26 Unique Restaurants in Boone NC You Will Love to Visit

The Boone area has attracted a lot of tourists to its breathtaking environment, and the restaurants in Boone are some of its biggest draws.

Boone, the home of Appalachian State University, is named after the illustrious explorer Daniel Boone.

Of all the top places in the nation for outdoor experiences and amazing cuisines, Boone is not a slouch and is definitely worth recommending.

There are many food options, including sushi, bistro fare, spa cuisine, BBQ, and gourmet dining.

There are also traditional family-style meals, contemporary mountain cuisine, Mexican restaurants, steakhouses, vegetarian options, seafood, and more. Just name it!

With its variety of restaurants and cuisine choices, let’s explore the best restaurants in Boone that are sure to have you coming back for more.

Restaurants in Boone

1. Sunrise Grill

Start your tour of restaurants in Boone with a beautiful breakfast or launch at the sunrise grill.

They are not only a top restaurant in Boone but also a brewery.

Booneshine has everything you need, whether you’re searching for lunch, supper, or a snack to go with your brews.

When you finally enter after waiting outside on the porch, you will see a gorgeously designed dining area.

There is a wide variety of breakfast, brunch, and lunch items available here, along with many house specialties.

In fact, the amount of weekly specials on the menu is particularly noteworthy.

Grab a soft pretzel and your choice of dipping sauce—house mustard, spicy honey, or beer cheese.

They also offer a wide selection of salads and flatbreads. However, their sandwiches are the most popular, such as the hot honey fried chicken sandwich.

Booneshine has seats both indoors and outside and occasionally has live music. Pets are welcome on the terrace outside as well!

You can either wait inside the coffee shop or relax in a rocking chair on the porch outside.

Address: 1675 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, United States

2. Booneshine Brewing Company

Booneshine Brewing company is an amazing location in Boone to grab lunch or some snacks.

The Brewing Company has a tasting room, restaurant, and beer garden.

There is lovely indoor and outdoor seating and plenty of room for children and pets.

There is also a sizable outdoor space with food trucks, a fire pit, and an equally sizable, multi-level indoor space.

From appetizers to supper dishes, the kitchen offers creative American cuisine.

The variety of beers includes sample flights to aid in decision-making and ranges from light to dark.

The location hosts outdoor events, including live music and corn hole in the summer and early fall.

Moreover, the beer and food truck cater to the outdoor lawn seating, which works well with the restaurant within.

The beer garden is a beautiful location to unwind while sipping beer or nibbling on a nibble from the Booneshine food truck.

Address: 465 Industrial Park Dr, Boone, NC 28607, United States

3. Gamekeeper Restaurant

Gamekeeper Restaurant is a genuine gourmet establishment with a charming fusion of sophistication and mountain charm.

The restaurant is located between Boone and Blowing Rock, North Carolina.

The Gamekeeper Restaurant and Bar is renowned for its inventive and delectable takes on traditional Southern fare.

The restaurant is housed in a 1920s stone cottage with wonderful views of ferns, big poplar, and maple trees.

It was established in 1987. The Gamekeeper was acquired by Ken and Wendy in 2000, and they keep up the ancient cottage’s rustic charm and renowned cooking techniques.

Only the freshest ingredients are utilized.

The ambiance and location are romantic, warm, eclectic, woodsy, and elegant.

It is one of the restaurants in Boone with amazing views. It seems as though you have been transported to a posh mountain resort from the past.

The bar is classic old-style Americana, and the different rooms are just the right size to avoid feeling stuffy or becoming rowdy.

You will pay a fair lot, but the entire experience is worth it, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

Address: 3005 Shulls Mill Rd, Boone, NC 28607, United States

4. Vidalia

Want to have a fantastic dining experience in a not-so-formal setting? Then visit Vidalia.

Although the restaurant is an amazing one, it also comes with its own fair share of history.

Sam and Alyce Ratchford bought the two-year-old Vidalia from their acquaintance and former coworker at the beginning of 2008.

They enlarged the wine selection and swiftly centered the cuisine on foods from North Carolina and locally grown, fresh fruit.

Thanks to their farm-to-table philosophy, you will always be able to taste the best cuisine created from scratch at this Boone restaurant.

They also feature a beer, wine, and cocktail list that will blow you away without having a stuffy, affluent appearance.

The Vidalia Onion Rings are a terrific way to start a meal when you want to pique your appetite.

You can also try their Chicken and Waffles; it’s tasty.

No matter what time you intend to visit, phone ahead to make a reservation if you don’t want to wait around for a while.

