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.
Keeper's Cut Meadery
For traditional and flavored mead, try Keeper's Cut Meadery in Marion! Visit their tasting room or dog-friendly deck, where you can bring your own snacks.
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!
Nara Express
Japanese cuisine served in a casual atmosphere, with take out and drive thru service.
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!
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…
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…
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,…
Headwaters Kitchen
Variety of your favorite breakfast and lunch items plus specialty dishes like Shakshuka breakfast stew! Open 8-2. Breakfast all day.…
Smoke a lil' Smoke
Local downtown Marion restaurant serving great BBQ and smoked meats. Every plate is made with loving care. Try pulled pork,…
Elevate Breakfast Company
Elevate Breakfast Company is a new addition to Marion's 310 District where you'll find a variety of country breakfast favorites,…
Las Salsas
Open daily for lunch and dinner, Las Salsas is a local favorite and as the name states, offers multiple salsas! …
Refinery 13
Refinery 13 in historic downtown Marion is the perfect place for family-friendly dining and drinks! Stop in to taste local craft beverages and more!
McDowell Local
A downtown Marion restaurant open Tuesday-Saturday. These owners' goal is to provide friends, family, and neighbors with a relaxed dining…
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…
Bear Creek Marina
Bear Creek Marina is part of a 200+ acre combined residential and recreational facility located on picturesque Lake James. Boat…
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,…