Our Company

The year was 1929 and America was headed into the Great Depression, and along a dusty highway in southeastern Virginia a small railroad dining car was about to open its doors and start selling ham biscuits and Brunswick Stew to hungry travelers. The Diner began as a refurbished Sussex, Surry and Southampton Railroad dining car and as popularity increased, dining rooms were added.

Established in the heart of Virginia Peanut country, it was only natural that peanuts ended up on the Virginia Diner menu. Today, Virginia Diner nuts and confections are available at fine retailers nationwide as well as on the internet. Known as “The Peanut Capital of the World”™, the Diner truly is a “Legend in a Nutshell”™.

In 1945 the Diner was purchased by the Monahan family and in 1976 purchased by the current owners, the Galloway family. In 1989 the Galloway family replicated the Virginia Diner and the old railroad car is a legend. With red and white checked tablecloths and white bentwood-style chairs, you will find the menu as inviting as the atmosphere. Be sure to take a stroll through the Diner and enjoy the antique collections on display throughout the restaurant including peanut roasters, lamps from the original car, and cast iron toys.

Today, the Virginia Diner is open 364 days a year (closed Christmas Day) for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert! Come on by and join us for wholesome, comfort food that’s delicious anytime! Some of our customers have been coming for 50 years and more, bringing their children and grandchildren to savor the experience of the Virginia Diner.

We’re located in Wakefield, Virginia, the heart of peanut country, the Virginia Diner is between Norfolk and Richmond. From Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, we are just a short (free) ferry ride across the James River and a brief drive through the countryside.

Make us a tradition with your family.

Thank you for your continued support.

The Galloway Family