
Fat Canary
A refined bistro in Colonial Williamsburg offering upscale American cuisine and an exceptional wine selection, with a unique speakeasy downstairs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Fat Canary

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A refined bistro in Colonial Williamsburg offering upscale American cuisine and an exceptional wine selection, with a unique speakeasy downstairs.
"Absolutely the best restaurant in Williamsburg. The quality of food and service is second to none in town."
Reserve Ahead
Reservations are essential due to limited seating capacity; book as far in advance as possible.
Budget for Dinner
Expect to spend around $100 per person, not including drinks.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
New American
Price
$$$
Phone
(757) 229-3333
Address
410 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA
Website
fatcanarywilliamsburg.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exceptional Contemporary American Cuisine
Indulge in perfectly prepared contemporary American dishes, from crispy oysters to succulent duck breast and prime steaks.

Downstairs at Fat Canary Speakeasy
Discover a hidden speakeasy-style bar in the wine cellar beneath The Cheese Shop for a unique, intimate experience.

Impeccable Service & Ambiance
Experience attentive and knowledgeable staff in a refined setting, making every meal feel personal and special.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Ahead
Reservations are essential due to limited seating capacity; book as far in advance as possible.
Budget for Dinner
Expect to spend around $100 per person, not including drinks.
Speakeasy Discovery
Catch Downstairs at Fat Canary, the speakeasy in the wine cellar, when they're open; no reservations needed.
Consider Off-Peak Times
Visit during less busy periods for a quieter dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Ahead
Reservations are essential due to limited seating capacity; book as far in advance as possible.
Budget for Dinner
Expect to spend around $100 per person, not including drinks.
Speakeasy Discovery
Catch Downstairs at Fat Canary, the speakeasy in the wine cellar, when they're open; no reservations needed.
Consider Off-Peak Times
Visit during less busy periods for a quieter dining experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fat Canary consistently impresses with its refined American cuisine, impeccable service, and intimate ambiance, making it a top choice in Williamsburg for special occasions. While prices are on the higher side, diners feel the quality of food and experience justify the cost. Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.
"My wife and I enjoyed a wonderful evening and dinner at Fat Canary. The food is well prepared, it looks nice and the taste is fantastic. The reservation and seating seems unique but maybe I just don't get out to restaurants like this often. Make sure you have a reservation. Plan on $100 per person without drinks."
Lee Deskins
"Absolutely the best restaurant in Williamsburg. The quality of food and service is second to none in town. Exceeds our expectations every time, always feels refined and personal. Love this place."
Keith Hassan
"Stopped in for appetizers and a cocktail. Excellent service, professional, and attentive.
The food was delicious and they offered unique options to pick from. Rabbit was tender and flavorful, I recommend this dish to get your meal started."
Emily Sopchak
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times, as the restaurant has limited seating capacity.
You can expect to spend around $100 per person for dinner, excluding drinks.
While not explicitly stated, the restaurant offers refined, upscale American fare, suggesting smart casual attire is appropriate.
It's a speakeasy-style bar located in the wine cellar beneath The Cheese Shop, offering a more intimate and unique experience.
Dietary accommodations are not explicitly listed in the provided data. It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant when making a reservation.
Popular dishes include Crispy Oysters, Duck Breast, Ribs dish, Beef Steak, Filet Mignon, and Sea Bass.
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Williamsburg, Virginia, Travel Guide
Everyone in Williamsburg knows The Cheese Shop and their world-famous sandwiches with House Dressing," says Willey. "[But] not everyone knows that the family who runs The Cheese Shop also runs a fine-dining experience just next door, called the Fat Canary.” Fat Canary's seasonal menu changes on a regular basis, but expect crispy oysters, pan-seared sea scallops, braised beef short ribs, and the like. Willey also shares how, "almost every night," the wine cellar beneath The Cheese Shop transforms into Downstairs at Fat Canary, what he calls a "speakeasy-style find right in the midst of Colonial Williamsburg." No need to make a reservation — "you have to catch them when they're open.
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One of the city’s top restaurants, Fat Canary, has received the AAA Four Diamond award each year since opening in 2003. The restaurant’s menu includes enticing items like crispy Rappahannock oysters, pan-seared duck breast, and ginger shortcake. Another popular spot is The Cheese Shop, known for its extensive selection of cheeses, charcuterie, and house-made sandwiches.
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The Fat Canary and Blue Talon are on the "nicer" end of the spectrum for restaurants with Fat Canary a step above BT. If I wanted a good adult type meal but had kids with me, I would go out to Cities Grill on Rt5. They have a great kids' menu and an open kitchen which, I find, always gives kids something to watch.
