Basic Necessities, Nellysford, VA

Basic Necessities is a charming little French wine and gourmet food shop and restaurant in Nellysford, Virginia “Basic Necessities celebrates the European mentality which places value on thoughtful food preparation, conversation and relaxation. La table in French signifies so much more than just ‘the table,’ or dinner table. It means a place where family and friends can eat, drink, talk and just be together for hours over a simple and fresh meal” (Basic Necessities). Whether you’re dining in or grabbing some Bleu d’Auvergne to pair with your bottle of burgundy, owners Keith Dix and Beverly Lacey and founder Kay Pfaltz offer quality cuisine.

And now, to the mouthwatering offerings of the restaurant:

Breakfast: For the morning meal, sink your teeth into a pastry with Devon Cream or jelly, a bagel with lox, cream cheese, onions, tomato and capers, a bird in a nest, or a tartine, a “French tradition and favourite!”

Sunday Brunch: Enjoy this in-between meal with a serving of Smoked Salmon Scramble, breakfast frittata, brioche with Cointreau Syrup, or “basque piperade.”

Lunch: Regain some energy with a midday meal, offered Tuesday through Saturday and starting at 11:00 a.m. Try the grilled cheese for some comfort food, the cheese plate for lighter fare, and the smoked salmon & salad for a perfectly savory combination.

Dinner: Pining for pasta? Vying for vegan? Starving for seafood? Basic Necessities has all that and more during their dinner hours (which are Friday and Saturday only). Seating is limited, so we recommend reservations.

Happy holidays, and happy eating!

Graphic by Tara Stoll