibut. My wife said that this was the best Valentine's Day she has ever had. So, I would say the Half Way House was a home run! If you're looking for a restaurant for a special occasion, this is it. read more

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Food was excellent. Service (Wayne) was great. He was friendly, knowledgeable of menu and spot on timing. Highly recommend this establishment. !! read more

Food and service were both great from this off the beaten path local spot! I would go out of my way to make this trip again!

It was definitely a nice surprise! A nice cozy atmosphere enhanced by great service. Food was tasty and filling. Being new to the city/area it was a great way to spend an Anniversary Dinner! Oh, did i mention that the cocktails were on post! read more

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Food, environment, and service were great! Also appreciated the history of the location and building. I had the steak which was delicious. Took out of town company and they were impressed. read more

If you're looking for a historical place but yet romantic and low key kinda fine dining. Half Way House is the place to go too! Incredible food and I really loved the story behind the house. I really enjoyed eating here. Definitely plan on come back for sure! 10/10 recommendation! I however don't remember our servers name but he was very tentative and very nice! read more

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We were looking for a place to celebrate our 22nd wedding anniversary and wanted to try some place different rather than the usual go-to steak houses. We absolutely loved it here! The food was amazing and came out fast. We had the artichoke hearts for an appetizer and my husband and I got the prime rib. Everything we had was cooked to perfection. Even the rolls were amazing and they generously gave us extra to go with my leftovers. We loved the intimate ambiance of the restaurant and most of all the history that went with it. We'll definitely come back to try other menu items. read more

Half Way House - Prime rib dinner. - American Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Great anniversary dinner at an incredibly historic venue. Brandon made some excellent suggestions for our anniversary dinner. Award winning menu so it is difficult to make a bad selection. Save room for dessert! read more

The Half Way House is settled in a dark basement lit by candles giving a romantic atmosphere. Once it gets full it can feel a bit cramped, but this is probably due to my height and the low ceilings. The house is rich in history making it quite a special place for my husband and I to celebrate a momentous occasion. A drawback was how uncomfortable the seats were. My husband and I are like Vikings, very tall and stocky, so the seats felt too small. The average person will probably have no problem with them. My hubs ordered the seafood platter and was delighted in how delicious it was. I ordered the Black and Bleu Beef Tips with the filet and requested it be cooked medium rare. Unfortunately, it was mostly overcooked and tough. I expected the mushroom sauce to be more substantial and the bleu cheese to be enough to be tasted. I was very disappointed at what was a sprinkling of mushrooms on top and no distinct bleu cheese flavor at all. The twice baked potato was yummy, but I could not eat the asparagus as I found it bitter and undercooked. It made me regret paying the price it cost as I could not even enjoy half the portion. Service was good and yet not. We were served by three different people, including the manager who seemed to give most of her attention to one particular table. When she removed our plates without offering dessert, coffee, or tea it felt we were being hurried along. One older gentleman was very attentive. He made sure we were taken care of and satisfied. I wish I knew his name as I would love to give him all the stars. He was superb and comped us dessert in honor of our special occasion. We chose the tiramisu, and it was very tasty, perfect crispy top with the creamy underside. I do recommend this restaurant as an experience one should seek to enjoy. I believe you will love the historicity of the location, and the service will be a fine dining event. Your food may be hit or miss, depending on what you order, but I think the location itself is worth the risk. read more

Amazing place to have a nice dinner. Staff is amazing, delicious food and historic atmosphere. Feel like family.

The food, service and Ambiance are amazing.. Amazing is the best way to describe this restaurant

Incredible food! Quiet candle lit space and great service. Really enjoyed my experience, the historical significance of the rester-aunt was also cool. Established in 1720 - the building has a laid back vibe. read more

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Visiting family was charmed by the historical significance of the home and delighted with their delicious surf and turf.

