Make it Virginia Made: The Vault at Liberty Trust

Welcome to the “Make it Virginia Made” series, where we travel across the commonwealth to visit restaurants serving up Virginia spirits. These top-notch establishments and bartenders have a commitment to quality, local brands, understanding any cocktail — from fruity to sour to spirit-forward — can be Virginia made. And it not only can be Virginia made, it can be better Virginia made.

You may have seen our lively host Henry Hill, Jr., a.k.a. the winner of The 2024 Virginia Cocktail Games, sitting down with a local bartender on our @VaSpirits Instagram. Here, we’re giving you the full download on what you saw and didn’t see during the visit. You’re about to learn about what makes this restaurant so special – so, get comfy and grab a drink – or better yet, head over to The Vault at Liberty Trust and sip for yourself.

Get to Know The Vault at Liberty Trust

Housed in the historic Liberty Trust building—a 1910 former bank turned boutique hotel—The Vault at Liberty Trust brings new energy to downtown Roanoke’s dining scene. Since opening in October 2022, it has quickly become known for its sophisticated, yet relaxed, atmosphere, with a stunning interior that sets the tone for an unforgettable evening. 

The menu features shareable plates inspired by authentic recipes from around the world, offering flavors and presentations not found elsewhere in the region. It’s a dining experience designed to surprise and delight, where global cuisine meets Southern hospitality in a space unlike any other in town.

The Vault’s commitment to quality doesn’t stop at the plate. Its beverage program highlights Virginia-made spirits from Brady’s Distillery and Chesapeake Bay Distillery, alongside international wines and local craft beers. The restaurant also works with local water and chocolate vendors (Artesian Water and chocolatepaper), always finding the balance between global flavors and homegrown talent. 

By sourcing from these local partners, The Vault not only delivers fresh, place-driven flavors but also supports the community it calls home. It’s this thoughtful approach — honoring the building’s storied past while embracing a globally inspired, locally rooted menu — that makes The Vault at Liberty Trust a must-visit for food and drink enthusiasts alike.

Who’s Behind the Bar

One of the bartenders you might run into at The Vault is Mark Warren.

His path to bartending began in Montgomery, Alabama, where his love for craft beverages first took root. After years of working in coffee shops, he transitioned to the bar scene at 25, fueled by a passion for flavor and hospitality. 

Mark’s well-rounded experience and interest in drinks eventually led him to homebrewing, and even to working with Free the Hops, a grassroots group that helped change Alabama beer laws. No matter the beverage, his passion for local craftsmanship and experimentation always shines through. 

How do you keep up with the latest mixology trends? 

I stay informed by listening to podcasts, reading books and articles in Chilled and Zymurgy magazines, collaborating with talented bartenders and engaging with patrons I serve. I’m constantly working to uncover their preferences and emerging drink trends.  

What’s unique about mixing cocktails with local spirits? 

Virginia has such a great selection of brewers, winemakers and distillers that creating a great cocktail with their products is not a huge challenge; it’s more about making a drink that appeals to the majority of people.

What’s in Your Glass

Perhaps an ode to his past as a barista, Mark has the perfect local cocktail in mind when you take a seat at the bar: Not Until I’ve Had My Coffee. 

Sounds (and sips) like the makings of a great night. Please enjoy Virginia Spirits responsibly.