photograph by Lynne Harty
This old-school restaurant is known for its hospitality, loyal regulars, and classic diner fare. The Five Points specialty is classic Greek chicken and roasted potatoes. The recipe is such a favorite, it’s been known to sell out in under an hour!
258 Broadway Street
Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 252-8030
5pointsasheville.com
Sand Hill Kitchen’s fried chicken sandwich was named “The Fried Chicken Champion of Asheville,” and the Bowl of Goodness makes for the perfect breakfast. photographs by Tim Robison
From famous crispy chicken sandwiches to banana pudding like grandma used to make, this Asheville restaurant — housed in a corner gas station — has become a classic.
491 Sardis Road
Asheville, NC 28806
(828) 633-6868
sandhillkitchen.com
Pair The Bluffs’ famous fried chicken with sides like collard greens, cathead biscuits, mashed potatoes, and something sweet, like blackberry peach cobbler. photograph by Stacey Van Berkel
As the first restaurant on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this spot was a staple for hungry hikers, motorists, and families for more than 60 years before it closed. Now, it’s serving up delicious dishes once again. After working up an appetite on your fall drive, be sure to order some fried chicken, sweet tea, and cathead biscuits.
45338 Blue Ridge Parkway
Laurel Springs, NC 28644
(336) 372-7875
bluffsrestaurant.org
Guests mingle on the patio behind the restaurant, where seared tuna with local radishes and peppers makes a summer appearance. photograph by Tim Robison
In Sapphire, a majestic box canyon — the largest one east of the Mississippi — provides a feast for the eyes, and the first taste of Canyon Kitchen’s seasonal, sensory experience. The restaurant emphasizes relationships with local farmers — “we can’t raise everything we need, so we cultivate relationships with those who can,” Executive Chef Ken Naron says. “Cooking requires relationships.”
150 Lonesome Valley Road
Sapphire, NC 28774
(828) 743-7967
lonesomevalley.com
A cabbage pancake with sausage, sprouted field peas, and mayo chowchow brings together all of the Appalachian and West African flavors of Benne. photograph by Johnny Autry
The soul of Appalachian cuisine comes alive with every detail at Benne on Eagle, where the comforting meals are served on dishes made by local potter Jim McDowell, telling a story of African-American history that is tangible, with both flavors and textures telling a story.
35 Eagle Street
Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 552-8833
facebook.com/benneoneagle
Seasonal entrées at Library Kitchen + Bar include (clockwise from left) coriander sautéed trout, Burgundy-braised Black Angus short ribs, and sautéed foie gras. photograph by Tim Robison
Sapphire Valley’s oldest structure now houses one of the area’s finest dining spots: Library Kitchen + Bar. The restaurant emphasizes locally-sourced ingredients (crispy sauteed mountain trout, anyone?) and head chef Johannes Klapdohr’s goal is to put the area on the map — “We wanted to elevate this area to a status that can compete with New York and Chicago. And it’s working.”
184 Cherokee Trail
Sapphire, NC 28774
(828) 743-5512
librarykitchenandbar.com
photograph by Cheryl Zibisky
Housed in an old jail, Proper has become a top pick for Boone residents who love refined Southern food. The menu boasts a large swath of dishes that you’d find at an elevated Sunday supper, including tomato pie, sweet potato casserole, and collards — always collards!
142 Water Street
Boone, NC 28607
(828) 865-000
photograph by Tim Robison
In tiny Marshall, a bright spot has appeared on the Blue Ridge Mountains dining scene and is here to stay. Located in a former gas station, this acclaimed restaurant is one of many local businesses reinventing retro spaces and serving delicious meals. When you visit, be sure to try the buttermilk cheese pie!
115 North Main Street
Marshall, NC 28753
(828) 649-9900
stardinerwnc.com
When it comes to matches made in the kitchen, North Carolinians believe in soulmates. From breakfast to dessert, dig into a few of our favorite pairings.
An immigrant from Lebanon forged a fashion dynasty and a cozy home in Wake County for lovers of fine clothing.
In Edgecombe County, the country’s second-oldest remaining town common is the gateway to its sprawling historic district. Travel these acres and blocks on a reflective trip through time.
A story of survival unfolds on the Albemarle Peninsula.
