Welcome to the
Waterwheel Restaurant
About Us
Bath County’s most iconic Gristmill is home to the award-winning Waterwheel Restaurant. Come and explore our creative and seasonal menu featuring the freshest local and sustainable ingredients. This is our approach to contemporary farm-to-table dining at its finest. Our small group of highly trained individuals provide exemplary yet warm and personable service in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
When it comes to unforgettable and memorable dining, the Waterwheel Restaurant boasts a long-standing reputation as one of Bath County’s most desired dining destinations.
Since 1973
Our History
How it all started
Within the walls of a 100+ year old Mill, the Waterwheel is one of Bath County’s premier dining destinations since 1973. Guests are invited to visit our wine cellar deep within the old mill foundation or enjoy a classic cocktail at one of the Commonwealth’s smallest bars – on one of the “best four seats in Virginia”.
Our Menu
We are committed to bringing our guests the finest and freshest ingredients. Our talented culinary team creates everything from scratch and, as such, make frequent menu changes as our availability varies from week to week and season to season.
Sample Menu
For an unforgettable dining experience, join us at the Waterwheel Restaurant, where tradition meets culinary excellence, earning us the esteemed title of Bath County's most coveted dining destination.
*Menu is subject to frequent changes
Carrot Puree, Asparagus, Watercress, Preserved Meyer Lemon, Fried Caper, Brown Butter
34Harissa Roasted Red Carrots, White Bean Puree, Sweety Drop Peppers, Crème Fraiche, Carrot Top Chimichurri
41Reservations
Book a table
Due to our small-size reservations are always recommended. Book online, call, or text us at 540-839-2231 to make a reservation.
The Fine Print
For parties of six or more, a 20% gratuity will be automatically added to the final bill. We kindly ask that parties of six or more plan for a single check, as separate checks are not available.
As a small, independently owned restaurant, last-minute cancellations can have a significant impact on our evening. To help us accommodate all guests, a credit card is required to secure every reservation, and we maintain a strict 24-hour cancellation policy.
Reservations canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice, as well as no-shows, will incur a fee of $25 per person ($35 per person on holidays).
We sincerely appreciate your understanding and consideration!
A note about our dining atmosphere – At The Waterwheel Restaurant, we strive to create a warm, intimate dining experience where guests can slow down, savor their meals, and enjoy good conversation. While children are certainly welcome, our leisurely pace of service and quiet, romantic atmosphere may not be the ideal fit for our youngest diners.
Please note that we do not offer a children’s menu, high chairs, or booster seats. Out of consideration for all our guests, we kindly ask that parents be mindful of noise levels and promptly step outside with little ones who become restless or upset.
We also encourage all guests to disconnect and enjoy the company around their table. Cell phone conversations and the use of electronic devices are discouraged in our dining rooms, and speakerphone calls, videos, and other audible media are strictly prohibited.
Above all, we ask guests of every age to be considerate of those dining around them. We appreciate your understanding in helping us preserve the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes dining at The Waterwheel so special.
We apologize, but we no longer offer corkage. No outside bottles of wine are permitted in the restaurant. Our restaurant is not handicap accessible.
Hours of Operation
*CLOSED SUNDAY 11/1/26