Lolas Farmhouse Bistro - Manakin Sabot

Wow, the ambiance of the place, coupled with the picturesque drive, really sets the stage for a delightful brunch brimming with Southern charm. However, today's interaction with the owner was jarringly out of sync with the idyllic setting. Her demeanor was puzzling; whether due to stress, an off day, or indifference, it was hard to tell. Initially, I felt a twinge of discomfort as a person of color in a predominantly non-brown setting, but it quickly became clear that the briskness was universally directed. The table seated after us echoed my encounter, yet, the incredible service and delectable food offered by the establishment smoothed over the rough edges of the experience. Broth, our server, was exceptional, managing to provide attentive service to both indoor and outdoor diners with grace. Despite an unexpected visit from a swarm of bees, which I attribute to Virginia's capricious weather, the meal itself was superb. The coffee alone justifies the drive, and the pricing is aligned with the quality of the food. I'm willing to return, hopeful for a warmer welcome next time. When the anticipation of a delicious meal gets the better of me, I often realize too late that I've missed the chance to snap a picture. I'm committing to capturing my culinary moments before diving in moving forward.

The food was great and the outdoor seating was the reason why we came. However, inside is kinda dirty/dingy and not decorated that well IMO. They also only have beer and wine. Those are the two reasons it didn't get a 5 star. Also, one person bathrooms can get problematic. So, sit outside and enjoy being in the country.

Nice and romantic. Service: Dine in Meal type: Dinner Price per person: $20–30 Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5

The cutest little place with a lovely outdoor dining situation. Went here for the first time for brunch with a friend coming in from Charlottesville with her two little girls to see each other for the first time in a couple of years and to celebrate my birthday. It was still pretty hot (this was back in September , and the girls were antsy, so we sat outside. So glad we did, first of all because I found the inside a little stifling (it's a well appointed but clearly older interior , and second of all because the outside dining area is adorable. They keep fresh fruit-infused water out there in a keg for constant refreshment, the service was perfectly attentive and great (but not pushy or annoying! , and even though it was super hot and humid still, the gorgeous foliage and massive trees provided a ton of shade and cool. It was perfect and I loved the entire experience; we hung out for about two hours that Saturday and didn't feel any pressure to move on. As for the food: I'll just say that the goat cheese medallion salad I had was SO good that I went back the next day to get it, along with an order of fried green tomatoes, for dinner. It was that good! The goat cheese medallions are *everything*. Pro Tip: Lola's doesn't allow substitutions, but I did request the addition of fresh orange to my salad, which they granted and it was AMAZING. Also, the salad comes with basil vinaigrette, and since my friend and I both ordered the salad, she got the regular basil and I requested the citrus vinaigrette that was listed for another salad. We both ended up using both dressings bc they were both incredible! Request both add some citrus and you will not regret it. The fried green tomatoes are also not to be missed. Bon appetit

Fantastic restaurant and always a relaxing and enjoyable time. This is one of our favorites and often used for special occasions. We like sitting outside, but inside is just fine. Most italian dishes are classic and well prepared. Other dishes and specials tend to be more creative. The cashew crusted halibut last night was extraordinary. Great service as well.