Savour the Flavour of Big Stone Gap, the Gem of Virginia

Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the Gem of Virginia–Big Stone Gap, isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a haven for the taste buds. A town where culinary traditions run deep and every meal tells a story, Big Stone Gap offers an abundance of flavours that rivals the most renowned food capitals. With over 30 dining establishments, a bustling farmers market, and food festivals that bring the community together in celebration of all things delicious, this charming town is a dream destination for those who travel through taste.

A Dining Experience for Every Palate

Whether you crave the warmth of home-cooked comfort food, the artistry of coal-fired pizza, or the innovation of craft brewing, Big Stone Gap’s culinary scene delivers. Each restaurant and café is a reflection of the town’s history, culture, and deep-rooted love for good food shared among friends.

From cozy diners to specialty eateries, Big Stone Gap boasts an impressive array of dining options:

Local Ingredients, Local Flavour: Many restaurants in the town pride themselves on sourcing meats, vegetables, and fruits from nearby farms, ensuring fresh and flavorful dishes.

Variety Galore: Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, international cuisine, or farm-to-table delicacies, the town’s eateries cater to a wide range of tastes.

GoodTimes Coal-Fired Pizza & Pub: A Slice of Tradition

Step into GoodTimes Coal-Fired Pizza & Pub, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back to the golden age of Americana. Owners Brian and Jennifer Jones left the West Coast behind to bring their passion for coal-fired perfection to the heart of Virginia’s coal country. Here, artisanal mastery meets locally sourced ingredients, creating pizza that is both rustic and refined. With live music setting the tone, a welcoming atmosphere, and a menu that speaks to the soul, it’s the kind of place where strangers quickly become friends. Tip: Arrive hungry and stay for the music—you won’t regret it.

The Country Kitchen: Comfort on a Plate

For those seeking a true Appalachian culinary experience, The Country Kitchen is a must. This beloved institution serves up history on a plate, with dishes like homemade chicken and dumplings, slow-cooked meatloaf, and their legendary Southern biscuits—pillowy, buttery, and deeply rooted in tradition. Here, meals are more than just sustenance; they are stories of resilience, family, and the resourcefulness of generations past. Take a bite, and you’ll taste the echoes of those who first settled these mountains.

Curklin’s: Where History Meets Hospitality

Housed in the beautifully repurposed Historic Mutual Pharmacy building, Curklin’s is the embodiment of culinary passion and family legacy. Owners Wayne and Tracey Jordan have transformed their lifelong experience in restaurants and butchery into a dining destination where comfort food meets modern flair. The menu is a thoughtful blend of classic favourites and inventive twists, all complemented by a hand-picked selection of craft beers. Whether you’re gathering with friends or savoring a quiet moment with a great meal, Curklin’s welcomes you like an old friend.

Big Cherry Brewing Company: Raise a Glass to the Mountains

Big Stone Gap’s first brewery, Big Cherry Brewing Company, is an experience unto itself. Housed in a beautifully restored brick building, this brewery is a testament to the town’s growing craft beer movement. The secret? Pure, mountain-fed water from Big Cherry Lake, resulting in crisp, flavorful brews that keep visitors coming back. Pair a locally crafted beer with one of their giant, golden-brown pretzels dipped in house-made beer cheese—creamy, tangy, and infused with a rich, malty depth—and you have the perfect Appalachian pairing. With trivia nights, karaoke, and live music, it’s a hub of energy where locals and visitors alike gather to celebrate life over a pint.

Farmers Market: A Hub for Local Produce

For those who believe the best meals start with the best ingredients, the Big Stone Gap Farmers Market is a must-visit. This weekly gathering is a vibrant showcase of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and locally grown fruits, vegetables and meats, connecting farmers with food lovers who value quality and tradition. But more than that, it’s a place of stories—where vendors share family recipes, neighbours swap cooking tips, and the town’s deep agricultural roots come alive with every season’s bounty.

Food Festivals & Events: A Celebration of Flavour

Food isn’t just a necessity in Big Stone Gap—it’s a reason to celebrate. Throughout the year, the town hosts a variety of food festivals and competitions that bring the community together and attract visitors from across the region:

Steak Cook-Off – A sizzling showdown where grill masters go head-to-head for the title of best steak in town.

Chili Cook-Off – A celebration of spice and slow-cooked perfection, where each bowl tells a different tale.