Address: 831 W King St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

5. Wild Craft Eatery

Located along the busy King St. in Downtown Boone, wild Craft is one of the restaurants in Boone where you can explore a wide range of vegetarian meals.

The restaurant emphasizes the food quality and the artisan exhibiting style.

The décor has gentle greens and yellows with real plants and extended booths suitable for a morning coffee.

The outdoor patio has a covered seating area with views of King Street and several well-known historic business structures.

The Wild Craft Eatery has four separate menus: the breakfast, dinner, kids, and drink menus.

Nothing but what is in season served in delightfully varied ways should be anticipated.

The menu items’ descriptions cannot adequately convey the ethereal sensation.

If you or any of your family members are vegetarians or vegans, this is one of the best places when compared with other restaurants in Boone.

Many foods are created specifically to be vegetarian-friendly from the start, in addition to a huge list of dishes that offer simple vegetarian, vegan, and even gluten-free alternatives.

Address: 506 W King St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

6. Mint Cuisine of India

Mint is one of the best lunch spots in Boone, especially if you love Indian dishes.

You will be pleased to know that Indian cuisine, including the dishes served at Mint Indian Cuisines, is regarded as some of the tastiest in the world.

It’s also a terrific setting for a date, a group outing, or a family night.

There are numerous appetizers, snacks, side dishes, and desserts available at Mint.

When it comes to mouthwatering soup alternatives, you have three choices. These include special seafood soup, tomato soup, and chicken soup.

Are you vegetarian? Don’t worry, as you will also have a great time here.

The eggplant bharta, malai kofta, paneer krahi, gobi tawa masala, chana masala, bhindi masala, and other options are among the many available.

Address: 203 Boone Heights Dr, Boone, NC 28607, United States

7. CoBo Sushi Bar and Bistro

Are you interested in sushi or Japanese foods? CoBo is, without a doubt, one of the greatest sushi restaurants in the Boone region.

Owner and chef Joseph Miller apprenticed under several well-known sushi chefs for a while in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

He realized there was a demand for real Japanese food when he got back to Boone.

Although sushi is a major attraction here, the menu also includes a few entertaining and modern twists.

Additionally, there are options for non-sushi aficionados at this Japanese restaurant.

The room exudes a pleasant urban vibe with its soothing environment and pleasant, dark interior with wooden chairs.

So, stop by Cobo if you find yourself in the Appalachian Mountains near Appalachian State University.

You’ll leave with a smile on your face, a belly full of food, and happy evening memories.

Address: 161 Howard St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

8. Troy’s 105 Diner

This restaurant won’t let you down if you want quality diner food at a reasonable price.

Thanks to its red vinyl booths, neon lighting, silver chrome exterior, and black and white tiled floors, you’ll feel as though you’ve gone back in time.

Breakfast is available all day, and a large menu featuring homemade soups, fantastic salads, and daily-made 1/2 lb. hamburgers is also available.

Monday through Friday, daily specials and blue plate specials are available.

Try one of the renowned milkshakes, banana splits, or homemade delicacies from the area.

Start with the Mac & Cheese Bites if you want to stick to the standards.

After that, savor the basket of fries and Carolina Cheddar Burger.

Address: 1286 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, United States

9. Dan’l Boone Inn

Dan’l Boone is another amazing restaurant you should visit in Boone.

The restaurant has been serving great home-cooked meals to visitors to Boone and the high country for over 50 years.

The Inn is housed in one of the city’s oldest and most historic structures, which is located in downtown Boone.

The structure first served as the residence and office for Dr. R.K. Bingham and his family. Boone’s first hospital was also housed there.

After the new hospital was constructed across the street, the mansion was converted into a dorm for students at Appalachian State Teachers College.

Visit the Daniel Boone in Boone if you want to fill up on some delectable food.

As you stroll up to the entryway, the area around the building is immaculate.

Doors open to lovely wood flooring and various glass displays displaying historical antiques.

Once inside, the wait staff welcomes you and leads you to your table.

There is no need for a menu because you can have a hearty serving of fried chicken, country-style steak, and a variety of sides in a matter of minutes to enjoy with your preferred beverage or soft drink.

The Inn is renowned for its mouthwatering desserts and legendary country ham biscuits.

Although the restaurant is the oldest in Boone and has been providing family-style dinners for more than fifty years, it is still one of the best restaurants in Boone.

Address: 130 Hardin St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

10. Mellow Mushroom Boone

Interested in pizza, craft beers, and more? Visit Mellow Mushroom Boone.

Smooth Mushroom Stone-baked pizza, craft beer, and calzones are available at this restaurant.

