The Mason Jar

171 Hickory Hills Shopping Center, Hillsville, VA

Hours

Open Tuesday & Wednesday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Thursday 11 a.m. - 12 a.m.

Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Sunday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Closed Monday

About

At The Mason Jar in Hillsville, you'll discover Chesapeake Bay flavors and classic Southern fare. Founded by father-son duo Mark and Matt Crook, the restaurant opened in 2015 to offer the Virginia High Country a taste of their Maryland roots. 

The Mason Jar is essentially a sports bar with several flat-screen TVs. However, its vibe and layout are more like a family restaurant. This aspect appeals to families looking for quality food and sports fans who want to watch their team play.

What makes The Mason Jar unique is its menu. While most sports bars only feature pub fare, this eatery goes above and beyond by offering entrees like ribeye steak, artisan sandwiches and salads, and naturally juicy burgers.

When your Blue Ridge Parkway vacation calls for homestyle eats in a family-friendly environment where cold brews and teas are served in a mason jar, add The Mason Jar to your itinerary.

Vibe

The restaurant is in a strip mall, so its curb appeal may not be, well, appealing. But when you step inside, you'll be relieved at the homey and warm atmosphere that makes The Mason Jar a popular dining spot.

You'll spy shelves lined with vintage Mason jars and pictures on the wooden walls telling stories of the area. The bar area is separate from the dining space, where booths and tables fill the area. The setting is perfect for family gatherings, casual lunches, or dinners to reflect on exploring the Jackson Ferry Shot Tower.

Along with the homey ambiance is the welcoming staff offering heaping servings of Southern hospitality. Here, everyone feels welcomed and appreciated, which adds to the satisfaction of dining on homestyle cooking.

The Mason Jar: Menu & Drinks

Let's explore the food offered at The Mason Jar in more detail. As mentioned, the vast menu offers more than pub fare, which will be our focus.

Start with mussels for a taste of the Chesapeake Bay deep in the heart of Blue Ridge Parkway country. These gems from the sea are sautéed in bacon, white wine, and caper cream sauce for a rich and delicious flavor.

The Marylander is a sandwich filled with flavors and tastes of the Chesapeake Bay. This mouth-watering handheld features the restaurant's signature jumbo lump crab cake with lettuce and sliced tomato on a brioche bun. Seasoned fries complement the sandwich, making it a popular choice.

The Rib Eye is a 12oz USDA standout grilled to your liking and served with dinner rolls and honey butter. The entree comes with two sides, making it a hearty choice after a day of hiking at New River Trail State Park.

If you're not a fan of Chesapeake Bay cuisine, the menu has Southern staples like fried chicken and waffles, specialty burgers, and artisan sandwiches. And there's something for everyone with the various beers, cocktails, soft drinks, and tea.

Be sure to visit The Mason Jar on your Virginia getaway, where you'll find savory fare and genuine Southern Hospitality.

Local Tips

  • The Kiddo's Menu makes The Mason Jar family-friendly.
  • Check the specials board for deals not listed on the menu.
  • Arrive early to beat the crowds since they don't take reservations.
  • Parties of 6 or more will have a 20% gratuity added to their bill.
  • Save room for dessert like the Bourbon Pecan Pie!

Location

171 Hickory Hills Shopping Center, Hillsville, VA

Frequently Asked Questions

If you only have one day to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway, we have a top-notch recommendation for you: Primland Resort and Spa. This isn’t just an ordinary resort; it’s a destination that has been carefully curated to offer an unparalleled experience, as evidenced by its impressive 4.8-star Google rating.

Primland Resort and Spa is located right in the heart of the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s not just about the location, though; it’s about the experience. From the moment you step foot onto the property, you’re enveloped in a blend of rustic charm and refined luxury that makes for an unforgettable visit.

The resort offers a wide array of activities tailored to suit all interests and age groups. For the golf enthusiasts, there’s the award-winning Highland Course, ranked as the #1 course in Virginia by Golf Digest. For the nature lovers, there are horseback riding and ATV tours that let you explore the beautiful surroundings in a fun and engaging manner.

But perhaps what truly sets Primland apart is its commitment to wellness. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul—because your well-being is a priority here. Imagine ending your day with a soothing massage or a peaceful yoga session under the stars at their observatory.

And let’s not forget about the culinary delights. With multiple eateries serving up a variety of dishes made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, your taste buds are in for a treat.
So, if you’re looking for a one-day itinerary that seamlessly combines adventure, relaxation, and gastronomic delights, Primland Resort and Spa is the place to be. Don’t just take our word for it—we invite you to experience it for yourself.

The New River Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. According to sources like dcr.virginia.gov, traillink.com, and roadslesstraveled.us, the trail spans an impressive 57.5 miles, starting from E Main St/VA 99 & Xaloy Way in Pulaski and ending at T George Vaughan Jr Ave in Galax.

This trail isn’t just about distance, though. It’s about the journey. As you embark on this trail, you’ll find yourself meandering through four counties and the city of Galax, as per blueridgeparkway.org. The trail parallels the historic New River for 39 scenic miles, offering a unique blend of forested mountains and pastoral valleys that create a visual feast for the eyes.

But the benefits of this trail extend beyond its stunning landscapes. The New River Trail State Park is a hub of activities, with options for biking, hiking, and camping, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The changing of the leaves along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking event that attracts countless visitors each year. This natural spectacle begins at the highest elevations in late September, soon after the first calendar days of fall.

The timing and intensity of the color change can differ from year to year and are affected by varying factors such as temperature and rainfall. However, the general pattern is that leaves change color at higher, cooler elevations first. The elevation along the Parkway ranges from over 6,000 feet at Richland Balsam in North Carolina down to just 649 feet near James River in Virginia.

This beautiful autumn leaf show typically starts in early October in the highest elevations above 5,000 feet and gradually descends to lower elevations by late October or early November. In fact the Farmers Almanac, projects peak fall color for the inland portion of Virginia to occur between October 12-28.

So, if you’re planning a trip to witness the stunning fall colors of the Blue Ridge Parkway, aim for these dates. But remember, the beauty of nature is unpredictable and can surprise you at any time. So, pack your camera and hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of autumn on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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