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.
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…
McDowell Local
A downtown Marion restaurant open Tuesday-Saturday. These owners' goal is to provide friends, family, and neighbors with a relaxed dining…
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,…
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…
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!
Big Lynn Lodge
This 42 room inn is located in the heart of Little Switzerland on NC. Hwy. 226-A, also known as the…
Mica Town Brewing Nebo
Mica Town Brewing has expanded with this new location in Nebo, minutes away from Lake James and Lake James State…
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…
Switzerland General Store
When you're enjoying the Blue Ridge Parkway and are looking for locally crafted foods and beverages, stop here! You'll find…
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.…
Famous Louise's Rock House Restaurant
Situated on three county lines, choose your favorite! Family operated restaurant featuring home cooked…
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…
Bantam Chef
Locally owned, this small diner serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some dishes are served with a "Greek flavor" and others…
Marion Tailgate Market
Opened in 2007, Marion's Tailgate Market has supplied regional residents with fresh produce, cheeses, meats and baked goods. The market…