Cape Charles Distillery Opens in New Location

CAPE CHARLES, Va. – The Cape Charles Distillery is officially open in its new location at 225 Mason Ave, adding another layer of excitement to the Cape Charles culinary scene.

For those eager to experience this new hotspot, they’re offering hours from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, with food service ending at 8:30 PM. Please call and confirm the hours of service:

222 Mason Ave, Cape Charles, (757) 695-3737

It’s worth noting that the Cape Charles Distillery is now an 18+ establishment for sit-down service, ensuring a sophisticated atmosphere for patrons to enjoy their expertly crafted spirits and delectable food offerings.

The menu, a perfect blend of local flavors and innovative cuisine, immediately caught my eye with its tempting array of seafood and meat dishes.

The Salmon Crudo ($14.00), was nothing short of extraordinary. The thinly sliced Scottish ocean salmon, drizzled with olive oil and pesto dressing, was a burst of freshness on the palate. The addition of chilli and capers provided a perfect balance of heat and brininess.

For the main course, the Halibut ($24.00) was brilliant. The fish was cooked to perfection, its delicate flavor beautifully complemented by the soy glaze. The pickled vegetables added a tangy contrast, while the sticky rice rounded out the dish wonderfully.

My dining companion opted for the Lamb Chops ($26.00), and the aroma alone was mouthwatering. The rosemary and garlic marinade infused the meat with incredible flavor, and the roasted fingerling potatoes were crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. The fig gastrique and mango chutney elevated the dish to new heights.

Raw Oysters ($12.00/$24.00), locally farmed and raised by Ruby Salts on the Eastern Shore were not available for us that night, but the staff assured us of their local goodness.

The Tin Plate ($20.00) is a fun, must-try for those who love variety. It’s a beautiful assortment of smoked trout, Spanish sardines, Camembert cheese, olives, pickles, nuts, and dried fruit, perfectly complemented by whipped cream cheese and compound butter.

From the Seafood Ceviche to the Steamed Clams, every dish showcases the chef’s commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation. The attention to detail is evident in unique touches like the Sexy Mary cocktail sauce accompanying the Shrimp Cocktail.

This restaurant is a true gem, offering a dining experience that celebrates the bounty of the Eastern Shore while pushing culinary boundaries.

This new addition to Mason Ave perfectly complements the exquisite seafood and innovative dishes I’ve described. I can already imagine pairing some of their handcrafted spirits with the Seafood Ceviche or sipping on a beautifully mixed cocktail alongside the Tin Plate.

But, wait…speaking of Spirits, no visit to Cape Charles Distillery would be complete without exploring their impressive cocktail menu. What sets this establishment apart is their commitment to showcasing their own house-made spirits in every drink, truly allowing patrons to experience the quality and versatility of their craft distilling.

The menu boasts an array of classic cocktails with a local twist, each priced at a reasonable $15. From the moment I saw “CCD” (Cape Charles Distillery) preceding each spirit in the ingredients list, I knew I was in for something special.

Their Kentucky Mule puts a spotlight on their house-made bourbon, perfectly complemented by the spicy kick of ginger beer and a bright lime finish. For vodka enthusiasts, the Moscow Mule offers a similar profile with CCD’s own vodka as the star.

I was particularly intrigued by their creative takes on classic cocktails. The French 76 and Bitter French both incorporate CCD Vodka with Prosecco, offering a delightful effervescence. The Old Fashioned, a true test of any distillery’s bourbon or rye, is elevated with Demerara syrup and orange bitters, allowing the richness of their spirits to shine through.

For gin lovers, the Tom Collins and Negroni showcase the botanical complexity of CCD Gin. The Paper Plane, featuring CCD Bourbon, Amore, Aperol, and lemon juice, is a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and tart.

From the coffee-infused Espresso Martini to the fruity Twisted Greyhound, there’s something to suit every palate. The Berry Smash, with its combination of CCD Vodka, lemon, blueberry, and club soda, is a refreshing option for those seeking something light and fruity.

What truly stands out is how each cocktail is crafted to highlight the unique characteristics of Cape Charles Distillery’s spirits. It’s clear that the mixologists have an intimate understanding of their products, creating flavor combinations that complement and enhance the base spirits rather than masking them.

This thoughtful approach to cocktail creation, combined with the use of fresh ingredients and house-made components like their coffee liqueur, elevates the entire drinking experience. It’s not just about consuming a cocktail; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship that goes into every aspect of its production, from distillation to the final garnish.

Editor’s Note: I did not try all of these cocktails in one night, but have been a patron in the past. I’m not saying that I couldn’t do it, I’m just saying I didn’t.

The ambiance of the space perfectly mirrors the sophistication of the menus. With its new location at 225 Mason Ave, the distillery has created an environment that feels both upscale and welcoming. The 18+ policy for sit-down service ensures a mature, relaxed atmosphere where patrons can fully appreciate the nuances of both the cuisine and the cocktails.

The Cape Charles Distillery has established itself as more than just a restaurant or a bar – it’s a celebration of Eastern Shore flavors, craftsmanship, and hospitality. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a food enthusiast or a spirits aficionado, this establishment offers an unforgettable journey through the best that Cape Charles has to offer. It’s a true gem on the Bay, where the bounty of the land and sea meets the art of craft distillation, creating a symphony of flavors that will linger in your memory long after your visit.