Now Blacksburg’s hotspot for fresh and tasty seafood and vegetarian cuisine, the restaurant was originally opened by Jan Gillie as a modest ice-cream shop in 1974. The shop thrived in its first year, so Jan made the executive decision to diversify, adding soup and bread to the menu. As one of the few restaurants in the area to offer soup and bread, business flourished.
Ranae Gillie joined the team in the 80s, bringing a fresh set of eyes and brand new additions to the menu. With a commitment to using only the purest and freshest ingredients, the team designed the first version of the menu that would last for almost four more decades featuring new takes on seafood and vegetarian cooking.
General manager Anna Rose explains that downtown Blacksburg is a home base for many people who grew up in the area. Employee of Gillie’s for four years, she couldn’t stay away from small town comforts of Blacksburg, Va. Now, she works hard to keep Gillie’s clean and efficiently run. “I love how fast-paced my job is,” she said.
A Blacksburg staple, a football game day brings mixed emotions for downtown restaurant owners. Lots of business means a lot of work. “Time runs together on game days. We have some really long, busy days,” explains Rose.
Gillie’s offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a wide selection of options for each meal. Most popular and a favorite of Rose is the “Gillie’s Special,” a plate stacked with eggs, potatoes, salsa and cheese, served with your choice of biscuit or toast. “It’s a lot of food,” exclaims Rose. “I would eat the breakfast all day if I could.” She also recommends the frittata, an open-faced omelette with a variety of veggies, black olives, artichokes and balsamic vinaigrette.
Catering is offered for larger parties. Gillie’s catering program collaborates with Bollo’s Cafe and Bakery right down the road.
With appetizing gluten-free and vegan options, no matter your taste or your restrictions, you are sure to find something to your liking. Beyond mouthwatering dishes, the small shop offers a welcoming and cozy vibe to all who enter. “Very few restaurants have been here as long as we have been here,” says Rose. “Gillie’s is Blacksburg’s best-kept secret.” This homelike charm and the warm treatment offered by the staff makes it tough to get up and leave after a delicious meal.
“I’m not even a vegetarian or vegan, but I’m always in the mood for a breakfast from Gillie’s. Their service is fantastic and the food can’t be beaten!”
-Tina Schneider, Virginia Tech student