Taste of Smithfield SMITHFIELD HAM: THE SALTY PRIDE OF THE COMMONWEALTH A dry-cured delicacy, Smithfield ham has been a Virginia hallmark since Colonial times. Cured with salt and aged to perfection, its distinctive flavor is a point of pride for local chefs and butchers. The ham’s legacy is so esteemed that it’s protected by law — ensuring only hams processed in Smithfield can bear the name. Dine right in the heart of historic Smithfield at Taste of Smithfield ’s open-kitchen concept. The pork-forward 46 Virginia .org COURTESY OF TA STE OF SMITHFIELD menu features its signature Smithfield Carver Ham, honey-glazed, grilled, and served with fire-roasted apples and white-cheddar mac. Don’t leave without shopping around the attached marketplace to stock up on sliced ham to bring home with you. Overlooking the Pagan River, the elegant Smithfield Station offers a more upscale Virginia ham experience — from juicy burgers to shaved bites on warm sweet potato rolls, paired with an exquisite marina view. For a brick-lined pub feel, head to Wharf Hill Brewing Company , where a salty ham-stuffed sammy on toasted sourdough goes down nicely with a pint of one of its locally brewed beers. Outside of Smithfield in Surry, pick up an Edwards Petite Country Ham from Meats of Virginia Butcher Shop & Deli (formerly Edwards Ham Shop). The thin-sliced meat hand-rubbed with salt, brown sugar, and cane sugar is perfect to add to your charcuterie board or sandwiches at home. After 95 years and millions served, Virginia Diner in Wakefield must be doing something right — serving down-home classics and sweet country ham biscuits you won’t soon forget.
Virginia Travel Guide Virginia Travel Guide 2026: Page 46
