It's the middle of no where Virginia and we are sitting outside on a pleasant end of summer evening listening to live blues music, sipping local wine and immensely enjoying our appetizers and entree while our dog dozes under my husband's chair. My husband had the coconut shrimp and I had the smoked trout appetizers. Both were fantastic. We split the grilled romaine salad entree; was not sure we'd enjoy grilled lettuce but it looked heavenly when our server brought it to the table and was perfect for a summer meal. The staff was friendly and efficient, prices were reasonable. If you are ever near this corner of southern Virginia you need to stop and enjoy a meal.
For a Friday night evening out listening to great music, having a great dinner and visiting with friends, this is a must-go place.The menu is simple but excellent. The atmosphere is welcoming and the staff are very friendly and helpful. If you are simply coming off the interstate or the New River Trail, this is a wonderful stop. It is simply the best thing going on in the area!
On my drive cross-country I stopped here as I saw a sign on the highway for the Blue Plate Cafe. It took me a while to find it, but I wasn't disappointed. The only thing that appeared open in this small town, it's a cross between a restaurant, entertainment spot, and store. When I looked at the menu I thought it seemed boring. But when I ordered the salad I was delighted to find it was unlike anything I'd ever had! Very cutting-edge. I made my way around the store while waiting for my food and the woman working there was a peach to talk to. I bought a bunch of great (inexpensive) LOCAL gifts as well as a couple of local books, one of which I have already finished.
Just a couple of miles from Interstate 81, exit 92, is The Draper Mercantile Trading Company. The building is over 125 years old and has housed a post office, library, several types of stores, a barber shop and blacksmith in its history. The barred window and post office boxes are still part of the building. Inside reminds one of an old country store in the modern age with paintings, many varied crafts and food goods for sale. They also serve breakfast, lunch (buffet), and dinner that is delicious. There is Wine Down Friday with guest musicians and varied entertainment on other nights (including comedy acts) and free Yoga classes. The staff is friendly and helpful. There is also The Junction that conducts various outdoor walking, biking, and boating tours and provides very helpful free information for diys. There is also a gift store with quality merchandise.The folks that own The Merc also own The New River Retreat which manages upscale lake rentals on Claytor Lake. We rented The Phoenix and had a great time.
While staying at a cabin in the New River Valley my wife and I visited the Draper Mercantile for lunch. She had the Tuna Melt which was very good but I tried the Grilled Pimento Cheese sandwich which was amazing! The Pimento Cheese had a little kick to it and the fresh sourdough bread was perfect! The atmosphere was family friendly and fun. Our waiters Whitney and Emily were attentive and always smiling. We came back the next day for brunch and the biscuits and gravy were also great.
Excellent buffet. 2nd Best "German" food we've ever had; check the menu. This was a special event, ... but it does speak to the ability of the chef.
Nice country restaurant in an old country store environment. Limited selection, but the food is excellent! I had the pimento cheese sandwich (when they tell you it's spicy, believe it) but can't wait to go back and try the chicken pot pie some of my friends had - they looked great!
Immediately upon entering you see a beautifully restored old mercantile with crafts, books and art from local artisans for sale and smell the wonderful pastries from the bakery. Both lunch and dinner here were outstanding, and my wife bought several local wines and jams from the store. The adjacent cycling shop had several unique items, which my wife who is absolutely not a shopper had to get...which she only does if finding something truly unique.Worth your time to drive out of the way to experience!
Anyone that visits this area in SWV needs to visit the Draper mercantile. It used to be the old general store in Draper. It has been remodeled and looks fantastic with wonderful food and atmosphere. The Christmas decorations were awesome. Well worth your time to stop for a visit.
I love the Merc! I go there every couple of weeks, sometimes for lunch, but most often for the "WineDown" Fridays that feature excellent live music. Another option is the excellent Sunday brunch buffett. I highly recommend the tomato burst salad, pimento cheese (grilled), and the BLT. They have excellent desserts aloing with ice cream from a local dairy (Homestead). A little bit of Key West in the mountains!