ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – The corner of Campbell Ave. and Market St. in Downtown Roanoke is always buzzing. You’ll see people playing live music, walking to work, or grabbing a bite to eat. Soon, one more place will join that energy, taking over an empty space that’s been waiting for a second act.
Amy Dornton is the woman behind the transformation. She’s taking on the task of bringing the former Awful Arthur’s back to life, under a new name: The Haven.
“The Haven name was about a place to escape,” Dornton said. “Whatever that means for you. Whether that is social, good food, taking some time out to have a date night, which we don’t always get with busy lives and especially if you have children.”
Dornton is no stranger to the area. Growing up in the Roanoke Valley, she knows the legacy this location holds.
“When you think about the former Awful Arthur’s,” Dornton said, “that was a strong brand. It was in this building for over 30 years. The Awful Arthur’s brand has been outside of the Roanoke area as well as inside the Roanoke area. This restaurant will be quite different.”
While it’ll look and feel different, Amy’s working alongside the original owners to keep some of the charm.
The outside of the building will still have that familiar, historic look, but step inside where the sawdust is flying and the paint is mixing, and you’ll see some big changes.
“There’s a lot of things happening here,” Dornton said. “We’ve got a new bar top going in today. So, small things but hoping they make a big difference.”
For Dornton, this space is about having a family-friendly atmosphere, not a nightlife spot.
As far as the food, think American classics.
“For us,” Dornton said, “this is more about having a lunch space where those that work downtown have a different selection to choose from, another option. But also, we are really going to be focused on sports. We will have the pool tables; that has really been a hot topic.”
There still is a lot of work that needs to be before they are ready to welcome you in. Dornton is hoping to open by the end of this year.
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Dining and Cooking