From the Publishers: A Guide Worth Savoring
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Co-publisher Andie Gibson and husband Chris (front) with buddies George and Jen Chaconas enjoy one of Portside Grill & Bar’s ‘s signature drinks, the “Painkiller.”
If last year’s inaugural Dining Guide taught us anything, it’s this: Smith Mountain Lake has a serious appetite for great food and local flavor.
From restaurant counters to boat docks to inboxes and social feeds, we heard it again and again. People were using the guide, sharing it and coming back for seconds.
So this year, we’ve served up something even better.
The 2026 SML Dining Guide is bigger, more comprehensive and packed with even more of the insider knowledge you’ve come to expect from those of us who live, work and dine here daily.
Whether you’re in the mood for a laid-back lakeside lunch, a sunset dinner on the water or a quick bite between adventures, this guide is designed to help you find exactly what hits the spot.
One of the most requested features is back and better than ever: the maps. You’ll find a complete directory map of restaurants around the lake, along with our dedicated Waterfront Dining Guide map to help you navigate by boat and discover those can’t-miss spots on the water.
And when you’re on the go, everything in this print edition lives online, too. Our fully updated digital Dining Guide puts menus, locations and inspiration right at your fingertips whenever a craving strikes.
This is your invitation to dig in, try something new and savor the incredible culinary scene that continues to grow right here at Smith Mountain Lake.
Bon appétit,
Andie Gibson & Jennifer Church
Publishers
Andie & Jennifer
Publishers
Smith Mountain Lake Insiders’ Guide
Find out more about us and our love of Smith Mountain Lake, gleaned over more than 30 years of living here.
