Goodstone Inn (April 2014)

Another good lunch at the Goodstone Inn. The location is superb, in the middle of Virginia’s horse country, surrounded by beautiful grounds. The food is excellent Modern American, with emphasis on local fresh produce and the wine list is excellent and continues to improve.

We have eaten and stayed there over the years and unfortunately the quality seems to be going down slowly…. For over US$300 for 2, you would expect a bit more attention to detail. Some of the dishes had spots of the sauce on the rims (when that happens, they need to be wiped in the kitchen before going out); a fork fell to the floor and of course it was picked up, but the replacement was bought to us by hand as opposed to on a plate… the reception was confusing (two people simultaneously, neither one of whom seemed to know what to do), and upon leaving, several staff were doing the day’s accounts over the bar..... these are small details but they detract from what could be a world-class destination in its own right.

Still recommendable, but careful with those details!