ROCKY MOUNT, Va. (WFXR) — Each Friday on “Good Day Virginia” is Foodie Friday. We highlight restaurants, chefs, and more throughout southwest Virginia.
During the Prohibition Era, Franklin County was known as the “Moonshine Capital” of the world. In the 1920s, alcohol was illegal but to grab a drink many attended speakeasies, hidden rooms that were typically behind a business.
To take you on a quick trip back in time, WFXR’s Hazelmarie Anderson joins co-owner of Anastasia’s Speakeasy JoDee Jeans, to explore a hidden secret in Rocky Mount, where the drinks are cold and the food is hot!
It’s just an ordinary barber shop, but with a nickel, it will get you more than you bargained for.
Hidden behind the walls of a barber shop is Anastasia’s Speakeasy. The restaurant is named after the notorious mobster, Albert Anastasia.
“He was like one of the original gangsters, and he actually was killed in a barbershop that replicates out in the front foyer here,” explained Jeans.
There are no distractions here, and the only rule is to have fun and a good conversation.
“Just come in, be yourself, and meet new people. We don’t have any televisions. We want it to be homey and nice with a beautiful, eclectic environment,” said Jeans.
While the scenery may remind you of the ’20s, the food is one thing that settles its place in our memory. Anastasia’s Speakeasy has a seasonal menu that’s constantly changing for the freshest flavors, but Anastasia’s has its staples.
“We like to have a different array of foods. We do some Asian foods. We do the normal like salmon. We have ahi tuna dishes, mobster tacos,” said Jeans.
And you can’t forget the burgers, truffle tater tots, and the “Anastasia Old Fashioned.”
“Our biggest seller is our “Anastasia Old Fashioned.” We smoke it, we put the mud of fruit in there, all the juices are freshly squeezed. It’s just a delicious drink,” added Jeans.
While you may not be able to get a cut and shave, this speakeasy offers something for everyone.
For more information, visit Anastasia’s Speakeasy Facebook page.
