On our way to the mountains, we stopped at The Market at Grelen in Somerset, VA for lunch. Located on a 600-acre tree nursery, this is a gorgeous dining spot. We walked through beautiful plants, flowers, and a patio with outdoor seating into what looked more like a store than a restaurant. I was a little confused and thought we might be in the wrong place until the staff pointed us to the counter where we would order our food.
The pleasant woman at the counter answered our questions about the menu, gave us a taste of cider, and pointed us to the greenhouse for indoor seating since it was raining outside. The greenhouse was a lovely spot with plants all around and a beautiful array of flowers in a variety of colors adorning the tables. I really enjoyed the miniature fairy garden display.
In a very short time, our food arrived. I picked the “Adult” Grilled Cheese Panini with Grelen Potato Salad. The grilled cheese, made with Fontina, Brie, and smoked Gouda with plum chutney and arugula on sourdough, was very good. I enjoyed the potato salad as well. I absolutely loved the bread & butter pickles. They had a wonderful combination of tart and sweet with a nice crunch.
Chris ordered a Steak & Cheese with a Golden Beet Salad. The shaved beef sandwich, with caramelized onions, cheddar, horseradish garlic aioli, and arugula on a baguette was good as well. There was an unusual sweetness to the sandwich that we couldn’t quite place. The beet salad looked very much like potato salad. I thought they gave Chris the wrong side, but what I thought were potatoes were actually golden beets. The salad was delicious.
While the food did not blow us away, it was good. The beautiful surroundings and friendly staff make The Market at Grelen a wonderful place to eat.
Cost for a beer, a cider and two sandwiches with sides $40.55.
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