21 Can’t-Miss Best Restaurants in Roanoke Virginia

Roanoke, one of Virginia’s beautiful cities, offers some of the best dining experiences for foodies.

While there are a lot of attraction sites and graffiti to keep you smiling while touring the city, the city food is next to none.

Beers, wines, desserts, Tacos, there’s everything and anything for anyone to enjoy.

Vegans are not left out, and there’s a whole lot to spice up your little city experience.

Below are some of the best restaurants to visit while checking out some of the top things to do in the city.

Best Restaurants in Roanoke, Virginia

1. Smokey Bones Roanoke

Jump right at Smokey Bones Roanoke if what you’re craving is tasty steak from one of the best restaurants in Roanoke.

Typically, this magical place is nothing short of a smokehouse featuring a ton of barbecue dishes.

All through the menu, you’ll find worthwhile steak and dishes that will make you understand why it is one of the best restaurants in Roanoke.

On a visit, you’ll be able to try out a wide range of chows, ranging from appetizers to salads, soups, lunch bowls, tasty burgers, and pasta.

Well, that is just to set your craving on the go.

You’ll also find great seafood, BBQ platters, grilled delectables, sandwiches, desserts, family meals, and several chilled drinks.

Indeed, if you’re cut out to try some good grilling, Smokey Bones Bar & Fire is where you’ll find these savory grilled dishes you’re craving.

What more?

They all come in significant portions, fresh and perfectly cooked daily, with several vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Address: 4813 Valley View Blvd NW, Roanoke, VA 24012, United States

2. 1882 Lobby Bar

One of my favorite dining spots in Roanoke is this classy, tiny American specialty eatery.

Familiar amongst several as one of the best restaurants in Roanoke, the eatery lives up to its name.

Known to all by 1882, the 1882 Lobby Bar takes its name from the year it first opened its doors.

You wouldn’t be wrong to expect classics from this restaurant since they indeed offer some of the best.

Basically, this restaurant offers a range of genuine cocktails mixed with contemporary mixology to evoke a softer side of history.

Their beverage experience waxes quite far and even includes a custom selection of draft beers, which includes a special Hotel Roanoke pilsner and fine wines by the glass.

At this restaurant, you’ll be able to try American Rustic food from the nearby Pine Room.

On the menu, you’ll be able to try several spicy dishes with relatively large portions.

Several specials on the menu are tastefully cooked bad some of my favorites are the fried mushrooms, warm pimento cheese dip, and crispy cauliflower.

Other dishes like their tasty pickled deviled eggs, curry chicken salad wrap, Virginia ground burgers, and mushroom Swiss go really well with wines.

Address: 110 Shenandoah Ave Roanoke, VA 24016, United States.

3. 2 Chill Restaurant

Let your tongue hold some of the best tastes in one of the best restaurants in Roanoke serving foreign fusion Cuisine.

At 2 Chill Restaurant, you’ll be able to try some of the best selections in the globe.

More than just the food, their “Chill” setting is ideal for guests to savor delectable fare and specialty drinks.

What you’ll find here is basically a modern restaurant with an international fusion theme offering specialty drinks and an upscale menu made with only the freshest ingredients.

Tons of spaces in the restaurant are pleasing to see and there is a lot of time to enjoy more than just food.

Here, you’ll be able to check out a stage for live music, with band performances occasionally.

Even the modern and fashionable atmosphere surrounding the restaurant is something you’d adore about it.

In the dying light of early evening, you’ll be hit by that feeling, the frigid feel, followed by the looks of the stark, polished concrete surface radiating across the room.

The lighting fixtures over the tables just magnify its beauty even more and make for a more romantic setting.

On the menu, you’ll find dishes like granola, fruit salad, a classic 2-chill breakfast, and a brunch casserole.

Also, there is Croque Madame, tartine, french toast, grave lox, Mac and cheese, Portobello mushrooms, and huevos rotos.

My favorite, the special grilled chicken sandwich, naked burger, and gluten-free dishes come out really great.

Indeed, there are tons of options on the menu that will help you enjoy your 2 chill experience.

Address: 25312 2nd St. SW, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States.

