AllSports Café, a longtime local favorite known for its wings, big screens, and hometown spirit, celebrated a major milestone on Wednesday, April 16: 25 years in business. With a ribbon cutting, a warm reception, and plenty of laughter (and cake), the café’s Roanoke location was filled with friends, longtime patrons, vendors, and local supporters — all gathered to honor the past and cheer for the future.
President, CEO and owner Julie Atkins, reflected with emotion and honesty on just how far the business has come. Atkins also recounted early struggles — like failed locations in Harrisburg and Blacksburg. “We didn’t think we’d make it six months,” Julie said during the celebration. “No one gave us six months. But here we are — 25 years later — still going strong.”
The event kicked off with a 10:30 a.m. ribbon cutting, followed by a casual reception featuring cake, conversation, and talk of the afterparty at Union Park. Guests included local business partners, supporters, and friends who’ve been part of the café’s journey.
The road to this milestone hasn’t been easy. Julie has faced deep personal loss in recent years — including the passing of her husband and AllSports founder, Kenneth Atkins, and shortly after, the heartbreaking loss of their son, Lucas, following a lifelong battle with diabetes. “The service industry has been hit hard these past years with some enormous obstacles and changes that made it hard for many small businesses to make it,” Julie said. “There were those moments… but ultimately, we chose not to give in.”
In 2023, Julie honored her son’s memory with a heartfelt event — the “Fight Like Lucas” fundraiser — in support of Diabetes Awareness Month.
Despite everything, Julie remains committed to the business — not just for herself, but for her family’s legacy. “Every time we see the smiles on the faces of our patrons enjoying our wings and a game on the big screen with their family and friends, we know it was all worth it,” she said.
Inside the café on Wednesday, it felt like a family reunion. Friends joked about buttercream frosting vs. whipped icing. “This restaurant is like a comfortable pair of shoes,” Julie told the crowd. “You walk in, you feel right. We’re not pretentious. We know your name. We know your order. You’re comfortable here.”
Several guests praised Julie for her grit and vision, with one saying, “We’re always here for you. I know your husband is smiling.”
When asked what’s next, Julie simply smiled and said she’s thankful — especially for her current team. “There’s no ‘I’ in restaurant,” she said. “It takes a team. And that’s what I’ve tried to do — surround myself with good people.”