Some of the available meals include pies and nibbles like pesto garlic cheese bread and oven-roasted wings.

The restaurant’s interior seems cozy because of the stonework, open layout, and massive fireplace.

The wooden design appears conventional, but the dangling elements all around, such as characters’ motorcycling or climbing up walls, make everything distinct.

Visit this unique pizzeria with your friends for a fun, leisurely supper.

If you order a large pizza, be sure you’re really, really hungry.

Address: 805 W King St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

Wondering what to do in Boone after filling your belly with delicious food? Check out our list of things to do in Boone that might keep you engaged!

11. Farm Cafe

Restaurants in Boone are known for their unique offerings, and Farm cafe is no different.

FARM means Feeding Anyone Regardless of Means, and it is a one-of-a-kind restaurant in Boone you shouldn’t miss.

In addition to being a great deal and a happy atmosphere, FARM offers fresh, delicious food.

The concept behind the restaurant is also fantastic.

The idea is straightforward: FARM provides food for everyone, and you pay according to need.

Anyone unable to pay for a meal is required to work there for an hour in some capacity (serving food, cleaning, cooking, greeting, etc.), after which they are given a token to use for their meal.

If you spend more than the advised amount, the extra money is put in a jar for others who can’t afford it.

Every day, a fresh supper is prepared based on local delivery. You can either take what you want or order a soup to nuts (and dessert!) feast.

Menu items, including the Potato and Brie Soup, Patty Melt Reuben, Fried Springer Mountain Chicken Tenders, and Oven Roasted Portobello Mushroom Wrap, are some of the meals you will enjoy here.

Address: 617 W King St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

12. The Pedalin’ Pig

The Pedalin’ Pig, which offers a variety of meats, sides, and sauces, is a terrific option if you’re in the mood for some tasty barbecue.

The restaurant provides a cuisine that is sure to impress you, with dishes including mouthwatering hog belly tacos and fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs.

Jarad Blackley, a well-known local chef, creates fresh sauces and rubs that will excite your taste senses.

The ambiance and atmosphere are nice, and it feels like you’ve stepped into a bygone roadhouse when you enter.

Additionally, the menu is diverse, offering plenty of options for meat eaters, vegetarians, and people following gluten-free diets.

Address: 2968 NC-105 A, Boone, NC 28607, United States

13. Eleven 80 Eatery

Eleven80 Eatery offers modern American cuisine with unique twists that are ideal for any occasion or hunger.

You wouldn’t anticipate finding such a fantastic restaurant at the Boone Mall, where it is located. But they offer fantastic food, excellent service, and a wide variety of wine and beverages.

Once you are inside, the ambiance is contemporary and inviting, and they have a terrace perfect for dining outside when the weather is pleasant.

There is plenty of traditional seating for families and smaller groups, as well as a community table in the restaurant that is ideal for large gatherings.

Enjoy a range of creative and imaginative small plates, salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads influenced by various cuisines.

Sip, and enjoy a large selection of wines, including several different reserves, as well as expertly made cocktails and regional beers.

Address: Next to HomeGoods & TJ Max, 1180 Blowing Rock Rd, Boone, NC 28607, United States

14. Melanie’s Food Fantasy

Boone is a fantastic college town with many unique stores and eateries. Melanie’s Food Fantasy is a fantastic choice on King Thoroughfare, the main street.

The food at Melanie’s Food Fantasy is superb and beautifully colorful. Breakfast and lunch are available for you to enjoy.

In fact, for all things tasty and fresh for breakfast and brunch, head to Melanie’s Food Fantasy on King Street in Boone.

Choose the Stuffed French Toast and the Corned Beef Hash to go together.

After that, sip some roasted coffee or a cool glass of orange juice.

Address: 664 W King St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

15. Stick Boy

For a variety of breakfast selections, including bagels, breakfast platters, and freshly baked pastries delivered, stick Boy is an amazing place to be.

Not only are the sandwiches beautiful to look at, but they are also delicious to eat.

The Stick Boy Kitchen consistently delivers.

The sweets and cakes are just as majestic as grandfather mountain.

You won’t be let down if you choose the chocolate torte for two, chocolate chunk cheesecake, smores bar, blueberry pie, magic cookies, or brownies.

This breakfast/lunch experience is delightful.

They frequently create novel, intriguing soups, bread, and inventive sandwiches. Of course, don’t overlook the pies, bagels, scones, and cookies.

The potato cake with ketchup is also a wonderful meal.

Address: 211 Boone Heights Dr, Boone, NC 28607, United States

16. The Cardinal

If you’re a local or a visitor to Boone and haven’t tasted the Cardinal, then you are missing out on a lot.

