There’s something special about late summer in Giles. The days are still long, the mountain views are as beautiful as ever, and outdoor dining offers the perfect way to soak in Virginia’s Mountain Playground before autumn arrives. Whether you’re fueling up before a hike, cooling off after a day on the river, or settling in for a relaxing evening, Giles has plenty of outdoor dining options worth adding to your itinerary.
Here are some spots to enjoy a meal, a treat, or a drink in the fresh mountain air.
Start the Day at Hilltop Deli
A great adventure starts with a great breakfast. Hilltop Deli is a local favorite for hearty breakfast sandwiches, fresh coffee, and deli-style lunch options. Grab a table outside and enjoy a relaxed morning before heading out to explore the trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks that make Giles County a summertime destination.
Whether you’re preparing for a day on the Appalachian Trail or simply taking a leisurely drive through the mountains, Hilltop Deli is a convenient and delicious first stop.
Lunch with Appalachian Flavor at Bluegrass BBQ
When hunger strikes after a morning of exploring, Bluegrass BBQ delivers authentic Appalachian hospitality and serious barbecue. Known for its pork ribs, chicken, beef brisket, and variety of barbecue sauces, the restaurant provides a welcoming environment inspired by the region’s rich Appalachian roots.
Outdoor seating makes it easy to enjoy lunch while savoring smoky, slow-cooked favorites. It’s the perfect midday stop after kayaking the New River or hiking to Cascade Falls.
A Cool Treat at Scoops Arcade and Ice Cream Shop
Nothing says summer quite like ice cream. Located in Pembroke, Scoops Arcade and Ice Cream Shop is a must-visit for families, couples, and anyone looking to beat the heat with a sweet reward.
Grab your favorite flavor, find a spot outside, and enjoy one of the simplest pleasures of a summer day in the mountains.
Relax with Lunch, Dinner, and Drinks at La Barranca
Looking for a lively outdoor dining experience? La Barranca in Pearisburg serves authentic Mexican cuisine and is known for its welcoming atmosphere, spacious deck, bar area, and friendly service. The restaurant is also a great choice for large groups.
Whether you’re enjoying tacos for lunch, sharing fajitas at dinner, or unwinding with a refreshing drink after a day of exploring, the outdoor seating creates the perfect setting to extend those summer evenings a little longer.
Classic Favorites at Dairy Queen
Sometimes a road trip calls for familiar favorites. Dairy Queen, with locations in Pearisburg and Rich Creek, offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and of course, ice cream treats. Not surprisingly the picnic tables outside of the Pearisburg location offer a good view of Angel’s Rest, a popular Appalachian Trail Hike!
It’s an easy stop for families traveling through the county, and outdoor seating provides the perfect excuse to linger while taking in the relaxed pace of small-town mountain life.
Sip, Savor, and Stay Awhile at JBR Vineyards & Winery
For those looking to pair their mountain getaway with a glass of locally crafted wine, JBR Vineyards & Winery is a must-visit stop in Giles County. Nestled in the countryside, JBR was the first Virginia Farm Winery established in Giles County and has earned a loyal following for its award-winning wines.
Late summer is the perfect time to visit. Surrounded by rolling hills and mountain views, the winery offers a peaceful setting where you can slow down and savor the beauty of Virginia’s Mountain Playground. Bring friends, share a bottle, and enjoy an afternoon immersed in the relaxed charm of the region.
Whether you’re winding down after a day of hiking, celebrating a weekend getaway, or simply seeking a scenic place to relax outdoors, JBR Vineyards & Winery provides a uniquely Giles County experience that blends local flavor, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality.
Enjoy Outdoor Dining at Riviera Mexican Grill
If your summer adventures bring you through Pembroke, make time for a meal at Riviera Mexican Grill. Located along Highway 460, this local favorite serves authentic Mexican cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere that pairs perfectly with a laid-back mountain getaway. The restaurant features a bar, takeout options, and covered outdoor seating, making it an excellent choice rain or shine.
The covered patio offers a comfortable place to relax after a day exploring nearby attractions like Cascade Falls, the New River, or Mountain Lake. Whether you’re craving freshly made tacos for lunch, sizzling fajitas for dinner, or a refreshing margarita to toast another day in Virginia’s Mountain Playground, Riviera provides a casual outdoor dining experience the whole family can enjoy.
Mountain Views and Fun Evenings at Mountain Lake Lodge
For a dining experience that’s as memorable as the scenery, head up the mountain to Mountain Lake Lodge. Whether you choose the casual charm of Salt Pond Pub or a meal in The Lodge Dining Room, you’ll find delicious food paired with some of the most stunning views in Giles County. The resort’s dining options highlight the flavors of Southwest Virginia and offers possibilities for everything from a relaxed afternoon bite to an elevated dinner experience.
Salt Pond Pub
Open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Salt Pond Pub offers casual food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect after a day of hiking Mountain Lake Lodge’s 22 miles of trails. The pub is also known for its live music on Sunday afternoons during the summer season, creating the perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal with friends and family. Grab a local craft beer, order a shareable appetizer, and settle in to enjoy cool mountain breezes as the sun dips behind the ridges.
The Lodge Dining Room
For a more refined experience, The Lodge Dining Room combines spectacular mountain views with inspired cuisine. Large windows bring the outdoors in, and on cool summer evenings, opening the windows allows guests to enjoy the fresh mountain air while dining among the lodge’s rustic charm. The menu celebrates Southwest Virginia’s seasonal flavors while incorporating diverse ingredients and international influences.
Whether you’re gathering for breakfast before a day of exploring or enjoying dinner as the mountains fade into twilight, dining at Mountain Lake Lodge offers a truly unforgettable taste of Virginia’s Mountain Playground.
End the Day at The Palisades Restaurant
For an unforgettable dinner experience, reserve a table at The Palisades Restaurant. Housed in a historic landmark building, this award-winning destination is known for its contemporary cuisine, warm hospitality, and commitment to locally sourced ingredients. Much of the restaurant’s pork, beef, trout, and produce comes directly from farms in the New River Valley, supporting local agriculture while delivering exceptional freshness.
An evening meal at The Palisades is the perfect way to celebrate a day spent exploring Virginia’s Mountain Playground.
Make the Most of Summer in Virginia’s Mountain Playground
Summer may be winding down, but there’s still plenty of time to enjoy outdoor dining in Giles. From morning coffee and pastries to barbecue lunches, authentic Mexican cuisine, ice cream treats, and memorable farm-to-table dinners, these local favorites offer delicious ways to experience the region.
So pack your appetite, grab a seat outside, and enjoy the flavors, views, and hospitality that make Giles a destination worth savoring all season long.
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