Photo courtesy of Colonial Williamsburg
Raleigh Tavern Bakery Ginger Cakes being bagged for sale.
Colonial Williamsburg Resorts is inviting travelers to experience American history through flavor with the America 250 Tasting Trail – a curated culinary journey highlighting historically inspired dishes and beverages across its dining destinations.
The destination is about a 2.5-hour drive from Alexandria.
Each stop along the Trail reflects the people, traditions and ingredients that have shaped American foodways, bringing centuries of culinary heritage to life through story-driven dining.
Offerings on the America 250 Tasting Trail include:
● McKenzie Apothecary – Jumbles (shortbread cookies): A lightly spiced cookie rooted in 17th–18th century cookbooks.
● Chowning’s Cider Stand – Pasties, Apple Cider & Root Beer: A trio of early American staples.
● DuBois Grocer – Thomas Jefferson’s Ice Cream: A recreated version of Jefferson’s historic vanilla ice cream recipe.
● Raleigh Tavern Bakery – Ginger Cakes: A tavern favorite from Hannah Glasse’s The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy (1765).
● King’s Arms Tavern – Peanut Soup & Game Pie: Classic Virginia tavern dishes; peanut soup is rooted in West African groundnut stews, and game pie was a refined dish served at elite tables.
● Christiana Campbell’s Tavern – Oysters & Tavern Hot Sauce: Oysters were George Washington’s favorite and a staple served at Campbell’s Tavern.
● The Terrace Room at the Williamsburg Inn – Virginia Ham Biscuits: Rooted in Virginia’s culinary heritage.
● Art Museum Café – Jollof Chicken Bowl: Inspired by West African jollof traditions.
