Where to eat

Dining in the Smokies | Smoky Mountain Restaurants

Nothing builds hunger and thirst like a full day outdoors. In the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina you will find a wide variety of experiences dining in the Smokies. Western North Carolina is renowned for its heavy participation in the local food movement and culinary prowess, making fine dining in the Smokies commonplace and an adventure all its own. Taste the unique fusion of traditional Southern cookin’ and modern cuisine with influences from both home and abroad – made with fresh, local ingredients. Click on the categories below for more information on specific dining options and locations for restaurants in the Smokies of North Carolina.

Brewery/Wine

We’re not the first distillers to understand the importance of Maggie Valley’s water. The first settlers knew these rustic and rugged mountains held a secret. They brought their Scotch-Irish heritage of making craft whiskey and spirits with them. Maggie Valley has been the home to many legendary moonshiners who made GREAT Smoky Mountain whiskeys! WANT TO BE MASTER DISTILLER FOR THE DAY? We are now happily booking tours for the summer of 2018. We’ll show you how we make your favorite spirits, then treat you to a tasting! Morning and early afternoon tours are the best times to see the still in operation. Monday-Saturday: 10:00am - 7:00pm
3732 Soco Road Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 944-0766 elevatedmountain.com Get Directions
FernCrest Winery Tasting Room is open in downtown Andrews. We have created hand crafted wines using the best grapes form our vineyard and our vineyard partners. Wine tastings, bottles and wine by the glass. Local cheeses, local jams and wine merchandise
1060 Main Street Andrews, NC 28901 (828) 321-1600 www.ferncrestwinery.com Get Directions
HoppyTrout Brewing Company a new microbrewery in Andrews! With names like: Hop Incident, Wicked Weed, Behold the Reaper, Allagash, Dr Smores Stout w/cherries - make you want to try them! Handmade Sicilian Brick Oven Pizza, Appetizers, Salads
911 Main Street Andrews, NC 28901 (828) 835-2111 hoppytroutbrewing.com Get Directions
"Production craft brewery with tap room, food truck, outdoor patio, and w-fi. Kid and pet friendly. Check our website or Facebook page for the entertainment lineup on our indoor and outdoor stages. Come "Get Lazy"! Come "Get Lazy"
188 West Main Street Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 349-2337 www.lazyhikerbrewing.com Get Directions
Craft brewery! Plus, wood-fired pizza is our specialty with homemade dough and sauce – it's outstanding! Burgers, fresh cut fries and much more! Hours: Monday - Saturday 11:00 pm - 10:00 pm Sunday Noon - 10:00 pm
994 Business Hwy 64 Hayesville, NC 28904 (828) 389-1472 valleyriverbreweries.com
We are Murphy's only craft brewery! Plus, wood-fired pizza is our specialty with homemade dough and sauce – it's outstanding! Burgers, fresh cut fries and much more!
71 Tennessee Street Murphy, NC 28906 (828) 837-2337 valleyriverbreweries.com
Wehrloom Honey presents Wehrloom Honey Wines, a variety of mead wines( honey-based wines) made from their unadulterated raw honey. Opens in the Spring 2017.
257 Willie Colvin Road Robbinsville, NC 28771 (828) 735-2300 wehrloom.com Get Directions

Dining

The Asian King Chinese & Sushi Buffet is located in the new Walmart plaza just off of 64. As indicated by the name, the restaurant is primarily a Chinese and sushi buffet. There are a number of traditional Chinese buffet selections, including offerings such as lo mein, sesame chicken, steamed dumplings , egg rolls and sugar donuts. There is also an ever fresh selection of a variety of sushi & sashimi on the sushi bar. In addition to the buffet selections, Asian King also offers a full menu featuring numerous Chinese favorites, tempura and sushi. It opened its doors for the first time on January 23,2013 and, in the time it has been open, has quickly become a favorite of local diners. The restaurant is owned by John Huang, who has over 14 years experience as a restaurateur.
109 Commons Drive Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 349-9800 asianking1.com Get Directions
7420 Dillard Road Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 (828) 526-1663 scalymountain.com Get Directions
Enjoy a hearty meal at the intersection of the Appalachian Trail and the Nantahala River. Live music calendar available online.
13077 Hwy 19 W Bryson City, NC 28713 (828) 488-7174 www.noc.com Get Directions
Jackson County's gathering place foreveryone. Steaks, seafood, burgers,salads, kids menu, carryout andcatering. Open breakfast, lunch and dinner.
