Insider Secrets to Sweet Treats in Galax

 Craving something sweet in Galax? What’ll it be? You want something tasty. Something distinctive. But you don’t know the town. Where do you go for a treat that’s both tasty and distinctive? Locals have their favorites, all within a two-block stretch of the Galax Historic District. Let’s stroll down Main Street and discover what these insiders know.

Lemon-Blueberry Cupcakes at The Galax Cakery

Our first stop is the Cakery at 211 S. Main Street. Known for its custom wedding cakes, pies, bread, and sweet baked goods, their Lemon-Blueberry cupcakes steal the show. Can you resist the combination of sweet lemon cake topped with tangy blueberries? You can’t. Why settle for ordinary when you can indulge in a cupcake masterpiece? This unique creation is a year-round favorite locally. While you’re there, consider picking up a whole cake or some cookies to enjoy later. Your family will thank you.

Southern-Style Strawberry Shortcake at the Briar Patch Cafe

Half a block north of the Cakery is the Briar Patch Marketplace & Cafe, on the corner of Old Town and Main. Briar Patch Cafe is a favorite spot for folks to meet and catch up over coffee or a meal. They have great coffee and tasty sandwiches, but their sweet treats will really put a smile on your face.

It’s hard to pick the best sweet treat at Briar Patch. Should you have the Belgian Waffle Sundae? How about a Hot Fudge Muffin Delight? Or ice cream in a waffle cone? Ask around, and you’ll find their Strawberry Shortcake (aka the NRV, for New River Valley) is a consistent favorite. This Southern twist on a classic dessert features a fresh-baked biscuit layered with strawberries, a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, and a dollop of whipped cream. It blends the tastes of a savory biscuit, tart strawberries, and sweet ice cream. Could there be a better way to enjoy strawberries? I don’t think so. Isn’t it time you tried a dessert that’s both Southern and sensational?

Chocolate Truffles at The Wine Cellar at Chapters

Up the block from Briar Patch at the corner of Grayson, you’ll find The Wine Cellar at Chapters. There, you’ll discover handcrafted truffles that are pure indulgence: Key Lime. French Silk. Irish Cream. It’s a vacation for your mouth.

What’s better than a chocolate truffle paired with your favorite wine? Pairing these decadent treats with wine elevates the experience, accenting the nuances of the chocolate and the wine. Why not treat yourself to the perfect combination of chocolate and spirits?

Beyond sweets and spirits, Chapters features a boutique section with clothing, jewelry, home decor, and gourmet snacks like Virginia peanuts (my favorite). Chapters is a blissful stop for tasty indulgences.

Banana Pudding at Q-Pigs Galax Smokehouse

Our final stop is The Q-Pigs Smokehouse, on the corner opposite Chapters. Famed for its barbecue—they are frequent winners at the Smoke on the Mountain Regional BBQ Championship—locals know to save room for their signature Banana Pudding. This classic Southern dessert is frequently served in BBQ restaurants. But there’s something different about this one; something mysterious.

Along with the usual pudding, bananas, and vanilla wafers, the Smokehouse adds a “secret ingredient.” Want to know what it is? So do I. But the owner, Bernadette Hodges, keeps that detail under wraps. I asked her what the “secret ingredient” was. She smiled and replied, “If I tell you that, it won’t be a secret.” OK, I get it. But I don’t care. Whatever it is, it tastes great after a meal of tangy BBQ ribs. What’s a Southern feast without a bowl of creamy banana pudding?

Tasty Sweet Treats

As you look around town, stop and enjoy the treats the locals like. They’re an authentic and unique way to top off your visit to Galax, “The World Capital of Old-Time Mountain Music.”

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Wayne Jordan is a Galax-based writer and storyteller. His Scots-Irish ancestors settled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in 1760, and he has deep roots there. The author of four books, Wayne is a retired Senior Editor for WorthPoint Corporation, a long-time columnist for Kovels Antique Trader Magazine, and a contributor to regional newspapers and travel publications. He blogs at BlueRidgeTales.com.