4. 202 Social House

It’s not every time that you find somewhere you’ll get to feast on American, to Contemporary Italian dishes.

However, you’re in for a change of cuisine on your visit to 202 Social House.

What you’ll find in this restaurant is a simple, laid-back environment, serving tasty American staples, drinks, and draft beers.

Its major highlight, the eating room has one of the biggest 17 75″ TVs and about 2 Huge Jumbotron screens all to entertain you as you feast on several delectables from the eatery.

While going through the menu, you’ll find listings for over 80 beers that you can try out, if you’re just in the mood to feel that gulp down your throat.

After you’ve had your fill of beers, explore and sit out at the secret gem within the restaurant quite close to its Hall of Fame area.

Here, you’ll be able to take a step back in time going through a phone booth and along the corridor.

Asides this, you’ll be able to enjoy premium scotch and bourbon in plush lounge chairs and private booths.

To make the ambiance much more fun, the disc jockey plays all night, quite the melodious Melody.

You’ll be able to do just anything here, be it private events, wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, and even business lunches.

Also, you’ll find a chic collection of menu choices alongside private rooms and dining areas.

Specials like the Social House Signature Wings, Loaded Tots, Nachos, and Market Street Pretzel Sticks will keep you salivating.

There’s so much to see that saying won’t just do justice to it, you have to see for yourself.

Address: 202 Market St, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States.

Explore more of Roanoke and see other things worth doing in this magical city. See our list of the best things to do in Roanoke!

5. Alejandro’s Mexican Grill

Mexican food presents a unique and different feeling, especially when you’re dining at Alejandro’s.

At Alejandro’s Mexican Grill, you’ll be able to explore and try out the cuisines of co-owners Moises, Lisa, and Alejandro Nucamendi.

Reputable for its award-winning Margaritas, Alejandro’s presents authentic California-style Mexican cuisine.

Not only is it one of the best, but also offers California Fusion cuisine and classic salsa bars which are quite busy.

What to expect?

Basically, what you’ll find here is something resembling a taqueria, here, you can place your order, and then pay at the counter.

Thereafter, you can get a cup with which to fill in your own choice of beverage, afterwards, you can proceed to the salsa bar to get your chips and salsa.

Here, you’ll find a selection of salsas, with some sliced jalapenos or onions, tasty lemon wedges, and other choices at times.

Additionally, unlike most other restaurants in Roanoke, you’ll find a lot of unique items on the menu.

There are Mexican tacos, Tortas, Chile Rellenos, Mexican Sopes, Flautas, and tasty Mexican Enchiladas.

Also, you’ll find several vegetarian options and can other healthy vegan meals.

If there’s one thing you can be sure of, it’s the fact that you’ll find only the best meals here.

Address: 127 Campbell Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

6. Alexander’s

It’s not every day that you find places serving delicious seafood and Virginia meats.

Set up in 1979, Alexander’s, an American fine dining, is one of the best restaurants in Roanoke offering a formal setting with white tablecloths and very cozy lighting.

Being a haven for elegant and unpretentious dining, the restaurant offers fish, shellfish, aged prime Virginia meats, and several locally grown organic veggies.

Every dish made here is freshly made from scratch with strictly organic and regional ingredients.

Also, since they work hand in hand with top farmers and fishermen to obtain the best produce, you’re sure of great quality.

There’s more than the best to expect here, excellent customer service, and a courteous, knowledgable, and proactive team to serve you.

Speaking of the cuisine, the food is excellent, with everything nicely seasoned and prepared.

Even the cocktails are fantastic and the wine selections are mindblowing.

Tasty craft beers, wines, fresh fish, seafood, aged prime meats from Virginia, and organic produce are all available for you to try out.

Specials like the Crab Cake, New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, the tasty Tuscan Lamb Ragu, and Pan Seared Scallops are great.

Then, the very tasty Grilled Filet of Beef and Worcestershire Butter is a must-try.

If you’re looking for somewhere to hang out on a date night, a night out with close friends, or entertain clients, you’ll have no regrets about coming by.

