Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, NC, is more than just a scenic escape; it’s a culinary destination brimming with delicious surprises. This charming town, known for its outdoor recreation and vibrant university atmosphere, boasts a thriving food scene that caters to every palate and budget. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a satisfying meal after a day of hiking or exploring, Boone offers a diverse array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. This guide unveils the best food Boone NC has to offer, ensuring a memorable dining experience during your visit. We’ll explore local favorites, hidden gems, and must-try dishes, covering everything from breakfast to dinner and everything in between, providing you with an insider’s look at the best places to eat in Boone.
Start Your Day Right: Boone’s Best Breakfast Spots
No trip to Boone is complete without experiencing the local breakfast scene. From hearty, traditional fare to innovative brunch creations, Boone’s breakfast spots offer the perfect way to fuel up for a day of adventure. Here are a few of our favorites:
Proper Restaurant
Proper Restaurant exudes a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for starting your day on a positive note. This popular spot is known for its friendly service, generous portions, and delicious takes on classic breakfast dishes. Their standout item is undoubtedly their buttermilk pancakes. Fluffy, golden brown, and cooked to perfection, these pancakes are served with your choice of toppings, from fresh berries and whipped cream to maple syrup and chocolate chips. What makes Proper a “best of” choice is their commitment to using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, ensuring a truly authentic and flavorful breakfast experience. You can find Proper Restaurant located at 148 S Depot St, Boone, NC.
Sunrise Grill
Sunrise Grill is a Boone institution, serving up classic diner fare with a friendly smile. This no-frills spot is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its affordable prices, quick service, and consistently delicious food. Their breakfast menu features all the essentials, from eggs and bacon to biscuits and gravy. However, their signature dish is undoubtedly their omelets. Made with fresh ingredients and cooked to order, these omelets are packed with flavor and are the perfect way to kickstart your day. Sunrise Grill is a “best of” choice because it embodies the spirit of Boone – a welcoming and unpretentious place where you can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Located on Blowing Rock Road, it’s hard to miss this cornerstone of Boone’s breakfast scene.
Our Daily Bread Deli
For a more European-inspired breakfast, look no further than Our Daily Bread Deli. This charming cafe offers a selection of freshly baked pastries, artisanal breads, and delicious sandwiches. Their croissants are a must-try, flaky, buttery, and baked fresh daily. They also offer a variety of quiches, muffins, and scones, all made with high-quality ingredients. What makes Our Daily Bread a “best of” choice is their commitment to using traditional baking techniques and their dedication to providing customers with a truly authentic and delicious breakfast experience. Located on King Street, this is the perfect place to grab a coffee and a pastry and watch the world go by. It’s a great way to see Boone’s downtown life.
Midday Munchies: Boone’s Top Lunch Destinations
When lunchtime rolls around, Boone offers a variety of options to satisfy your midday cravings. From casual cafes to lively pubs, you’ll find plenty of delicious lunch spots to choose from.
Boone Saloon
Boone Saloon is a local favorite, known for its lively atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious pub fare. Located in the heart of downtown Boone, this popular spot is the perfect place to grab a quick and satisfying lunch. Their menu features a variety of sandwiches, burgers, salads, and appetizers, all made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. Their signature dish is undoubtedly their Boone Burger, a juicy and flavorful burger topped with all the fixings. Boone Saloon is a “best of” choice because it offers a great atmosphere, delicious food, and a truly authentic Boone experience. The energy and sense of community here is palpable.
Los Arcoiris
For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, look no further than Los Arcoiris. This popular restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to burritos and fajitas. Their menu is extensive, with something to please every palate. Their standout item is undoubtedly their fajitas, sizzling platters of grilled vegetables and meat served with tortillas, sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. What makes Los Arcoiris a “best of” choice is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and their dedication to providing customers with a truly authentic and delicious Mexican dining experience. It’s a vibrant and flavorful addition to the Boone food scene.
The Comeback Shack
If you’re in the mood for a classic American lunch, The Comeback Shack is the place to be. This casual eatery offers a selection of burgers, fries, and milkshakes, all made with fresh ingredients and cooked to order. Their burgers are the star of the show, juicy, flavorful, and cooked to your liking. They also offer a variety of toppings and sauces, allowing you to customize your burger to your exact specifications. What makes The Comeback Shack a “best of” choice is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and their dedication to providing customers with a delicious and satisfying lunch experience. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious lunch option in Boone.
