Places to Eat...
(for wineries and breweries, see "play")
IN THE PLAINS (two miles east)
Front Porch Market and Grill - This restaurant is on the main corner in The Plains and we highly recommend it. They serve fresh local food at good prices and great atmosphere - and outdoor seating! A reservation is recommended on weekends.
Happy Creek Coffee - Enjoy what Rob calls “The best cup of latte” he’s ever had at this fun coffee shop. Rent a bike while you’re at it! Occasional live bands and weekly yoga are part of the charm. It's on the main corner in The Plains. 
Girasole restaurant - Enjoy authentic regional Italian cuisine at this chef-owned and operated restaurant. Drive to town and take a left on Halfway Road. It is a block down on the left.
El Agave III - For a (very) authentic Mexican meal, drive west 1/4 mile and it will be on the left at the corner. 
*****
IN MARSHALL (two miles west)
Red Truck Bakery - At 8368 Main Street in Marshall, named one of “America’s 13 Sweetest Bakery Destinations” by Conde Nast Traveler magazine, and one of “America’s 50 Best Bakeries” by the Daily Meal.” - a lovely place to visit! 
The Whole Ox - At 8357 Main, this wonderful butcher shop has wonderful deli sandwiches, soup, meat pies, unique meats cut to order, veggies, and cheeses. http://thewholeox.com (see their ad in The Scout Guide).
Field and Main Restaurant - An award-winning farm-to-table restaurant at 8369 Main Street. This is a  bit pricier than most of the others but you are treated royally and they have interesting and good food. Reservation recommended.
Johnny Monarch’s - This double-decker bus has been converted into an eclectic eatery or "bustaurant" (take-away, eat outside, or on the second floor of the bus). You'll find their menu in the basket in the study. Located just past Field and Main in Marshall.
Anthony’s Pizza - Two miles west in the Food Lion shopping plaza is one of our favorite places for pizza. Good pizza at a good price (ask for the Tuesday special). We also buy pizza dough from them ($2.00 for a ball of dough) to use in our pizza oven. Pick up or delivery (they are usually very fast). 540-364-7400
*****
A BIT FURTHER AFIELD BUT WORTH THE DRIVE
Hunter’s Head Tavern - One of our favorites; this Upperville restaurant is a beautiful 20 minutes drive. They use organic, farm-to-table local ingredients (owned by the Gentle Harvest lady). They serve English pub-type dishes which are always excellent. Reservation recommended.
The Inn at Little Washington - This five-star restaurant has received five James Beard awards. A lovely 40 minute drive through Virginia countryside to the little town of Washington, Virginia. www.theinnatlittlewashington.com.