Address: 105 Jefferson St S, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

7. Awful Arthur’s Seafood

Fans of anything seafood, can’t just tour Roanoke without a plate of spicy seafood at Awful Arthur’s Seafood.

Being one of the best restaurants in Roanoke, it isn’t just somewhere you could overlook its spicy seafood.

Here, you’ll be able to try out more than an abundant supply of fresh fish.

There’s more than enough to keep you craving seafood all through the day.

Moreover, being Virginia’s most complete raw bar, there’s quite a great deal of entertainment and experience to help you enjoy your stay.

Its ambiance speaks a lot and the tranquil after feel it has in the body is something you’d look forward to.

Also, the staffs are quite courteous, the service great, and the cuisine quite mind-blowing.

When you consider all your options, you’ll know that there’s no better place to enjoy the big game or catch local music and live entertainment, than this haven.

A try is all you need to have in, check out the restaurant and see for yourself.

Address: 108 Campbell Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

8. Benny Marconi’s

Tasty pizzas are some other dishes you’ll enjoy in Roanoke, moreover, they do have a special way of making them.

At Benny Marconi’s, one of the best restaurants in Roanoke, you’ll find oversized slices of New York-style pizza.

The sort of pizzas you’ll find here are not the regulars you’ll find anywhere.

Additionally, the restaurant offers the largest selection of soft drinks in the area, along with a great selection of beer and wine to go with it.

If there’s something you can be sure of, it’s the fact that this is one of the best restaurants in Roanoke and they offer quality.

Stop by and see if they tickle your fancy.

Address: 120 Campbell Ave E, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States.

9. Billy’s

Famous for its great American cuisine and tasty beef brisket tacos, one of the best restaurants in Roanoke, Billy’s is on the list of restaurants you ought to visit.

This restaurant is more than what you would call a fine restaurant.

Typically, it’s a buzzy dining room with a full wooden bar and a promising ambiance.

Ranges of comfort you’ll find here are quite extensive and go from delicious food to a great atmosphere.

Moreover, the prices for each meal are quite decent with portions twice large.

While you may intend to dig in on their unique dishes, they have quite an interesting drink menu.

Although extensive with a large variety of specialty and holiday drinks, there are rare ones you’ll find tasty.

Yet, if you like to serve yourself, and decorate yourself, they also have an additional.

At the great do-it-yourself Bloody Mary bar, you can customize it to your liking.

Truly, there’s nothing not to love about this restaurant, its outdoor courtyard, great customer service, and finally, its cool ambiance.

Address: 102 Market St, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

10. Cabo Fish Taco – Roanoke

Delicacies like Tacos are some of the things that make time out at Roanoke outstanding.

Several delicacies you will find in some of the best restaurants like Roanoke include Tacos.

One of the best restaurants in Roanoke, Cabo Fish Taco serves some of the best fusion of Baja California and Southern California cuisine.

More trustworthy is the fact that not only do they offer great meals, but they also use only the best and freshest ingredients.

It doesn’t really matter what your pick or selection is, there are more than enough savory and tasty meals to keep you going.

Ideally, the restaurant, features two stories of eating space, a large and open kitchen, with a sizable bar.

You’ll find a vast selection of fresh seafood, tasty chicken, and even steak.

Other treaties include tacos, burritos, and even quesadillas, an assortment of delectable appetizers, salads, and finally entrees.

While having a chunk of what they know how to do best, you should give their margaritas a try.

Surprisingly, Cabo possesses one of the largest tequila menus, featuring over 13 specialty margaritas and a separate tequila area.

Some of my favorites include the Beer-Battered White Fish, Beer-Battered Shrimps, and the Blackened Mahi-Mahi.

Their special Grilled Lemon Ahi Tuna, Grilled Salmon, Grilled Serrano Chicken, and Grilled Steak come out quite well too.

Address: 114 Campbell Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

11. The River and Rail Restaurant

River and Rail Restaurant offers a delectable Southern-inspired bistro cuisine.

In my opinion, River and Rail are one of the best restaurants in Roanoke and a top eatery overall.

The food is excellent, from appetizers to desserts, and the décor is tasteful, with warm lighting and finished raw wood.

Even the servers, are attentive, making for a comfortable dining experience.

