There comes a time when you’re on the road, when your stomach is growling, and you know that you need food — and you need it fast. We understand the term “convenience,” so we’ve put together a list of 70 great places in the state — all within five miles of a U.S. highway or interstate — to stop when you’re on the go and in a hurry. They’re run by locals, not big chains, and they serve classic American food with their own twists. Enjoy these restaurants for their thick burgers, chili dogs, hand-cut fries, and homemade ice cream. We do.
Editor’s note: This guide is chock-full of classic American eats, except one: barbecue. We intentionally omitted barbecue joints here, because we’re telling you about a different one each month. Check out our Carolina ‘Cue section in the magazine and our website each month.
Going on a road trip? Download the checklist for 64 places featured in Our State’s March 2013 issue. You never know where you’ll get hungry along the way!
Editor’s Note: This list was last revised in August 2014.
Why does this Haywood County town have some of the cleanest water in the state? It’s the result of the community’s efforts to keep the forests in its watershed pristine.
The spectacular views in North Carolina’s High Country aren’t just inspiration for writers, painters, and sculptors. Those landscapes — the rugged gray face of Grandfather Mountain, the vibrant fall leaves, the deep green meadows — are brushstrokes on Earth’s own canvas.
The sprawling vineyards and wide-open skies that stretch for miles across seven North Carolina counties offer relaxing getaways — not to mention some of the state’s finest wines — for Sunday drivers aching to escape the rush of city life.
Nothing lasts forever — and that’s what makes many of our cherished moments so special.