35 East Main St Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 586-6532 Get Directions
BRIO Tuscan Grille at Harrah’s Cherokee invites you to gather with friends, family and co-workers and experience the flavors of Tuscany without a passport! Bringing the pleasures of the Tuscan country villa to Cherokee, our chef-inspired recipes are sure to tempt your palate. At this Italian restaurant, we believe that to eat well is to live well. Known for its authentic Northern Italian specialties, BRIO features a hard wood infused pizza oven and oven-roasted steaks, chops, fresh fish and made-to-order pastas. Tuscan small bites are offered, along with an extensive wine list with a large Italian contingent served by the glass. Lunch, brunch and dinner menus are available in a casual, yet elegant environment and an atmosphere reminiscent of an old world Taverna. Designed to seat approximately 400 people, the 12,000 sq. ft. Italian restaurant offers a patio-like environment, main dining room, chef’s table, large bar area and two private dining rooms.
777 Casino Drive Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-7777 www.harrahscherokee.com Get Directions
Cardinal Cafe is nestled in the great smoky mountains and will not just offer exceptional food but a dining experience you’ll love. You'll enjoy the creative atmosphere and friendly service that is sure to please everyone. Terry has put her heart into another amazing restaurant. Fresh food made daily in downtown Franklin! Delivery in town available.
228 NE Main Street Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 369-1359 www.facebook.com/ElevationsPizzaEats Get Directions
New Orleans-style snoballs, po-boys and treats; fun for the whole family. Open Tuesday thru Saturday. Convenient location right on Hwy 64.
146 Hwy 64 West Hayesville, NC 28904 facebook.com/carlottashayesville Get Directions
Cataloochee Ranch, located a mile high above Maggie Valley at an elevation of 5,000 feet, offers a 1,000 acre ranch bording the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. A full service resort with meals, tennis, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, etc. Since 1939 the Cataloochee family has been sharing their Southern warmth and hospitality with their guests. Family style cooking, daily hayrides, cookouts, bonfires, volleyball, horseshoes, croquet, entertainment and a 20-foot heated swim spa. The lodge features 6 units, accommodating 25 people, 12 cabins accommodating 2 to 8 people, 4 romance cabins, & the Main Ranch House with 6 sleep rooms. Each with private baths, fireplaces, furnishings featuring handmade quilts, primitive or classic antiques, and porches with rocking chairs to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding mountains.
119 Ranch Drive Maggie Valley, NC 28751 (828) 926-1401 www.cataloocheeranch.com Get Directions
Offering seven stations - Italian, Mexican, Asian, Comfort Food, BBQ, Soup & Salad Bar and Desserts!
777 Casino Drive Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-7777 www.harrahs.com Get Directions
Crepes, paninis, soups/salads, pasta, coffee, espresso, beer, wine, organic, gluten-free, vegetarian, free Wi-Fi, outdoor dining.
3 E. Jackson Street Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 586-9499 www.citylightscafe.com Get Directions
Open daily
  • Fresh Desserts
  • Fresh Biscuits
  • Salad Bar
  • Coffee Bar
  • Gift Shop
7388 Hwy 441 Dillard, GA 30537 (706) 746-5700 www.dillardgeorgia.com/cupboard-cafe Get Directions
Offering six specialty burgers, a daily deli, homemade desserts & much more. Beer on tap! Breakfast starting at 8am every morning, considered by many to be the best there is in the area. Lunch starts by 11am, serving our famous dragon burger, chicken, BBQ, sandwiches, many more items, along with daily specials.
17548 Tapoco Rd Robbinsville, NC 28771 (828) 498-2231 dealsgap.com Get Directions
America's favorite every day, all-day stop for coffee and baked goods is Dunkin’ Donuts. Located just off the Harrahs Cherokee Casino floor, in the food court
777 Casino Parkway Cherokee, NC 28719 Get Directions
Fat Buddies Restaurants offer the best family atmosphere and excellent BBQ favorites and specialty dishes. Savor a taste of real Southern BBQ and home made desserts in two smoke free location in Franklin and Waynesville from 11-9 p.m. Monday thru Saturdays. Closed on Sundays, Christmas and Thanksgiving.
311 Westgate Plaza Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 349-4743 www.fatbuddiesribsandbbq.com Get Directions
Fat Buddies Restaurants offer the best family atmosphere and excellent BBQ favorites and specialty dishes. Savor a taste of real Southern BBQ and home made desserts in two smoke free location in Franklin and Waynesville from 11-9 p.m. Monday thru Saturdays. Closed on Sundays, Christmas and Thanksgiving.
