A memorable motorcycle-road destination with strong pizza, wings, self-pour drinks, merchandise, and an occasionally tourist-priced feel; go for the experience, but expect simple food and possible waits.
Back of the Dragon turns its motorcycle route location into a destination, where well-liked pizza, wings, and pizza sticks pair with themed design and dragon-inspired atmosphere. Strong food quality and loyal repeat visits support its standing, while slower food delivery and limited detailed staff knowledge keep it just short of the very top tier. Riders consistently describe it as a memorable stop worth returning to after future rides.
Back of the Dragon is less a conventional restaurant than a full-service pause button for anyone tackling Virginia's famous motorcycle route. Riders arrive for the dragon photo, ample parking, merchandise, and stories over drinks, then often stay for pizza; one recurring sentiment is that the venue makes the stop feel like part of the ride rather than a mere roadside transaction. The bright, clean building, themed decor, and social energy give it genuine destination appeal. The food is straightforward American bar fare, led by brick-oven pizza, wings, fries, pretzels, and snacks rather than culinary experimentation. Pizza is the clear star, with many visitors praising its crisp crust and generous toppings, while wings and fries earn particularly enthusiastic reactions. Beer quality opinions are more mixed, and the self-pour system is novel but can become expensive by volume. A few diners report slow service or occasional underwhelming pizza, so this is best approached as a memorable ride-stop with good food—not a precision-focused destination restaurant. Families can enjoy the dragon displays, photo opportunities, open-air space, pizza, fries, wings, and relaxed atmosphere, and one family review specifically describes enjoying the visit. However, the food selection appears limited beyond pizza and snack-style items; a recent diner wished for sandwiches such as burgers or club sandwiches. Kids who like pizza and fries should be comfortable, while families needing broad dietary choice or a traditional children's menu should check ahead.
Area vibe: Historic small-town commercial strip with local businesses, civic buildings, and car-focused access.
Safety: Generally safe, quiet evenings, well-lit near core but limited late-night activity.
What's nearby: Near Tazewell County courthouse, local shops, churches, and community services on W. Main St.
Brick-oven pizza is the safest bet, but the wings, Magic fries, and pizza sticks with hot honey deserve attention too.
Plan for a memorable ride stop rather than a broad-menu restaurant, and watch the self-pour beer tab because it is priced by the ounce.
The venue feels like part motorcycle attraction, part beer hall, with dragon decor, open-air seating, and a social event atmosphere.