RankNC – Discover North Carolina's Best: Reviews, Rankings & Insights

Search
Close this search box.

Best Restaurants and Dining In The High Country

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through our links we may be compensated at no cost to you.

Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best restaurants and dining in the High Country area!

Prepare for a culinary adventure amidst stunning landscapes and charming towns. Explore Boone’s farm-to-table eateries and Blowing Rock’s cozy restaurants.

Discover the culinary heritage of Banner Elk, where chefs craft Appalachian-inspired dishes and international flavors. 

RankNC's Top Picks

Join us as we uncover unforgettable dining experiences in the High Country.

Top Dining Destinations in Blowing Rock, NC

Discover the culinary treasures of Blowing Rock, North Carolina, with these top dining destinations offering a blend of Southern hospitality and innovative cuisine.

1. The Gamekeeper

Rustic Elegance

Experience rustic elegance at The Gamekeeper, known for its creative American cuisine and charming mountain ambiance. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this restaurant offers a memorable dining experience with dishes inspired by the region’s natural bounty.

2. The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop

Farm-to-Table Fare

Indulge in farm-to-table fare at The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop, where seasonal ingredients shine in every dish. From fresh seafood to locally sourced meats, this restaurant celebrates the flavors of the High Country with a modern twist.

3. Bistro Roca & Antlers Bar

Casual Elegance

Dine casually at Bistro Roca & Antlers Bar, a beloved spot for upscale comfort food and craft cocktails. With its cozy atmosphere and innovative menu, this restaurant invites guests to relax and savor the flavors of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

4. The New Public House & Hotel

Modern Southern Cuisine

Treat yourself to modern Southern cuisine at The New Public House & Hotel, where classic dishes are reimagined with a contemporary flair. From hearty brunches to elegant dinners, this restaurant offers a taste of Southern hospitality in the heart of Blowing Rock.

5. Canyons Restaurant

Scenic Views

Enjoy scenic views and delicious cuisine at Canyons Restaurant, perched atop the cliffs overlooking the town of Blowing Rock. With its diverse menu and panoramic vistas, this restaurant is the perfect destination for a memorable dining experience.

Conclusion

Blowing Rock, NC offers a dining experience with its rich culinary heritage and breathtaking mountain scenery. From upscale eateries to cozy restaurants, there’s something to delight every palate in this charming mountain town.

Top Dining Destinations in Boone, NC

Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Boone, North Carolina, with these top dining destinations offering a diverse range of flavors and experiences.

1. Vidalia Restaurant and Wine Bar

Southern-Inspired Cuisine

Savor Southern-inspired cuisine at Vidalia Restaurant and Wine Bar, where locally sourced ingredients shine in every dish. From classic comfort food to innovative creations, this restaurant tastes the region’s culinary heritage with a modern twist.

2. The Gamekeeper Restaurant & Bar

Rustic Charm

Experience the rustic charm and gourmet cuisine at The Gamekeeper Restaurant & Bar, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With its cozy ambiance and seasonal menu, this restaurant invites diners to enjoy a memorable dining experience in a picturesque setting.

3. The Local

Farm-to-Table Fare

Indulge in farm-to-table fare at The Local, a beloved spot for fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes. From artisanal pizzas to handcrafted cocktails, this restaurant celebrates the flavors of the High Country with a focus on sustainability and quality.

4. Proper

Modern American Cuisine

Treat yourself to modern American cuisine at Proper, where traditional favorites are reimagined with a contemporary flair. With its stylish decor and innovative menu, this restaurant offers a culinary experience that’s both sophisticated and approachable.

5. Melanie’s Food Fantasy

Cozy Cafe Atmosphere

Discover a cozy cafe atmosphere and hearty comfort food at Melanie’s Food Fantasy. From homemade soups to decadent desserts, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike for its generous portions and friendly service.

Conclusion

Boone, NC, is a culinary destination that satisfies every palate. From upscale eateries to casual cafes, the dining scene in this charming mountain town reflects the region’s rich culinary heritage and commitment to quality ingredients.

Best Dining in the High Country - Vidalia in Boone, NC
Vidalia in Boone, NC

Top Dining Destinations in Banner Elk, NC

Discover the culinary delights of Banner Elk, North Carolina, with these top dining destinations offering a mix of flavors and experiences.

1. Artisanal Restaurant

Fine Dining Experience

Experience fine dining at Artisanal Restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients are transformed into creative dishes. With its elegant ambiance and attentive service, this restaurant promises an unforgettable culinary journey in the heart of Banner Elk.

2. Stonewalls Restaurant

Steakhouse and Seafood

Indulge in steakhouse classics and fresh seafood at Stonewalls Restaurant, known for its generous portions and rustic charm. Whether craving a perfectly grilled steak or succulent lobster tail, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious fare.

3. Banner Elk Cafe

Casual Dining

Enjoy casual dining at Banner Elk Cafe, a local favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From hearty breakfast skillets to gourmet burgers and sandwiches, this cafe offers something for everyone in a relaxed setting.

4. Puerto Nuevo

Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Puerto Nuevo, where traditional flavors take center stage. From flavorful tacos to sizzling fajitas, this restaurant offers a taste of Mexico in the heart of Banner Elk.

