When it comes to enjoying a vacation, few experiences rank above that of epicurean endeavors. Visiting the Highlands, NC, is no exception, and thankfully, there are many fine, interesting, and unique Highlands restaurants you will want to experience for yourself.
The following is a list of what we at the 100 Collection and our partner Rent in Highlands, consider exemplary for 7 excellent dining experiences in the Highlands, NC:
205 S 4th Street
Highlands, NC 28741
Serving dinner and drinks, the Highlands Tavern & Eatery was founded in 2022. Although a fairly new and exciting dinner option in the Highlands, this restaurant is located in historic Highlands, downtown, complete with a historic “tavern feel." The Highlands Taverns chef blends innovative and traditional techniques to create unique offerings, utilizing locally-sourced ingredients in all dishes.
The custom cocktail menus are rotating and there is even the occasional Bourbon tasting to enjoy! Guests rave about the Tavern’s large portion sizes and the fun atmosphere, along with quality ingredients you are sure to be able to taste. It is a cozy, lively spot that you won’t want to miss when in the Highlands.
208 N 5th St.
Highlands, NC, 28741
Aptly named, The Secret Garden Market is tucked a half-block from Main Street in the Highlands. This Highlands restaurant is a relaxed eatery with a revolving menu based on seasonal ingredients. They specialize in soups, salads, sandwiches, and cookies and the ingredients used for these delicious creations come from local purveyors.
This relaxed lunch environment features lovely outdoor seating and just a few indoor seating options. It is known for its fresh ingredients, gluten-free options and grab-and- go design that make this cafe a great option for a quick meal either on the run or in-person. The Secret Garden Market has also expanded and now serves wine and beer. This delightful stop is the ideal place to grab lunch when enjoying the Highland area shops and boutiques or to stop in and eat before taking a hike.
531 Smallwood Ave.
Highlands, NC 28741
(on Harris Lake)
Lauded as a unique fine dining restaurant, the Lakeside Restaurant features fresh seafood, American fare, and proudly offers an extensive wine list, craft cocktails, and promises excellent service. Situated within a cottage on the banks of the Harris River, it is set to reopen for its 37th season in March.
It has earned a reputation as one of the best restaurants in the Highlands, so if you plan to visit, making a reservation is recommended! Intimate seating is available, along with some outdoor seating options, for warmer weather.
445 Main Street
Highlands, NC 28741
Utilizing farm-fresh ingredients, Madison’s Restaurant offers the best of the Highlands in terms of fine dining. Dishes are designed with the rich culinary heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains in mind, combined with a commitment to continued hospitality befitting any restaurant in the South. Madison’s serves lunch and dinner to the public, and reservations are strongly encouraged.
There are several seating and experience options at Madison’s, including the Hummingbird Lounge, a cozy drawing room with lush furnishings; the Rooftop Terrace, with open-air spots open seasonally; and the Wine Garden, with an umbrella-shaded patio and Italian-inspired seating.
595 Franklin Rd.
Highlands, NC 28741
Holding the moniker of being “a staple for hungry tourists” for years, Highlands Smokehouse is a roadside BBQ joint that you won’t want to miss out on. Serving various pit smoked meats along with fresh sides, this delicious counter service, deck seating, and full-service restaurant in Highlands earned the reputation of having the largest underground pit in the country!
Highlands Smokehouse is also a favorite of the locals, which is where you know a place is really good, if the people who live there eat it frequently. This mountain restaurant is beloved for its tasty BBQ and southern sides. Whether you want to stop in and eat or grab a to-go meal picnic style, the Highlands Smokehouse is for sure worth a visit and there is even merch!
332 Main St.
Highlands, North Carolina
Offering global libations and eastern cuisine, the Stubborn Buddha is a pan-Asian restaurant that features the best, most masterfully prepared Asian dishes in the heart of downtown Highlands. Boasting excellent service and utilizing only the freshest ingredients, this unique restaurant offers a casual take on a fine dining experience and includes two separate private dining areas.
Founded by two ladies of unshakable spirit, the Stubborn Buddha is the incarnation of Stubborn Seeds Hospitality Group and two individuals who are passionate about guest experience and raised standards, all while maintaining their adherence to a stubborn, unshakable attitude that led to the creation of this eatery. The ladies' motto in life “when you can’t get a seat at the table, build your own” is echoed throughout this restaurant in its commitment to excellence and inclusion, while offering variety and a unique take on beloved cuisine.
905 Highway 107 South
Cashiers Valley, North Carolina
Since its founding in 2000, The Orchard has been a popular restaurant offering high-quality, seasonal dishes in the Highlands area. It is uniquely housed within a 100-year-old farmhouse, providing a dinner dining atmosphere of Southern mountain charm with rustic elegance. Dining options include inside dining, and outside dining on the patio or porch. All dining options overlook the impressive lawn and gardens and the apple orchard. While serving American cuisine with a southern flare, you will be surrounded by artifacts of yesteryear that are spread throughout the building as part of the decor.
In addition to the restaurant itself set in the farmhouse, The Orchard also includes an on-site Barn Bar, which is a special outdoor bar experience. The Barn Bar is the perfect location for various events and makes a fun venue to rent out. Within this area, you can indulge in a delightful selection of cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks.
When visiting the Highlands, NC, make sure to check out the 7 restaurants listed above as curated by us at The 100 Collection for our partners at Rent in Highlands. They represent a variety of dining selections, ranging from casual lunch spots to more formal dinner options, all of them featuring a unique take on Southern mountain fare and offering unique atmospheres, decor, and settings.
Some are even beloved locally by those who call the Highlands home. When visiting the Highlands area, be sure to check them out to elevate your vacation and get the most out of your visit!