193 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 456-6368 www.fatbuddiesribsandbbq.com Get Directions
We promise: Fresh, delicious homemade food, genuine southern hospitality and a spirited community connection. When you step into a FATZ, you'll notice a warm, authentic atmosphere right away. And you'll feel it every second you're here. It's in the friendly smile that greets you as you walk through the door. It's in the genuine, attention-to-detail service displayed by each one of our associates. It's in the outstanding meal prepared fresh with the best ingredients, that arrives at your table. Here you'll feel special and you'll be treated like family. That is our mission. It always has been.
107 Sawmill Village Lane (441 South) Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 524-5265 fatz.com Get Directions
Full country breakfast, four-course dinners. Prime rib, lamb & trout, full bar, fine wines.
245 Fryemont Street Bryson City, NC 28713 (828) 488-2159 www.fryemontinn.com Get Directions
Gazebo Creekside cafe is where the locals eat. Enjoy outdoor dining. Enjoy good food and relax by the creekside. Listen to the birds and babbling creek.
44 Heritage Hollow Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 524-8783 www.gazebocreeksidecafe.com Get Directions
Locally-sourced homecooked breakfast, evening menu of fresh mountain trout, steaks and pasta dishes, bar.
68 Seven Springs Drive Balsam, NC 28707 (828) 459-9498 grandoldladyhotel.com Get Directions
Food Court: Nathan's Famous, Panda Express, Earl of Sandwich, Papa John's Pizza, Starbucks
777 Casino Parkway Murphy, NC 28906 (828) 422-7777 www.caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee-valley-river
Fudge, Chocolates & Coffee! Come in for a free taste! The legend of the Heavenly Fudge began in 1976. We use only the finest ingredients, cooked in large copper kettles, and turned on large marble slab tables, made with lots of love and work. Our Chocolatiers, still hand dip each chocolate to perfection - come see them at work. Need a coffee boost, try our cappuccino and espresso bar, along with our traditional fresh brewed coffee. Novelty candies & lots more! Kitchen & Bakery Coming!!!!
225 C Everett Street Bryson City, NC 28713 (828) 488-4447 fudgedepot.com Get Directions
Brick oven pizza, salads, sandwiches along with our craft brews.
911 Main Street Andrews, NC 28901 (828) 835-2111 hoppytroutbrewing.com Get Directions
Home of the Warm Waffle Cone! A Family-Favorite Ice Cream Store near the Quin Theater. We are an old fashioned hand-dipped ice cream emporium. Made to order warm waffle cones (vanilla, chocolate or cinnamon). Cones, sundaes, shakes, malts, and banana splits. We also make made to order ice cream cakes. Please call at least 72 hours in advance of the pick-up to order the cakes. Varying sizes, shapes and layers. Eat In, Eat Outdoors or Order To Go!
170 East Sylva Shopping Center Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 586-9441 jackthedipper.com Get Directions
Home of the Warm Waffle Cone! A Family-Favorite Ice Cream Store next to Staples & Fat Buddies We are an old fashioned hand-dipped ice cream emporium. Made to order warm waffle cones (vanilla, chocolate or cinnamon). Cones, sundaes, shakes, malts, and banana splits. Eat In or Outside, Order to Go, Drivethru Window
76 Waynesville Plaza Waynesville, NC 28786 (828) 246-9766 jackthedipper.com Get Directions
Looking for a place to grab a quick bite and get back to the hot action of the casino floor? Johnny Rockets brings a great American taste to Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort with breakfast sandwiches, classic burgers and fries and famous milkshakes! Located off the casino floor, in the food court.
777 Casino Parkway Cherokee, NC 28719 harrahscherokee.com Get Directions
Enjoy delicious Greek, Italian and Continental Cuisine at Kostas Family Restaurant. Located in historic Dillsboro, North Carolina (which is on the banks of the Tuckaseigee River), you'll also be dazzled by the spectacular Great Smoky Mountains. Stop by and take delight in the relaxing and casual dining atmosphere of our family restaurant. You'll enjoy your dining experience with us here at Kostas where pride, quality and excellent service is our primary goals to give you, our extended family a great dining experience. Your Hosts, Bill & Dean. Operating Hours Monday through Thursday: 11:00 am - 8:30 pm Friday and Saturday: 11:00 am - 9:00 pm Sunday: 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
489 Haywood Road Dillsboro, NC 28725 (828) 631-0777 kostasdillsboro.com Get Directions
Lulu's Cafe is a delectable surprise for travelers visiting the Great Smoky Mountains and a home away from home for those who live there. Nestled in the heart of Main Street in Sylva, Lulu's offers a varied and imaginatively prepared menu.Eclectic ethnic dining - fresh seafood, pasta and vegetarian dishes, served lunch and dinner hours Monday thru Saturday. Lulu's maintains a reputation of folks going out of their way to stop and grab a bite to eat on vacation. A travel article featured in Southern Living declared "Lulu's is our favorite restaurant in the region." And a travel article featured in Fodor's covered it all by stating "If you need a break from the Smoky's traditional trout, ham, and gravy food groups, this American gourmet diner is considered by many locals as the region's finest restaurant."
