CONTENTS NOV E MB E R/ DE C E MB E R 2 018 | VOL XLV | NU M B E R 1 1 / 1 2 65 42 2019 DINING AWARDS SEE THE WINNERS OF OUR BIGGEST READER POLL EVER! 48 42. Our readers have spoken on the best places, meals and more. Compiled by Liz Long, Kasey Smith and Jeff Wood FESTIVE RECIPES DREAM JOB MIRACLES 80. These recipes are sure to impress guests as you gather 'round the family table. by Becky Ellis 32. Meet a few locals who are following their bliss when it comes to their new careers. by Dan Smith 10 EDITOR'S LETTER 12 LUNCH WITH... 14 A DAY IN.... 16 THE GIST! 22 STRANGE DAYS OF ROANOKE 24 #ROANOKELOVE 36 EVENTS CALENDAR 106 THEN & NOW NEW FACES OF FARMING GIVING BACK GRAB AND GO LASTING MEMORIES 65. Young farmers are putting down roots in Roanoke. by Christina Nifong IN EVERY ISSUE 70. Let these two restaurants help you out with meals during the busy holiday season. by Shari Dragovich AN UNUSUAL QUEST 76. How a group of friends went on the hunt for the greatest sandwiches in town. by Chris Link 88. Nonprofit organizations are a great way to give back. by Jennifer Fenrich 90. One homeowner endured tragedy and found memories in her kitchen renovation. by Carol Alexander SPECIAL SECTIONS: FOODIE PROFILES 62. Learn more about these award-winning establishments. GIFT GUIDE 84. Local businesses have great gifts for family, friends and maybe even a little something special for yourself. ON THE COVER: John Park shot this image of a delicious steak dinner at Frankie Rowland's Steakhouse, winner of three dining awards. TOP 10 BLOG POSTS... READ ON! Check out page 18 for a list of 2018's Top 10 Blog Posts on The Roanoker.com. YOU COULD WIN Want a chance to win great prizes? Visit TheRoanoker.com/Contests for a list of current and upcoming contests for tickets to great local performances, festivals and more. ✪ Check out our new and improved website at TheRoanoker.com 4 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 TheRoanoker.com PAGE 42: JOHN PARK / PAGE 65: BETTY CLICKER PHOTOGRAPHY / PAGE 90: BOB SOWDER 90http://www.TheRoanoker.com/Contests http://www.Roanoker.com http://www.TheRoanoker.com http://www.TheRoanoker.com