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The River and Rail Restaurant

4.7
4.7
498 Reviews
$30 and under
Southern
The River and Rail, a southern Bistro, is located in the heart of Western Virginia.

Chef Aaron Deal changes the lunch, dinner and brunch menus weekly based on the availability of seasonal products from our local providers.

He and his team are producing updated Southern/Appalachian and French classic dishes for this neighborhood restaurant, located just a block away from Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in the old Lipes Pharmacy, in the City of Roanoke.

Have a signature cocktail at the bar or enjoy draft beer in our warm dining area.

We hope you also enjoy our thoughtfully curated wine list.

Whether it is a bite with the family on a weeknight, or a family celebration, we look forward to serving you the best the region has to offer.

Not available on OpenTable

Unfortunately, this restaurant is not on the OpenTable reservation network.

If you like, we'll notify you by email if this restaurant joins.


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Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Cuisines

    Southern, Comfort Food, Contemporary American

  • Hours of operation

    Dinner: Tuesday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm Brunch: Sunday: 11:00am - 2:00pm

  • Phone number

    (540) 400-6830

  • Payment options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress code

    Casual Dress

  • Executive chef

    Aaron Deal

  • Private party contact

    Devon Steiner devon@riverandrailrestaurant.com: (540) 400-6830

  • Neighborhood

    Roanoke

  • Cross street

    22nd St. SW

  • Parking details

    Street Parking

  • Additional

    Bar Dining, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Corkage Fee, Farm to Table, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 498 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

4.7
4.7 based on all time ratings
  • 4.7Food
  • 4.7Service
  • 4.5Ambience
  • 4.3Value

NoiseModerate

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Filters

  1. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on March 26, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderful experience. They were overly attentive to our anniversary and a number of staff members wished us well.
  2. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    3 reviews

    4.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on March 16, 2019

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    This is my favorite restaurant in the area. We have been here numerous times. This one time was somewhat of a disappointment. From when we arrived, it took over an hour to get our entree. The real disappointment came from the food as the food temperature was barely warm. Overall, this is still my favorite restaurant. But, something was amiss this evening. I just hope they figure whatever the problem is out.
  3. MattT

    San Francisco

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 12, 2019

    overall4food5service5ambience4
    Food was great but the atmosphere was louder than normal
  4. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    169 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    169 reviews

    Dined on March 10, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Wonderfully inventive southern food, great cocktails and professional and helpful service! A neighborhood gem!
  5. DBKWB

    Richmond

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 9, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Loved it. Great food and great friendly staff. I wrote a more detailed review on Yelp.
  6. Anonymous

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 3, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was amazing. The atmosphere was comfortable. Will definitely come back!
  7. TheFoodPhoenix

    Richmond

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on March 2, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We love R&R. Always great food and artisan cocktails. Thanks for a great evening.
  8. RonJ

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on March 1, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Good flavor and good portion sizes, nice to have a farm to table place to eat.
  9. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 28, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was superb but a little expensive for the portion. Nonetheless each meal is perfectly crafted and we will continue to go here. Noise level is high as there is no where for the noise to dissipate but not unbearable.
  10. Trailwalker

    Richmond

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on February 24, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of if not the best restaurant in the Roanoke Valley.
  11. JNoke

    Richmond

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 23, 2019

    overall2food5service2ambience2
    The food was amazing... when we finally got it. I recognize that finer restaurants are supposed to be slow-eating, but this was borderline ridiculous. We arrived at 5:30, it took so long to get our waiter to our table that by the time he came, we told him we were ready to order drinks AND food. We ordered two appetizers and two entrees. It should be said that the two appetizers required no cooking (oysters on the half-shell and a jar of pickles). About a half an hour later we got our appetizer, mind you the restaurant was 3/4 full, but with two-person parties (and one 8-person party) all at different stages of the meal. After our appetizer dishes were taken, I asked for the wine list again to have a glass with dinner, he recommended something, I looked over the list, then when he returned, I ordered a glass of what he had recommended. Great choice, it was lovely. I am NOT a fast drinker, and I completed the whole glass of wine while we waited for our entrees (pork tenderloin and scallops). They finally came at 7:00, a full hour and a half after we arrived. Needless to say, I had a glass of water with my food. At no point did the waiter come to acknowledge that this was an awkwardly long time to wait, nor did he make any signs that this wasn't the norm. I had wanted to order dessert, but decided against it. I would recommend this restaurant with the hope that this was just an anomaly, and that they normally aren't like that. But I hope you get a nicer waiter and food in a timely fashion. It was also a bit loud with very poor choice in music (think dive bar guitar instead of ambient indie rock) for a place with all hardwood floors and an open kitchen.
  12. Mike

