Smith Mountain Lake Restaurant News (2026)

At Smith Mountain Lake, food and drink options are always evolving, and as locals who keep a close eye on what’s happening around the lake, we’re sharing the latest restaurant news and happenings.

From exciting new openings and fresh concepts to a few bittersweet farewells, here’s what you need to know.

Opened mid-season last year at Goodhue Boat Company, Blackwater, Coasters brings new energy to the space formerly occupied by Mexico Viejo. Owned by Ryan and Jaclyn Walters, the team behind lake favorite Drifter’s, this laid-back spot offers both indoor and outdoor seating with plenty of dock space for easy boat access. The menu leans into coastal-inspired fare like conch fritters, lobster nachos, fish tacos and jumbo shrimp alongside burgers, sandwiches and shareable apps. A full bar with creative cocktails rounds out the experience.

Located just north of Bridgewater Plaza, La Casa Toscana brings a fresh take on Italian dining to a familiar space, formerly home to Tuscan Tavern and later Tony & Friends. The restaurant serves classic dishes like house-made pastas, seafood and steak in an upscale, inviting setting. For a more casual experience, a separate bar area with TVs offers a great spot to catch the game while enjoying tasty bites.

Located at Westlake Corner, Pollo Tropiko brings bold, Latin-inspired flavor to one of the lake’s busiest hubs. The family-run spot is known for its warm, friendly service, making every visit feel welcoming. The menu centers around marinated, flame-grilled chicken paired with fresh sides like rice, beans and plantains, all served in a fast-casual setting that makes it easy to grab and go or enjoy a quick meal indoors or out. It’s a flavorful, no-fuss option that adds something a little different to the SML dining mix.

A welcome addition on the south side of the lake, where dining options are a bit more limited, The Little Mule Café on Virginia 40 in Penhook has quickly become a go-to for locals. This cozy, family-run spot serves up breakfast and lunch favorites, from hearty wraps and specialty coffees to subs, burgers and wings. They’ve also begun offering Sunday supper with a different meal served each week in limited quantities that often sell out.

Mission House Coffee, a popular roaster with three locations in Lynchburg, has taken over the space inside EastLake Community Church formerly occupied by SML Coffee House. Currently open Sundays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. to both church members and the public, Mission Coffee plans to expand to weekday hours in the near future. SML Coffee House continues to thrive at its Bridgewater Plaza location.

Also serving the south side of the lake, Nick’s Penhook General Store blends small-town charm with a convenient spot to grab a bite and unwind. Owned by Nick Jamison, this laid-back stop offers a simple, satisfying menu of burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs and pizza, along with a full bar that makes it a bit more than your typical general store. Add in Homestead Creamery ice cream and it’s an inviting place to swing by, whether you’re fueling up for the day or cooling off with a treat.

Primarily based in Union Hall on the south side of the lake, Pauleywood Pizza is a mobile eatery that has become a familiar favorite at in-season events like the concert series at The Coves Amphitheater. Each 10-inch pizza is baked to order in an Italian wood-fired oven, with house-made dough and fresh, quality ingredients at the heart of every pie.

Bringing a fresh, global flavor to the lake, Hado’s is a mobile food trailer that serves up made-from-scratch Middle Eastern favorites with a focus on traditional Lebanese recipes. Expect dishes like shawarma, wraps and flavorful sides, offering something a little different for those looking to mix up their SML dining routine.

Opened in 2025 to rave reviews, Curbside Coffees & Cravings is a Downtown Moneta food trailer that serves specialty coffee drinks, refreshing teas and sweet treats alongside grilled sandwiches and wraps. Customers praise the quality and friendly service. At press time, the business was listed for sale, with hopes a new owner will carry on this popular spot.

Wind Vineyards continues to build momentum at its location just north of Bridgewater Plaza, where concerts and events over the past two years have created a vibrant gathering spot. Owners Tyler and Ashley Wind are now expanding the experience with a tasting room, restaurant and events space expected to open mid-to-late summer.

Smith Mountain Lake Restaurant Closings and Changes

Even as new spots continue to pop up around the lake, a few longtime favorites have quietly closed their doors, including My Way Bakery at Westlake Corner. Marking the end of an era for a familiar name, Hickory Hill Vineyards wrapped up nearly 25 years in Bedford County as its owners retired in 2025.

Bottles & Bites at Mariners Landing will not reopen for the 2026 season, as owner Tiffany Silva shifts her focus to enhancing the experience at her other resort venues, Tiff’s Lakefront and Bruno’s Clubhouse Bistro. Much of what guests loved about Bottles & Bites — live music, relaxed outdoor seating, casual drinks and shareable bites — will continue at these sister venues, with popular live music and game nights held on the patios at both Tiff’s and Bruno’s.