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Higher end restaurants are: Fat Canary, and Blue Tavern (bistro) in Merchants Square, Le Yaca (French) near Busch Gardens, White Hall (continental) on Jamestown, Cities Grill (steaks) on Rt. 5.
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There’s no shortage of flavors for epicureans to discover thanks to locally owned favorites like the Fat Canary in the heart of colonial Merchants Square, and brasserie-style Blue Talon Bistro (each offers seasonal outdoor dining, too). When the weather’s nice, the team at Casa Pearl rolls up the floor-to-ceiling windows in its former Texaco station so diners can enjoy cross breezes in modern digs with seafood sourced from the Chesapeake Bay. The oyster and taco bar also serves up some of the area’s most creative cocktails, like the tomatini, a twist on a traditional Bloody Mary, with tomatillo syrup and herbaceous ancho chile liqueur.
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Fat Canary— After we had a drink and appetizers at La Piazza during our first evening of the trip, we walked right across the street to the Fat Canary, which came highly recommended by my godmother, who lives not too far from the Greater Williamsburg area. I got the short rib and Jacqueline got the steak and she said that it was absolutely the BEST steak she’s ever had (and she’s a major steak lover so she’s had a LOT of steak… this is a huge statement of hers!). It’s definitely a nicer restaurant that is ideal for celebrating a special occasion or indulging in an extra nice (and DELICIOUS) meal.
Dinning Outdoors: Patio Dining in Williamsburg
Praised in June of 2009 in the Travel section of the New York Times, the Fat Canary is the quintessential dining experience in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg. The rich red brick patio is full of sturdy metal tables, which are large enough for a small gathering of friends or family. Snack on an appetizer of House-made Mozzarella with Edwards’ Ham, Basil Pesto and Heirloom Tomatoes drizzled with Balsamic while visitors and locals walk the streets and disappear into Wythe’s Candy Shop.
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Fat Canary is one of the best restaurants in Historic Williamsburg and they have a very instructing story on how they got their name. If you have ever heard of the poem by John Lyly he talks about how when the settlers stop for supplies at Canary Island they referred to the wine as “Canary” and that is how this wine and cheese bar got its name. They do serve more than just cheese and wine here, they offer American fares in a bistro-themed restaurant.
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The Fat Canary is the fine-dining counterpart to the Cheese Shop, and equally beloved. For those looking for an upscale restaurant in Williamsburg, Virginia, you couldn’t do any better than this elegant, award-winning restaurant. Located in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg in view of a gorgeous, spring-blooming dogwood tree, it packs all the ambiance and charm that you’d expect from a fine dining restaurant in a historical town.
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This award-winning bistro is perfect for those who might be just a little bougie (in a good way, of course). It offers seasonal menus that change regularly throughout the year, but each menu is sure to have something to delight the most refined and curious of palates. We’re talking fricassee of rabbit and seared foie gras, all designed by the bistro’s executive chef, who has worked with cooking experts all over the world.
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Fat Canary, located in Merchant’s Square, is an upscale dining establishment that offers a sophisticated menu and an extensive wine list. Known for its elegant presentation and exquisite flavors, Fat Canary serves dishes like foie gras, lamb chops, and a variety of fresh seafood options. The restaurant’s intimate setting and attentive service make it a popular choice for special occasions and fine dining experiences.
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One of the best places for a date night in Merchants Square is the Fat Canary. Located on Duke of Gloucester Street, this upscale restaurant has been a recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award each year since opening in 2003. Boasting a seasonal menu that changes regularly, diners can look forward to items like Pan Seared Sea Scallops, Braised Beef Short Rib, and desserts like profiteroles and decadent cheese plates.
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If you ask any local for recommendations on romantic restaurants in Williamsburg, chances are the Fat Canary will appear at the top of their list. Beloved for its warm ambiance and elevated American cuisine, this spot is definitely one of Williamsburg’s fine dining gems. Located right in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, the Fat Canary offers an intimate dining room setting that’s ideal for special occasions.
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When you’re celebrating an anniversary, birthday, or another special occasion, reserve a table at The Fat Canary on Duke of Gloucester St. The warm, romantic atmosphere and sophisticated, seasonal menu of modern American cuisine guarantee a memorable experience. The dessert menu of this Merchants Square eatery’s menu stands out, too. Favorites include macadamia nut pie and a classic cheese plate.
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Whipping up modern and eclectic American fare, this sophisticated bistro is a meal you won’t soon forget. The charming decor and warm, ambient lighting make it one of the most romantic restaurants in Williamsburg. Their seasonal menu changes regularly, but you can expect dishes like pan-seared scallops with leeks, quail with chorizo, beef short ribs with mushrooms, and grilled Atlantic salmon.
