Check out this list of the best restaurants in Boone, NC to cure all of your foodie cravings.
These eateries incorporate local ingredients to create delicious Southern food with their signature mountain charm.
I love to escape to the mountains any free opportunity I can. Boone, NC is just a 4 hour drive from my house, which makes it an easy getaway. I choose my destinations around food and atmosphere. Boone has spectacular views, unlimited things to do in the outdoors, great shopping, and most importantly, fantastic eateries.
These Boone area restaurants have three things in common: They take pride in their food by sourcing fresh, local ingredients; almost everything is made in-house, and food is always served with friendly Southern hospitality. There is never a reason to leave "The High Country" hungry. Here is a list of some of the local favorites I have personally discovered that I recommend visiting and eating at!
Melanie's Food Fantasy | Boone, NC
Melanie's Food Fantasy is a hot spot for a fantastic lunch or breakfast in the heart of downtown Boone, NC. They pride themselves in using local ingredients, fresh produce, and local farm raised eggs for their dishes. The whimsical menu features dishes such as Eggs DaVinci: Two poached eggs, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts on a bed of fresh spinach finished with scratch-made hollandaise and homemade toast; and Trucker Breakfast: Homemade split biscuit covered with mushroom gravy, then topped with two eggs your way, cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
If you have a sweet tooth, you might want to try the the banana nut waffle or the stuffed French toast that is layered with raspberry cream cheese spread, topped with bananas, strawberries, raspberry coulis, and whipped cream!
Address: 664 W King St, Boone, NC 28607
Stick Boy Bread Co Kitchen | Boone, NC
The Stick Boy Bread Co is located in Boone, NC. YOU MUST add this to your bucket place for delicious breads, pastries, bagels, sandwiches, and breakfast. The Stick Boy Bread Co uses only quality ingredients for all of their made from scratch food items. Everything is homemade down to the ketchup for the fries. If you are on a diet, go ahead and have a cheat day. Everything is worth the calories. Seating is limited and a long line to order is likely. Go ahead and wait in the line. This local favorite is worth the wait.
A few suggestions (however everything is DELICIOUS) include: sausage egg and cheese on a cheddar biscuit, pastrami bagel, cinnamon roll, sticky bun, magic cookie, bagels, and fried potato. We didn't have an opportunity to try the lunch menu, but that will be another reason to go back!
Address: 211 Boone Heights Dr, Boone, NC 28607
Come Back Shack | Boone, NC
I finally understand why there is a line stopping traffic to get into the place, and yes...it is worth the wait to get in.
The Comeback Shack is located in the heart of Boone, NC.
Love the burgers. They are juicy and perfectly seasoned. You can have them topped the way you like.
Love the Nathan’s hot dog. It is cooked crispy and topped with several toppings to choose from. I added almost everything.
The hand cut French fries are cooked perfect. Some are then and crunchy, some are thick and soft in the middle. All are nicely seasoned.
They also have chicken, fish, and salad on the menu.
The milkshakes are thick and creamy.
I can’t wait to “Come Back!”
Address: 1521 Blowing Rock Rd, Boone, NC 28607
The Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant | Boone, NC
The Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant is nestled in the heart of downtown Boone, NC. It resides in a beautiful historic building that was once a hospital, then later renovated into a rooming house for students at Appalachian State Teachers University. In 1959, it was converted to a family style restaurant. They serve breakfast or lunch, and there is usually a long line out the door to wait for seating. The wait is worth it. When my children were small, this was one of their favorite places.
Breakfast includes an array of handmade biscuits, stewed apples, bacon, country ham, preserves, eggs, sausage, grits, pancakes, and many more. Dinner includes fried chicken, country style steak, country ham biscuits, mashed potatoes and gravy, biscuits, and other sides. Save room for dessert because it is always fantastic. Wear pants with a little elastic and give. You will leave happy and full for sure!
Address: 130 Hardin St, Boone, NC 28607
The Beacon | Boone, NC
Looking for somewhere nice with AMAZING cocktails and delicious, fresh, creative handmade food? Then you have to try The Beacon in Boone, NC.
