The Shack Va - Staunton

My wife and I drove two hours and stayed overnight near Staunton just to try this restaurant. The service was excellent and the atmosphere was cozy and unpretentious. However, for the price we paid, we expected each course to be outstanding. Unfortunately, they fell short. The apples in the first course were delicious, but the peppers were only okay. The bok choy in the second course lacked flavor, and the Honey Nut Orange Sardines were very fishy and difficult to eat. The Creste de Gallo in the third course was interesting and tasty, with the Whippoorwill peas being the standout. The swordfish in the fourth course was decent, but the hanger steak was excellent, especially with the addition of grapes. Overall, while we are glad we tried the restaurant, we don't plan on returning as it didn't meet our expectations, especially considering the cost. We have dined at Michelin-starred restaurants where the experience was worth the price, but unfortunately, The Shack fell short.

Type of meal: Dinner Average price per person: Over $100 Quality of food: 5 Service provided: 5 Atmosphere: 5

If you dine at this restaurant, you are wasting your money. A meal for two people cost $280 and lasted 3 hours, with dishes like peas, squash, sardines, and cheese. The atmosphere felt upscale, but the taste was just average. This is a place for those unfamiliar with true fine dining. The lighting was too bright and we could overhear everyone's conversations. Save yourself the time and money.

Food and service is excellent. Dedicated team that cares about what they are doing here. Creative local farm-to-table with high end presentation. We love the tasting menu and love how they try new things. A must visit when we pass through VA. Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

Outstanding! We celebrated our anniversary with the five course tasting menu. Every bite of every dish was elegantly presented, innovative and flat out delicious. We especially enjoyed the duck and the whipoorwill peas, And the service was excellent informal, attentive without being intrusive and cheerful. All in all it was a wonderful evening, and it won't be our last visit to The Shack.