Eating fast food is great on the fly, but every once in awhile we all crave that sit down experience. While we are small, Rocky Mount offers a good selection of local food for those of us that want something different than a chain. The list below is decided from 3 major factors: quality of food, accessibility, and most importantly, how well it reflects the local Rocky Mount feel. Here is Media Office’s list of the top 10 local restaurants in Rocky Mount.

10. Brian’s Cheesesteaks: For a welcoming 50’s era environment, head over to Brian’s for all the classics. From A+ chicken tenders to the area’s best cheesesteak, Brian’s is a go-to for anyone looking to stay in their comfort zone. Don’t forget the free ice cream at the end of your meal!

9. Hing Ta: Located conveniently on 301, this Chinese buffet is a classic if you’re craving something more than takeout. For the best sesame chicken in the area, Hing Ta is the place to go.

8. Pitstop Shoppe: Since it’s open in 2011, Pitstop has been a wonderful addition to the Rocky Mount area. Located in arguably the best area for local businesses in Rocky Mount, Westridge, this froyo turned grill has gotten lots of customers from surrounding neighborhoods. Owned and operated by RMA’s very own Ward family, we are very thankful for this versatile hangout spot.

7. Milton and Mile’s: This innovative restaurant located inside the Imperial Centre has been serving quality sandwiches, salads, and cookies to our community for a few years now. Perhaps the most important part of their business is pulling in other local businesses so they can sell and incorporate their products into their menu. The atmosphere is inviting and the food is of great quality (something that can be hard to find).

6. Prime Smokehouse: This more sophisticated take on Southern comfort food will have you coming back time and time again. As one of a couple local restaurants downtown, Prim is bringing life back into this area of Rocky Mount. Their cornbread is incredible and they have some of the best crab cakes around. Next time you’re in the area, be sure to try Prime Smokehouse out.

5. El Tapatio: El Tap. THE Rocky Mount Mexican restaurant. Do you go for the guacamole cart, the queso, or the grilled chicken and rice? Whatever you like, everyone can agree that El Tap is the best Mexican restaurant in the area.

4. Lou Reda’s: Lou’s has been coined as one of the nicer restaurants in our area, and for good reason. Their menu offers a lot of diversity and you’re always guaranteed to see someone you know while you’re there. Lou’s has become a first choice restaurant for Rocky Mount citizens of all ages looking for something a little on the nicer side for our area.

3. Highway Diner: Right off the highway sits a Rocky Mount classic, Highway Diner. Whether it’s the all-day breakfast, great service, or welcoming atmosphere that keeps you coming back every time, Highway Diner is a local staple.

2. Westridge Grill: Every town needs a local sports bar. Westridge Grill is Rocky Mount’s go-to place for wings on the day of the big game. While many people make the mistake of heading straight for Buffalo Wild Wings, Westridge Grill is the better option. Due to Rocky Mount high school jerseys hanging all over the walls, local businesses’ logos on the tables, and friendly faces everywhere you turn, Westridge puts a personal spin on everything they do. Because it isn’t a chain, it is far cheaper than its commercial competitors. Next time you’re looking for a place to hang out and watch the games and eat a good meal, Westridge Grill should be at the top of your list.

1.Central: What would Rocky Mount be without Central Cafe? Whenever you walk into this Rocky Mount staple, you are sure to be greeted by a “hey baby” when the waitress comes to take your order. The familiarity and character in this little burger joint pushed it to the top of our list. A burger “all the way” and a red hot dog are just a few things that keep regulars coming back time after time. Rocky Mount just wouldn’t be the same without Central sitting on the corner in downtown.