The Beacon's dinner menu is focused around quality cured meats and cheeses, rustic pizzas, grilled whole fish, farm to table entrees, and handmade pasta.
Their ingredients are sourced locally. Their meat are locally butchered.
Dinner is plated beautifully and you will not go home hungry.Their craft cocktails are also specially made with fresh ingredients.
Dinner and drink menu changes seasonally, but if the cast iron cornbread is on the menu-order it! That bread is ridiculously delicious. The smoked chicken is also a favorite that is typically featured.
Their Beacon Market offers hand-cut meats, house-cured bacon, marinated olives, imported cheeses, hand-baked bread offer a small hand selected gourmet items such as mustards, hot sauces, vinegar and oil for you to purchase to enjoy at home.
They offer indoor and outdoor dining.
Address: 125 Graduate Lane, NC-105 S, Boone, NC 28607
Vidalia | Boone, NC
Vidalia is located in Boone, NC. It is a contemporary restaurant, with a pretty atmosphere, featuring unique Southern inspired cuisine. It is a perfect place for a special occasion or date night. The menu is incorporates local Carolina ingredients. The menu changes based on the availability of ingredients.
Some current highlights to the menu include crab cakes with Texas caviar; house pickled beets with goat cheese, spiced pecans, and Watauga country ham prosciutto; and chicken and waffles with Southern fried chicken breast, sawmill gravy, collard greens, sweet potato waffles, and hot honey. All of the dishes are plated beautifully. They are also open for brunch.
Address: 831 W King St, Boone, NC 28607
The Cardinal | Boone, NC
The Cardinal is a very popular local hangout for good burgers and tasty appetizers in Boone, NC. All of the food and cocktails are handcrafted. Try the hand dipped corndog served with a homemade mustard. Or you can't go wrong with the grass-fed beef burgers. They are flavorful and juicy. If you are feeling adventurous, select the Emu or Bison burger! Vegetarians and vegans are welcome also.
The Cardinal serves a variety of vegan dishes such as a Beet Burger, Tempeh Tender Sandwich, and a hot dog veggie dog. They have gluten- free options for those that have allergies. This place is kid friendly also with a ski-ball machine and pin-ball machine to keep them busy while them busy while they wait for their food.
Address: 1711 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607
Gamekeeper Restaurant and Bar| Boone, NC
The Gamekeeper Restaurant and Bar is tucked away in a beautiful cottage in Boone, NC. The menu features a large selection exotic meats that include emu, bison, venison, elk, boar, mountain trout, and duck. Ingredients are locally sourced and organic when possible. If meat is not your thing, they provide vegetarian options also. Each dinner is plated beautifully begging for you to eat with your eyes.
Don't pass on the opportunity to order the mixed game grill appetizer with a variety of house-made sausages and game meats for sampling. The beet and brie salad will not disappoint. I personally like the grilled pekin ducked the elk was tender and delicious, but the Emu with spinach risotto and sun-dried tomato jus sound exquisite!
Address: 3005 Shulls Mill Rd, Boone, NC 28607
Booneshine Brewing Co |Boone, NC
If you are a beer lover and enjoy a unique spin on bar food, you must try Booneshine Brewing Co hidden off of Industrial Park in Boone, NC. They have a nice variety of craft beer from Hefeweizen, Pilsners, IPAs, Pale Ales, to Red Ales and Porters. They also serve wine if you prefer. The beer is fantastic and you can find it on tap at several local restaurants in the Boone area.
However, in addition to the great beer, Booneshine has a FANTASTIC food menu!! The menu offers everything from snacks and small plates to full-sized meals, flatbread pizzas, and desserts. The bacon barbecue popcorn is incredibly addicting. The flash fried cauliflower allows you to eat something healthy while feeling you are nibbling on something more indulging. The Blue Collar Charcuterie Board is plated beautiful with a Grilled Stick Boy baguette and an array of gourmet cheeses, meats, house made pickles, peach jam, and honey.
Have a bigger appetite? Try the burger or veggie burger if you are vegetarian. Caramelized onions and their homemade beer cheese are great on them! The handmade flatbreads are pretty amazing as well. Booneshine also serves local Stick Boy desserts such as the magic cookie on a skillet with vanilla ice cream.... YUM!
