Welcome to Mama Sarah’s Soul Food Restaurant
*Meatloaf and BBQ Chicken are Specials
A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Rocky Mount, Virginia
If you’re searching for the best restaurant off Route 220, look no further. Nestled on North Main Street in Rocky Mount, VA, Mama Sarah’s Soul Food Restaurant offers more than just a meal—it offers a memory. Just minutes from the Harvester Performance Center and a short drive from Smith Mountain Lake, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing lunch, pre-show dinner, or post-concert bite.
Mama Sarah’s is Built on a
Strong Family Foundation
Mama Sarah’s is built on love, family, and tradition. Founded by Brad Wood and Barbara Hickman, this soul food destination was created in honor of Brad’s late mother, Sarah Showalter, who inspired his passion for cooking at a young age. Her handwritten recipes and warm hospitality now live on in every dish served—from fried catfish and hamburger steak with gravy to juicy pork chop sandwiches and crispy chicken tenders.
Since opening in November 2023, Mama Sarah’s has grown into one of the top-rated restaurants in Rocky Mount, Virginia. Guests from Roanoke, Ferrum, Franklin County, and even out-of-state travelers stop in to experience our Southern classics. Whether you’re grabbing a quick takeout meal or settling in for dinner, you’ll quickly understand why so many reviewers say we serve the best soul food in the region.
We Welcome Travelers to Our Area with Great Food
For those visiting the Harvester Music Venue, Mama Sarah’s is one of the closest restaurants to the venue. It’s become a go-to dining destination for concertgoers looking for delicious comfort food just steps from the show. Pair a chicken tender combo with a glass of sweet tea or homemade lemonade, and you’ve got a perfect evening in Southwest Virginia.
We’re also a favorite stop for those traveling through Franklin County via U.S. Route 220. Whether you’re heading to Smith Mountain Lake, on the road from Roanoke to Martinsville, or exploring the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, Mama Sarah’s offers that “just like home” kind of meal that satisfies travelers and locals alike.
Enjoy a Delicious Menu of Great Offerings
Our menu is packed with homemade favorites: macaroni & cheese, turnip greens, coleslaw, hush puppies, baked beans, and banana pudding that folks say is “better than grandma’s.”
Come Visit Us And Experience Our Great Food and Service Yourself
Because here, we don’t just serve food—we serve Mama Sarah’s love on every plate. Mama Sarah’s Soul Food Restaurant stands out as a beloved dining destination in Rocky Mount, Virginia, offering hearty southern comfort food in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Conveniently located at 675 N Main St, it’s just a short drive from the Harvester Performance Center and within easy reach of Smith Mountain Lake, making it an ideal stop for both locals and visitors.
Patrons consistently praise Mama Sarah’s for its delicious offerings and warm hospitality. One reviewer shared, “The food was delicious. The atmosphere was family friendly. We received a good portion of food for a reasonable price”.
Another visitor noted, “From the moment we walked in, we were greeted like family.”
The restaurant’s proximity to the Harvester Performance Center, a premier live music venue at 450 Franklin St., enhances its appeal for concertgoers seeking a satisfying mealbefore or after a show. Additionally, its location offers convenient access for those exploring the scenic beauty of Smith Mountain Lake.
For those interested in learning more about Mama Sarah’s and its offerings, a feature segment is available on YouTube.
Check Out What Our Customers Are Saying About Us
“The portions are hearty, the prices are fair, and the service is always filled with heart. We’re proud to be the go-to spot for anyone searching for southern-style food near Roanoke, VA or soul food near Smith Mountain Lake. Unlike chain restaurants, Mama Sarah’s delivers a truly personal experience. As one customer put it: ‘You walk in a stranger and walk out family.’”
– Foodies & Friends
“Our team knows many of our guests by name, and it’s not uncommon for people to stop in just to say hi to Brad and Barbara. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, we promise you’ll feel like you belong. Don’t just take our word for it: ‘Best cheeseburger in town!!!’”
– Bridgett C.
“The catfish is so good, I’ve never tried anything else!”
– Jeff J.
“From the moment we walked in, we were greeted like family.”
– Penny M.
Looking for soul food near me, fried catfish near Harvester Music Venue, or best burgers in Rocky Mount VA?
You’ll find them all at Mama Sarah’s. Our popular items include the 6oz hamburger steak, hot smoke sausage combo, and our two hot dog plate—served hot, fresh, and always with a smile.
Whether you’re a Smith Mountain Lake weekender, a Roanoke County local, or visiting Rocky Mount for a Harvester concert, Mama Sarah’s is a place where you’ll always feel Welcome.