GeoffWBburg
Excellent buffet. 2nd Best "German" food we've ever had; check the menu. This was a special event, ... but it does speak to the ability of the chef.
Bobcat1950
Anyone that visits this area in SWV needs to visit the Draper mercantile. It used to be the old general store in Draper. It has been remodeled and looks fantastic with wonderful food and atmosphere. The Christmas decorations were awesome. Well worth your time to stop for a visit.
jhais28374
On a recent trip back from Kingsport, TN, I want to stop and check out the Draper Mercantile. The TV ads made it look interesting. When I got off the Interstate I followed the signs and drove right up to the front door. Was somewhat disappointed in what I found. I went in side and found it to be a nice restaurant which looked for like a Country General Store on the outside. Did not have lunch but looked at the gift area, which was not large in size. I don't think if I had not seen the TV ads I would have stopped to check this out. Some might find it interesting, but from the looks I would say it might be short lived.
mccourt49
Nice country restaurant in an old country store environment. Limited selection, but the food is excellent! I had the pimento cheese sandwich (when they tell you it's spicy, believe it) but can't wait to go back and try the chicken pot pie some of my friends had - they looked great!
DB22112
The minute you walk through the door you are greeted with southern hospitality. The atmosphere is relaxed sophistication and the food is first rate. There is an eclectic mix of local crafts and food to great wall art and groovy books and unique gifts. A must see when coming through SWVA!
soxys
On my drive cross-country I stopped here as I saw a sign on the highway for the Blue Plate Cafe. It took me a while to find it, but I wasn't disappointed. The only thing that appeared open in this small town, it's a cross between a restaurant, entertainment spot, and store. When I looked at the menu I thought it seemed boring. But when I ordered the salad I was delighted to find it was unlike anything I'd ever had! Very cutting-edge. I made my way around the store while waiting for my food and the woman working there was a peach to talk to. I bought a bunch of great (inexpensive) LOCAL gifts as well as a couple of local books, one of which I have already finished.
pmcm2008
It's the middle of no where Virginia and we are sitting outside on a pleasant end of summer evening listening to live blues music, sipping local wine and immensely enjoying our appetizers and entree while our dog dozes under my husband's chair. My husband had the coconut shrimp and I had the smoked trout appetizers. Both were fantastic. We split the grilled romaine salad entree; was not sure we'd enjoy grilled lettuce but it looked heavenly when our server brought it to the table and was perfect for a summer meal. The staff was friendly and efficient, prices were reasonable. If you are ever near this corner of southern Virginia you need to stop and enjoy a meal.
RUtraveller
I love the Merc! I go there every couple of weeks, sometimes for lunch, but most often for the "WineDown" Fridays that feature excellent live music. Another option is the excellent Sunday brunch buffett. I highly recommend the tomato burst salad, pimento cheese (grilled), and the BLT. They have excellent desserts aloing with ice cream from a local dairy (Homestead). A little bit of Key West in the mountains!
R1506PGkevinb
Immediately upon entering you see a beautifully restored old mercantile with crafts, books and art from local artisans for sale and smell the wonderful pastries from the bakery. Both lunch and dinner here were outstanding, and my wife bought several local wines and jams from the store. The adjacent cycling shop had several unique items, which my wife who is absolutely not a shopper had to get...which she only does if finding something truly unique.Worth your time to drive out of the way to experience!
bettyirene
Just a couple of miles from Interstate 81, exit 92, is The Draper Mercantile Trading Company. The building is over 125 years old and has housed a post office, library, several types of stores, a barber shop and blacksmith in its history. The barred window and post office boxes are still part of the building. Inside reminds one of an old country store in the modern age with paintings, many varied crafts and food goods for sale. They also serve breakfast, lunch (buffet), and dinner that is delicious. There is Wine Down Friday with guest musicians and varied entertainment on other nights (including comedy acts) and free Yoga classes. The staff is friendly and helpful. There is also The Junction that conducts various outdoor walking, biking, and boating tours and provides very helpful free information for diys. There is also a gift store with quality merchandise.The folks that own The Merc also own The New River Retreat which manages upscale lake rentals on Claytor Lake. We rented The Phoenix and had a great time.
sharona814
For a Friday night evening out listening to great music, having a great dinner and visiting with friends, this is a must-go place.The menu is simple but excellent. The atmosphere is welcoming and the staff are very friendly and helpful. If you are simply coming off the interstate or the New River Trail, this is a wonderful stop. It is simply the best thing going on in the area!
S_FamilyFLA
After getting stuck on the highway for awhile, we decided to look for a quaint little place to grab dinner. We found this hidden gem- thank God for smartphones- and we would highly recommend this for a lunch or dinner stop. We thought we would just be gettting typical sandwich/salad foods but, No! The dishes were full of wonderful quality, natural foods. Mostly organic so the cost is slightly higher but, was well worth it.
Greg5050
While staying at a cabin in the New River Valley my wife and I visited the Draper Mercantile for lunch. She had the Tuna Melt which was very good but I tried the Grilled Pimento Cheese sandwich which was amazing! The Pimento Cheese had a little kick to it and the fresh sourdough bread was perfect! The atmosphere was family friendly and fun. Our waiters Whitney and Emily were attentive and always smiling. We came back the next day for brunch and the biscuits and gravy were also great.
SusanM048
Based on a review in our local newspaper, my husband and I decided to hit the road for about an hour's road trip to check out the Mercantile and have lunch at the Blue Door Cafe. Turned out to be a good idea. Lunch was delicious -- we both had different sandwiches and then shared half of each. I tried the chicken salad - just the way I like it with cranberries and pecans. He had the club which was stacked high with turkey, ham and bacon. The sizes were exceptional -- potato salad and orzo salad. After our meal, we enjoyed exploring the mercantile with its vendors, produce, wine, etc. We will definitely plan a return visit -- Draper Valley will be beautiful in the springtime.
BeeBee623
We happened into this delightful "merchantile" the other day and had a delightful lunch. This old building has been refurbished to maintain the character, charm and aura of a time gone by. The eclectic collection of table and chairs, the blue mason jar chandelier, and antique little post office are just a few of the novelties that entertain your eyes while enjoying your meal.The mechantile features the works and wares of many local artists as well as the Blue Door Cafe that serves lunch, Sunday Brunch and Friday night dinner and music showcasing a variety of music stylings by musicians from the areaThe food was a bit upscale for the area and very pleasing to the pallette. I perused the Friday night menu and found it a bit pricey but a nice selection and remember it includes entertainment.We look forward to returning to experience the Sunday and Friday night faire.This is a welcomed addition to an area that has limited entertainment options.I would certainly encourage you to take the time to visit and enjoy.