What's better than a good ole fashioned train ride through the beautiful hills of Virginia? Not much, unless you happen to find a train-themed restaurant in the heart of the Roanoke Valley. Luckily for us, such a place exists. The Great 611 Steak Company, a delightful train-themed restaurant in Virginia, is a local spot that offers both history and delicious food. All aboard!

As the Great 611 Steak Company claims on their website, this one-of-a-kind restaurant in Roanoke was “dreamed from steam.” In other words, it was started to commemorate the Great 611 Locomotive.

Many long-time residents of Roanoke, and nearby Virginia residents, will have fond memories of this beautiful train.

Because this particular engine was a home-built, it was something of a legend in the Roanoke area.

From 1950 until its retirement in 1994, the locomotive meandered through the coal fields and mountains of the scenic Roanoke Valley. This steam engine would become one of the most iconic train hubs in the state.

The restaurant has modeled itself after two features of the beloved Great 611: dependability and high-quality. That’s exactly what you’ll find at this mouthwatering steak company.

Decorating the space are train-themed decor, such as historical artifacts and other rail memorabilia. The walls are devoted to the history of the rail and its influence on the development of Roanoke.

While train travel may be the theme of the restaurant, the steaks are the main attraction at this local favorite. The fine meat is hand-cut daily to ensure prime quality and taste. In addition to delicious steaks, you’ll also find tasty classics such as burgers, fried chicken, and barbecue.

Visitors will have fun selecting something from the menu, which perhaps unsurprisingly, is also train inspired. Entree names include The Train Wreck, The Pullman, and The Smokestack. All come with your choice of a buffet salad with over 50 options.

Don't forget the rolls! These handmade yeast rolls are some of the softest and most delicious you'll ever taste.

Whether you've got a hankering for a delicious prime rib or happen to be curious about the development of the Great 611 Locomotive, this Roanoke steakhouse is the place to visit.

Click here for the official website of The Great 611 Steakhouse Company. Or, go here for Facebook.

Have you visited this delightful train-themed restaurant in Virginia, or do you have any memories of the train itself? Let us know in the comments! If you're on the hunt for a really unique restaurant in Virginia, check out Hunter's Head Tavern in Upperville.