678 W Main St Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 586-8989 www.lulusonmain.com Get Directions
Our dining theater features fabulous foods, free films, and a fantastic local draft beer selection. We specialize in pizza, tri-tip, wraps, steaks& plenty of vegetarian options. Love and local ingredients are in our food.
617 West Main Street Sylva, NC 28779 (828) 586-3555 madbatterfoodfilm.com Get Directions
The Mountview Restaurant at the Fontana Village Resort sits atop our western valley and provides you with great food and an amazing view of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Enjoy a great meal in an elegant, relaxing atmosphere to share stories of the day’s catch, wildlife seen on your hike, and the many other highlights of your Smoky Mountain vacation. The Mountview in the Fontana Lodge offers a savory menu featuring the freshest local vegetables and meats, baked goods, and desserts plated to perfection. Ask about the ever-changing selection of beautiful main courses.
300 Woods Road Fontana Dam, NC 28733 (828) 498-2115 fontanavillage.com Get Directions
Pizzeria UNO Express at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort offers hand-crafted thin crust pizzas and calzones and fresh pasta dishes! Come in for a hot bite of Italian favorites, located off the casino floor, in the food court
777 Casino Parkway Cherokee, NC 28719 harrahscherokee.com Get Directions
At River's End Restaurant located at Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, guests enjoy great meals and river views. Choose from hearty soups, filling specialty sandwiches and delicious entrees. Stop in and experience the friendly service in the heart of the Nantahala Gorge!
13077 Hwy 19 W Bryson City, NC 28713 (828) 488-7172 www.noc.com Get Directions
Southern Fusion: Downtown Franklin. Breakfast Lunch & Dinner: We do wraps, tacos, fresh veggies, fresh house salad, gluten free items. For dinner we do shrimp and grits, ribeyes, fried catfish, bbq pork, and more. Great service, large portions, attention to detail. Delivery and catering available Mon-Wed 7am-2pm Thurs-Sat 7am-7:30p Sun closed
46 E. Main Street Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 369-2690 www.facebook.com/rockinrolliepollies Get Directions
This classic steakhouse brings a restaurant experience characterized by the restaurant’s renowned quality steaks and signature menu items like USDA Prime steaks served in Ruth’s Chris’s signature style, broiled at 1800° and served sizzling on a 500° plate. Complementing the restaurant’s popular steak offerings are New Orleans inspired menu items and signature Ruth’s Chris seafood selections. Ruth Chris Steak House’s world-class wine list features over 225 selections, and this steakhouse’s vibrant list of premium wines by the glass will delight any wine enthusiast. Located just off the Rotunda at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, Ruth’s Chris is your spot to enjoy the perfect night out.
777 Casino Drive Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-7777 www.harrahscherokee.com Get Directions
Japanese steak house & sushi bar. Including patio seating, full bar and hibachi grill. Japanese, Sushi, Asian, vegetarian, vegan, seafood, sashimi, fresh, hibachi, allergy-friendly, draft beer, wine, sake, teriyaki, kid-friendly
57 Highlands Road Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 349-8917 www.sakurafranklinnc.com Get Directions
Selu Garden Cafe offering hearty breakfasts with daily lunch and dinner specials for your enjoyment.
777 Casino Dr Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-8462 www.harrahscherokee.com Get Directions
Located in The Ridges Country Club in Hayesville. Great food and a beautiful view! Bar & Grill: Monday-Saturday 11-7pm; Sunday 11-5pm Lounge Upstairs: Wednesday-Saturday 5-9pm Sunday Brunch: 9am-2pm Sequoyah Restaurant (Main Dining Upstairs) Thursday-Saturday 5-9pm
1665 Harbour Drive Hayesville, NC 28904 (828) 389-9000 theridgescountryclub.com Get Directions
Four-course gourmet meals prepared by our chefs, freshest local and seasonal ingredients. Reservations required.
4633 Santeetlah Rd Robbinsville, NC 28771 (828) 479-3433 www.snowbirdlodge.com Get Directions
To say Starbucks purchases and roasts high-quality whole bean coffees is very true. That’s the essence of what we do. We’re not just passionate purveyors of coffee, but everything else that goes with a full and rewarding coffeehouse experience. We also offer a selection of premium teas, fine pastries and other delectable treats to please the taste buds.