Moreover, even River and Rail’s southern fusion cuisine, with a range of influences such as the Spanish octopus, appeals to discerning families.

Although the pricing is higher than average, the portions are generous and come in multiple pieces.

Address: 2201 Crystal Spring Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24014, United States

12. Table 50

If you’re looking for a fantastic restaurant with a calm and sophisticated feel, then the cozy setting of this legendary New American dinner spot is the perfect place for you.

Popularly known as Table 50, the restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Roanoke.

Their menu features regional ingredients and a large wine list to complement your meal.

You’ll love their semi-private “Paul Newman” table, which offers pleasant views of the city.

The cuisine is outstanding, and the wait service is exceptionally cordial and proficient.

Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or just want to enjoy a great night out, this restaurant is the perfect choice.

During my visit, I sat at a beautiful corner table and enjoyed the cozy and rustic atmosphere inside.

Their sweet potato gnocchi appetizer and some interesting drink choices, both of which were excellent were my top pick.

Dishes like the Southern Fried Chicken Breast, garlic mashed potatoes, and collard greens, got me yearning for more.

Moreover, if you’re a fan of comfort food, then you won’t be disappointed with their menu.

So, if you’re looking for a cozy and romantic dining experience with exceptional food and service, be sure to visit this restaurant.

Address: 309 Market St SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

13. Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen is a family-friendly chain that offers delicious American comfort food with a Texas twist.

Whether you’re in the mood for slow-smoked Baby Back Ribs, Homemade Chicken Pot Pie, or our famous Honey-Butter Croissants, the restaurant offers something for everyone at reasonable prices.

You can even order online for curbside pickup and enjoy your favorites from the comfort of your own home.

For a start, try out the appetizer trio sampler, a crowd favorite, featuring salsa dip, spinach dip, and cheese dip, while the sirloin steak is expertly prepared and seasoned to perfection.

The pasta Alfredo is also a must-try and the chicken is juicy with delicious perfection.

In fact, the energy of this restaurant sets them apart from others of its kind and makes it one of the best restaurants in Roanoke.

What sets it apart from other restaurants is the bright and cozy atmosphere, with perfectly placed lighting that’s not too dim or too bright.

You’ll feel right at home as you savor every bite of the delectable dishes they serve.

Address: 4814 Valley View Blvd NW, Roanoke, VA 24012, United States

14. Athens Corner Grill

Step into a world of Mediterranean flavors and aromas at this cozy Greek restaurant with a full bar.

At the Athens Corner Grill, from the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the hospitality from the friendly and attentive staff who are always eager to make your dining experience an exceptional one.

The atmosphere here is intimate, with soft lighting and traditional Greek decor that transports you to the heart of Athens.

As you peruse the menu, your senses will be tantalized by the aromas of fresh herbs and spices used in traditional Greek cuisine.

Start with the fried green tomatoes, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, a perfect complement to the creamy tzatziki and warm pita bread.

For your main course, try the chicken souvlaki sandwich, bursting with flavor and served with a generous side of perfectly seasoned fries.

Or perhaps you’ll opt for the classic spanakopita, with its delicate layers of phyllo dough wrapped around a savory spinach and feta filling.

And of course, no Greek meal would be complete without baklava, the sweet and flaky pastry that melts in your mouth.

Served warm and topped with a dollop of whipped cream, it’s a sinful treat you won’t be able to resist.

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner for two or a night out with friends, this hidden gem in Roanoke is the perfect destination for a memorable dining experience.

Address: 1003 S Jefferson St, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

15. Sidecar

European cocktails hit and stay at a different level at Sidecar.

Nestled in Roanoke, this hidden gem, Sidecar, a quaint European restaurant serves up a fusion of traditional European dishes and hand-crafted cocktails.

Upon entering, you get to feel the cozy, intimate atmosphere with vintage movies playing in the background and the sweet sounds of live music from next door.

The menu boasts a wide selection of fresh seafood, house-made sausages, and charcuterie platters.

Its signature dishes, The Steak Frites and mussels are a must-try, and even their signature pierogies are great.

