Mac and Bob's is a restaurant in Salem, Virginia, serving American cuisine with a focus on its famous calzones, Bostonzones, wings, steaks, seafood, sandwiches, and pasta dishes. Known for its extensive menu and over 80 craft beers on tap, including many local Virginia brews, the restaurant welcomes guests for lunch, dinner, and late-night dining seven days a week. It caters to a broad community, including locals, Roanoke College students, and visitors from nearby areas such as downtown Roanoke, which lies about a 15-minute drive away. With a 4.4-star rating from over 3,000 reviews, Mac and Bob's is consistently praised for its food quality, service, and lively atmosphere.
Since opening in 1980, Mac and Bob's has evolved from a small 10-stool pub into a 330-seat dining destination with a bustling 80-tap bar and an inviting patio. The restaurant has become a cultural fixture in Salem, hosting traditions like Alumni Weekend, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations with themed menus, and regular gatherings for high school and college reunions. It has earned recognition as Restaurant of the Year in the State of Virginia by the Virginia Restaurant Lodging Travel Association and was named Small Business of the Year by the Roanoke Regional Chamber. The establishment gained national attention after being featured on The Today Show and was saved through community support during a challenging period.
Located at 316 East Main Street, Mac and Bob's sits just a short walk from the Roanoke County Courthouse and Roanoke County Social Services, with the Fintel Library about a quarter-mile away. It is situated near major roads including South College Avenue and Thompson Memorial Drive, making it easily accessible from surrounding neighborhoods and commuter routes.
The restaurant is widely recognized for its consistent excellence, long-standing community presence, and deep roots in Salem’s history. Its reputation for exceptional food, dependable service, and strong local loyalty sets it apart as a standout in the regional dining scene.
Mac and Bob's remains a beloved gathering place where tradition, community, and great food come together in the heart of Salem.