Over 70 restaurants participated in the inaugural event in 2025

From September 12 – 20, 2026, food enthusiasts across Virginia’s Blue Ridge will come together to celebrate the region’s vibrant culinary scene during VBR Restaurant Week. Nearly 80 restaurants participated in last year’s landmark event, which spotlights restaurants from across the region, including the City of Roanoke, Roanoke County, Town of Vinton, City of Salem, Botetourt County, and Franklin County. 

Restaurants in the City of Roanoke, Roanoke County, Town of Vinton, City of Salem, Botetourt County, and Franklin County are encouraged to participate in this event. Participating establishments will have the opportunity to attract new customers, highlight their specialty dishes, and join a regional effort to spotlight the dynamic dining scene. 

This weeklong event underscores the value of regionalism in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Bringing together multiple jurisdictions for one restaurant week offers a larger platform and greater audience reach for participating restaurants. This collaborative effort will help businesses grow and strengthen the region’s economy.

VBR Restaurant Week is a celebration of local flavors, offering participants a unique opportunity to enjoy special menus, discounts, and promotions at participating restaurants. From fine dining to casual eats, the event will highlight the diverse range of culinary offerings in the region, while also supporting local businesses and the community.  

“We’re excited to see Virginia’s Blue Ridge Restaurant Week return for another year. The event highlights the power of regional collaboration, and the important role local restaurants play in our economy and quality of life,” said Alexander Jones (Assistant Director - Roanoke County Economic Development). “VBR Restaurant Week helps restaurants reach new customers, encourages residents and visitors to explore the different communities across our region, and showcases the unique dining experiences that make Virginia’s Blue Ridge a great place to live, work, and visit. It’s a valuable opportunity to support local businesses while celebrating the restaurants, entrepreneurs, and communities that make our region such a vibrant and distinctive destination.” 

“We’re thrilled to partner with our neighboring municipalities to highlight the region’s vibrant culinary scene as we welcome the summer season,” said City of Roanoke Mayor Joe Cobb.  “With a wealth of food enthusiasts and talented chefs offering diverse cuisine, VBR Restaurant Week promises to be an exciting and enjoyable experience for both residents and visitors.” 

"Localities collaborating in VBR's Restaurant Week promote business across the region. It's a terrific way for restaurants to draw customers from other areas and try new menu options. VBR Restaurant Week was a hit with our restaurants last year, and we look forward to participating again this year." said Kyle Rosner, Director of Economic Development for Botetourt County.

Franklin County Board of Supervisors Chair Lorie Smith, said, "We’re excited for Franklin County to once again participate in VBR Restaurant Week and have our local restaurants showcased alongside so many great dining destinations across Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Franklin County is home to a wide variety of restaurants, with something for everyone to enjoy, and this is a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to support local businesses, discover new favorites, and experience all our community has to offer."  

“VBR Restaurant Week is such a special moment for our community. It’s a chance to celebrate the incredible talent of our local chefs and enjoy the thoughtful, limited time menus they’ve crafted with so much care. Our independent restaurants truly are the heartbeat of Salem, and this week offers the perfect invitation to explore somewhere new or experience a fresh twist on a longtime favorite. I hope you’ll take part and show support for the businesses that make our town vibrant, welcoming, and delicious.” said City of Salem Mayor Renee Turk.

Town of Vinton Mayor Brad Grose said, “We are excited for the Town of Vinton to participate in VBR Restaurant Week once again in 2026. The 2025 event brought great energy and strong community support to our local restaurants. Virginia’s Blue Ridge is home to an incredible culinary scene, and we are proud to invite residents and visitors alike to experience the unique dining opportunities the Town of Vinton has to offer.” 

Join us in celebrating the incredible flavors of Virginia’s Blue Ridge during this exciting weeklong event, September 12 – 20. Don’t miss the chance to support local businesses, discover hidden gems, and indulge in the best our region has to offer! 

For inquiries and restaurant registration, please contact your local representative or go to VBRRestaurantWeek.com to fill out the registration form by August 31.

City of Roanoke: Brady Lawrence | brady.lawrence@roanokeva.gov | 540-853-5661 
Roanoke County: Alexander Jones| amjones@roanokecountyva.gov | 540-772-2095 
Town of Vinton: Mandy Adkins | madkins@vintonva.gov | 540-283-7080 
City of Salem: Office of Economic Development | econdev@salemva.gov | 540-375-3007 
Franklin County: Office of Economic Development | economicdevelopment@franklincountyva.gov | 540-482-6699 
Botetourt County: Luke Campbell | lcampbell@botetourtva.gov | 540-928-2093

Media Contact 
Kathryn Lucas  
Director of PR – Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge 
klucas@visitvbr.com  
540-342-6025 ext. 129