History

A prediction in 1970 that Low Moor, Virginia, a sleepy hamlet between Clifton Forge and Covington, would come alive during the next twenty years, along with the need for a nice restaurant in the area, inspired two fathers, Buddy Proffitt and Henry Dew, to purchase the home of John Shelton and remodel it into the Cat and Owl Steak and Seafood House. The vision of the two fathers was to establish a restaurant with a railroad theme and call it the "C & O." Since there was already a restaurant in the area by that name, their restaurant became the Cat and Owl and so nicknamed the "C & O." The concourse to the building was constructed into a facsimile of a railroad platform. However, during the course of remodeling, the theme shifted to Victorian with an accent on weathered barnboards, flocked wallpaper, and antique chandeliers. Charming old pictures of beautiful women and famous portraits of presidents adorn the walls. The Sports Room features sporting equipment from past eras complemented with classic hunting pictures and collector whiskey bottles.

Bruce Proffitt, Buddy's son, has developed the business from the beginning and later purchased it from his father. Henry's son Scott joined Bruce in 1981 and after a short apprenticeship, took over management of the kitchen. Together, Bruce and Scott have over forty-seven years experience at this location.

The basic menu concept is driven by the fact that there is no substitute in the restaurant business for freshness and consistency. The beef selections when ordered are cut on the premises from USDA Choice Loins. Most entrees are prepared on an open charcoal hearth. A small but fresh salad bar is a favorite with diners. Delicious desserts and warm attentive service complete the dining experience that has become a tradition for locals and a unique, pleasant surprise for visitors to the Alleghany Highlands.