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.
Historic Orchard at Altapass
The Historic Orchard at Altapass in Little Switzerland is a must-visit from May through October! Experience music, hay rides, treats, storytelling and more!
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…
Jalapeno's Fresh Grill
Authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, locally owned restaurant with meeting facilities and catering services.
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!
Spillway Bridge & Company
The Spillway is Marion’s premier music venue with a state of the art sound system showcasing local and regional talent.…
Crabby Abby's Restaurant and Bar
Crabby Abby's is a fun, hip and vibrant restaurant in downtown Marion! Made from scratch menu and great cocktails. Daily…
Artesana Ice Cream Shop
Artesana Ice Cream is locally sourced goodness with a delicious and unique twist on a tasty treat. Our creamy blend…
Roma's Italian Restaurant
Roma Restaurant is celebrating their 10th Anniversary in Nebo, North Carolina, close to Lake James and Lake James State Park.…
Eddie's Pasta and Pizza
Eddie's offers all of your favorite pizza, sandwiches, pasta and salads using fresh ingredients. Order pizza by the slice, too!
Deb's Diner
Locally owned restaurant serving breakfast and week day lunch specials. Located just outside Old Fort, NC, on Catawba River Road.…
Chance Of Sprinkles Bake Shop
Located in downtown Marion's Miller Building, this small local bakery/coffee shop offers cupcakes, ice cream, slushies, smoothies, cookies and homemade…
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…
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!
Copper Creek Distillery
Handcrafted spirits using heirloom techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Copper Creek Distillery opened in 2021 and has been sharing its…
Countryside BBQ
Famous for providing a family atmosphere with on site smoked pork BBQ and chicken, accompanied by southern sides and homemade…