As for drinks, Sidecar offers a luxurious selection of old-world-inspired cocktails, including the Self Care and the Eagle Rare Manhattan.

Even its services are exceptional, and the staff is diverse, inclusive, and prioritizes the safety of their guests.

So, if you find yourself in Roanoke, Sidecar is a must-visit, whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

You’ll come to discover why it is one of the best restaurants in Roanoke.

Address: 411 1st St SW, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

16. The Green Goat

Step into a bright and homey space in Roanoke offering simple American dishes, from classic pizza to delicious sandwiches.

The menu at Green Goat also features a range of delectable appetizers that are perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in solo.

For the ultimate wing experience, try out the Irish whiskey pub sauce or go classic with the Buffalo sauce.

If you’re in the mood for something a little more unconventional, the eggplant fries with Sriracha bistro sauce will surely tantalize your taste buds.

Additionally, for a more filling option, go for the sausage and cheese plate, which features seasonal sliced sausages and cheese, crostini, and sweet balsamic onion jam.

Craving something that’s both crispy and cheesy, the bacon and bleu cheese waffle fries are a must-try.

Besides, seafood lovers will love the goat shrimp dish that comes with a generous portion of jumbo fried shrimp and house-made goat sauce.

Vegetarians can also, opt for the hummus platter, which includes a chef’s selection of flavored hummus with pita chips and vegetables.

Finally, the Southwest salad features romaine lettuce, tomato, and red onion, all topped with a zesty dressing.

Scenically, the area surrounding the restaurant is a picturesque spot along the trail, with outside seating available in addition to ample indoor seating.

While the service can be a little slow at times, the laid-back atmosphere and scrumptious dishes more than makeup for it.

You can’t go wrong with choosing this, you’re sure to be exploring one of the best restaurants in Roanoke.

Address: 802 Wiley Dr SW, Roanoke, VA 24015, United States

17. Tropical Smoothie Cafe Roanoke

Smoothies are some of the amazing things you’ll adore about Roanoke, with great spaces to enjoy them.

Escape to the tropics with every bite and sip at Tropical Smoothie Cafe, a health-conscious cafe offering customized smoothies, sandwiches, and wraps.

The facility isn’t just famous for smoothies, wraps, flatbreads, and quesadillas crafted with fresh ingredients are some other options you’ll find.

Indulge in the Island Green Smoothie, a refreshing blend of spinach, kale, mango, pineapple, and banana.

Or, try the Avocolada Smoothie with avocado, pineapple, spinach, kale, coconut, and lime.

If you’re craving something more substantial, try out the Baja Chicken Bowl with grilled chicken, rice, black beans, smashed avocado, romaine, pickled red onions, cheddar, and roasted tomato salsa.

There’s just so much to try with just the result you want.

Address: 703 Brandon Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24015, United States

18. Cuban Island Restaurant

It’s difficult to find places that make Cuban dishes, just the way Cuban Island Restaurant makes them.

Step into Cuban Island Restaurant, a cozy and unpretentious eatery for an authentic taste of traditional Cuban cuisine.

The menu features classic dishes like savory sandwiches, juicy chicken steak, and crispy fried plantains that will transport your taste buds to Havana.

But what really sets this little gem apart is the homemade salsa, which adds a spicy kick to every bite and elevates the flavors to new heights.

And don’t even get me started on the desserts.

From luscious cakes to flaky pastries, the desserts here are the stuff of your dreams.

However, the only problem is deciding which one to indulge in, since they’re all so tempting that you’ll likely end up taking a few to-go just to make sure you don’t miss out.

Additionally, the food is always spot-on, but the service is just as impressive.

Even the staff here are friendly, attentive, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that your dining experience is a memorable one.

It really is no wonder this place is one of the best restaurants in Roanoke, offering delicious food, a warm atmosphere, and impeccable service.

Everything about it makes it a must-visit for anyone who loves good food and great company.

And if you’re looking for a standout dish to try, I highly recommend the Masas de Puerco, the perfect combination of crispy and tender that will leave you wanting more.

Address: 5508 Williamson Rd, Roanoke, VA 24012, United States

19. Wasabi’s

Unlike most restaurants, Wasabi’s holds a special place in the heart of Ice cream lovers.

