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Best Meal Cont….
By K. Ross
Last week I asked you all to share the best meal you’ve ever had and the restaurants you just can’t forget. Some of you mentioned some incredible spots, favorites you return to again and again, and hidden gems worth a weekend road trip. One name that kept popping up in my head and for good reason was Zynodoa in downtown Staunton.
But there’s even more reason to put Zynodoa on your list this spring: they’ve welcomed a new executive chef, Laura Fonner, bringing fresh energy and creativity to the kitchen.
Nestled in a historic building on Beverley Street, Zynodoa has long been known for farm‑to‑table Southern cuisine with an elevated, contemporary twist. The restaurant highlights local ingredients from the Shenandoah Valley and the Chesapeake Bay — and the menu changes with the seasons, so there’s always something new to try.
From standout appetizers like artisan cheese boards and heirloom tomato salads to crave‑worthy entrees and fresh seafood, Zynodoa balances comfort with innovation. Guests also rave about their warm service, creative cocktails, and memorable dining experience.
Zynodoa recently brought on Chef Laura Fonner to lead the kitchen — a move that has lovers of creative cuisine buzzing. Fonner is well‑known in the Virginia food scene for her passion and talent, having led other acclaimed kitchens and even appearing on Guy’s Grocery Games. Her style blends soulful, seasonal ingredients with bold, thoughtful flavors, all rooted in a deep respect for local farmers and produce. She’s talked about how this opportunity allows her to bring her life experiences and culinary joy back into fine dining — and based on what locals and visitors are already saying, her influence is already paying off.
If you’re planning a dinner date, a special celebration, or just a night out to treat yourself, Zynodoa is one of those places that sticks with you. Whether it’s the seasonal tasting menu, refined Southern classics, or inventive seasonal dishes, this spot delivers food worth talking about long after you leave the table — exactly the kind of experience we talked about last week!
So next time you’re thinking about where your best meal might come from, consider making the drive to Staunton, snag a reservation, and see what Chef Fonner is bringing to the Shenandoah Valley. Your new favorite dinner story could be waiting there!
