There is no shortage of fancy restaurants in Virginia, and there are plenty of casual eateries too — The Lafayette Inn & Restaurant in Stanardsville, positions itself somewhere in the middle. “We call our style ‘Sophisticated Southern,’ ” says Chef/Owner Alan Pyles. When he and his wife Kaye purchased The Lafayette in 2005, one of their culinary goals was to create a dining experience that was approachable, yet elegant and comfortable. “We are proud of the niche we have created,” says Alan.
Set in central Virginia, the historical Federalist style building is a handsome 1840s landmark with three levels and sweeping colonnade porches. The hand-hewn mortise and tenon frame with 15”-thick walls of local red brick, serve as testaments to the enduring qualities of a bygone era. Large windows in all of the inn’s six tastefully decorated suites provide stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding Piedmont countryside.
The inn is nestled in a culturally and historically significant hub with an abundance of artisans and antique dealers. Conveniently located near historical sites like the Monticello Wine Trail and Skyline Drive, The Lafayette is a favorite tourist destination.
Refreshingly unpretentious, you will feel welcome in the guest-friendly restaurant, where the customer experience is front of mind. This food philosophy holds true for every meal, be it breakfast, brunch, lunch, burgers, dinner or desserts. Without being formal or stuffy, they are passionate about the emphasis on good food.
The Lafayette is well known for its popular Chef Tasting Dinner, a 10-course/wine paired intimate event for two, which offers an array of typical Southern fare. Alan provides commentary on each of the 10 courses and selects 10 perfectly paired wines from the extensive and easily accessible wine list, during this multi-hour feature. Expect crowd pleasers like Scallop Risotto, and Shrimp and Grits, which guests can make themselves at home. From the first tantalizing course through to the last, you are in for a memorable culinary experience.
It comes down to preparing great food and providing great service. “Here at The Lafayette, our intention is to please our guests.” In true Southern form the Pyles invite you to “come for the location, and stay for the food and wine.”
The Lafayette Inn & Restaurant
Alan and Kaye Pyles, Owners/Innkeepers
146 East Main Street
Stanardsville, VA
434-985-6345
Enjoy Sophisticated Southern Style at
By Sigrid Hart
The Lafayette Inn & Restaurant
Chef/Owner Alan Pyles