The Dahlia

First time I ever set foot in Lynchburg, apartment hunting for son. Very modest expectations. After viewing the last spot of the day we googled restaurants in the area and Dahlia was literally a block away. We were early so the place was deserted but reservations were called for, we were told. As we were drop-ins, we were graciously given a spot downstairs next to a gas fire place. We were the only patrons downstairs for our entire meal.

Ashley, our waitress, dotted on us. She was fantastic.

The food was first rate. I cringe sometimes at reviews in which the commentator recites their bona fides, so I will limit my resume to this: as a (former) globe-trotting lawyer, I have eaten at some of the world's most renown places - on the Company tab. Dahlia is in what I would call "tier1" - fresh, well-prepared, delicious "normal" food. Reminds me of one of my former favorite places in Old Town Alexandria - Vermillion.

We started with the fried pickles (wife's idea) and they were Arkansas good. Whole, big pickles with a light batter. More than 3 of us could finish. I had the crab cakes, two in number, smallish, but containing lump crab and seasoned just right to my taste. Grilled asparagus was wonderful - not too much garlic. Better than anything I can get in Virginia Beach at the moment. Son had Faroe Island Salmon cooked perfectly with crisp, blackened skin and sides of broccoli and grits. Wife had a grilled chicken breast with fries. Simple and satisfying.

The final, pleasant, surprise was that the entire tab for everything was less than $90. I've had lunches for 2 in Va Beach for close to $70.

Upon leaving, I walked payment upstairs to Ashley, and the place was jammed! A very lively crowd of what I assume were locals on this chilly Tuesday afternoon. The main dining area was relatively small but loaded with ambiance - and a well-stocked bar.

I am not sure about Lynchburg per se, but this restaurant will be a "don't miss" spot on return visits.

Yummmmm. This is place is such a hidden gem! I got the bacon cheeseburger and cheesy grits, from the brunch menu, and all those items come with a free brunch cocktail, YAY! This photo is only HALF of my sandwich; and if you're expecting a sandwich you can bite into forget about it. This is massive! And oh so good. A burger, bacon, cheese, and egg, in cased within two waffles, with syrup on the side. My mouth is drooling just typing it out. If you can eat the whole thing, plan for a nap afterwards, but both will be worth it, promise!

Atmosphere was nice but food was mediocre and not great. Disappointing. Service was slow. This restaurant was recommended but we were not impressed.

In general, the food is is pretty good service sometimes can be a bit slow but generally it's Vidalia has a comfortable local bar atmosphere. Easy going and enjoyable. worth the wait.

Food and service were excellent! We had a reservation on Valentines and got right in without any delays

Love loved the food great for date night or anniversary dinners. First time and I will definitely go back our server was super attentive and nice

Food was outstanding. Oysters were fresh, fish and chips outstanding, and the shrimp and grits was equally delicious. A must visit.

This needs to be noted that I have only been here once and everyone seems to love it but me. I made reservations ahead of time just to show up and be seated at the bar and told that my reservation didn't mean a table. The entire time we dined there were two open booths. The ambiance was nonexistent. I like retro looking places and old fashioned style, but this just has a tendency to feel outdated. I ordered the crab cakes with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. The crab cakes were on the more expensive side for Lynchburg at $30, but were not very flavorful and obviously full of imitation meat and filler. The potato's seemed like potatoes although underwhelming, and the creamed spinach was just not good. Tasted like doctored and food processed canned spinach that was over salted. For the price, ambience, and diminished food quality, I would recommend elsewhere. The plating also made the meal appear like a ration. I will say that my wife got the scallops and those were tasty, but she got the same sides which were just as lame as mine. Even if I had her meal it would not merit a 3 star review. Just as a note I left a good tip and made no mention as a complaint, they were obviously pleased with presenting me with this plate, I just thanked them and went on my way.

Great Brunch and what also makes it special you get a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary.( the bloody Mary's are outstanding!)
We love how consistent they are, we never have wonder if the food is going to be on point or off kilter.
The specials are unique may sound quirky but never a let down. The EGG SURRY for brunch is one of our favorite dishes. Homemade salad dressings are always a delight!
Service is personable and real, very attentive but not overly so.
So nice having peace of mind when you look forward to dining at The Dhalia and you never leave dissatisfied. For dinner the scallop appetizer leaves you wanting more. Special instructions are always honored and come out just the way you asked.
Waiting for them to open is the hardest part when you want to dive into their menu and your mouth is watering before the doors even open. DELICIOUS!!!

This restaurant was amazing! The atmosphere was welcoming and the staff was super friendly. But the food, the food was phenomenal! Literally everything we ordered was absolutely delicious! Definitely a new top favorite. If you haven't been yet, GO!