    Richmond

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 20, 2019

    overall4food5service4ambience4
    This is our 4th or 5th time at River and Rail. I love that it feels both casual yet formal. The food is always spectacular and menu ever-changing.
  13. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 18, 2019

    overall4food5service4ambience4
    Overall good! Fried chicken is amazing!! Also very great craft cocktails.
  14. SteveB

    Richmond

    8 reviews

    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on February 18, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We decided to come to the new Monday night dinner program and had a great time! The fried chicken was great and they allow folks in the main dining room to have burgers (normally bar only) and my guest loved hers! Monday nights will be a staple for us
  15. Brooke123

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 17, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Brunch was fantastic - the drinks were delightful, the food so delicious and service very attentive. R&R is always a treat!
  16. JimmyG

    Wilmington

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on February 16, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This is a great place especially for special occasions. Jess, our server was awesome! The food was perfect and just the right amount. Also, the atmosphere was very relaxing. We took our time and was there for almost 2 hours. We didn't even realize that the time went by because we were totally enjoying our time there. The service was also perfect. Even when our main server was busy with other customers, other servers came by to help. In short, we can't wait to go back there again!
  17. SusanW

    New York Area

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on February 16, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was outstanding and plenty of leftovers for lunch the next day. We will definitely go back and try to leave some room for dessert and coffee.
  18. Ledgefielder

    Richmond

    13 reviews

    4.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on February 15, 2019

    overall4food4service5ambience5
    My wife and I chose River & Rail for our Valentines dinner. We were not disappointed! Enjoyable, relaxed, upscale ambience. Service was superb from time we entered. Strong wine & cocktail selection. Cheese plate appetizer with paired cheeses and toppings were a delight! Many unique entrees. We both chose seafood (scallops & monkfish), which were prepared just right with accompanying sides. Look forward to return visit!
  19. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 15, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My date and I had a great Valentine’s Day experience at the River and Rail. The staff was very attentive and friendly, and the food was excellent. My only complaint, which is more due to lack of understanding on my part than the restaurant, is that we were forced into ordering from the Valentine’s Day menu rather than having the option. That being said, we were not disappointed with any part of our meal from start to finish.
  20. Fortunato

    Richmond

    15 reviews

    5.0

    15 reviews

    Dined on February 14, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    It was a price fixe menu for Valentine’s Day and we were blown away by the food quality, the service, and the wine pairings for first, second, and dessert courses. The surprise amuse bouche set the stage for a sequence of most impressive courses. It was a truly wonderful dining experience.
  21. RyanC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 13, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely, it is my new favorite in Roanoke . Can not wait to go back
  22. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 10, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Love it every time we go! Always exceptional!
  23. GregA

    Charleston

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 9, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I had to try it after reading the reviews and was not disappointed. Small place so highly recommend reservations. The service was as expected and everyone in my party enjoyed their meal. The noise level was a tic high and sitting by the door was a bit drafty but I highly recommend the restaurant and plan to go again.
  24. JohnK

    St. Louis

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 9, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Excellent food, interesting drink menu, and truly outstanding service.
  25. GeorgeL

    Richmond

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on February 2, 2019

    overall2food2service4ambience3
    I thought the entrees were just OK. The sides were bland. I had the chicken breast, it was good but not special. The sides bordered on bland and not very flavorful. The server was very friendly and attentive. Preparation of the meal took some time as would be expected in a first-class eatery where entrees are specially prepared as ordered. However, the results of the wait were disappointing, the meal was adequate but not special.
  26. LoisW

    New York Area

    16 reviews

    vip
    3.0

    16 reviews

    Dined on January 27, 2019

    overall3food4service3ambience3
    The service was very slow.
  27. HarryS

    Richmond

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on January 26, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    The service was excellent and very attentive. The food was also very good. my wife and i both had the scallops and enjoyed them along with a shared salad. Would recommend the food. The menu is not extensive.
  28. ThomasM

    Richmond

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on January 22, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We are so lucky to have this quality of restaurant in Roanoke.
  29. Mark

    Atlanta Metro

    14 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    14 reviews

    Dined on January 22, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing food and service. A new favorite for trips to Roanoke!
  30. JohnH

