Most people that eat out for lunch in Downtown Roanoke go to the places that are most convenient to them. Normally, I would put myself in that crowd. I tend to eat at the restaurants around the market area because those are conveniently located near my office. However, there are other restaurants in the downtown area making it worth walking a few blocks, such as Blue 5.

I would say Blue 5 is one of the cooler restaurants in the Roanoke Valley. It almost feels like a local version of a House of Blues restaurant without the touristy feel. They have a great bar with a huge craft beer selection and they are known for having great live music. Also, there are multiple dining areas, including a private room that can be reserved for banquets, parties, etc. The decorations in the restaurant are awesome, with guitars and various memorabilia hanging on the walls. 

I’ve been to Blue 5 two different times, and I thought the food was good on both occasions. We went last week for lunch and I had the crab cake sandwich and Cajun fries. The sandwich features a crab cake, topped with arugula, pickled onions, & stone ground mustard aioli on a Kaiser bun. The crab cake was good, with a nice amount of crabmeat and I liked the peppery flavor from the arugula. Also, the pickled onions were a nice change from a raw onion that often goes on a sandwich. I think a slice of tomato would be a nice addition to this sandwich, but I’m not the one putting the menu together. The Cajun fries were good, but I would probably try a different side next time for some more variety. For lunch, the sandwich and fries were $9.00, which is comparable to most places serving lunch downtown.

My dad and I both agreed we should go to Blue 5 more often. The atmosphere is cool, the service is consistently good, and the menu offers a nice selection with quality dishes. I’d also really like to try dinner there sometime. I’ve heard great things about the BBQ ribs and the Shrimp & Grits. Also, the Twin Pork BBQ Biscuits sounds like a genius idea. All this to say, I feel like my trips to Blue 5 are just beginning. 

Information:
Blue 5 Restaurant
312 2nd Street SW, Roanoke, VA 24011
540.904.5338
www.blue5restaurant.com