Address: 465 Industrial Park Dr, Boone, NC 28607
The Local | Boone, NC
If you are looking for a casual place with a fun atmosphere, The Local is the perfect spot.
The staff is friendly, helpful, and hard working. The food was delicious.
Not pictured was the Banhmi —— I highly recommend! It was one of the best I had.
The truffle fries, Cesar salad, and Korean tacos are excellent. I was not impressed with the Mac and cheese.
Our friend ordered the burger and he said it was perfect.
The cocktails were fun and creative.
They do take reservations and can seat a larger party.
Address: 179 Howard St, Boone, NC 28607
Café Violette | Blowing Rock, NC
The Café Violette is located in Blowing Rock, NC. This French restaurant is quaint and charming creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere perfect for date nights and special occasions.
The menu focuses on local seasonal ingredients and changes often. They are famous for their handmade French breads and mussels, so definitely add them to your starters.
The octopus is cooked to perfection with tons of flavor.
If you have never tried escargot, this is the place to try it! The escargot was perfectly cooked in a creamy, rich, garlic sauce topped with lovely little puffed pastries. The dish is excellent for sharing.
For small bites, they have a wonderful chaucuterie selection.
They have a fantastic cocktail menu as well as a nice selection of beer and wine.
Address: 1132 Main St #102, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Bistro Roca Antlers Bar | Blowing Rock, NC
The Bistro Roca Antlers Bar is located in Blowing Rock, just a few minutes away from Boone, NC. The food and drink menu is FANTASTIC! They serve both lunch and dinner but is closed on Tuesdays. They are famous for their lobster mac and cheese and the locals like the wood fired pizza.
It is a great stop for small plates such as roasted figs stuffed with Manchego, pork lettuce wraps, shishito peppers or smoked olives. You can't go wrong with their lamb sirloin, or pan seared scallops. They also offer unique dishes such as buffalo oxtail ragout and slow braised veal. Come hungry, you won't leave disappointed.
Address: 143 Wonderland Trail, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Our Daily Bread | Boone, NC
Our Daily Bread is a cute little gourmet sandwich and salad restaurant located in the heart of downtown Boone, NC. Ingredients are organic and locally sourced when possible. Food is wonderfully scrumptious.
A few sandwich examples include the Roast Beef & Chimmi- Thin sliced roast beef with house made chimicurri sauce, melted goat cheese, spring mix, tomatoes, roast red peppers, and chipotle aioli on a pressed brioche roll; the Tempeh Reuben- Marinated tempeh, sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and brown mustard on grilled rye; and the Smoked Ham and Apple Press- Smoked Ham, cheddar cheese, thinly sliced apples & special sauce on sourdough, hot off the panini grill. Save room for the house-made desserts!
Address: 627 W King St, Boone, NC 28607
The Speckled Trout Restaurant and Bottle Shop | Blowing Rock, NC
I love, love , love Speckled Trout! Expect a wait, but be patient, it is worth it.
Located in Blowing Rock, this quaint, eclectic restaurant is fun and inviting.
The staff is exceptionally friendly, helpful, and informative.
You can order a craft cocktail while you wait. I haven’t found one I don’t like, but my favorite so far is the Bloody Mary and margarita.
The food comes out fresh, hot, beautifully plated, and in a timely manner.
Ingredients are locally source and the menu changes seasonally. Trout is their specialty, so try something with trout whether it is an appetizer, salad, or main dish.
Everything was incredible but the Wagyu burger was over the top, both flavorful and juicy.
Save room for dessert! I was blown away by the strawberry red velvet cake.
Address: 922 Main St, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Over Yonder | Valle Crucis, NC
Over Yonder is a special restaurant located in a historic home in Valle Crucis, NC. They feature Appalachian inspired cuisine handmade with fresh local ingredients. The Pork Fat Potato Chips tossed loaded with pimento cheese gravy, napa slaw, and candied bacon is worth the drive out of the way in itself. It sounds a little wierd.... but the combination is AMAZING. They are famous for their shrimp and grits, but don't be afraid to order the crispy crusted pork and beef meatloaf. I haven't ordered the tomato cobbler, but that will be next on my list.
