About Claire’s
At Claire's, our team is the heartbeat of our establishment. Led by the visionary Claire Lamborne, who transformed her love for dynamic cuisine and hospitality into this beloved dining destination, we are dedicated to ensuring that each guest receives impeccable service paired with innovative dishes that delight the senses. Our front-of-the-house staff, renowned for their hospitality, are often celebrated as the best wait staff in town, embodying the true essence of Southern hospitality.
In the kitchen, Chef Anna Crossman and her team work tirelessly to present a menu that marries classic favorites with bold, seasonal specialties. Adaptability and attention to detail are at the forefront of our kitchen's philosophy. Whether it's sourcing jumbo lump crab meat for our famous she-crab soup or crafting hearty, flavorful dishes that speak to both tradition and innovation, our culinary team is committed to excellence.
At Claire's at the Depot, we believe that a great dining experience is about more than just food—it's about creating a place where memories are made and every visit feels like coming home. Join us for a meal and let us share our passion for fine food and true Southern hospitality with you.
-
Claire Lamborne
OWNER & FOUNDER
“This restaurant is a labor of love. At its heart, it’s about making people feel at home, one bite at a time.”
At the age of 62, Claire turned a lifelong passion for Southern cooking and hospitality into a reality by opening [Your Restaurant Name]. Now, two decades later at 82, she continues to pour her heart into every aspect of the restaurant, bringing warmth, elegance, and her signature charm to the historic train station she transformed into a beloved dining destination.
Claire’s philosophy has always been simple: fresh, made-in-house dishes, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to Southern tradition. Her famous She-Crab Soup is a testament to her dedication to quality and authenticity, drawing guests back time and time again.
For Claire, running the restaurant is more than a career—it’s a way to share the flavors and stories of the South with her guests. Whether she’s greeting customers at the door or perfecting recipes in the kitchen, Claire’s passion for food and community shines in everything she does. Read Article on Claire >
-
Chef Anna Crossman
EXECUTIVE CHEF
Chef Anna is affectionately called “Claire Junior” by the kitchen staff. She started with Claire’s Catering and transitioned into the restaurant world when Ms. Lamborne opened the Depot.
With little restaurant experience, Anna worked and learned from Claire and the many great chefs who have led Claire’s kitchen. Starting as a line cook, she was promoted to sous chef and finally chef in 2018. Anna honed her skills under the watchful eye of her mentor, Claire Lamborne.
Anna was born in Fairfax, Virginia. She has lived in Louisiana, South Carolina, and North Carolina. She graduated from St. Andrews Presbyterian College with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Cooking has always been a passion, with her mother constantly trying new recipes and her grandmother being a great Southern cook. Both women inspired Anna’s love of Southern cooking.
The restaurant business is in the family. When dating her husband, they both worked for Claire’s Catering—it was one way he could spend time with his busy lady. Anna’s stepson, Nate, and son, Sebastian, have also worked in the restaurant industry. Her brother-in-law and sister-in-law own and operate Café Torino, a local Italian café and bakery.
Anna is a crazy cat lady, loves to read when not cooking, and is an accomplished home DIY’er. Her son attends the VCU arts program. She looks forward to visiting her stepson’s growing family in Florida. Anna lives just outside of Warrenton with her husband, Chris.
Anna is continually grateful for the wonderful customers at Claire’s. She enjoys the challenge of creating daily specials and sourcing quality ingredients with Claire.
Kind Words
‘The atmosphere is a wonderful as the service. The food as delicious as it is beautiful. I had a lovely lunch and will definitely be back. Their crab soup is amazing. I was fortunate to dine on a day their special was grilled trout/delicious!”
— Matthew
“The food was fantastic. The service was excellent, and the wine recommendation was fabulous. It is a wonderful restaurant and has a lot of history. Great atmosphere and great cocktails. These wontons, Claire's she crab soup, be and go to salad, wedge salad, halibut with vegetable pilaf and a lemon sauce, green risotto, pecan crusted salmon and party of three.”
— Sue W.
“I adore dining at Claire's! The food is great, you can't go wrong choosing anything on the menu. I go as often as I can! I love the atmosphere and my favorite space to eat is in the garden outside. Very peaceful and serene, absolutely beautiful! Never a disappointing feast treat!”
— Sherri R.