The Oaks

4.7 ( 224 reviews )
Checking... See Hours
$20–30
5434 Mary Ball Rd, Lancaster, VA 22503, United States
+1 804-462-7050
The Oaks, located in the charming town of Lancaster, VA, has quickly become a beloved gem among locals and visitors alike. This American restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and exceptional service, is characterized by its homey feel and attentive staff. Reviews suggest that patrons are consistently impressed with the quality of food; from perfectly cooked rib-eyes to lightly fried seafood, The Oaks offers a diverse menu that delights the palate. Renee Burkett noted the restaurant’s impeccable timing with appetizers, entrees, and desserts, praising the outstanding service. Similarly, Grouse K9 found joy in both the vibrant community atmosphere while waiting for a table and the delectable Lively Combo filled with seafood treats. Dishes such as fried oysters and homemade desserts have garnered rave reviews, with Catherine Trimmer emphasizing the generous portions that keep guests coming back. Overall, The Oaks appears to be a must-visit dining spot, blending cozy neighborhood vibes with culinary excellence. With dishes crafted to evoke nostalgia, it’s no wonder that many, like Ryan Willett, feel a personal connection to this establishment. If you find yourself in the area, make sure to stop by for a meal that feels like home.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Highlights
    • Has fast service
    • Has great beer selection
    • Serves great cocktails
    • Serves great dessert
  • Popular for
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves alcohol
    • Serves beer
    • Serves cocktails
    • Serves coffee
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves food
    • Serves happy-hour drinks
    • Quick bite
    • Serves spirits
    • Serves wine
  • Dining options
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
    • Has table service
  • Amenities
    • Has bar on site
    • Has toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
  • Crowd
    • Good for groups
    • Popular with tourists
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs available
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Plenty of parking

Reviews For The Oaks

Renee Burkett
Jul 2,2025
Great little restaurant. Glad we went early so we didn't have to wait in line. Appetizers ,entrees and desert were perfect. Waitress was outstanding! We will return next time we are in the area!
Grouse K9
Jun 26,2025
Arrived on a Thursday night and the place was packed. We came a lot later than usual and it was Halloween, so that was on us. We sat in a nice waiting room for about a half hour, maybe more, but the folks around us were super nice and we just enjoyed socializing until our table was ready. It was almost as if they were doing seatings because at the same time a number of tables opened up. The hostess was overwhelmingly nice and the waitress was perfect for a local spot. Both were well seasoned and charming. I ordered the Lively Combo which was just about all the seafood lightly fried. Almost a Calabash style. Fish, clams, shrimp and oysters. For the sides I went with green beans and mashed potatoes w/ gravy. Both of which would have been just the way my mom made them. Finally, since that wasn't enough, they lured me into the desserts. There were over a half dozen options and I went with the Lemoncello cake which definitely put me over the edge of awesome. Definitely a recommended home town spot.
flounder61355
Jun 25,2025
" Home of the Ribeye" ! The steak was incredible and cooked just like I asked for. My wife had the fried oysters and loved them. Waitress was knowledgeable and attentive. It felt like a neighborhood restaurant, which I loved.
Catherine Trimmer
Jun 21,2025
First visit, but will definitely go back. Prompt, friendly service and generous portions of delicious food. Absolutely loved the homemade desserts! Owners visited and made sure everyone was happy. A must go!
Ryan Willett
May 2,2025
Best food I have had in a long while. The lady who runs this place is a gem. I don't like butter beans bur hers are great. Love this place.
Julie White
Apr 28,2025
The best ribeye I’ve ever eaten. The staff is super nice. Highly recommended!!
Stephanie S
Apr 6,2025
The lady that runs this restaurant is wonderful! She really cares about her customers. High quality, fresh food and she personally comes and checks on everyone. Excellent!
Joey Loving
Mar 30,2025
We were out today exploring the historic Northern Neck and decided to try The Oaks restaurant. I'm glad we did! We were greeted as soon as we came through the door by the owner, Monty Carter, who was very accommodating and friendly. As soon as he seated us, one of his waitresses came over and asked if she could get us something to drink while we viewed the menu, which she did immediately. I decided on the hand cut ribeye steak, loaded baked potato, and a trip to the salad bar. My wife had the filet mignon, baked sweet potato, and lime beans. The steaks as well as the rest of the food were cooked perfectly, just like we asked. The atmosphere and the staff were terrific, and we will definitely be returning!

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