I Want Seconds!

The Roanoke Rescue Mission is one of the most successful and respected organizations in the Roanoke Valley. They are the first name that comes to mind when people talk about charitable groups that support the community and provide for the needy. From a ministry standpoint, they serve as the blueprint for how to effectively use funds to make the greatest impact on people. Another great example of their stewardship and business sense is the decision to open a restaurant - 2nd Helpings Cafe.

2nd Helpings Cafe is only part of what the Rescue Mission offers at their property on Williamson Road. Along with the cafe, they also feature an art gallery and shop. The art gallery has some beautiful drawings, paintings, and photographs, with many of them focusing on the Roanoke Valley. The shop offers a variety of items, but I'd compare it to a nice Goodwill store. I especially liked the art gallery and would encourage anyone to check it out when stopping by the Cafe.

I was surprised at the size of the cafe. They offer patio seating out front, and also have a substantial dining area with booths and regular tables. The interior is full of light from the windows and other various lights, which gives the restaurant a warm, friendly vibe. You place your order at the counter and are then given a buzzer that goes off when your food is ready, similar to Panera.

2nd Helpings serves breakfast and lunch. I haven't been for breakfast but they appear to offer standard fare: bagels, eggs, bacon, sausage, muffins, toast, etc. However, they do have a large variety of bagels, which are also used for their lunch sandwiches. They have a number of different sandwiches and serve Boar's Head meats and cheeses. I had the Fourth Street Chicken (grilled chicken, bacon, swiss, romaine, & mango chutney) on an everything bagel and really liked it. The portion was VERY generous and the mango chutney really added a nice sweetness to the meat and cheese. The sandwich also came with a side of bagel chips. Nicole had a salad that she really loved and I've also heard very good things about the soups.

To make the meal even better, it's hard to beat the value. For a huge sandwich with a side of bagel chips, it cost $6. All the sandwiches are $6, salads $7, soups $3, and a variety of other things. And 100% of the restaurant's profits go toward the goal of the Rescue Mission: to provide shelter, food, and clothing for the homeless. A great place to eat for a great cause. 2nd Helpings is truly unique and shows why the Roanoke Rescue Mission continues to deserve the support of our community.