777 Casino Drive Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-7777 harrahscherokee.com Get Directions
To say Starbucks purchases and roasts high-quality whole bean coffees is very true. That’s the essence of what we do. We’re not just passionate purveyors of coffee, but everything else that goes with a full and rewarding coffeehouse experience. We also offer a selection of premium teas, fine pastries and other delectable treats to please the taste buds. And the music you hear in store is chosen for its artistry and appeal.
777 Casino Parkway Murphy, NC 28906 (828) 422-7777 caesars.com/harrahs-cherokee-valley-river Get Directions
Franklin's oldest eating establishment - family owned since 1955. Enjoy your old fashioned favorites and good home cooking- family style dining and curbside service to go. Open Monday thru Saturdays 6 am to 8 pm Closed on Sunday and some holidays
498 Harrison Ave Franklin, NC 28734 (828) 524-4842 Get Directions
Perched on the banks of the world famous Cheoah River. Order up a brick oven pizza for the family or indulge in the house favorite, “The Dam Drink” from our full-service outdoor bar. From steaks, burgers, salads, hummus, and local Carolina Mountain trout, there’s something for everyone. Dine inside or relax at the outdoor riverfront tables. Private room available for groups. Open daily from 11am - Close.
14981 Tapoco Road Robbinsville, NC 28771 (828) 498-2800 tapocolodge.com/tapoco-river-grill Get Directions
Fine Dining in Hayesville, NC Acclaimed by critics and guests alike, The Copper Door features dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood and a well-chosen selection of quality wines. The Copper Door offers guests a warm, inviting dining room, a romantic patio with a courtyard, and a full bar. Join us for dinner Monday through Saturday evenings – and don’t miss Prime Rib Wednesdays! We also offer wine pairing diners throughout the year – join our email club to stay informed!
950 Hwy 64 Business Hayesville, NC 28904 (828) 389-8460 thecopperdoor.com Get Directions
Start your day off right, with a hearty breakfast prepared by our cooks at The Landing Cafe. Whether you’re a little peckish or seeking that good southern breakfast, we have what it takes to impress! 7am - 11am Lunch and Dinner: We put the extra in EXTRAVAGANT No matter what your’re craving, The Landing Cafe is sure to suit your taste buds. From our first class burgers to crab cakes that would make you swear you were on the Chesapeake Bay. Sun-Thurs: 11am-10pm Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm Bowling Food: Even Bowlers Get Hungry! But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. If you need a drink or food, a server will come around and check in on each lane. Grab some finger foods, or a full meal while you knock down those pens. Sun–Thurs: 10am-10pm Fri & Sat: 10am-11pm
777 Casino Parkway Murphy, NC 28906 (828) 422-5306 valleyriver.ultrastarnc.com/food Get Directions
Home of the All-You-Can-Eat Pizza and Salad Buffet. The buffet features traditional and specialty pizzas, and a salad bar with all the trimmings. Located inside The Factory. Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday 10 AM - 9 PM Friday & Saturday 10 AM - 10 PM
1024 Georgia Road Franklin, NC 28734 www.franklinfun.com Get Directions
Gourmet cuisine, served with flair in the chandlelit dining room. Reservations only. Walk a few feet and escape into the grandeur of our National Park. If staying at the lodge, with fourteen unique accommodations boasting wood-burning fireplaces, steam showers, saunas, private balconies and three gourmet meals you'll find our ritzy rustic hideaway at 5,000 feet.
2300 Swag Road Waynesville, NC 28785 (828) 926-0430 theswag.com Get Directions
Craft brewery downtown! Plus, wood-fired pizza is our specialty with homemade dough and sauce – it's outstanding! Burgers, fresh cut fries and much more! Hours: Monday - Saturday 11:00 pm - 10:00 ppm Sunday Noon - 10:00 pm
994 Business Hwy 64 Hayesville, NC 28904 (828) 389-1472 valleyriverbreweries.com
We are Murphy's only craft brewery! Plus, wood-fired pizza is our specialty with homemade dough and sauce – it's outstanding! Burgers, fresh cut fries and much more! Hours - Monday - Saturday 11 am - 10 pm
71 Tennessee Street Murphy, NC 28906 (828) 837-2337 valleyriverbreweries.com
Located in the center of the Fontana Village Resort, the Wildwood Grill offers a warm and charming ambience, wonderful food, and friendly service. Whether you dine on the lively patio or settle into a cozy table inside, the Wildwood Grill delivers an unequaled mountain view with music, food, and great friends!Bring the amazing food of the Grill to your camping hotspot by calling for take-out pizza and more tasty snacks!
300 Woods Road Fontana Dam, NC 28733 (828) 498-2211 fontanavillage.com Get Directions