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.

Copper Creek Distillery
Handcrafted spirits using heirloom techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Copper Creek Distillery opened in 2021 and has been sharing its…

McDowell County Honey Trail
Did you realize our area is in the heart of Sourwood Honey territory? It is! We have 23 honey producers…

The Fowl Play Pub & Taproom
The Fowl Play Pub is located at the Switzerland Inn and is a great place to meet for drinks or…

Mica Town Brewing
The first brewery in Marion, NC, is now open! Stop by Mica Town Brewing to enjoy a craft beer inspired by the geology and people of Western North Carolina.

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!

Miller Business Complex
Local shops and businesses all under one roof, featuring a skating rink, ladies clothing boutique, comic book shop, bakery, a…

Dot's Dario
Dot's is a local favorite, recently featured in Our State Magazine! This ice cream shop has been around for decades…

Switzerland Cafe and General Store
For over 30 years, the cafe has been serving homemade sandwiches, soups and quiche. Their Applewood smoked, pulled pork BBQ…

Mica Town Brewing Nebo
Mica Town Brewing has expanded with this new location in Nebo, minutes away from Lake James and Lake James State…

Fonta Flora Brewery at Whippoorwill Farm
Whippoorwill Farm is home to the Fonta Flora Brewery. Add them to your beer tasting list for a rustic experience,…

Spillway Bridge & Company
The Spillway is Marion’s premier music venue with a state of the art sound system showcasing local and regional talent.…

Countryside BBQ
Famous for providing a family atmosphere with on site smoked pork BBQ and chicken, accompanied by southern sides and homemade…

Switzerland Inn and Chalet Restaurant
Choices. That’s what your stay at the Switzerland Inn is all about. Select from spacious rooms flavored with a touch…

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…

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!

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.