The Roanoker January/February 2024 - 40

hidden gems
Sticks and Spoons and The Lazy Bulldog, this
Asian fusion restaurant is not to be missed. The
ramen burger is on point, and the potstickers
are to die for.
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
If you enjoy playing vintage video games, check
out Game Junkies. " You can find stuff there
that you don't see anywhere else, " says Travis
Grubb. The store stocks video games and consoles
from the 80s to today, many of which are
collectible, according to store owner Stephen
Chocklett. They have two Roanoke locations;
the Williamson Road store is the largest.
On the outskirts of downtown Roanoke,
Morningside Park
Visit Gallery 202 while you're downtown,
says Bonnie Chavez - you'll have to look up
to find it. The gallery is located on the second
floor of the 202 building. After climbing a set
of stairs, you'll find corridors of some pretty
incredible artwork. The gallery's entrance is to
the right of 202 Social House, which serves
one of the best ribeyes in town. Pop into
the rear of the Social House to find a secret
speakeasy.
Those looking to try their hand at a new skill
should call The Studio School, according to
Mark Shepheard. Located at Towers Shopping
Center, this art school holds classes for both
children and adults. Students can choose from
a variety of classes ranging from one day workshops
to eight-week long sessions, all taught by
some of the area's best artists.
NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
The Laughing Bull opened in the Market
Building last fall. A collaboration between
you'll find 5 Points Music Sanctuary. The
venue is located in a nearly 100-year-old building
and hosts live music several nights a week.
This place isn't just a music venue - it is also a
non-profit advocating for hearing loss.
Folks who are into vinyl tunes should head
over to Sidecar at 10 p.m. most Saturday
nights for the Late Night Vinyl and Vibes
events. Boogieburg Recordings hosts the
evenings with the Star City Soul Club, while
Sidecar bartenders serve up fine cocktails to set
the mood. Expect to hear soul, funk, disco, reggae
and afrobeat, among other genres, according
to John Gaskins.
FIT AND FAB
Cirqulation teaches aerial yoga and circus arts
in downtown Roanoke. The studio's students
Roanoke Mountain
Adventures
often call the classes a hidden gem, according
to owner Lynsey Wyatt. Her goal is to create
a radically inclusive space. Check it out - you
might find your fitness home.
For those who like to keep their feet on the
ground, the Roanoke Public libraries offer free
fitness classes each week. You can often find
zumba and yoga, as well as several other offerings.
Check out the library's main website for
a listing of all their activities.
GET CONNECTED
If fitness isn't your cup of tea, there are lots of
other ways to find " your people. " The Knittin'
Coop in Salem isn't just a fiber arts store, says
Carrie Cox. Owner Robin Ferguson schedules
monthly gatherings and retreats for knitters
and crocheters. " She's just wonderful, " Cox says.
There are places to work, even if you work
remotely. Check out The Collective and The
Co-Lab. Find a coffee shop to cozy up and
meet new people.
The business scene is supportive and contains
thriving entrepreneur networks and
resources. From socials to happy hours, from
bike rides to roller skating, comedy shows to
line dancing, there's always something to do.
That's the best thing about the city -
wonderful people are out and about. Swing
by West Station on any given night to find a
gathering at Big Lick Brewing, Golden Cactus
or Blade Gaming. Grab a buffalo chicken
sammy from FoodHutRke and say hi to someone
new while you're there. I
Roanoke Pinball
Museum
40
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The Roanoker January/February 2024

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