from Virginia Main Street - Virginia Main Street blog readers logged on in record number to select their favorite Main Street eateries. In just over a month nearly 59,000 votes were cast for one of 25 restaurants.

Nearly half of the votes were for South Boston’s BISTRO 1888. And it’s a worthy top choice. The Bistro demonstrates what first-class food and downtown reinvestment can do for a community. Since executive  chef and co-owner Margaret Moorefield moved back east from Portland, Oregon and established the eatery with co-owner Barbara Cage, South Boston has been a dining destination. Read reviews of the American Automobile Association three-diamond rated BISTRO 1888 here.

According to Destination Dowtown South Boston director Tamyra Vest, the restaurant played an important role in stepping revitalization up to the next level when it opened in 2003. “We feel very fortunate. Really good restaurants are critical to an arts and culture based revitalization strategy. When visitors or residents come into town to see a show or an exhibit, they want to pair it with a memorable meal in a welcoming setting.  Bistro 1888 offers that.”