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A Guide to the Best Restaurants Around the Haven Hotel

One of the best parts of staying at Haven Hotel is having some of the High Country's best dining just minutes away. From cozy cafés and casual lunch spots to elevated restaurants perfect for a special evening, Boone offers something for every appetite. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, you'll find plenty of memorable places to eat throughout Boone, Blowing Rock, and Banner Elk. Here's our guide to some of our favorite local restaurants to add to your itinerary.

Plan your trip

I'm planning a quiet spring weekend in Boone, NC. Recommend things to do, where to eat and what to expect in March.

Boone: Where Flavor Meets Adventure

  1. The Pasta Joint
    Right down Howard Street (to the left) from Haven Hotel, incredible quality - their pasta ingredients are flown in from Italy and made from scratch in-house. Their appetizer cheese plate is massive and delicious. Their braised beef short rib is our favorite menu item - it's a huge portion of tender, flavor packed protein for those meat lovers.‍‍
  2. ‍Cobo Sushi Bistro & Bar The best local sushi period. Cobo has a full menu and incredible atmosphere cultivated by long time local and owner - Joesph Miller. Because Cobo is so fantastic, we recommend you call ahead for seating. You don't want to miss this spot that's just across the parking lot (across Howard Street).
  3. ‍FizzEd Boone FizzEd is a local favorite for casual family dining - great burgers, sandwiches, and drinks. The FizzEd environment is laid back and care free — but their food is seriously delicious. Located just a few paces down Howard St. toward the center of downtown Boone. ‍‍
  4. Melanie's Food Fantasy
    Located across Haven's parking lot on Howard Street, we consider Melanie's an essential part of everyone's stay. Their breakfast/brunch is amazing and scratch-made across the board. Delicious drinks, outdoor seating, a wide range of serving hours (morning >> night), and truly inspired menu items (Stick Boy ownership - if you haven't been to Stick Boy, you have to try their baked goods). Do yourself a favor and add Melanie's to your itinerary. ‍‍
  5. Betty's Biscuits
    The Holy Grail of handmade biscuits and breakfast in Boone — we love this place so much, a $10 voucher to Betty's has been included in your reservation because we know you're going to love them too. Massive biscuits, tasty coffee, and giant plates for folks with a more curious palette — all local ingredients, all made from scratch. Located right beside Mast General Store on King Street in Downtown Boone (pssss: your $10 breakfast voucher works at Betty's entire family of restaurants: Reid's Cafe, Beacon Butcher Bar, and Pearl's Kitchen)‍‍‍
  6. The Local
    This versatile venue offers everything from fresh seafood to modern comfort food, all complemented by expertly crafted cocktails.
  7. ‍‍‍Mellow Mushroom
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    Another gem right across the street from The 1850. Mellow Mushroom's pizza is legendary for a reason - you will not be disappointed and you can build just about any combination of toppings imaginable. Massive bar, tons of other menu options, amazing service — we love the owners (long time locals)!‍
  8. The Cardinal
    Craving a creative burger and a craft cocktail? This trendy yet casual spot delivers with bold flavors and a laid-back atmosphere.‍‍‍
  9. ‍Gamekeeper Restaurant For a truly unique dining experience, Gamekeeper offers rustic elegance with dishes like bison, elk, and other game meats, all prepared using fresh, local ingredients.

Blowing Rock: Charming and Delicious

  1. The Best Cellar
    Elegant and inviting, The Best Cellar specializes in fresh, seasonal dishes served in a charming setting.
  2. Storie Street Grille
    A contemporary take on American cuisine, Storie Street Grille impresses with creative twists on classic dishes.
  3. The Speckled Trout Restaurant & Bottle Shop
    This Appalachian-inspired restaurant highlights local flavors, including fresh trout, alongside a curated selection of wines and craft beers.
  4. Twigs Restaurant & Bar
    A sophisticated spot for seafood, steak, and expertly crafted cocktails, Twigs is ideal for an upscale yet relaxed dining experience.
  5. Bistro Roca
    Tucked away in Blowing Rock, Bistro Roca is known for its cozy ambiance, wood-fired pizzas, and upscale comfort food.

Banner Elk: Culinary Excellence in a Mountain Setting

  1. Artisanal
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    With a stunning rustic setting and a focus on farm-to-table cuisine, Artisanal delivers an unforgettable fine-dining experience.
  2. Stonewalls
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    This classic steakhouse offers prime cuts, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine list, perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal.
  3. Sorrento’s Italian Bistro
    Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, from homemade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
  4. Reid’s Cafe & Catering Co.
    A farm-to-table gem, Reid’s elevates comfort food with fresh, seasonal ingredients in an intimate dining setting.

No matter your palate or preferences, the High Country’s diverse culinary scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for elevated Appalachian dishes, classic Southern fare, or international-inspired cuisine, you’ll find it just steps or a short drive from the Haven Hotel.

Make your stay unforgettable by exploring these local gems, and don’t hesitate to ask our concierge for personalized recommendations or reservations. Bon appétit!