Unexpected Gem in Roswell: The Valley Café

A Gas Stop Turns into Something More

We didn’t plan on stopping in Roswell. We were driving back to Albuquerque after a long day at Carlsbad Caverns, and the only reason we pulled over was because we were low on gas. While I waited at the pump, I pulled out my phone to search for food nearby - something quick, maybe a sandwich. That’s when I saw it: The Valley Café - 4.9 stars on Google. That caught my attention.

I know how rare that kind of rating is. You can’t fake it, especially in a small town. So, I decided to check it out.

Meet Chef Anthony: The Heart Behind It All

Before I even stepped inside, I learned the heart of this place is Chef Anthony. He’s the reason it exists. Back in 2020, right after COVID hit, Anthony lost his job like so many others. But instead of waiting around, he brought an idea to Church on the Move, a local church led by Pastor Troy Smothermon - what if they opened a café that not only served good food but also helped people?

Anthony wrote a business plan, presented it, and the church got behind it. That was the beginning of The Valley Café.

It started as a church extension, but now? It’s fully self-sufficient. A real restaurant. And it serves a real purpose.

Food with a Mission

The café partners with local youth and contributes profits to Dream Center New Mexico, a nonprofit doing powerful work in Roswell. The Dream Center supports people transitioning out of incarceration, helps young mothers get back on their feet, and provides services for veterans adjusting to civilian life. It’s the kind of organization that meets people where they are and helps them move forward. And when you eat at The Valley Café, you’re supporting that mission in a tangible way.

What I Ordered

I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I was hungry enough to try a few things. I ordered the Southwest Turkey Melt, Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad, and Green Chile Chicken Alfredo. Every dish was professionally prepared, beautifully plated, and genuinely delicious. This wasn’t just some roadside stop, it was a proper kitchen run with care and intention.

Worth the Stop

We got back on the road with full stomachs, and more than that, a sense of appreciation. The kind you only get when you stumble into something unexpectedly meaningful.

If you're ever in Roswell, don’t miss it. Not just for the food, but for the story, and the people still writing it.

A Note at the End

I really believe this is a great example of what church community work can look like. We need more of it, more places where people come together, support each other, and build something meaningful. The Valley Café isn’t just a good place to eat. It’s a reminder of what’s possible when someone says, “Let’s try.”

Hi, my name is Igor and I love food - not just eating it, but discovering the stories behind it. Places like The Valley Café remind me that great food and great people often go hand in hand.

I’ve started writing about these kinds of places - restaurants that surprise you, inspire you, or just serve a really good meal. If you’d like to read more of these stories, you can find them here. I’d love to have you along for the ride.