Unlocking the Potential of 2837 Scruggs for Restaurants & Bars

Jun 4

Written By Pete Bryant (Southern Lights)

Thinking of opening a restaurant or bar near Smith Mountain Lake?

Then you need to take a serious look at 2837 Scruggs Rd. This location isn’t just available—it’s positioned for success. With prime visibility, customizable space, and a growing community of locals and visitors, this property checks all the right boxes.

1. Location That Sells Itself

Located directly on Scruggs Rd (Route 616)—the main corridor in and out of Westlake—this commercial space benefits from:

High daily vehicle traffic
Direct exposure to lake visitors and full-time residents
Easy access and great signage potential

2. Space to Build Your Vision

No two restaurants or bars should look the same—and this space gets that. With custom buildouts available, you can design:

An open-concept dining room
A cozy bar and lounge
Indoor-outdoor flow for seasonal dining

3. A Market That’s Hungry for More

Smith Mountain Lake continues to grow, and so does the demand for fresh, fun dining and entertainment. Whether you’re serving elevated comfort food or hand-crafted cocktails, locals and tourists are ready to show up and support something new.

Why it matters:

Year-round residents = steady business
Summer lake crowds = boosted revenue
Limited competition = room to stand out

4. Outdoor Space = Big Vibes

People at the lake love being outside. If your concept includes:

A patio or rooftop bar
Live music nights
Firepits, games, or string lights

…this location can accommodate it. Outdoor entertainment adds a lifestyle component that turns customers into regulars.

5. A Fresh Start in a Growing Market

This isn’t just another retail space. 2837 Scruggs Rd is a new development in a high-growth area. As new residents move in and foot traffic increases, early tenants will become the cornerstone of what’s next at Smith Mountain Lake.

You could be one of them.

Let’s Talk About Your Concept

We’re looking for visionaries ready to bring something new to the lake. Whether it’s brunch by the water, a sports bar with local brews, or a fine dining destination—2837 Scruggs Rd could be your launchpad.

📍 Schedule a private tour today and see what’s possible.

Pete Bryant (Southern Lights)