At Kennon House, we pride ourselves on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where friends and family can gather. Our story began with a passion for great food and exceptional service in a beloved special setting, which continues to drive us every day while we still use many of the original recipes, and adding new menu selections a long the way.
You may choose to dine in a more intimate setting with soft lighting and table cloths or in a more casual area accented with a huge fireplace — and where our Sunday buffet is set up. Or sit around the lovely expanded bar that was added in 2024. We also offer take-out food service.
The Kennon House can accommodate larger groups up to 30 in a private dining room upon special request; please call ahead to arrange. We can also accommodate dinner meetings in the main dining area on nights the restaurant is not open.
Regarding reservations, they are usually not required but suggested and especially if you are thinking of visiting during busy seasonal weekends or have a party larger than 4 so that we can have your table set up when you arrive.
If you need handicap access, there is a ramp that connects to the porch on the west wing of the building.
Come dine with us!
Scroll down to see the menu, Facebook link, hours of operation, and how to find us.
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More About the Special Setting and Its History
Located in a historic landmark also referred to as the Mud House, the orginal part of the structure was built in 1792 and served as a private residence with rich history from the Civil War era and the final years of the Kennon sisters. After it was no longer occupied, Kathleen Wright had the vision for the restaurant which she expanded to include the west wing and opened for business with her husband Hunter in the early 1970s. It quickly became a treasured destination and outstanding dining experience for locals and visitors featuring our classics (Fried Chicken and Brunswick Stew) expanded along the way with an alcohol license, upscale comfort food with a flair, and weekend buffets.
Kathleen ran it until 2003. Then Dennis Monds carried it forward for the next two decades. Additional owner-investors got involved in 2023 and 2024 who facilitated repairs, updates, and renovation to the building. Since the beginning of 2025, new Managing Owners of the restaurant, Kerry Huff and Pete Richardson, chefs Sophia and Coop, with dedicated kitchen and service staff have taken the reins with continued focus on its roots and Kathleen's vision.
If you are a history buff, please be sure to visit the Kennon Room Museum located in one of the original rooms on the left of the main entrance on the east end. Established in 2024, it was designed in a joint effort by the University of Virginia and Historian Fred Taylor. We love to share the story and proud to be part of its past, present, and future!
Thanks for visiting our website. Be sure to follow us on Facebook. We hope to see you soon at the restaurant!