The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – After years of speculation and multiple failed restaurant rumors, a vibrant new dining destination has emerged in the heart of Covington, breathing new life into a long-vacant Applebee’s location.
Garcia’s Bistro, a family-owned restaurant launched by Marco and Victor Garcia, has officially opened its doors at 415 Thacker Avenue, offering residents a fresh culinary experience that blends Hispanic and American cuisine with a modern twist.
The restaurant space, which had remained empty for several years, became a source of ongoing community speculation. Residents had heard numerous unsubstantiated rumors about potential restaurant openings, including whispers of a breakfast restaurant, a Chinese establishment, and even a buffet-style venue. None of these speculative ventures materialized until the Garcia family’s ambitious project.
The transformation of the former Applebee’s building is remarkable. What was once a tired, unused commercial space has been meticulously renovated, featuring a completely reimagined interior and an attractive outdoor seating area that allows patrons to enjoy meals in the beautiful local weather.
Garcia’s Bistro operates seven days a week, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. The menu showcases a diverse range of offerings, emphasizing vibrant flavors and generous portions. Early customer favorites include substantial breakfast burritos, flavorful sausage links, and cheesy omelets that have already generated significant positive buzz. The restaurant’s culinary philosophy centers on serving food “made
with love and flavor,” a mission that resonates through every dish prepared in their kitchen.
Each menu item is crafted with passion, aiming to provide not just a meal but a memorable dining experience. Early customer feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Patrons have praised not only the food but also the restaurant’s staff, noting their respectful and welcoming demeanor. One customer remarked that dining at Garcia’s feels like “being at home,” highlighting the establishment’s commitment to creating a comfortable atmosphere. This Covington location represents the second Garcia’s Bistro restaurant, following the successful launch of their original Salem location in early 2024.
The family-owned business has quickly established itself as a community-focused dining destination, offering multiple service options including dine-in, counter service, DoorDash delivery, and full-service catering. The restaurant’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its multiple communication channels. Potential customers can find complete menu information, contact details, and additional background on the restaurant’s website
(www.garciasbistrocovington.com), Facebook page and Instagram account. The restaurant can be reached directly at 540-962-1716. Garcia’s Bistro offers a comprehensive dining experience that extends beyond traditional restaurant services.
Their menu features both American and Mexican style classics, including ribeye dinners, quesadillas, burgers, and salads. The kitchen’s open approach allows customers to see the care and attention devoted to each dish. For those unable to dine in, the restaurant provides convenient DoorDash delivery, ensuring that their culinary offerings can be enjoyed from the comfort of home.
Additionally, their catering services and food truck are available for private events, festivals, weddings, and other special occasions. The opening of Garcia’s Bistro represents more than just a new restaurant; it symbolizes community revitalization and entrepreneurial spirit. By transforming a long-vacant commercial space into a vibrant dining destination, the Garcia family has not only created a business but also contributed to the local economic and social landscape.
As Covington continues to evolve, Garcia’s Bistro stands as a testament to the power of passionate, family-driven entrepreneurship and the important role local restaurants play in building communities.
