Sponsored by Clearwater Grill

One of Locust Grove’s most familiar restaurants is Clearwater Fire Grill & Catering, known locally as Clearwater or simply The Grill. Located on the eastbound side of Germanna Highway, it has become a regular meeting place for weeknight dinners, Sunday brunch, and special occasions. Over the years, it has built a reputation for reliable food, attentive service, and a setting where guests feel comfortable staying awhile.

The restaurant is owned by Lenny and Juli Schaefer, whose leadership has guided its growth and long term consistency. While menus and offerings have expanded, the focus has remained the same: serve good food, treat guests well, and stay connected to the surrounding area.

Clearwater serves lunch, dinner, brunch, and late evening meals. The menu features American classics and bar favorites that appeal to families, couples, and groups. The dining room includes booths and open seating, along with high chairs for young guests. Sunday brunch and rotating daily specials are especially popular, drawing regular customers who return for both variety and value.

The bar menu includes traditional cocktails, local favorites, and seasonal drinks. In the evenings, the bar area fills with guests meeting friends, celebrating birthdays, or stopping in after work. It is a central part of the restaurant’s identity and contributes to its steady evening traffic.

In addition to its dining service, Clearwater Fire Grill & Catering provides catering for weddings, business events, private parties, and local gatherings. Reviews frequently mention the professionalism of the catering staff and the quality of the food. One guest noted that the tasting process was thorough and that the final meal stood apart from typical wedding fare. Attention to detail and communication have helped the catering division grow through word of mouth across Orange County and nearby communities.

The restaurant has also earned Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice recognition, placing it within the top ten percent of restaurants listed on the platform based on customer reviews. For a locally owned business in a small Virginia town, that distinction reflects consistent feedback from diners.

Inside, the atmosphere is casual and family friendly, with rustic touches that fit the region. Staff members are often described as personable and accommodating. The layout allows for both small, quiet meals and larger gatherings, making it suitable for everything from a quick lunch to a rehearsal dinner.

Its location along Germanna Highway contributes to its reach. Situated near Lake of the Woods and within driving distance of Fredericksburg and Culpeper, Clearwater attracts area residents, lake visitors, and travelers passing through. Easy access and ample parking make it convenient for families and groups.

Clearwater has also participated in local fundraisers and events over the years, supporting organizations and causes within the region. That involvement has strengthened its visibility beyond the dining room.

Today, Clearwater Fire Grill & Catering continues to serve Locust Grove and the surrounding area with dependable meals, steady service, and space for people to gather. Whether guests visit for brunch, dinner, drinks, or a catered event, the restaurant remains part of the rhythm of daily life along Germanna Highway.

Judi Cooper

Copublisher of the Orange County Voice