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on January 20, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Consistently good food and service, The River and Rail is great for both brunch and dinner. Their 'American Fusion' menu always has items both classic and inventive, and it's a safe place for diners with celiac or other GF-related needs. And, the bar produces great cocktails and a fine selection of wines.
  31. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    169 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    169 reviews

    Dined on January 20, 2019

    overall4food4service4ambience4
    Great Sunday brunch. The food was inventive, the drinks delicious, and our server (the bartender) was knowledgeable, professional, personable, and timely. It was a great experience, and we will definitely go back. (If you haven't had their pork rinds with pimento cheese -- it's a must!)
  32. JDSutphin

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on January 16, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We've been going to River & Rail since they opened and they truly exceed expectations with each visit!
  33. JenniferS

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on January 16, 2019

    overall3food2service5ambience5
    Love the ambiance; however, this past meal was a huge disappointment. I have been to R&R many times, most of the time it's been "o.k.", but this past meal was served to me with lukewarm mashed potatoes, and cold steak. I did not complain, but I was very disappointed this visit. Also, I have always thought the portions are small for what the meals cost. They seem to focus on presentation and nothing else. I know this is a very popular and "in style" place to eat, but overall I feel it's pretty over-rated. My daughter loves the oysters on the half shell, and I always enjoy going with her because she loves it so much. But I always feel not totally satisfied and a little resentful that the check ended up costing me at least $100 (for two people) and a small appendage. I will go back with my daughter in the future, but for celebrations and a great restaurant with reasonable prices and great food and service, I will continue to go to my favorite Roanoke restaurant, Carlos International Cuisine. Sorry, had to put in a plug for my favorite place.
  34. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    18 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    18 reviews

    Dined on January 16, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Best chicken in the city. Perfectly seasoned and prepared with baby carrots grilled onion in a curry that was delicious. Bibb lettuce salad, perfect. Service is always excellent. The chocolate cremieux with coffee ice cream was an excellent conclusion. My favorite restaurant in Roanoke. Everyone and everything about The River and Rail makes you want to return very soon.
  35. TedB

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on January 12, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Superb, as always. Banana pudding is out of this world!
  36. OpenTable Diner

    Dallas

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on January 9, 2019

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Really only have rave reviews for every level of service. Food and service have been excellent on both dinners and one lunch. Just wish they had that bartender for lunch ;-) Keep it up! Bravo!
  37. Mary

    Richmond

    9 reviews

    5.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on December 31, 2018

    overall5food4service5ambience5
    We went for New Year's Eve. I couldn't find the special menu online before we went so was a little surprised at the $75/person package, which was fine. We loved the First course Pork Ribs - best ever! For the Second courses, the salmon was a little squishy in the middle and the NY Strip reminded us why we eat filets. The desserts were amazing - Buttermilk Panna Cotta (custard) and the Chocolate Cremeux were light, rich and perfect to end the meal. They gave us a Polaroid pic too. Great atmosphere - can't believe it's in the old Lipes. We'll be back for the Pork Ribs!
  38. jengrsnap

    Atlanta Metro

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on December 29, 2018

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    One of our favorite restaurants in the WORLD (and we've eaten our fair share of Michelin gems). It's so good, we plan a night in Roanoke on every cross country trip just so we can eat here. New Southern cuisine at its best - true farm to table, inspired but never frou frou. Exceptional bar program. The service is above and beyond - warm, knowledgable and awesome. Love the decor. And an insane value -- we would pay three times as much for the quality of the meal, but appreciate that we don't have to! Absolutely go here.
  39. mpjt

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on December 27, 2018

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Probably the best in Roanoke. Very good food good atmosphere.
  40. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on December 27, 2018

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Love this place! They are great!

FAQs

The River and Rail Restaurant is rated 4.7 stars by 498 OpenTable diners.

Not available on OpenTable

Unfortunately, this restaurant is not on the OpenTable reservation network.

If you like, we'll notify you by email if this restaurant joins.


Is this your restaurant?
Claim this listing

Additional information

  • Cross street

    22nd St. SW

  • Neighborhood

    Roanoke

  • Hours of operation

    Dinner: Tuesday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 10:00pm Brunch: Sunday: 11:00am - 2:00pm

  • Cuisines

    Southern, Comfort Food, Contemporary American

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Dress code

    Casual Dress

  • Parking details

    Street Parking

  • Payment options

    AMEX, MasterCard, Visa

  • Executive chef

    Aaron Deal

  • Additional

    Bar Dining, Beer, BYO Wine, Chef's Table, Corkage Fee, Farm to Table, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

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