A full house in masks at a Murder Mystery Dinner at The Oak and Ivy Taphouse in Smithfield, VA

Murder Mystery Dinner Series · Smithfield, VA

Murder Mystery Dinner in Smithfield, VA

A live whodunit and a special three-course dinner, all in one unforgettable night. Every event brings a brand-new theme — from an 80s roller rink to a candlelit masquerade — right in the heart of downtown Smithfield.

Guests in masquerade masks reading clue sheets over dinner at a Murder Mystery Dinner in Smithfield, VA

The Concept

A Whole New Mystery Every Time

Our Murder Mystery Dinners turn The Oak & Ivy Taphouse into a live, interactive whodunit — and no two are ever the same. Each event has its own theme, its own story, and a special three-course menu built to match the night, whether that is neon leg-warmers at the roller rink or masks and candlelight at a masquerade.

A professional cast sets the scene, a crime is committed, and everyone in our string-lit ivy room becomes part of the investigation. Gather clues between courses, question the suspects, and see if your table can unmask the killer — all on South Church Street in downtown Smithfield, Virginia.

It is one of the most memorable date nights, group outings, and celebrations in town. Seats are limited and these nights sell out, so reserving ahead is the way to go.

Coming Up Next

80s Murder at the Roller Rink

80s Murder at the Roller Rink poster — Murder Mystery Dinner at The Oak and Ivy Taphouse, Thursday August 27 at 5:30 PM, 60 dollars per person

Thursday, August 27  ·  First course 5:30 PM  ·  $60 per person

It was supposed to be the hottest night at the rink… until someone didn’t make it home. Grab your crew and your leg warmers for a totally rad night of clues, disco lights, and a killer twist — served with a special 80s three-course dinner.

On the Menu

  • Hot pretzels with beer cheese & honey mustard
  • Spicy Joe or 7-Layer Dip Flatbread (gluten free)
  • Strawberry funnel cake

The Details

Format
Themed 3-course dinner + live show
First Course
5:30 PM
Tickets
$60 per person
Reserve
(757) 542-4393
Dates
Themed nights — see calendar
Where
803 S Church St, Smithfield, VA

How It Works

Solve the Case, Course by Course

No experience required — just bring your curiosity and a sense of fun. Here is how the night plays out:

  1. Reserve your seats in advance — each themed night is limited and fills up fast.
  2. Arrive for the first course at 5:30 and meet the cast of colorful suspects.
  3. The crime unfolds course by course as motives and clues come to light.
  4. Question the suspects, compare notes with your table, and lock in your theory.
  5. The killer is unmasked — find out if you cracked the case, with prizes for the sharpest sleuths.

Always Something New

A Different Mystery Every Time

Every event is a brand-new story with its own theme and a special menu to match. A look at recent nights at The Oak & Ivy Taphouse:

Why You’ll Love It


A New Theme Every Time

80s roller rink, masquerade, and more — there is always a fresh story to solve.


A Special 3-Course Menu

Each mystery comes with its own themed dinner from our gastropub kitchen.


Dress the Part

Costumes that fit the theme are welcome and encouraged — or just come as you are.


Perfect for Groups

A standout date night, friends’ outing, birthday, or team celebration.

The Scene of the Crime

A Look at the Fun

Good to Know

Murder Mystery FAQ

What is a Murder Mystery Dinner at The Oak & Ivy Taphouse?

It’s a live, interactive whodunit paired with a special themed three-course dinner in Smithfield, VA. A professional cast performs a mystery around the room while you and your table gather clues, question the suspects, and try to unmask the killer. Each event has its own theme and menu.

How much are tickets, and is dinner included?

Tickets are $60 per person and include the themed three-course dinner and the show. Craft beer and cocktails are available to order throughout the evening. Seating is limited, so reserve in advance by calling (757) 542-4393.

When is the next Murder Mystery Dinner?

The next event is 80s Murder at the Roller Rink on Thursday, August 27, with the first course at 5:30 PM. New themed dates are added regularly — check our events calendar or call (757) 542-4393.

Do I need to reserve in advance?

Yes — these nights have limited seating and often sell out, so we strongly recommend reserving ahead. Reserve online or call (757) 542-4393 to book your seats.

Do I have to dress up or participate?

Costumes that fit the theme are welcome and encouraged, but never required. You can jump into character and question the suspects, or simply enjoy the show and the meal from your seat.

Can I book it for a group or private party?

Absolutely. Murder Mystery Dinners are a hit for birthdays, date nights, and team celebrations, and we can host private mystery events too. Ask about group bookings at (757) 542-4393 or on our venue rental page.

Can You Crack the Case?

Gather your crew and reserve your seats for the next Murder Mystery Dinner at The Oak & Ivy Taphouse in downtown Smithfield.