Their craft cocktails are fun and unusual incorporating some of NC's liquor and bitters. The Shinerita is very tasty made with paw paw's moonshine, orange liqueur, meyer lemon and key lime sour, and pickled okra. They are open lunch or dinner. I recommend calling for a reservation. They have gluten- free options for those that have allergies.
Address: 3608 NC-194, Sugar Grove, NC 28679
The Painted Fish Cafe and Beer Bar | Banner Elk, NC
The Painted Fish Café and Beer Bar is in Banner Elk, just a few minutes from Boone, NC. The menu takes traditional dishes and gives them a gourmet twist. Food is made from scratch and when possible, sourced locally. The dish presentations are beautiful and service is always good. The menu changes seasonly. They do served gluten-free and dairy-free options.
You cannot go wrong with the lamb chops or scallops. They will be cooked perfectly. The pan seared rare sesame tuna is always delicious. Save room for Krispy Cream cheesecake or creme brûlée. Brunch is also very special at The Painted Fish. Featured brunch items include Sweet Potatoes Waffle Foster, Salmon Hash, Breakfast Tacos, Biscuits and Gravy, and High Country Benedict to name a few!
Address: 2941 Tynecastle Hwy, Banner Elk, NC 28604
The New Public House | Blowing Rock, NC
The New Public House is located in downtown Blowing Rock, NC. It is housed in a small, 8 room inn featuring Southern American farm to table seasonal cuisine. They offer local beers, hand crafted cocktails and fine wine. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The locals love the 24 hour brined pork chops. The fried oysters are coated in a crunchy cornmeal batter. They are excellent for sharing. The hot dogs are made in house and rank among the best hot dogs that I have personally ate. The bison burger is worth trying also.
Address: 239 Sunset Dr, Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Stonewalls Restaurant | Banner Elk, NC
Stonewalls Restaurant is a beautiful steakhouse located in Banner Elk. They are famous for their Prime Rib, but also offer a large variety of dishes featuring gourmet steaks, chicken, pork, and seafood. The locals love thier 50 item salad bar with house-made dressings. If you are in the mood for soup, their house-made French Onion Soup is so cheesy, it is served with scissors to cut the cheese! The atmosphere is beautiful and cozy. It is the perfect spot for a date night.
Address: 344 Shawneehaw Ave S, Banner Elk, NC 28604
Blue Deer | Boone & Blowing Rock
Cookies and milk, cookie sandwiches, and ice cream.... What is not to love?
Blue Deer bakes fresh homemade cookies daily. You can have them with milk, coffee, espresso, lemonade, or ice cream! The ice cream is sourced from Homeland Creamery in NC.
You can pair any of their homemade cookies with your favorite choice of ice cream for a customized ice cream sandwich.
The affagoto is AMAZING!! It is definitely a new favorite of mine.
Cookie choices include chocolate chip, snicker doodle, double chocolate, and peanut butter.
Blue Deer has three locations, one in Boone, and two in Blowing Rock.
Address: 352 W King St, Boone, NC 28607
Hatchet Coffee | Boone, NC
While this is not a restaurant, my favorite coffee is made at Hatchet Coffee in Boone, NC. Our local coffee shop, Leclair's General Store serves Hatchet Coffee. Therefore, we try to make a special stop at the actual Hatchet Coffee shop when visiting Boone. The coffee shop is worth the visit. They serve AMAZING cold brew (my favorite), regular coffee, and specialty coffee drinks. You can purchase their beans to take back home with you. If you are a coffee lover, you should definitely add them to your stops!
Address: 150A Den Mac Dr, Boone, NC 28607
For more restaurant reviews, check out my travel section on the blog. Some great spots to add to your bucket list include Bern's Steakhouse, Tampa FL, Paulie's Pig Out in Afton Virginia, and Parker's BBQ in Wilson, NC.
Also check out my other "Best Restaurant Lists" for Fayetteville, NC, Beaufort, NC, and Savannah, GA.
