Eat
Enjoy the local flavors of the Blue Ridge Mountains! When you’ve worked up an appetite from hiking, biking or shopping, it’s time to pull up a chair at one of our local restaurants or cafes.
Find places to eat that serve up traditional American and Southern cuisine, from hotdogs and hamburgers to barbecue and traditional diner fare. Take the whole family out for pizza, or enjoy a casual meal at a burrito joint or TexMex restaurant.
Have a sweet tooth? Start your morning at the donut shop. Check out cookies and cupcakes at a local bakery, and cool off on a hot day with a delicious and decadent scoop of ice cream. Look for sweet bubble teas and locally roasted coffee.
Feeling thirsty? The Blue Ridge brewery scene is hopping! Ask for a tasting flight to sample several styles of local craft beers, or order up a pint to raise a toast to your mountain adventure.
Beyond beer, local wineries, meaderies and distilleries produce delicious craft beverages. Some offer tastings, tours and even live music. And be sure to pair of your sips with a bite of artisan cheese or honey produced right here in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Check out these places to eat as you plan your next visit.
The Fowl Play Pub & Taproom
The Fowl Play Pub is located at the Switzerland Inn and is a great place to meet for drinks or…
Dot's Dario
Dot's is a local favorite, recently featured in Our State Magazine! This ice cream shop has been around for decades…
English Farmstead Cheese
Visit English Farmstead Cheese in Marion, NC, a quaint shop that offers a variety of cheeses and local fare. All cheeses are crafted from milk produced on-site!
McDowell County Honey Trail
Did you realize our area is in the heart of Sourwood Honey territory? It is! We have 23 honey producers…
Famous Louise's Rock House Restaurant
Situated on three county lines, choose your favorite! Family operated restaurant featuring home cooked…
Big Lynn Lodge
This 42 room inn is located in the heart of Little Switzerland on NC. Hwy. 226-A, also known as the…
Black Beary's Cafe
Diner-style cafe serving lunch and dinner, dine-in or take out, located in the heart of downtown Old Fort. They also…
McDowell Local
A downtown Marion restaurant open Tuesday-Saturday. These owners' goal is to provide friends, family, and neighbors with a relaxed dining…
Sharon's Cafe
Old fashioned, southern style food and cafe serving breakfast and lunch between 7:00 am and 3:00 pm. Stop by soon,…
Roma's Italian Restaurant
Roma Restaurant is celebrating their 10th Anniversary in Nebo, North Carolina, close to Lake James and Lake James State Park.…
Hillman Beer - Old Fort
Hillman Beer begins with family. Brothers Brad and Greig Hillman along with Greig's wife Brandi created this pub-style experience that…
Mica Town Brewing
The first brewery in Marion, NC, is now open! Stop by Mica Town Brewing to enjoy a craft beer inspired by the geology and people of Western North Carolina.
Deb's Diner
Locally owned restaurant serving breakfast and week day lunch specials. Located just outside Old Fort, NC, on Catawba River Road.…
Nara Express
Japanese cuisine served in a casual atmosphere, with take out and drive thru service.
Artesana Ice Cream Shop
Artesana Ice Cream is locally sourced goodness with a delicious and unique twist on a tasty treat. Our creamy blend…
Silver Fork Winery
Silver Fork Winery’s beautiful tasting room and grounds provide a breathtaking view overlooking our vineyards and the majestic South Mountains.…