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.
McDowell County Honey Trail
Did you realize our area is in the heart of Sourwood Honey territory? It is! We have 23 honey producers…
Jalapeno's Fresh Grill
Authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, locally owned restaurant with meeting facilities and catering services.
Marion Lake Club Golf Course & Slices Bistro
The ONLY golf course on Lake James, dating back to 1923, when it was designed by famed golf course architect…
J. Hartman's Restaurant
Mouthwatering food, made specifically to your liking, with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu features a variety of salads and…
Napales Mexican Grill
Enjoy a wide variety of authentic, Mexican cuisine using fresh ingredients, served in a colorful family friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Catering…
The Sprinkled Cove Coffee Bar & Bakery
Now moving to Wholesale and Direct Sales Only.Located inside Catawba River Inn, this small cafe features hot prepared drinks, baked…
Shops at Switzerland Inn
The Shops at Switzerland Inn offers some of the best, most unique seasonal shopping in the area, with a wide selection of handmade goods from local artisans!
The Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine
Plan a stay at The Lucky Strike Gold and Gem Mine campsite in Marion and enjoy a recreational mine, diner, gift shop, concert hall and so much more!
Headwaters Kitchen
Variety of your favorite breakfast and lunch items plus specialty dishes like Shakshuka breakfast stew! Open 8-2. Breakfast all day.…
Fonta Flora Brewery at Whippoorwill Farm
Whippoorwill Farm is home to the Fonta Flora Brewery. Add them to your beer tasting list for a rustic experience,…
Roma's Italian Restaurant
Roma Restaurant is celebrating their 10th Anniversary in Nebo, North Carolina, close to Lake James and Lake James State Park.…
Copper Creek Distillery
Handcrafted spirits using heirloom techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Copper Creek Distillery opened in 2021 and has been sharing its…
GoGo's Handcrafted Cinnamon Rolls
This locally owned cinnamon roll bakery began in a home kitchen, known as Nothin' Fancy. They were so popular, the…
Taylors Brewing
Two brothers sharing their favorite "home brews" and regionally crafted favorites with a large assortment of options on tap. COVID-19…
Smoke a lil' Smoke
Local downtown Marion restaurant serving great BBQ and smoked meats. Every plate is made with loving care. Try pulled pork,…
Ingenious Coffee Roasters
Ingenious Coffee Roasters is doing it all! You'll find them in downtown Marion's 310 District serving up delicious hot and…