The Smithfield Inn is located in downtown Smithfield. The location gives it a hometown feel. Specialty shops line the streets, and well paved side walks make them inviting.
The downstairs of the inn is reserved as the dining area. Half of the dining area is designated for fancier dining while the other half is for casual dining. The same menu is served on both sides.
There is also an outdoor dining area weather permitting and an upstairs reserved for private parties. The food is well seasoned. The Smithfield Inn is the perfect place to dine if you’re in the mood for southern favorites—brunswick stew, spoon bread, and bread pudding. They also make excellent coffee. This place takes you back to a simpler time.
The only downfall to the Smithfield Inn is the service. No matter how busy or slow they are, the service is always lacking. Because of this, I only dine here when I’m with my 78 year-old grandma, or when Charlie and I have absolutely no plans for the evening.
With its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming staff, the restaurant at The Smithfield Inn may appear to be just another bed and breakfast eatery but in reality it is a fine dining destination that stands out front the pack.
The restaurant’s atmosphere echoes the rest of the Inn with historic paintings and antique furniture in the dining area. Kindly separated from that area is a small but cozy bar with cocktail tables for casual affairs. The seating is comfortable and the tables just far enough apart to separate you from your neighbors.
Service is usually slow at The Smithfield Inn, but that doesn’t mean it is weak. They always seem to be understaffed, but those that are there will impress with their kindness and laid-back manner. Always set aside at least two hours for a meal here, anything less would be overly optimistic.
The food is a basic offering of American cuisine with an emphasis on Southern tastes. Meals have always been above average and are very affordably priced. The specials aren’t changed as often as I would like, but they are usually appealing and different enough from the standard menu to entice the risk. Deserts are always good at The Smithfield Inn as well.
I highly recommend paying a visit to The Smithfield Inn for a relaxing and romantic evening out. Just don’t expect to get out of there in rapid fashion.
Contact Information for The Smithfield Inn:
The Smithfield Inn
112 Main Street
Smithfield, Virginia 23430
757-357-1752
http://www.smithfieldinn.com/
