Top Reasons to Attend Savor
This will be an unforgettable weekend of culinary exploration, led by Mountain Lake Lodge’s Executive Chef Wells Selbe, Root to Table’s Executive Chef Roderick “Pete” Smith, and a standout roster of twelve guest chefs. Together with local farmers, foragers, and food & beverage artisans, they’ll create a weekend of culinary experiences that honors Appalachian roots while drawing bold inspiration from mountain cuisines across the globe.
Here’s what you’ll experience:
- A multi-course dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors inspired by global mountain regions
- Interactive demos and hands-on culinary sessions that take you behind the scenes to learn new techniques and connect with the ingredients that define this region
- Expertly paired craft beverages, from local brews to small-batch artisan spirits
- Opportunities to engage with chefs, farmers, makers and fellow food lovers in an intimate, scenic mountain setting where conversations are as rich as the cuisine
- A lively food and drink marketplace showcasing the best purveyors from across Southwest Virginia
Weekend Highlights: An Immersive Food Experience
This incredible weekend (June 13-15, 2025) is designed to take you deep into the heart of Appalachian cuisine, and give you a taste of the region’s hospitality.
Here’s a taste of what’s planned:
Brews, Bottles & Bites
Kick off the weekend with local beers, ciders and wines, paired with light bites and live acoustic music. Enjoy a relaxed evening under the stars as you mingle with brewers and distillers in an open-air setting.
Roots & Relax Dinner
Savor a multi-course meal prepared by some of Southwest Virginia’s top chefs, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. After dinner, ease into “Mountain Chill”, a cozy gathering with craft cocktails, fire pits, s’mores and live music.
Farmers & Flavor Marketplace
Wander through a vibrant market filled with local artisans, tastings and handcrafted goods. Plus, live chef demonstrations that let you experience the distinct flavors that define the region.
The Artisan’s Breakfast Table
Start your morning with a casual, open-air breakfast highlighting farm-fresh dishes prepared by local chefs in a peaceful mountain setting.
Interactive Workshops & Demonstrations
Roll up your sleeves for hands-on culinary workshops and live demos that explore seasonal techniques, sustainable sourcing and the rich food traditions of the region.
Live Entertainment & Community Connections
Throughout the weekend, enjoy live music and meaningful conversations with the chefs, farmers and makers shaping the future of Southwest Virginia’s food culture.
Enjoy Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke, VA
Mountain Lake Lodge isn’t just the host location – it’s part of the magic!
Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this historic lodge (yes, Dirty Dancing fans, it’s that lodge!) offers cozy rooms and cottages, sweeping views and a true sense of escape.
Amenities include:
- Outdoor adventures to include Bald Knob Hiking Trail
- Self-guided “Dirty Dancing” scavenger hunt that leads you around the property to all the iconic filming locations
- 2 outdoor pools, cozy fire pits and hot tub
- Warm hospitality rooted in Appalachian tradition
Secure Your Spot for Savor
This is more than an event – it’s a weekend to Savor! Tickets include access to all weekend events and experiences, with optional lodging packages available at Mountain Lake Lodge. Spaces are limited – reserve your spot today!
