Sylva is a small North Carolina mountain town just a short drive away from Asheville. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in this small town, and has a charming downtown area to stroll.
After a full day out enjoying Nantahala National Forest you will likely be craving some grub. Here are the best restaurants in Sylva to try on your visit!
The Best Restaurants in Sylva, NC
1. Speedy’s Pizza
Speedy’s Pizza might have the best pizza in Sylva, but it also has a wide variety of delicious options for those days when you’re craving something other than pizza. There are appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, seafood dishes and so much more.
If you do want pizza, rest assured that there are many choices in that department too! There’s veggie, Hawaiian, Greek, Philly cheesesteak, Margherita and even taco and cheeseburger pizza available.
2. Lulu’s on Main
Lulu’s on Main is said to be not only the best restaurant in Sylva but the best restaurant in the entire region and it’s one that you should definitely check out next time you are visiting the town. Located right in the center of Sylva, Lulu’s is known for its eco-friendly operations and delicious food, unique dishes and offbeat ambiance.
On the menu, you’ll find many items such as the ever-popular fried green tomatoes, Black Angus steaks, stir-fries, salads, pasta dishes and seafood dishes made with fresh local catches. Many of the items on the menu are also vegetarian and vegan-friendly and if you’re on a gluten-free diet, there are delicious options for you too!
On nice days, your meal can be enjoyed outside on the patio and after your meal, enjoy cocktails, beer, or wine at the on-site Martini Bar.
3. Jack the Dipper Ice Cream
Probably not the best restaurants in Sylva you were thinking, but for when you have a late night ice cream hankering, this place is for you. At Jack the Dipper Ice Cream Shop, you get more than just a plain old scoop of vanilla ice cream; you get to choose from a variety of unique and delicious flavors, some of which you likely haven’t heard of!
Inside and outside, you’ll find a large and welcoming space where you can enjoy good conversation, a board game or a puzzle over a frozen treat. If butter pecan and key lime sound delicious, wait until you see the rest of the menu!
4. Boots Steakhouse
Situated in nearby Dillsboro, Boots Steakhouse is the place to go for a fun time and a delicious meal. On the extensive menu, you’ll find an array of steakhouse favorites and more and everything is fresh, top quality and made from scratch.
The atmosphere is what draws people in. Enjoy a lively ambiance reminiscent of the Old West with both indoor and outdoor seating. A full bar is also on-site and specialty cocktails are available.
5. Haywood Smokehouse
Who says you have to go to Texas to enjoy a Texas-style barbecue? Certainly not the folks at the Haywood Smokehouse who know how to cook up a top-notch barbecue! Using fresh, premium meats, you’ll enjoy a barbecue you won’t soon forget at this memorable place.
Sit down outside on nice days and enjoy an array of meat-based delights. Even if you’re vegetarian or vegan, there are plenty of things for you to enjoy on the menu too.
6. Dalaya Thai Cuisine
For a taste of Asia in Sylva, locals and visitors alike head to Dalaya Thai Cuisine on East Main Street. Lunch and dinner are served and there is a wide variety of items to choose from on the menu.
Some of the popular dishes include khao soi, spicy fish sauce wings, sai-ua, krabong and much more including a wide variety of soups, salads, seafood dishes and grilled options.
7. Kostas Family Restaurant
If you’re looking for a place that serves a wide variety of dishes from various cultures, Kostas Family Restaurant in nearby Dillsboro has an extensive menu that’s sure to please.
Whether you crave Greek, Italian or classic American, you’ll find delicious options on the menu including salads, burgers, pita sandwiches, subs, pasta dishes, stir fries and homemade soups. A selection of vegetarian and vegan items is also available.
8. El Patron
It’s family-run, it’s authentic, it’s welcoming and the food is incredible. This is El Patron, Sylva’s go-to establishment for traditional Mexican fare made using the freshest ingredients available and tried and true family recipes that were passed down through the generations.
It has been said that they have the best salsa around but the other dishes get rave reviews too. Quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, tostadas and flautas are just some of the dishes you can choose from. Enjoy your meal surrounded by a typical Mexican ambiance followed by drinks at the full-service bar.
9. Creekside Oyster House & Grill
One of the best things to do in Sylva is enjoy a meal here! As one of Sylva’s most popular eateries, the Creekside Oyster House and Grill won’t disappoint! This may be a restaurant in a small NC town, however this scenic property overlooking a creek on West Main Street is mostly known for its seafood and grilled items. Creekside Oyster House & Grill is also popular with vegetarians as there are many meatless options on the extensive menu.
Also on the menu are steaks, burgers, sandwiches, salads and a selection of local favorites.
The panko fried grouper, scallop Rossini and sesame seared tuna are popular choices but there’s just so much to choose from, the hardest part about eating here is deciding what delicious dish you’ll try. Eat indoors and enjoy an old-fashioned down-home ambiance or enjoy your meal outdoors.
EXPLORE THE MOUNTAINS Of NC
We hope this list of best Sylva restaurants helps you divide where to eat! For more travel around the region, see below:
