North Star Restaurant
A guidepoint to great food and people
Photos and story by Elizabeth Poland Shugg
There’s a modest restaurant off scenic U.S. Route 11 in southwestern Virginia that feeds a regular group of natives and out-of-towners. Located just outside of Buchanan, Virginia, North Star Restaurant delivers good home cooking and prompt, friendly service in unpretentious surroundings. Owner Ashley Clark—a former employee who purchased the restaurant from longtime owner Debbie Painter in 2021, also charges incredibly low prices—a bonus to the affable atmosphere that nets generous tips for the restaurant’s hardworking staff.
The food is wonderful. But what I enjoyed most about my recent pancake breakfast there was watching the North Star regulars pitch in and help out. One older gentleman came around with the coffee pot and filled up everyone’s cup. Another customer bussed a table, then wiped it clean. The small dining room held happy faces, full bellies, and plenty of “See ya tomorrow!” departures.
As a member of the local high school’s class…