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.
Copper Creek Distillery
Handcrafted spirits using heirloom techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Copper Creek Distillery opened in 2021 and has been sharing its…
Headwaters Kitchen
Variety of your favorite breakfast and lunch items plus specialty dishes like Shakshuka breakfast stew! Open 8-2. Breakfast all day.…
Roma's Italian Restaurant
Roma Restaurant is celebrating their 10th Anniversary in Nebo, North Carolina, close to Lake James and Lake James State Park.…
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!
Countryside BBQ
Famous for providing a family atmosphere with on site smoked pork BBQ and chicken, accompanied by southern sides and homemade…
Deb's Diner
Locally owned restaurant serving breakfast and week day lunch specials. Located just outside Old Fort, NC, on Catawba River Road.…
Taylors Brewing
Two brothers sharing their favorite "home brews" and regionally crafted favorites with a large assortment of options on tap. COVID-19…
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,…
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!
Mica Town Brewing Nebo
Mica Town Brewing has expanded with this new location in Nebo, minutes away from Lake James and Lake James State…
McDowell Local
A downtown Marion restaurant open Tuesday-Saturday. These owners' goal is to provide friends, family, and neighbors with a relaxed dining…
Blanton House & Venue
Located in downtown Marion, North Carolina, the historic Blanton House prides itself on offering fine southern cuisine with a low…
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!
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.
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…
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!