Mendota is an unincorporated community in Washington County in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of Virginia, at an elevation of approximately 1800 feet. It is part of the Kingsport–Bristol–Bristol Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is a component of the Johnson City–Kingsport–Bristol, TN-VA Combined Statistical Area – commonly known as the "Tri-Cities" region.The name Mendota is native American for "bend in the river".is located on the north folk of the Holston River. At least five different Native American tribes once fished this fork and hunted the surrounding grounds. By the turn of the century, Mendota was a bustling little railroad town and a stop for passengers en route to Bristol. Eventually, the tribes and then the railroad moved on leaving Mendota struggling for a new identity. Now, as Main Street winds its way through the valley along the river, Mendota flourishes because of its rural location, rustic charm and the people who appreciate both.