The restaurant, one of the best restaurants in Roanoke offers a large selection of sushi, maki, bento boxes, and traditional entrees in a casual atmosphere.

Guests can indulge in lightly fried soft shell crab or try the sushi tempura, three pieces of deep-fried sushi served with miso sauce.

Special dishes like The spicy tuna sashimi and sushi appetizer, three pieces of chef’s choice, are also available.

For vegetarians, the Japanese spring roll served with apricot dipping sauce is a must-try.

While, The Sho Gun Potatoes, thin-sliced white and sweet potatoes tempura-style with tangy sweet sauce, is another popular mouthwatering dish.

Cap off your meal with Ice Cream Tempura and cool off your tongue in the taste.

Ultimately, the experience is amazing, with high-quality food that won’t break the bank.

However, it would be wise to make reservations, especially on weekends, since many people troop in a lot.

Regardless, the staff is awesome, making it a great find and a place worth returning to on the next visit to Roanoke.

Address: 214 Market St SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

20. Nawab Indian Cuisine

When savory Indian cuisine is something you seek, the perfect opportunity to cease a meal at the Nawab Indian Cuisine is perfect.

Step into the regal world of Nawab Indian Cuisine, where a dining experience worthy of a nawab awaits you.

Its low-key dining room offers all-you-can-eat lunch buffets and traditional Indian fare that will tantalize your taste buds.

Start with the crispy samosas filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and tamarind chutney.

Move on to the vegetable korma, simmered to perfection with assorted vegetables, cashew-cream sauce, and cardamom.

Or try the very tasty paneer makhni, which comes in a rich tomato-fenugreek sauce.

On my first visit, my taste buds were blown away by the flavors in the kofta dish, a vegetarian dumpling-like food served in a delectable creamy sauce with rice on the side.

It was my first time trying kofta, and now I just can’t wait to explore more Indian cuisine.

Moreover, the restaurant’s tasteful decor and cleanliness create a serene atmosphere for your dining pleasure.

With highly professional staff, ensuring that your dining experience is top-notch is only an easy task.

Undoubtedly, one of the best restaurants in Roanoke to enjoy Indian cuisine.

Address: 118 Campbell Ave SE A, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

21. Pho Viet Nam

Vietnamese foods can also bring out the sort of craving you ought to explore in Roanoke.

One of the best restaurants in Roanoke, Pho Viet Nam offers an unforgettable dining experience with its amazing food and friendly wait staff.

Whether you’re in the mood for pho or curry, you won’t be disappointed.

And the best part?

After your meal, you can shop for unique ingredients in the trendy Vietnamese market nearby.

They have everything from quail eggs to Chinese sausages, foreign snack foods, rice, and noodles.

I highly recommend trying the Minced Chicken Lettuce Wraps for a flavorful and healthy starter.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, go for the 2 Piece BBQ Pork Rolls, which are crispy and savory.

For the main meal, you can’t go wrong with the Rice Noodle Soup.

It comes in great varieties of flavors, including Rare Eye Round Steak and Well Done Flank, and the rare flank steak and beef ball.

Additionally, The Egg Noodle Soup with Shrimp is also a great choice if you’re a seafood lover.

Meanwhile, if you’re feeling brave, go for the Spicy Rice Noodle Soup with Fish Paste and Pork Rib, which packs a punch of heat and flavor.

However, for those who prefer beef, the Spicy Beef Rice Noodle Soup is a must-try.

Overall, the food is delicious and the portions are generous.

The Vietnamese iced coffee is a must-have, too.

It’s strong and bold and will give you the perfect pick-me-up.

Although, the restaurant is temporarily closed so be sure to look it up before stopping by.

Address: 535 Orange Ave NE, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

 

Final Remarks

Our pick-out list is one of the best restaurants in Roanoke and you’re sure to enjoy every one of them.

They all offer great services, with distinctive and delectable dishes.

Overall, you’ll get to enjoy and learn why Roanoke is a place of great food.

It doesn’t cost much to try, and you can count on getting the very best.

Bon Appetit!