Key Points:
- Head to the Red Rocker Inn for gourmet, Southern classics in a beautifully preserved Victorian home. Or try the Veranda Cafe & Gifts for tasty European food.
- If you’re in the mountains but dreaming of fresh seafood, you may want to try Que Sera and Tayloe’s Oyster Bar. They offer seafood fresh from the Atlantic and small plates.
- The Black Mountain Bistro and Trailhead Restaurant are two other top Black Mountain eateries. Both serve up delicious American fare; Black Mountain Bistro has an extensive wine list, while Trailhead Restaurant offers a good selection of local brews.
Nestled in a valley in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Black Mountain is a charming Appalachian town that manages to retain its quaint atmosphere while exploding with a vibrant culinary scene.
Award winning restaurants continue to pop up, offering options for diners with varying tastes. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food or international delicacies, the restaurants in this endearing town present an array of mouth-watering options.
Let’s take a closer look at the best eateries in Black Mountain, and what makes each one unique.
The Red Rocker Inn
Cuisine: American Southern Comfort Food Atmosphere: Cozy and Inviting Victorian Inn Standout Feature: Historic Charm and Gourmet Dining
Not only is The Red Rocker Inn one of the best restaurants in Black Mountain, but they’ve got great accommodations while you’re in town, too. Housed within a beautifully restored Victorian home from 1897, this establishment exudes old-world charm.
Stepping into The Red Rocker Inn is like entering a bygone era of elegance and hospitality. Now operating as a 17-room bed & breakfast, they did a beautiful job preserving its historic charm while also providing modern amenities.
The menu here showcases classic Southern dishes with a gourmet twist, featuring favorites like oatmeal cookie pancakes, fried green tomatoes, and locally-sourced bison burger.
Open for breakfast every day, and dinner on the weekends, you’ll want to go at least twice to sample both menus!
When you book a room in this historic bed & breakfast, your morning meal is included in your stay.
Veranda Café & Gifts
Cuisine: European-Inspired Bistro Fare Atmosphere: Quaint and Intimate Café Standout Feature: Artisanal Pastries and Specialty Coffees
For a taste of Europe in the heart of Black Mountain, check out Veranda Café & Gifts. This charming bistro offers a nice selection of sandwiches, salads, and pastries crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Indulge in a flaky croissant paired with a rich espresso, or savor a hearty panini while admiring the artwork adorning the walls. Child-friendly, and open 7 days a week, you have no excuse not to indulge in their sweet and savory offerings!
When you’ve had your fill from the restaurant, stroll through their souvenir selection in the gift shop. You can take home a piece of Black Mountain, with locally-sourced items like honey, tea towels, and umbrellas.
Que Sera & Tayloe’s Oyster Bar
Cuisine: Locally-Sourced Seafood Cuisine Atmosphere: Upscale & Fun Dining Standout Feature: Quality Seafood from Atlantic Ocean
It’s rare to come across restaurants located far from the coast that offer an elevated seafood experience. But Que Sera & Tayloe’s Oyster Bar manages to do just that.
Located adjacent to one another in Black Mountain’s historic train depot, these joint restaurants allow for two distinct atmospheres.
Que Sera provides an upscale eatery that brings you a freshly-sourced seafood menu. Wild-caught fish, oysters, and shrimp come directly from the Atlantic Ocean. The menu’s small plates, which come recommended for sharing, add to the community-centered atmosphere of this restaurant. Reservations are highly recommended.
Located next door, you’ll find Tayloe’s Oyster Bar. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, casual atmosphere, you’ll want to head here, where oysters on the half shell are the specialty. Other delectable menu offerings include fried crab claws, creole seafood gumbo, or a classic shrimp cocktail.
Black Mountain Bistro
Cuisine: Contemporary American Cuisine Atmosphere: Sophisticated and Upscale Standout Feature: Farm-to-Table Philosophy and Extensive Wine List
For an elegant dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients, look no further than Black Mountain Bistro. This upscale eatery prides itself on its farm-to-table philosophy, highlighting the freshest seasonal produce and artisanal meats.
Indulge in their original menu items such as the blackberry pork chop or lemon caper salmon. With a large selection of menu items, you’ll have no problem finding a meal that appeals to you.
Established in 2005, this Black Mountain restaurant hails from 5 generations of local residents. The owners wanted to create an eatery with only the freshest ingredients at reasonable prices, and they continue to do so today.
Trailhead Restaurant & Bar
Cuisine: Classic American Fare Atmosphere: Rustic and Relaxed Standout Feature: Standout Feature: Outdoor Patio with Mountain Views
Situated near the entrance of the picturesque Pisgah National Forest, Trailhead Restaurant & Bar offers a taste of the great outdoors with a side of Southern hospitality.
The menu features hearty American classics, including juicy burgers, crispy fried chicken, and savory pork tenderloin. All these tasty dishes are named after the waterfalls and traiheads found nearby. Make sure to order your favorite craft beer to accompany your post-hike meal!
Dine al fresco on the spacious patio and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With its laid-back vibe and delicious comfort food, Trailhead is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.
The Bottom Line
Whether you’re craving traditional Southern fare, international flavors, or gourmet delicacies, Black Mountain’s top restaurants have something to satisfy every craving.
The Red Rocker Inn has historical elegance combined with Southern classics. Or enjoy oysters at Que Sera & Tayloe’s Oyster Bar. Other great places to try include the Black Mountain Bistro or the Trailhead Restaurant & Bar.
