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.
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!
Dot's Dario
Dot's is a local favorite, recently featured in Our State Magazine! This ice cream shop has been around for decades…
Camping World at Tom Johnson's Camping Center
Camp, eat, play, and stay at Tom Johnson's Camping Center in Marion, NC. More than just a campground, this site also serves as an event venue!
Taylors Brewing
Two brothers sharing their favorite "home brews" and regionally crafted favorites with a large assortment of options on tap. COVID-19…
Famous Louise's Rock House Restaurant
Situated on three county lines, choose your favorite! Family operated restaurant featuring home cooked…
Countryside BBQ
Famous for providing a family atmosphere with on site smoked pork BBQ and chicken, accompanied by southern sides and homemade…
The Chalet at the Switzerland Inn
The Chalet is a full service restaurant located at the Switzerland Inn in Little Switzerland, NC. Serving three meals daily,…
Smoke a lil' Smoke
Local downtown Marion restaurant serving great BBQ and smoked meats. Every plate is made with loving care. Try pulled pork,…
Headwaters Kitchen
Variety of your favorite breakfast and lunch items plus specialty dishes like Shakshuka breakfast stew! Open 8-2. Breakfast all day.…
Switzerland Inn and Chalet Restaurant
Choices. That’s what your stay at the Switzerland Inn is all about. Select from spacious rooms flavored with a touch…
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 County Honey Trail
Did you realize our area is in the heart of Sourwood Honey territory? It is! We have 23 honey producers…
Hook and Anchor Family Seafood
A local favorite featuring an 18 item buffet plus salad bar. Of course, you may order off the menu and…
Napales Mexican Grill
Enjoy a wide variety of authentic, Mexican cuisine using fresh ingredients, served in a colorful family friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Catering…
Flavors on Main General Store
Locally owned general store featuring foods and products created locally, regionally, or within the great state of North Carolina. You'll…
Mica Town Brewing Nebo
Mica Town Brewing has expanded with this new location in Nebo, minutes away from Lake James and Lake James State…