In an inconspicuous spot on North Main Street sits a greasy spoon restaurant called Joe’s Diner. Travis Crawford has owned this gem since 2006 and has worked in restaurants for his entire life. Joe’s is known for its fast service and southern style breakfast and is one of the best-kept secrets in Blacksburg.
Upon entering Joe’s the first thing you will notice is the walls, adorned with old photos of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech sports memorabilia. The photos remind customers of simpler times, when family restaurants like Joe’s ruled the food industry. Pictures of basketball coach Buzz Williams above one particular booth show why this restaurant is special. Williams sits in this booth every time he comes in to order his “usual.”
Crawford’s ethos for Joe’s is straightforward, “do it well and do it quick.” He keeps the menu simple and pumps out delicious comfort food like biscuits and gravy, hash browns, and pancakes. However, while Joe’s may seem very calm and quiet, Crawford says there is “no typical day.” There are times when the place is almost empty, and then a half hour later there are 30 to 40 people lined up at the door.
What Crawford loves most about his beloved diner are his customers. His favorite part of the job is meeting new people. He enjoys making his customers happy and having them return and become regulars. He knows the orders of his regulars and where they tend to sit. Crawford can even name every student-athlete that has come through his door.
While Joe’s Diner may not get much press, it is genuinely one of the best breakfast places in Blacksburg. Joe’s matches great service with great food and gets you out the door quick. When you go you’ll see Travis with a smile on his face, ready to give you a fantastic dining experience.
“The atmosphere at Joe’s is awesome. Just what I need on Sunday mornings.”
-Calvin Graves, Virginia Tech student