Three Blacksmiths — Restaurant in Luray

We had the absolute pleasure of dining at 3 Blacksmiths last week. It was the best meal I have eaten, both in taste and presentation, with the added huge bonus of meeting all the staff and the owners over the course of the evening. The personal attention to diners makes you feel you are at a dinner party (where unfortunately the hosts can't sit down but are totally attentive and charming). There are six or seven tables (depending on group sizes) and one seating, ample candlelight in a charming dining room with plenty of space between tables. Sara, one of the owners, had reached out ahead of time to see if there were any celebrations or dietary restrictions. We were greeted by a happy anniversary note and then a card at the end of dinner. Over the evening there were a few more surprise courses than listed on the menu (photographed below). I missed taking pictures of multiple courses because I was so excited to dive in! Every bite was truly delicious, and all the combinations were so well matched and provided little surprises of texture or taste as well as beauty. We both opted for the zero proof pairing as we had never done that before and I would more than happily forgo wine and do that again--the "mocktails" were perfectly matched to the course. For example the meyer lemon and thyme "Meyer Lemon Drop" was the perfect pairing for the scallop crudo course. Each drink perfectly complemented and brought another level of interest to the food itself and I can't imagine wine being able to do it so well. Given a choice, it brought more to the meal than a wine pairing, however delightful (and other guests having the wine pairing seemed very delighted!). We savored each bite and ate slowly, the entire experience of the meal was more than 3 hours, we enjoyed watching the staff prepare and assemble the courses with the open kitchen (remarkably quiet). The "amuses bouche" trio was mackerel and a gourgere and a stuffed arancini —all so good, all different but complimentary!). The Scallops were magical looking and divine tasting. The black kale and beans were warming and delicious, we had two kinds of bread (focaccia and rye sesame pecan (divine) and two delectable kinds of butter, a salted one and a butter with persimmon. The ravioli were delicate and divine and the frisee greens added a gentle bite and contrast. The Pekin duck was the best duck I have tasted. The meat tender and flavorful and moist and the fat perfectly cooked and full of smoky flavor. The Mont Blanc dessert was delightful. It looks like a ski slope of meringue (browned with a torch) then a meringue bowl for the chestnut filling with candied nuts. A candied violet added a touch of color. Perfect finish to our dinner (also with a wonderful cardamon thai tea mocktail). I was inspired to want to learn more about making zero proof pairings myself when I cook for company! We can't wait to go back! The staff were delightful as I said and I was chatting with Sara about cookbooks and she not only brought one out for me to see but followed up the next day with favorite cookbooks of all the staff. What a wonderful personal and sincere touch. Reservations are pretty full 200 days out but we found a table available 3 weeks out and they have a cancellation list. I can't recommend 3 Blacksmiths highly enough. I truly can't wait to return. The combination of food, drink and hospitality has never...

In the heart of Sperryville, VA, 3 Blacksmiths, is a restaurant that has garnered high praise, including an affirming nod from the Washington Post. Known for its intimate, home-like ambiance and a Chef's Kitchen that exudes warmth and coziness, this dining spot sets high expectations. A recent visit, however, left us with mixed feelings about our culinary journey through its five-course meal, complemented by an amuse-bouche, with the entire experience costing approximately $1200 for four guests, wine pairings and additional drinks included.

The evening began on a high note with an amuse-bouche, particularly the quail egg biscuit paired with pork belly and hollandaise sauce, showcasing a promising start with its delightful flavors and textures. Both the oyster and the savory cannoli maintained the momentum, suggesting a memorable meal ahead. The Maine monkfish, served as one of the main courses, was commendably prepared, holding its ground as a solid choice. Similarly, the Roasted Artichoke Soup offered a satisfying blend of flavors, indicative of the kitchen's capabilities.

However, the subsequent courses revealed areas for improvement. The Casunzei, a red wine braised beet ravioli, fell short of expectations. Despite its tender pasta and the sweetness of the beets, it seemed to lack the complexity and technique one might anticipate from a restaurant of this caliber. The main dish, Pharaoh Quail Roulade, though adequately prepared, was let down by its accompaniments. The crosnes and sweet potato pave failed to leave an impression, with the latter being notably underseasoned.

The final course, a Winter Citrus Torte, unfortunately did not resonate with our table. Reminiscent of a dessert from a bygone era, it missed the mark in delivering the nuanced flavors described on the menu, such as the olive oil in the gelato.

On the service front, while generally commendable, there were moments that detracted from the overall experience. An overlooked glass from a previous wine pairing lingered too long, and a server's tendency to speak both softly and rapidly, even after requests for clarity, meant that we often had to rely solely on the menu descriptions.

A particular aspect that could enhance the dining experience would be a more traditional division of roles, with Chef Addeo focusing on dish descriptions and a sommelier or beverage director introducing the wine pairings. This might align better with diners' expectations and enhance the appreciation of each course and its accompanying wine.

While 3 Blacksmiths has been lauded as one of Virginia's premier dining experiences, our encounter left us longing for the culinary excellence we had anticipated. It's clear that the restaurant possesses the ingredients for a truly exceptional dining experience, from its beautiful setting to the promise shown in several dishes. However, refining the balance and execution of some courses, along with slight adjustments to service, could elevate 3 Blacksmiths to fully meet the lofty expectations...

The Three Blacksmiths in Sperryville, VA, is a truly exceptional dining experience that combines exquisite cuisine with a charming and cozy atmosphere. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you'll be welcomed by a warm and inviting ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal.

The menu at The Three Blacksmiths is carefully crafted, showcasing a commitment to using local and seasonal ingredients. The dishes are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, demonstrating the culinary skill and creativity of the chefs. Each bite is a delight, with flavors that are both familiar and innovative, creating a dining experience that is both comforting and exciting.

The attention to detail extends beyond the food to the service. The staff at The Three Blacksmiths are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. They are passionate about the menu and take the time to explain each dish, making recommendations and ensuring that every guest has a memorable experience.

The restaurant itself is charming and rustic, with an intimate and cozy atmosphere. The decor blends modern elements with a nod to the building's historic roots, creating a unique and inviting space. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their meal in a comfortable setting.

While the prices at The Three Blacksmiths may be on the higher side, the quality of the food, service, and overall experience make it worth every penny. It's a place where you can indulge in a truly memorable dining experience and create lasting memories.

In conclusion, The Three Blacksmiths in Sperryville, VA, is a culinary gem that offers an exceptional dining experience. From the meticulously prepared dishes to the warm and attentive service, everything about this restaurant exudes excellence. If you're looking for a special dining experience in a charming and cozy setting, The Three Blacksmiths is a must-visit...