There are several intriguing ornaments here, including stuffed deer heads and an intriguing light fixture built from bed springs that have been disassembled.

Asides from the ambiance, the burgers here are also excellent and melt in your mouth.

You should try the sweet potatoes, too, since they have a fiery flavor that will rock your taste buds.

Best part? Both vegans and meat eaters have a variety of options.

The vegetables are crisp and fresh, the meat toppings (such as bacon) are expertly prepared, and the meat is generously applied to the burger.

The meat is juicy and tender. The silky buns perfectly match the other components of the burger.

With all of this stated, dining here isn’t exactly inexpensive, but every dish you take here is worth the cost.

Due to the restaurant’s small size and limited seating, there is frequently a wait in the evenings. However, the wait is worthwhile.

It’s also important to point out that the burgers are created to order and can be requested to be rare, medium, or well done.

So if a rare burger is more your style, this is one of the only places in Boone where you can get one.

17. Mike’s Inland Seafood

If seafood is your thing, then Mike’s your best bet.

Mike’s is a traditional seafood restaurant and one of Boone’s top seafood restaurants.

The menu is broad, so it’s normal to struggle to decide what to get.

Ask your server for advice if you can’t decide (and don’t want to choose the “bring me one of everything with a side of everything else” option).

They serve various sea foods, including salmon, swordfish, mahi mahi, oysters, red snapper, flounder, perch, and many more.

Although this isn’t the finest-dining establishment you might expect, the cuisine is consistently excellent, and the space is tidy.

There may be a brief wait because it is constantly busy.

Address: 174 Jefferson Rd, Boone, NC 28607, United States

18. Lost Province Brewing Company

Several restaurants in Boone are known for different things, and this company here is known for its amazing craft near and pizza.

Lost Province Brewing Co. is a destination microbrewery and one of the top restaurants in Boone.

The term used to describe the NC High Country region in the late 1800s and early 1900s served as the inspiration for the brewery’s name.

Due to its remoteness from the rest of North Carolina, the region around Boone, West Jefferson, and Banner Elk was referred to as the “Lost Province.”

With seasonal rotations, Lost Province normally has 10–12 beers on tap.

German-style pilsners, American and Mexican-style lagers, and experimental batches made with things like honey and raspberry are also highly popular.

The cuisine is fantastic (especially the charcuterie, arugula and beet salad, and seasonal pizzas), but the beers are also amazing.

The restaurant is open Sunday to Wednesday from 11:30 am to 9:00p.m; while the restaurant is open Thursday to Saturday from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm.

Address: 130 N Depot St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

19. Coyote Kitchen

Bought by Lost Province Brewing Company in 2022, Coyote Kitchen is one of the restaurants in Boone that offers a wide range of food.

The new owners have always admired the Coyote’s Kitchen concept and have relished numerous lunches and dinners at this cherished Boone institution.

It is conveniently located near various stores, and it is simple to identify, thanks to the enormous Walmart across the parking lot.

This restaurant offers a wide variety of alternatives, including lighter meals, to suit a variety of palates.

Additionally, Coyote Kitchen occasionally offers live performances.

The restaurant is open Sunday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. However, it is closed on Tuesdays.

Address: 200 Southgate Dr, Boone, NC 28607, United States

20. The Peddler Steakhouse

Renowned for its salad bar in addition to its steaks, the Peddler is a nice addition to the list of restaurants in Boone you shouldn’t miss.

The Peddler Steak House was inspired by a motel in Sanford, where the proprietor grilled steaks over charcoal for his family on a patio next to the lobby.

The owner cooked the steaks and served them with a salad after the visiting salesman repeatedly asked if they may buy steaks and use the grill.

Eventually, his idea improved and became the Peddler Steak House in Southern Pines, North Carolina.

The business now offers cut-to-order ribeye steaks and an unlimited number of freshly made, customized salads.

The most popular dishes here are prime rib and the Peddler ribeye.

The Peddler Steakhouse also has a special feature where you can watch your ribeye being custom sliced right at your table.

They also offer various beef options if a Ribeye is not your thing. Everything, including tender “cut with a fork” filets and slow-cooked Prime Rib.

Other options available at The Peddler include seafood and a menu for light eaters.

Address: 1972 Blowing Rock Rd, Boone, NC 28607, United States

21. Proper, Boone

If you’re looking for some of the best homefries restaurants in Boone, then you should definitely include proper.

Since 2010, Proper has provided Southern cuisine made using ingredients obtained locally.

