After more than three unforgettable decades in the heart of downtown Roanoke, Awful Arthur’s Seafood Company has announced it will close its iconic downtown location for good. Known for its raw bar, seafood platters, and unshakably loyal customer base, the restaurant posted the bittersweet news on Facebook earlier today:
“We’ve been honored to be a part of the Downtown Roanoke restaurant scene for over 3 decades,” the statement read. “But with the always changing industry, and the need to focus on ever growing areas around this wonderful city, we’ve made the tough decision to close the doors at Awful Arthur’s Downtown Roanoke forever.”
Their last day of service will be this Sunday, and the post warmly invites patrons to stop by one last time to “share a beer or a memory.”
A Staple in Roanoke’s Downtown Revival
Awful Arthur’s first opened its doors on Market Street over 30 years ago, becoming one of the original seafood spots in Roanoke and an anchor in downtown’s revitalization. The restaurant blended a casual coastal vibe with classic southern hospitality, quickly becoming a go-to for raw oysters, cold beer, and a welcoming atmosphere.
For many locals, it wasn’t just a place to grab a bite—it was where first dates happened, friendships grew, and regulars became like family.
“This place was part of my 20s,” one longtime customer commented on Facebook. “Sad to see it go, but grateful for all the memories. Cheers to the crew and all the good times.”
The Industry Has Changed
The announcement referenced the rapidly shifting restaurant landscape, where rising costs, post-pandemic recovery, staffing challenges, and increased competition have led many long-standing establishments to reevaluate their locations and business models.
While the downtown location will close, it appears Awful Arthur’s isn’t disappearing entirely. The message hints at a shift in focus toward “ever growing areas around this wonderful city,” possibly indicating that other Awful Arthur’s locations—such as the one in Salem or other regional spots—will remain active.
Community Response
Reactions across social media have been pouring in all day. Some are nostalgic, others frustrated that another local mainstay is disappearing from the downtown Roanoke map.
“Downtown just won’t be the same without Awful’s,” wrote another commenter. “That place was our go-to after work. Truly the end of an era.”
“It’s places like this that gave Roanoke its charm. Sad to see yet another one go,” someone else wrote, echoing the sentiments of many who’ve seen a number of long-loved local establishments vanish in recent years.
One Last Round
As the countdown begins toward Sunday’s final service, the team behind Awful Arthur’s is focusing on gratitude.
“Thank you for 30 amazing years,” their message ends. “We’d love nothing more than to spend the rest of the week with YOU—our loyal customers, friends, and Awfuls family who’ve made the last three decades unforgettable!”
Roanokers still have a few days left to stop by, toast to a restaurant that served up memories with every plate, and say goodbye to a downtown legend.