This popular restaurant offers a wide selection of home-style favorites in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Rated number one in Southern Living Magazine for the best fried chicken in the entire state!

History: On a warm summer afternoon in the early 1940’s, a hobo by the name of Fred Rabil hopped off a train in Franklin, VA. After just a day or two in Franklin, Fred knew this was the place for him to settle and one day raise a family. He loved the small town’s charm, its friendly people and it had an unexplainable “spark” that made him feel happy.

In 1945, after working in kitchens, Fred opened Fred’s Restaurant right on Main Street in downtown Franklin. Locals and travelers alike poured through Fred’s doors daily to enjoy the freshest homemade meals in Southern Virginia. Fred’s unique style and funny, friendly attitude quickly caused his new restaurant to turn into the “local’s hangout”.
You can still see pieces of Fred’s history on the walls in our restaurant today. You’ll even see Fred on most days. Fred’s children now run the business and not much has changed. We still serve the best meals in town and Fred’s is still the local’s favorite hangout spot. Whether it’s a meal, a social gathering or an evening of live entertainment, Fred’s is the only place worth considering!