If you’re searching for Smithfield’s most vibrant and delicious neighborhood, Finley Landing is your ticket to a world of exciting flavors. Nestled just southeast of Downtown Smithfield, Finley Landing’s buzzing restaurant scene gives locals and visitors alike plenty of reasons to linger. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort, crave-worthy coffee, global eats, or something sweet, this neighborhood offers a little something for everyone. Pull up a seat and discover my go-to restaurants, charming cafés, bakeries, and the fabulous food trucks that make Finley Landing such a joy for food lovers.
Main Street Mornings: Coffee Shops & Bakeries
Kick your day off right at Finley Landing’s beloved morning spots, each with its own distinct daytime vibe.
- Hazel & Pine Café (corner of Finley Rd & Oakmont Ave): Step into Hazel & Pine for locally-roasted coffee, fluffy biscuits, and an atmosphere that feels part espresso bar, part cozy living room. The salted caramel latte is a staple, and you can’t leave without sampling their famous blueberry scones. Prices start around $3 for pastries and $5 for specialty coffees.
- Daily Knead Bakery (Finley Rd near Waverly St): This little gem whips up crusty sourdough, cinnamon rolls, and gluten-free options in a sunlit, community-focused space. Their seasonal fruit tarts are a must, and during weekends, don’t miss their pop-up sandwich menu, featuring locally-sourced ingredients. Expect to spend $2–$6 for treats, sandwiches under $10.
Lunchtime Favorites: Sandwiches & Food Trucks
As lunch rolls around, Finley Landing comes alive with bustling delis and curbside bites.
- The Picnic Plate (Oakmont Ave & Larkspur Ln): This cheerful sandwich shop delivers classic deli fare with an artisanal touch—think house-brined turkey on rosemary bread, or their unbeatable pimento cheese grilled cheese. Portions are generous, with sandwiches hovering around $9–$12. The potato salad is grandma-approved.
- Sazón Fusión Food Truck (rotating spots, most often by Ridgeview Park): A local sensation that brings Latin-Asian fusion to the neighborhood, Sazón Fusión is famous for Cuban bánh mì, pork belly tacos, and ginger-lime slaw. Affordable, with most items under $10. Their Friday evening spot near Ridgeview Park draws a crowd—arrive early for best selection.
Dinner Destinations: Diverse Dining Done Right
When dinner time hits, Finley Landing’s main culinary corridors—primarily along Finley Rd and Oakmont Ave—offer a mouthwatering range of options.
- Magnolia & Vine Southern Kitchen (Finley Rd & Dogwood Ct): The essence of contemporary Southern comfort. Fried green tomatoes share the stage with buttermilk fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and a stellar bourbon pecan pie. Dinner entrées run $13–$18. On Thursdays, locals flock for the chicken and waffles special.
- Basil & Curry (corner of Oakmont Ave & Willow St): An intimate spot for Indian and Thai curries with locally-grown veggies and freshly baked naan. Their butter chicken, lamb vindaloo, and Thai green curry are consistently excellent. Vegetarian- and vegan-friendly, with most mains around $15. Don’t miss $2 off curry nights every Wednesday.
- Riverbank Oyster House (by the riverfront at Elm St & Finley Rd): This seafood hotspot brings coastal Carolina flavor inland. Dive into raw oysters, blackened grouper, and their famous crab-topped hushpuppies. Entrees are $14–$25, and the sunset views from their patio are magical. It’s a favorite date-night pick.
Sweet Spots & Dessert Delights
Looking to indulge your sweet tooth? Finley Landing’s dessert scene is as tempting as its main courses.
- La Dulce Vida Gelateria (Oakmont Ave, near Finley Central Park): Handmade gelato with regional flavors—sweet potato pie, peach cobbler, and classic stracciatella. Scoops run $3–$6, and their affogato is the perfect late-night treat.
- Buttercup’s Cake Studio (Finley Rd & Larkspur Ln): Custom cakes, cupcakes, and seasonal pies (don’t miss the pecan praline) make Buttercup’s a must for celebrations big or small. Grab a cupcake and a coffee for a sugary afternoon pick-me-up.
- Hidden Bonus: Finley Popcorn Stand (weekends at Waverly St Farmers Market): Not a full-time shop but worth highlighting! Fresh caramel, cheese, and spicy jalapeño popcorn that’s become a local obsession.
The Local Food Tradition: Community & Comfort
What sets Finley Landing apart isn’t just its diverse eateries but the atmosphere they foster. Many spots source from nearby farms, and it’s not uncommon to see live music, trivia nights, or family-friendly events—especially as the weather warms up.
There’s a cherished tradition here of food as community—every October, the Finley Food Fest lines Oakmont Ave with local vendors, giving everyone a chance to sample signature dishes in one festive, walkable stretch.
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path Eats
Every neighborhood foodie has a shortlist of unsung heroes, and for Finley Landing, these are not to be missed:
- El Paso Market & Taqueria (hidden inside a grocery on Willow St): Authentic tacos, gorditas, and horchata—nothing over $4. It’s casual, quick, and packed with flavor.
- Noodle Box Express (takeout window at the Shell station, Finley Rd at Dogwood Ct): Late-night lifesaver for Asian noodles, crispy spring rolls, and steamy bao buns. Open until midnight on weekends.
- Uncle Roy’s Smokehouse (pop-up, usually parked at Elm St & Larkspur): Low-and-slow barbecue, melt-in-your-mouth brisket, and tangy homemade sauce. Follow their socials to catch them popping up at local events!
Why Finley Landing’s Food Scene Keeps Locals Hungry for More
Finley Landing punches far above its weight when it comes to dining options. It’s not just the variety—from Southern kitchens to curry houses, gelato to food trucks—it’s the authentic, neighborly spirit behind every meal. Ask any local: whether you’re toasting to a special occasion or just looking for a killer cup of coffee, there’s a seat waiting for you in this delicious corner of Smithfield.
So come hungry, bring a sense of culinary adventure, and get ready to fall in love with the Finley Landing food scene.