With so many options for retirement today, it’s hard to know which location to choose. One thing we know for sure is that the Roanoke – Salem Region should be high on your list to consider. “Forbes Best Places to Retire” and the ShareCare Community Well-Being Index agree with both ranking the area high in a feeling of community, physical well-being, purpose, social opportunity, access to healthcare, access to resources, housing and transport, and economic security. Not to mention the scenery that comes with being in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, plus a mild climate and so many things to see and do, including more dining options than you can count.  

Dining Options in the Roanoke – Salem Region That Retirees Love

Restaurants in the Roanoke – Salem Region

From fine dining to local landmarks to bustling cafes with southern hospitality at the heart of it all, there are restaurants in the Roanoke – Salem Region to fit any taste. Some of our favorites include the following.

• Pete’s Deli for a wide array of comfort food favorites.
• Mamma Maria’s for old-school Italian with daily specials and a lunch buffet.
• Los Amigos Bar and Grill for authentic Mexican.  
• Frankie Rowland’s for American steak and seafood classics.  
• Alexander’s for elegant and unique meal options,  ‍
• Lucky Restaurant for small-plate farm-to-table dining.
• ‍Benny Macaroni’s for pizza with enormous New York-style slices.  ‍
• Local Roots for Sunday brunch favorites like eggs Benedict and French toast. ‍
• River and Rail is located in the landmark Lipes Pharmacy featuring the food of James Beard Award nominee chef Aaron Deal. ‍
• Evie’s Bistro and Bakery for extensive vegetarian options, homemade dressings, and freshly-baked desserts. ‍
• Texas Tavern is a Roanoke icon and classic lunch counter eatery open 24/7 and features the Cheesy Western, listed as one of the country’s best 150 burgers by Hamburger America. ‍
• Awful Arthur’s Seafood Company for Virginia’s most extensive raw bar, abundant fresh fish, plus live entertainment. ‍
• Champloo Desserts for handcrafted rolled ice cream, honey Boba tea, Japanese mochi ice cream, French flan, and Vietnamese ice coffee. ‍
• Corbin’s Confections for gluten-free, peanut-free, and tree-nut-free baked goods and sweets in a 100% guaranteed safe kitchen. ‍
• Mac and Bob’s is a favorite local sport famous for its huge calzones, a wide range of American menu items, and over 40 craft beers on tap.

Fresh & Local Food in Roanoke – Salem

For retirees looking to add more fresh fruits and veggies to their diet while also supporting local businesses, the Roanoke – Salem Region has plenty of farmer’s markets from which to choose, including the following.

• Salem Farmers Market is open April through December and offers a variety of vendors of fruits and vegetables as well as herbs, meats, bread and baked goods, and more.  ‍
• Roanoke City Market in downtown Roanoke for eatables as well as plants, jewelry and crafts, art, pottery, soap, and other handmade and home-grown items.   ‍
• Bedford Farmer’s Market is a perfect day trip to a lovely historic Virginia community for produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, crafts, and special events. 

Craft Beer, Wine, and Spirits in the Roanoke – Salem Region

The vibrant craft culture in the Roanoke – Salem Region, combined with the high-quality water, fertile soil, and mild weather of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is ideal for craft beer and growing grapes. Not to mention the area’s rich liquor production history makes a stop at a local distillery a must.

• Golden Cactus Brewing is open daily and brews a new beer every week. ‍
• Parkway Brewing Company features beautiful mountain views and 22 different brews from which to choose.
• ‍Starr Hill Pilot Brewery and Side Stage is Virginia’s second-oldest craft brewery and a local community staple. ‍
• Bloom Restaurant & Wine Bar is located near the Roanoke Greenway and offers a unique experience featuring locally sourced cuisine and an extensive wine selection. ‍
• Valhalla Vineyards is a 21-acre winery on a hillside overlooking Roanoke and features cabernet sauvignon, merlot, chardonnay, and other grapes. ‍
• Brady’s Distillery for carefully blended and aged craft spirits like whiskey, bourbon, vodka, and rum.

Delicious Dining in the Roanoke – Salem Region at Friendship

At Friendship Retirement Community, we empower retirees to advance their own health and well-being by creating vibrant lifestyles that inspire creativity, support choice, protect dignity, and celebrate experience. Our team members are dedicated to creating an environment that empowers each resident to live their very best life, including delicious chef-inspired menus prepared in collaboration with a nutritionist or dietician in a choice of dining settings such as:

• Bistro ‘66 is our newest dining venue serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner as you enjoy gorgeous mountain views.