When you come to the small town of Roanoke, you’d better come with a big appetite. Texas legislators didn’t name Roanoke the Unique Dining Capital of Texas for nothing. Roanoke, though it covers only 5.3 square miles, prides itself on having over 50 restaurants, putting it in the running of cities five times its size. The city boasts one-of-a-kind restaurants that you have to try while visiting.
Hard Eight BBQ
Hard Eight BBQ is just one of many restaurants located on the Oak Street strip. The family-owned restaurant opened its doors in 2003 in Stephens, Texas. If you’re looking for a fun atmosphere, great food, and southern hospitality, Hard Eight BBQ is the place for you. Hard Eight provides an eating experience like no other, you are served “Texas Style”, which means it comes straight from the pit. They serve a plethora of meats and fixings: brisket, pork ribs, sirloin, pulled pork, mac and cheese, cornbread salad, and jalapeno sweet corn, just to name a few. Hard Eight is every BBQ enthusiasts dream. From the smoky pit to southern sides, you are guaranteed big flavor from this small town restaurant.
You’ll find many great hotels conveniently placed close enough that you can stop by and have a great dinner while enjoying your stay in the area. Book a room in a location near a variety of restaurants you want to try in the Roanoke area.
The Classic Cafe at Roanoke
Not too far from Hard Eight BBQ is a quaint cafe called The Classic Cafe at Roanoke. The Classic opened its doors in 1993, serving a world-class menu in an informal and easygoing environment while creating a community around its food. On the menu you will find a garden-to-table inspiration from the garden the cafe has maintained on the grounds since 2009. The management of the cafe strives to use and highlight the seasonal fruits and vegetables that are grown in the garden while creating a menu and cuisine that is never limited by region or even continent.
Aside from all the featured menu items, one of the signature entrees is rack of lamb featuring rosemary pomegranate molasses and a mint herb crust. You can pair this with any of the signature sides, such as roasted balsamic cauliflower or sauteed organic wild mushrooms.
Craft & Vine Taproom and Eatery
We have talked about killer cuisine, but have you ever been to a restaurant with 72 beers, sours, and wines on tap? Search no further: Roanoke has it at Craft & Vine Taproom and Eatery. The upscale gastropub has a laid-back, casual atmosphere and provides an enclosed patio where you can enjoy the setting sun. Craft & Vine offers an array of bold flavors with its menu items, including shareable plates, You can even take your favorite beers home with you in a to-go growler. One of the go-to items on the food menu is the signature charcuterie boards, which you can order with an array of cheeses, nuts, vegetables, and deli meats.
The food and drink at these three restaurants will make you want to go back for another visit to that small town with legendary cuisine. Roanoke, Texas, has a lot to offer visitors looking for culture, shopping, activities, and dining.
