A drive in the county on a beautiful day with great friends brought us to the small town of Sperryville and Cafe Indigo at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The cafe is located within River District Arts, a converted 1930s era apple packing facility housing a collection of galleries and art studios. Some great photos of the restaurant can be found on professional photographer Kristen Finn’s blog.

Cafe Indigo is a large, light, and airy space with a small bar and seating for about 50. The cafe is managed by the Thornton River Group, owners of the Thornton River Grill also in Sperryville. The management embraces the farm to table philosophy found at many great Virginia restaurants. The menu is determined by what is available from local farmers and changes often. The staff was professional and friendly and more than willing to put up with all my questions.

I ordered the BBQ Beef Burrito with rice, beans, and cheese. The burrito was delicious and heated perfectly, allowing me to eat it right after it arrived. I have been in some restaurants where a burrito is served so hot you have to stare at it for 5 minutes before you can even touch it. I was able to detect the hint of barbeque flavor but I would have preferred the flavor stronger. I know it can be easy to overdo it but I think someone who orders a BBQ Burrito is looking for that barbeque taste. Served with home-made pickles, it is one of the best burritos I have tasted.

Two members of our party opted for the Cubano sandwich. Made with a spicy olive mixture in place of the traditional pickle it was another great sandwich. I am not a pickle person so I order my Cubano sandwiches without the pickle. I enjoyed the olive taste much better than a sandwich missing the pickle.

The meal was relatively inexpensive given the quality of the food. The Cubano was the priciest item on the lunch menu at $12. The cafe is open for Friday night dinner, Saturday lunch and dinner, and Sunday brunch. Located about 25 miles southwest of Warrenton on Rt. 211 it makes a great weekend destination. In addition to viewing the art galleries and studios, Copper Fox Antiques and the Copper Fox Distillery are also on the property.