Proper is housed in Boone’s oldest structure, the historic old Jailhouse. It opened in 2010, and since then, the restaurant has served Boone well.

The menu consists of salads, a few sandwiches, including one with honey-chipotle pulled pork and Carolina slaw, as well as appetizers like hush puppies and corn fritters with jalapeo-lime aioli.

However, the meat-and-two plates, some of which vary daily, are the big draws.

The environment is charming, southern, and formal, so you will love it here.

Address: 142 Water St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

22. Dos Amigos

Dos Amigos is always a good, solid choice if you want a satisfying meal at a reasonable price, especially if you desire Mexican cuisine.

The restaurant is one of the restaurants in Boone serving great-tasting Mexican meals.

Since its doors opened in March of 1990, Dos Amigos has become known for its delectable food, which is prepared daily with the finest ingredients.

You can dine indoors in the spacious, bright Spanish restaurant-style space decorated in muted hues or outside beneath the fringed patio umbrellas.

Besides the tasty meals, the service here is also nice. Foods are served quickly, with a smile, and in a welcoming setting that makes you feel like you’re at a friend’s house.

You won’t regret it here, whether you get Taco Salad or the Burrito, Enchilada, and Tamal Combo.

Address: 187 New Market Centre, Boone, NC 28607, United States

23. Casa Rustica

Searching for restaurants in Boone where you can have an amazing date experience or family dining? Then Casa Rustica won’t disappoint.

Old-world Italian food is combined with the vibrant tastes of the High Country at Casa Rustica.

Since it opened its doors in 1981, Casa Rustica has grown to be one of the neighborhood’s most renowned eateries, serving authentic Italian cuisine next to a cozy fireplace.

In a rustic location, Casa Rustica offers a welcoming ambiance.

The environment exudes a cozy, carefree mood with authentic, home-cooked food. The 40 years of history are immediately apparent as soon as you enter.

Numerous well-known dishes are offered on the menu, in addition to a few more creative selections that are sure to please.

If you want something light, the salad and soup will surely satisfy you. Be generous when ordering your appetizers and soups.

If you love seafood, the restaurant won’t also disappoint as it’s loaded with all your favorites: scallops, clams, shrimp, calamari, and mussels.

Address: 1348 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, United States

24. The Local

Here’s another restaurant in Boone where you can have a nice family dinner or if you are just looking to grab a snack.

The Local is a block away from the main drag and might not get as much notice, but it is really fantastic.

It is situated on a lovely street that is ideal for a stroll before or after a satisfying supper.

It doesn’t seem like much from the outside, but you should look past that. The unique menu is loaded with lots of delicious fusion/mashup options and insanely wonderful food.

The evening entrees are not accessible before 5 pm, but there are lots of mouthwatering appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, and other items available at all times.

Address: 179 Howard St, Boone, NC 28607, United States

25. Pepper’s Restaurant and Bar

With the opening of Pepper’s Restaurant and Bar in 1975, the High Country got its first taste of premium deli sandwiches.

They quickly became a local favorite due to their delectable food, welcoming atmosphere, and consistent pricing.

As a result, they gradually expanded both their menu and their location.

Its menu features Certified Angus Beef, wild-caught seafood, savory pasta dishes, and popular Pepper’s Restaurant dishes like the renowned Pepper’s French Onion Soup, Jean Lawsons, Fried Mushrooms, and Onion Rings.

At Pepper’s Restaurant and Bar, carrot cake is undoubtedly the most popular dessert item, but it’s not the only one.

They also maintain a sizable inventory of bottled beers from all over the world and locally, including popular seasonal options.

Similarly, they offer a sizable liquor store with some of the top whiskey brands and variations in the region.

Address: 240 Shadowline Dr, Boone, NC 28607, United States

26. Taqueria El Paso

Among the Mexican Restaurants in Boone, Taqueria El Paso is one of the best. Some even argue it is the best, and you probably would have heard the Dos vs. Los debate many times.

Locals and students alike appreciate this spot since it is a hidden gem.

Don’t let the outside deter you; this popular Mexican restaurant serves delicious Mexican cuisine. Not the typically dull stuff you encounter elsewhere.

All of their taco fillings are delicious. There is a lot of food to take home, and the fajitas are excellent! Also outstanding are the burritos and enchiladas.

In truth, you can’t go wrong with anything you order because the cuisine is consistently flavorful, and the crew is responsive and polite.

Address: 2693 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607, United States

Final Remarks

Of all the top places in the nation for unique cuisines and all-around vacation experience, Boone is not in any way a push over, and you would enjoy every bit of time you spend here.