Local Tastemaker: Boone, NC Restaurant Guide
Come join us on a culinary adventure through the charming streets of our hometown, Boone, North Carolina. Where the aroma of delicious food clings to the cool mountain air and stories of our beloved local restaurants are just waiting to be told.
From down home, family-owned gems to trendy hot spots, we'll take you on a journey to discover the hidden delights and charming personalities of the folks who make our food scene so special. Let’s dig in.
Boone Restaurant Guide
* ‘$’ symbols denote estimated meal costs.
An adventure in fine dining — $$$
The restaurant has a rustic, mountain cabin atmosphere with wood paneling and stone fireplace. The menu features a variety of game meats such as venison, elk, and bison, as well as fresh seafood options. They have a wide selection of craft beers and wines to complement the meal. The Gamekeeper is known for their upscale and unique dining experience, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. The service is outstanding and the atmosphere is cozy and comfortable, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
King Street’s most unexpected outing — $-$$$
This incredible remodel will not disappoint. Hand made chocolates, wine tastings, desserts, expressos, charcuterie boards, the list goes on and on. If you’re looking for a great place to discuss the world’s problems or forge new friendships, this is the place.
Elegantly executed dishes — $$-$$$
Providing high-end, locally sourced North Carolina cuisine in a casual, upscale space. For the foodies, Vidalia has incredibly unique dishes that are hard to find anywhere else in the area. If you’re just looking for a great burger, you can’t go wrong with Vidalia.
Melanie’s
Breakfast, Brunch & Lunch — $-$$
One of the few ‘early day shows’ in town, Melanie’s is located in the center of downtown Boone and has something for everyone. If you want to ‘breakfast’ or ‘brunch’ in Boone, this is your place.
Craft beers, tasting room, insanely good food — $$
Booneshine Brewing is passionate about brewing high quality beer and equally focused on connecting with people by tapping into what makes the community of Boone, NC come to life. We’ve eaten here dozens of times and we LOVE this place — great burgers and flatbreads, the Flash Fried Cauliflower bites, and Grains Bowls are our favorites.
Sushi, sake and cocktails in “designer digs” — $$
Owner, Joseph Miller, spent more than 5 years in CO apprenticing under multiple accomplished sushi chefs. There’s no doubt why this is a local favorite for sushi and more. Cobo serves a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese and non-traditional dishes. They also have a full bar with a good selection of sake, wine, and beer.
Phone eats first at The Beacon — $$$
Uniquely crafted meals in an upscale modern, industrial setting. Each plate served is insta-worthy, and tastes even better than it looks.
Local brews, great pizzas, downtown location — $$
Lost Province has a wide range of menu options and they’re all delicious! Their wood fired pizzas are insanely good, they even have a gluten/dairy free pizza that stacks up. We love their massive burgers and beers (our favorite is Tyrannosaurus Mex). Get a dose of Boone history when you visit their restaurant as well - they converted a massive, old service station into a two story restaurant. Tip: call ahead before you try to eat here, wait times can get crazy.
Delicious brunch, great bar, incredible patio — $$
A menu with variety from wood fired flatbread and pizzas, quinoa bowls, tacos, salmon, steak and more. Have a seat in a relaxed atmosphere at the bar, a table inside or on their outdoor patio.
Traditional Appalachian Cuisine reimagined — $$-$$$
Locally owned and dripping with flavor, literally. Mellow Mushroom features a wide range of stone-baked pizzas, salads, hoagies, burgers and tap beers. We’ve personally eaten 100’s of meals at the two local Mellow Mushrooms over the years, if you’re looking for great pizza in Blowing Rock or Boone, this is your spot.
Featured in the High Country Press
Fresh pasta made from scratch — $$
There isn’t anywhere better to get your pasta fix. Fresh-cut and made with quality ingredients, we challenge you to find a better pasta dish around. Check their socials or give them a call to find out about their weekly food & drink specials!
Comfort foods from diverse cultures — $$
An earthy menu with vegetables perfectly blended into each entree. Ingredients locally sourced including beef from Bolick Farms in Boone, and Bread from Stick Boy Bakery.
Like dinner at Grandma’s — $$
A restored 18th century farmhouse that offers comfortable accommodation and a restaurant that serves traditional Southern cuisine family style. The inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a popular tourist destination in the area.
Not your average burger joint — $
Serving up a handcrafted menu in a relaxed log cabin atmosphere. They use the freshest local ingredients, and even have multiple vegan and vegetarian options. Want to have a taste of the wild side? Ask about what their wild game burger is for the day!
Southwest caribbean soul food — $
Your go-to place for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy friendly options! They’ve got plenty of healthy choices that lack none of the flavor. You can’t miss their house-made salsas and if you don’t have room for dessert you can take home one of their amazing cakes to share with friends and family!
“Rolled with love” — $
Arguably the best burritos in the high country, this place has been a Boone staple for over a decade. Reasonable prices make adding one of their key lime margaritas to your order guilt-free.
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 Boone 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.