The service and atmosphere was excellent and the meal portions were enough for two. The short ribs were delicious and the seafood platter broil was good. Price range $ 52- $60. A little pricey read more

Half Way House - Seafood Broil platter - American Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

Our birthday celebration dinner at Halfway House was outstanding from start to finish. Excellent ambience, food, drink, and service. Owner, Sue Young, and Chef Raymond Allen, each made it a point to personally connect with us during our dining experience, which made us feel welcome and appreciated. Our server, Kiera, was courteous, accurate, and pleasantly joyful. The complimentary choice of desserts from the menu for our celebration was a nice surprise too! read more

Half Way House - American Near Me - Richmond, Virginia

I'm usually generous with my reviews. This is from 6 months ago but it keeps getting suggested to me on the app so here I am. I'm thinking they had an off night. It was too dark to see my food, the waiter was super high (I usually don't care but damn that boy was too high to talk), the steak was salty, the potatoes were rubbery. The fish was good. The ambiance was neat, what I could see of it. For the price, I was honestly dismayed but chalked it up to a bad night and didn't want to review, so I gave it three stars today instead of the one star I would have given the night of my meal. read more

The service was excellent and the ambiance is lovely and so historical. My only complaint is around the food and the price for it. I ordered the seafood platter - everything was overcooked and tough. It was served over a bed of rice which was plentiful but dull. The asparagus was very, very bland. Nothing was seasoned. The dessert (I had brûlée) was excellent but a teeny size for the price. read more

Excellent, Excellent, EXCELLENT is the only way I can express the experience. The waiter, the staff, and the owner were all present and apart of our dinner. read more

I loved this dining experience! It was very different. We sat downstairs where it was dimly lit and you can tell this is an old historic landmark, we celebrated a friends birthday and everyone was very kind! read more

My girlfriends and I went here on a Thursday night and it was practically dead. There was one other table with people but otherwise we were the only ones there. As soon as you walk in, you can see all the historic decor. You enter into the basement that is pretty small with maybe 8 tables. It smells like seafood down there which I didn't really care for but there's probably no real circulation since there are no windows and you are in the basement. The prices are quite expensive and the menu is small. Most of us ended up having the filet with crabcake. I understand with inflation prices everywhere have skyrocketed but I don't know if $70 for this plate was justified. You get served delicious cinnamon rolls and bread to begin with which is a huge plus. The crabcake was okay, the roumalade or aioli sauce it comes with is terribly spicy and the filet came out dry and lacking flavor. The potato and green beans were okay though. The actual building, decor and service I would give a 5 but food is maybe a 3. Not sure if I'd come back again, especially with the prices. read more

Shout out to Heather. You are amazing and we enjoyed not only the food .... The ambience..... the History.... But speaking with you. We can't wait to come back. The food was PHENOMENAL. My vanilla crème brulee was the main reason we picked the Halfway House. read more

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I enjoyed every bite of my lunch. The flavors were balanced, and the service was fast even though it was busy. Clean and well-organized place. read more

My boyfriend has been wanting to go to Half Way House for a couple of years now. I've been putting it off... not sure why... but we finally made it and man... my boyfriend was mad I made him wait so long lol. We thought we had a reservation but they didn't have us on the books but still sat us anyway. Their menu doesn't show it, but they do have a full-ish bar if you're wanting a cocktail. The beverage menu seemed to only show wines. They bring bread and cinnamon rolls to start. We also got a salad (amazing homemade ranch) and fried oysters. It's rare that we find good fried oysters that we like but these were incredible and a good portion. For dinner, I had the stuffed salmon and my BF had the short ribs. Look y'all... them collard greens he got... . The twice baked potato.... Best I've ever had. It's pricey... but might have to figure out how to add this into a monthly rotation. I can't wait to go back and try something else. read more

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The history and location of the Halfway House Restaurant makes this one of the most unique and exceptional dining experiences.

I've been here a few times in the past year or so. Great atmosphere! Love the building. Service has been great too. I do think its a bit pricey for the portions, but it has been for special occasions so I minded less. My only real complaint is that the food is severely under seasoned. Like "thought I ordered off the special restricted diet menu" level of under seasoned. My friend who ordered the Cajun pasta and said it was wonderful though. Everyone else was passing the salt shaker. read more

Food is without a doubt all fresh. The cooking and waiting staff are the best of the best. Kind and fast. Food is always cooked to perfection. I recommend the beef tips. Dinning ambiance is candle lit and very relaxing. Call and make a reservation for a special occasion or just for an amazing meal this is your spot. read more