Dinner is Served: Boone’s Best Restaurants for Evening Eats
As the sun sets over the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone’s restaurants come alive, offering a diverse range of dining experiences to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a casual meal with friends, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Upscale Dining Experiences
The Gamekeeper Restaurant and Bar
The Gamekeeper Restaurant and Bar offers a sophisticated dining experience in a rustic and charming setting. Their menu features a variety of innovative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. They are known for using game meats and highlighting Appalachian ingredients. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. Their standout dish is often a seasonal offering utilizing the best produce the area has to offer. The Gamekeeper provides a refined and memorable dining experience that elevates the Boone food scene.
Vidalia Restaurant & Wine Bar
Vidalia Restaurant & Wine Bar provides a fine dining experience, emphasizing Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist. The atmosphere is elegant and inviting, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner. The wine list is extensive, featuring a variety of domestic and international wines. Their signature dish is often a creative seafood offering, showcasing fresh ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. What makes Vidalia a “best of” choice is their commitment to providing exceptional service, delicious food, and a memorable dining experience.
Casual & Fun Dining Options
Pedalin’ Pig
Pedalin’ Pig is a BBQ restaurant with a laid back atmosphere. It is often considered one of the best places for BBQ in Boone. The pulled pork, brisket, and ribs are delicious, and they also have great sides. This is one of those restaurants to go when you want to eat until you can’t eat anymore.
Lost Province Brewing Co.
Lost Province Brewing Co. combines craft beer with delicious pub fare, creating a lively and enjoyable dining experience. The brewery offers a wide selection of beers brewed on-site, from IPAs and stouts to lagers and ales. Their food menu features a variety of pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers, all made with fresh, local ingredients. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a night out with friends. Lost Province provides a great place to enjoy great beer and tasty food.
Off the Beaten Path: Boone’s Best Kept Culinary Secrets
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Boone is home to a number of hidden gems that are worth seeking out. These lesser-known spots offer unique culinary experiences and are often favored by locals.
Melanie’s Food Fantasy
Melanie’s Food Fantasy is located on King Street. The inside can only fit a handful of people to sit down and eat, so ordering out is a popular option. Despite the smaller establishment, this restaurant has some of the best food in Boone. The menu offers a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and salads, all made with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The shop’s vibe and the creative, delicious food makes it a hidden gem worth discovering.
Coyote Kitchen
Coyote Kitchen is a Southwestern restaurant that’s located just off King Street. This is an interesting place because the line is almost always out the door. Their portions are quite large and you will likely have leftovers. The Southwestern flavors and unique atmosphere make it a favorite among college students and locals alike.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: Boone’s Best Dessert Spots
No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and Boone offers a variety of dessert spots to satisfy your cravings.
Blue Deer Cookies
If you like cookies, Blue Deer Cookies is the place to go. Not only is it delicious, but you also have a variety of options to choose from. Their cookies are soft and chewy and are made in a variety of unique flavors.
Glacier Ridge Coffee and Ice Cream
After visiting Boone, people often say that you need to visit Glacier Ridge Coffee and Ice Cream. They have ice cream, smoothies, coffees, and breakfast items, so you will surely find what you’re looking for.
Boone’s Craft Beer & Drink Scene (Optional)
While this article focuses on food, it’s worth mentioning that Boone also boasts a thriving craft beer scene. Several local breweries offer a variety of delicious beers and often host events and live music. This can complement your food experience.
Conclusion
Boone, North Carolina, is a culinary haven nestled amidst stunning mountain views. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunches, delightful dinners, and tempting desserts, the best food Boone NC has to offer is waiting to be explored. The restaurants mentioned in this guide represent a diverse range of flavors, experiences, and price points. Whether you’re a local seeking a new favorite spot or a visitor looking for an unforgettable dining experience, Boone’s culinary scene is sure to impress. So, pack your appetite, explore the mountain town, and discover the best food Boone NC has in store for you! Now, what are some of your favorite restaurants in Boone? Share them in the comments below!