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Fat Canary opened in 2003 and it has received the AAA Four Diamond award every year. The restaurant defines itself as a “refined, green-walled bistro.” Be sure to check out the menu of unique cocktails including Year of the Dragon and Bee-Laverdier. It is located approximately one mile from A Williamsburg White House so, if you enjoy walking, you can stroll hand-in-hand on your way to dinner.
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Voted one of the 100 Best Restaurants for Foodies in America, you’ll find an unpretentious upscale dining room and high-energy bar at Fat Canary. You’ll find a contemporary bistro setting with an open kitchen. The menu reflects executive chef Thomas Power’s diverse regional and ethnic experiences in New Orleans, southern California, Hawaii, and North Carolina.
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Since opening their doors over a decade ago, Fat Canary has earned a good bit of buzz and accolades for their fine wines, fresh and creative plates, and exemplary service. The restaurant sits adjacent to and is affiliated with The Cheese Shop in Colonial Williamsburg. Both Fat Canary and The Cheese Shop are proudly owned and operated by the Powers family.
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Then the Fat Canary fixed at 410 West Duke of Gloucester Street is the perfect place for you. It serves a seasonal menu consisting of contemporary American fare, along with a rich selection of wines and cocktails that are chosen to pair perfectly with your meal. If you know you’ll be in Williamsburg, make sure you put in your reservation in advance.
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For an intimate and immersive dining experience, make a reservation at the Fat Canary, a short walk from the Fife and Drum Inn. If you are looking for a restaurant for dinner to celebrate an anniversary, birthday, or special occasion, this is the place. The Fat Canary offers a culinary journey of seasonal delights that change regularly.
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The Fat Canary, located in Colonial Williamsburg, is celebrated for its elegant ambiance and superb wines. Having received the AAA Four Diamond award for seven consecutive years, it offers a seasonal menu of fine New American cuisine. The wine list features selections from around the world, each chosen to complement the current menu.
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The Fat Canary, located in Colonial Williamsburg, is renowned for its rich elegance and superb wines. Receiving the AAA Four Diamond award for seven consecutive years, the Fat Canary offers a seasonal menu of the finest New American cuisine. Peruse the red and white wine lists and fall in love with selections from around the world.
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Named to Diners Choice’s “Top 100 Best Restaurants in America” in 2013, Fat Canary has received the AAA Four Diamond award countless times. This bistro-style restaurant serves sophisticated American cuisine, complemented by a number of fine wines. Fat Canary’s menu is seasonal, to utilize local ingredients, and changes frequently.
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Fat Canary is a must-visit dining destination located in the heart of Merchant's Square. Known for its elegant ambiance and award-winning dishes, this upscale American restaurant prides itself on a menu that changes with the seasons. Diners rave about their seared foie gras, grilled lamb chops, and roasted duck breast.
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If you are looking for fine dining in Williamsburg then Fat Canary is your place. Located adjacent to The Cheese Shop, head here if you are celebrating or if you just want to splurge on a meal. They have a fantastic cocktail menu and wine selection plus innovative dishes to choose from.
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For a cozy evening, indulge in a candlelit dinner at King’s Arms Tavern or The Fat Canary. To top it all off, unwind with a relaxing couples’ spa treatment at local resorts. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Williamsburg is the perfect destination for a romantic escape.
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10 | Fat Canary | If anything, visit this restaurant because of its creative and hilarious name. Fat Canary serves upscale American fare with wine perfect for pairing. The restaurant also features a cheese shop where you can purchase some cheeses to snack on later in your hotel room.
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Modern American cuisine is served in this well-appointed restaurant with a long copper bar and open kitchen. The chef in that kitchen takes smart (and delightful) liberties with the traditional entrees on the seasonal menu. Duck breast is paired with a thistle-honey…
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The Canary has long had a reputation in Williamsburg for being one of the best restaurants in town - so much that it requires a reservation far in advance. When you book with us at the F&D, let us know you’d like a table, and we’ll see what we can do to get you in!
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Adjacent to Colonial Williamsburg, in Merchants Square, The Fat Canary offers an exquisite dinner and wine menu in an intimate setting. It was voted one of the 100 Best Restaurants for Foodies in America. It’s an absolute favorite for locals on special occasions.
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The Fat Canary, also in Merchant Square, offers an upscale bistro experience featuring American nouveau cuisine with an extensive wine list to pair. Looking for a nice stake?. Try Opus 9 Steakhouse!.
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Sophisticated, yet relaxed atmosphere serving fresh local ingredients and contemporary American cuisine. They are noted for great service and food, their open kitchen, and a great bar!
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Mary Ellen Power Rogers, one of the owners of The Cheese Shop and Fat Canary, said the additional outdoor dining area from the city has brought more local people into the downtown.
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Located in downtown historic Williamsburg in Merchants Square, the AAA Four-Diamond Fat Canary is open nightly for dinner from 5:00 p.m.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit