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.
McDowell Local
A downtown Marion restaurant open Tuesday-Saturday. These owners' goal is to provide friends, family, and neighbors with a relaxed dining…
McDowell County Honey Trail
Did you realize our area is in the heart of Sourwood Honey territory? It is! We have 23 honey producers…
Mica Town Brewing Nebo
Mica Town Brewing has expanded with this new location in Nebo, minutes away from Lake James and Lake James State…
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!
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…
Artesana Ice Cream Shop
Artesana Ice Cream is locally sourced goodness with a delicious and unique twist on a tasty treat. Our creamy blend…
Blanton House & Venue
Located in downtown Marion, North Carolina, the historic Blanton House prides itself on offering fine southern cuisine with a low…
Bruce's Fabulous Foods
Bruce and Barbara Brown own this local lunch time favorite, that's right, lunch only. Bruce is also known for his…
Deb's Diner
Locally owned restaurant serving breakfast and week day lunch specials. Located just outside Old Fort, NC, on Catawba River Road.…
Headwaters Kitchen
Variety of your favorite breakfast and lunch items plus specialty dishes like Shakshuka breakfast stew! Open 8-2. Breakfast all day.…
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…
Marion Lake Club Golf Course & Slices Bistro
The ONLY golf course on Lake James, dating back to 1923, when it was designed by famed golf course architect…
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!
Las Salsas
Open daily for lunch and dinner, Las Salsas is a local favorite and as the name states, offers multiple salsas! …
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.
Copper Creek Distillery
Handcrafted spirits using heirloom techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Copper Creek Distillery opened in 2021 and has been sharing its…