Wing Walk – A flavorful journey through the town’s best chicken wing creations, from smoky and sweet to fiery hot.

Super Soup Walkabout – A warm embrace of Appalachian heritage, featuring homemade soups that nourish both body and soul.

Celebrating Appalachian Traditions

Big Stone Gap’s culinary scene reflects its rich cultural heritage, many local restaurants offer traditional recipes passed down through generations, giving visitors a true taste of the region’s history. The emphasis on local sourcing and communal events reinforces the town’s deep connection to its land and people.

More Must-Try Dining Spots in Big Stone Gap

While we have already shared a few must-visit spots, there are still more places that deserve a mention—each adding to the town’s rich and diverse dining scene. Here are a few more delicious stops to add to your bucket list, from cozy cafés to family-owned eateries, these local favourites add depth and diversity to the town’s thriving food scene. Whether you’re indulging in the sweet treats at Guerrant’s Goodies, savouring a meal at Dari Delite, or sipping a cup of coffee at Ugly Mug, every stop is a flavorful adventure.

For those craving homemade handcrafted European pastries and desserts, The Pastry Cottage is the café where the magic of European baking meets Appalachian ingredients, a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth. From delicate pastries to rich, buttery desserts, each bite is a tribute to craftsmanship and the flavours of the region. And as you take in the breathtaking views over the mountains, you can’t help but feel connected to a place where the land’s abundance and the town’s history are reflected in the food.

The heart of Southern Comfort can be found at The Bakery at This & That, where the aroma of freshly baked goods like cupcakes, pies and sweet treats fills the air, inviting you to step inside. This is a place where the past meets the present, with a bakery that serves as both a hub for local flavours and a cozy downtown spot to savour the slower pace of mountain life.

Meanwhile, a short walk or drive away, 404 Café & Creamery offers a modern twist on classic comfort. Voted Best Coffee in Wise County in 2024, this café is a community gathering spot, where locals and travelers alike sip on hand-poured coffees, enjoy hand-dipped ice cream, and indulge in freshly baked goods. It’s not just about the coffee here—though their espresso shots are some of the best in the area—but about the spirit of Big Stone Gap itself. The café serves up wholesome artisanal food with a side of warmth and hospitality, whether you’re grabbing a light lunch or savouring a bowl of their famous chicken salad.

The ice cream at 404 Café & Creamery is a treat in itself, with flavours that range from rich chocolate to more adventurous options, all made with care and local ingredients. It’s the perfect stop for a sweet break during your exploration of the town’s stunning landscape, a reminder of the simplicity and joy found in Big Stone Gap’s culinary treasures.

But beyond the delicious treats, 404 Café & Creamery is a story of dreams realized.

Back in 2023, we had the pleasure of meeting Elise Bloomer, the heart behind this warm and inviting café. Elise had always dreamed of being a baker—ever since she was a little girl standing on a chair beside her mother, learning the art of baking with her sisters. Though life took her in a different direction, with 30 years in retail management, she never let go of her passion. When the time was right, she and her husband Robert, moved back to his hometown of Big Stone Gap, eager to be part of the town’s growing energy and raise their young son in a close-knit community. That’s when Elise finally turned her lifelong love of baking into a reality, opening what is today the 404 Café & Creamery, the perfect stop for a sweet break while exploring the stunning landscape of Big Stone Gap—a reminder that dreams, much like great recipes, are always worth following.

If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine, Little Mexico is sure to satisfy with bold flavours and traditional dishes.

For a more laid-back dining experience, Moon Dog Brick Oven serves up mouthwatering pizzas. Each of these establishments brings its own personality to the table, showcasing the variety that makes Big Stone Gap’s culinary scene so special.

Come hungry, Leave inspired: A Destination for Every Food Lover

Big Stone Gap is a culinary destination waiting to be discovered. Here, meals are experiences, flavours are rooted in tradition, and every bite carries the warmth of Southern hospitality. Whether you’re indulging in a coal-fired masterpiece, raising a glass at the local brewery, or savoring a home-cooked meal that tastes like nostalgia, you’ll find yourself dreaming of your next visit before you’ve even left.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Come hungry. Leave inspired. And above all, let Big Stone Gap surprise you—one unforgettable meal at a time.

Until next time.

with Love,

Marco and Erica