Recommendation for cute lunch place between DC and The Homestead?

[Anonymous]

My awesome parents are giving DH and I an early Christmas gift - they're watching our girls while we spent two nights (a Thursday and a Friday) at The Homestead in Hot Springs, VA. We can do the 3-4 hour drive at a leisurely pace, and would love to stop somewhere cute for a nice lunch. Looks like we'll go down 81 and through Staunton. Anything you'd recommend along the way? (I'd rather not head back east toward C'ville and Crozet.) Thanks!

[Anonymous]

There is a nice restaurant called The Grocery in Staunton. Not sure if it is open for lunch though.

[Anonymous]

http://www.stauntongrocery.com/

here's the link - looks like it is open for lunch when you will be driving through. I havne't been there but it is highly recommended by a friend with a house near there.

[Anonymous]

I have eaten there and enjoyed it. Nice wine list. My husband did not enjoy it all that much -- small portions, etc.

There is also a nice Italian restaurant in Staunton as well as a good Mexican restaurant. (we spend a lot of time in Staunton -- my DD has been going to camp there for the past several years and she has grown very fond of the town). We have also had a nice lunch at the Byers Street Bistro in Staunton.