5. Sorrento’s Italian Bistro

Italian Comfort Food

Indulge in Italian comfort food at Sorrento’s Italian Bistro, serving classic dishes with fresh ingredients and love. From homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, this restaurant invites diners to enjoy a taste of Italy in Banner Elk.

Conclusion

Banner Elk, NC, boasts a diverse dining scene with options ranging from upscale eateries to casual cafes. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a quick bite, the restaurants in this charming mountain town promise delicious flavors and memorable experiences.

Best Dining in the High Country - Banner Elk Cafe
Banner Elk Cafe
Related Articles

Top Dining Destinations in West Jefferson, NC

Discover the culinary treasures of West Jefferson, North Carolina, with these top dining destinations offering a mix of flavors and ambiance.

1. Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant

Craft Beer and Gourmet Fare

Experience craft beer and gourmet fare at Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant, known for its innovative brews and creative menu. This brewery restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food, from artisanal pizzas to flavorful sandwiches.

2. Black Jack’s Pub & Grill

Casual Dining

Enjoy casual dining at Black Jack’s Pub & Grill, a local favorite for hearty pub fare and friendly service. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger or a satisfying salad, this laid-back eatery is perfect for a relaxed meal with friends and family.

3. The Hotel Tavern

Historic Charm and Modern Cuisine

Step into historic charm at The Hotel Tavern, where modern cuisine meets classic elegance. With its cozy fireplace and welcoming ambiance, this restaurant offers a menu of elevated comfort food and craft cocktails, making it a must-visit in West Jefferson.

4. Hillbilly Grill

Southern Comfort Food

Indulge in Southern comfort food at Hillbilly Grill, serving up homestyle favorites with a mountain twist. From crispy fried chicken to savory barbecue, this down-home eatery celebrates the region’s flavors in a laid-back setting.

5. Sweet Aromas Bakery & Cafe

Baked Goods and Coffee

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sweet Aromas Bakery & Cafe, a charming spot offering freshly baked goods and artisanal coffee. From flaky pastries to decadent cakes, this bakery cafe is perfect for a morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up.

Conclusion

West Jefferson, NC, offers diverse dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, each with unique charm and flavors. Whether exploring the town’s historic district or enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains, these top dining destinations promise a memorable culinary experience.

Top Dining Destinations in Valle Crucis, NC

Experience the culinary delights of Valle Crucis, North Carolina, with these top dining destinations offering a blend of local flavors and cozy atmospheres.

1. Mast Farm Inn Restaurant

Farm-to-Table Cuisine

Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine at Mast Farm Inn Restaurant, where seasonal ingredients shine in every dish. Enjoy a fine dining experience in a historic setting, with a menu highlighting the High Country flavors.

2. Over Yonder

Southern Hospitality and Mountain Views

Savor Southern hospitality and mountain views at Over Yonder, a charming restaurant in a historic farmhouse. Featuring locally sourced ingredients and traditional Appalachian recipes, Over Yonder offers a taste of authentic mountain cuisine.

3. The Original Mast General Store

Deli and Country Store

Step back at The Original Mast General Store, where you can enjoy a meal at the deli counter or pick up gourmet goodies to take home. This iconic country store has something for everyone, from sandwiches to homemade fudge.

4. The Gamekeeper

Gourmet Game and Seafood

Dine on gourmet game and seafood at The Gamekeeper, a rustic-chic restaurant in the woods. With a menu that changes with the seasons, The Gamekeeper offers an unforgettable dining experience in a picturesque setting.

5. Overlook Barn

Event Venue and Dining

Experience rustic elegance at Overlook Barn, an event venue and dining destination overlooking the Watauga River. Whether attending a special event or dining at the restaurant, you’ll enjoy delicious food and breathtaking views.

Conclusion

Valle Crucis, NC, has a rich culinary scene celebrating the region’s heritage and natural beauty. From historic inns to farm-to-table restaurants, these top dining destinations offer a taste of the High Country’s best flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Mast Farm Inn
The Mast Farm Inn

Conclusion

In the High Country of North Carolina, dining experiences are not just meals but memorable journeys through culinary excellence and mountain charm.

From the quaint streets of Boone to the picturesque landscapes of Valle Crucis and Blowing Rock, each restaurant offers a unique blend of flavors, ambiance, and hospitality that captivates the senses.

As you conclude your culinary adventures in the High Country, savor the memories of farm-to-table feasts, locally sourced delicacies, and warm hospitality that define this vibrant dining scene.

Whether you’re indulging in a romantic dinner for two or sharing a meal with friends and family, the High Country’s diverse dining options promise to satisfy every palate and create lasting memories amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Picture of The Doirons

The Doirons

Our mission is to get you to encounter the unlimited potential that North Carolina has to offer and experience it to the fullest. RankNC is designed to be a source of research, inspiration, and ideas for those who refuse to settle for anything less than an extraordinary time. On this website, we will openly and passionately share the very best that NC has to offer as my family and I continue to discover this beautiful state.
Editorial Process:


Experts make our reviews before being written and come from real-world experience and research. Read our editorial process here.

Some links in this article may be affiliate links, which can compensate us at no cost to you if you purchase from our partners. We’ve personally researched, used, and stand behind these products. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

High Country Quick Links
Scroll to Top