On The Rox on 18th Street in Shockoe Bottom has good, cheap food. Cheap is a relative term, I know. But, if I can afford to frequent a place, I call it cheap. I appreciate restaurants that make me feel like someone is happy to see me when I walk in. Mike Pendergrast, chef/owner, makes people feel welcome at On the Rox. I also like restaurants where I can eat for $5 or less. On the Rox has several dishes that fit my lunch budget – especially for a late (after 4pm) lunch.
Between 4 and 7 PM the Angus Burger with fries is $4. I conducted a scientific poll and determined that the $4 burger is one of the best food deals in town. It’s a great burger. I also like the peas and basil with hummus (a $5 combination if you get it at happy hour), the oyster stew (just like my grandfather used to make) and the mussels.
More than once, I have skipped lunch at a normal time in order to be able to eat cheap, late lunch at On the Rox. But, even at regular prices, the food is a good buy. This isn’t standard freezer-to-deep-fryer bar food.
The Jameson is good here too.