Local Tastemaker: Banner Elk, NC Restaurant Guide
Whether you're a local resident, a frequent visitor, or just planning your first trip to Banner Elk, join us as we uncover the hidden culinary treasures of this charming mountain town. We'll be sharing our personal experiences and recommendations for the most mouth-watering meals Banner Elk has to offer.
From cozy cafes to fine dining establishments, we highlight the unique and inviting ambiances that make the restaurants in this small town so special.
Banner Elk Restaurant Guide
* ‘$’ symbols denote estimated meal costs.
Diamond Creek’s signature restaurant — $$$$
The food, the setting (shown above), the service — you won’t find a more exquisite fine dining experience in the high country. The menu at Artisanal is renowned for its delicious and carefully crafted dishes that are made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu is updated seasonally to ensure that diners always have access to the freshest and most flavorful ingredients.
Reservations are a must, and we’d recommend booking them at least a month in advance. Fun fact - Eric Church recorded his album Heart & Soul here! Open seasonally May-October
A steak lover’s paradise — $$-$$$
For locals, it seems like Stonewalls has been around forever — and there’s a reason for that. Stonewalls is renown for their prime rib, seafood, gourmet steaks, and fine wines. They offer the finest cuts of beef, sirloin, rib eye, New York Strip, and Filet Mignon, if you like choice meat, you’re going to love Stonewalls.
Hand crafted, one of a kind — $$-$$$
You know those restaurants you tell your friends about and just recalling the food makes your mouth water, that’s LP on Main. A high country mainstay, Louisiana Purchase recently got a major facelift and their new location’s ambiance (pictured above) is second only to their recipes. Their specials are special, their drinks have a unique afterglow and all their food is prepared by the owners themselves. You simply have to try LP on Main if you make it over to Banner Elk.
100 years of Italian heritage in every bite — $$-$$$$
Sorrento’s provided us with one of the most memorable dining experiences we’ve ever had. Our first meal at Sorrento’s, we shared a meal with friends on a Saturday night and sat on the upper level of their sprawling building. The food was incredible, the room had that perfect balance of privacy and background noise where you could talk and laugh about anything with the folks at your table. And then, it happened — this large man in a tuxedo started singing, live music, somewhere around the pitch and talent level of Tony Bennett or Frank Sinatra. Not kidding. His voice didn’t dominate room, conversations continued with ease but we kept finding ourselves stunned that ‘this voice’ we were hearing was in the same room with us. Totally unique, because the food was 5-star without the Grammy level talent contributing to the experience.
Handmade to the hilt — $$$
Intimately curated seasonal menus. Owner, Tina Houston, prides herself on using the most beautiful ingredients while avoiding industrially grown and processed foods. Serving regional seafood, local farm goods, fine wines, slow roasted meats and handcrafted bakery items (see below).
Creole cooking in the High Country — $$
Indulge in the rich flavors of Louisiana at our local themed restaurant, where every dish is a taste of the Bayou state's vibrant culture and cuisine. Casual atmosphere, top tier Crawfish Creole and red beans and rice.
Live music, pizza, breakfast, and more — $$
The local cafe has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with cozy seating and a rustic decor. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries fills the air, inviting customers to sit and relax. The menu features a variety of breakfast options, such as fluffy pancakes and breakfast burritos, as well as sandwiches and salads for lunch. The dinner menu offers hearty, comfort food dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The cafe also features a selection of local beers on draft, perfect for pairing with a meal or enjoying on their own.
New York Style Pizza and Authentic Italian Cuisine — $$
If you're looking for authentic Italian cuisine, look no further than Bella’s. This local favorite serves up traditional dishes that are always cooked to perfection. Their menue features pizza, stromboli, calzones, a variety of appetizers, and so much more!
Eat Local, You’ll Thank Us Later
Remember, supporting local restaurants not only means enjoying delicious food, but also supporting the hardworking individuals and families behind them. So next time you're looking for a place to eat, consider checking out one of the restaurants we've highlighted or one of the many other hidden gems in our community. Bon appétit!
A Few Tips Before You Eat
Always call ahead or check for updates online.
Hours and days of operation can sometimes change abruptly.
Almost all restaurants welcome walk-ins, but we highly recommend making a reservation in advance if you can! With food this good, you’re likely to experience a wait time without one.
Whether you’re a first time visitor or a seasoned regular, there will always be something new to try. With many of these restaurants sourcing ingredients locally, you’ll find menus that change with the seasons. Get to know the people of Banner Elk and the High Country better through each meal you share with us. Now grab your dining bucket list, pack your bags and book a stay with us! We’ll be sure to save you a seat at the table.
