Set in the scenic mountains of western North Carolina, Blowing Rock is known as the state’s oldest travel attraction along the fabulous Blue Ridge Parkway. Nature lovers have been flocking to this quaint village which is straight out of a story book since forever, as the views of the surrounding landscape are unparalleled.
It’s a dream destination for a relaxing respite away from the real world in a laidback and slow-paced sleepy mountain suburb. Often referred to as the crown of the blue ridge, there is so much to be discovered in this charming hamlet of high-country culture.
Nothing pairs better with a picturesque panorama than the perfect pint and plate. There are plenty of foodie finds to try in Blowing Rock, along with many tasty taps boasting the best craft brews around. You’ll find eclectic eateries that reflect the history, heritage, and overall spirit of the Blowing Rock community.
These locally owned establishments work together to create a culinary and craft culture that distinctly defines the character of Blowing Rock, complete with that small-town Southern hospitality we’ve come to know and love. Grab a bite and a beer at any of these Blowing Rock Restaurants and Breweries below.
The Best Blowing Rock Restaurants
Blowing Rock Brewing Company
The Blowing Rock Brewing Company is one of the best breweries in North Carolina and heading here is a fantastic thing to do in Blowing Rock. These artisan beers are the stuff of mountain town legends. They take their inspiration from high country culture, crafting the finest quality lagers and ales around. Their few flagships include the Cloud Rise IPA, High Country Ale, Big Chocolate Porter, and a Kolsch available all year-round.
Their diverse selection of specialty drafts are always unique and exciting with a beautiful balance of flavorful and drinkable. The Nitro Belgian Jubilee IPA and the Midnight Raspberry Wheat Ale are just a couple of these limited-edition exceptional libations.
Their rotating roster of beers changes seasonally, as does the menu, both of which utilize all of the freshest local and organic ingredients. The menu is made of elevated pub grub, from gourmet soft baked pretzels served with Ashe County Cheddar Beer Cheese to the ever-popular Carolina Bison Burger made with a stout glaze.
Book a brewery tour to get a sneak peek at where all the beer-making magic happens. You can even stay at the adorable Inn, which they offer in conjunction with the brewery. The rooms are cozy and charming, and it’s the first microbrewery in the area to also provide such amenities. Everything you need in one mecca of mountain majesty. If you find yourself in Hickory, there’s also a draft house there to visit!
Six Pence Pub
This popular pub is the epitome of an ideal anglophile eatery and one of the best Blowing Rock restaurants to try. They plate up classic British pub fare in an authentic atmosphere that will truly transport you to the other side of the pond. Bangers and Mash, Beef Guinness and Shepherd’s Pie all await you for a tremendous taste of what jolly good Great Britain has to offer. It’s always full of friendly folks happy to cheers from afar or strike up a congenial chat.
It’s a warm and inviting dining destination that provides an extensive variety of craft beers on draft, both local and imported. This includes such fan favorites as the Appalachian Mountain Brewing Crowd Pleaser Dragon Fruit Pineapple Hazy IPA and Boddingtons Pub Ale.
The patio is spacious for an al fresco experience, and it’s dog friendly so feel free to bring a furry companion along. There’s no better way to end a day of spectacular outdoor adventure than to come in for some UK comfort foods and a cold ale. The Six Pence Pub always promises a smashing supper for all.
The Speckled Trout
The Speckled Trout is set in a renovated 1950s gas station, providing just the right amount of kitsch to go with this sustainable fare. Everything plated up here is locally sourced and made in-house. It celebrates regional fare through exploring the culinary culture of the Appalachian area.
While the menu features a focus on fresh caught mountain fish, there are plenty of options for every preference, including vegetarians and vegans. You can order the trout in every way imaginable, from crack n’ crusted to hickory smoked. You can even try the famous trout nachos if you’re feeling adventurous. While not every dish has to do with this beloved local fish, it sure is the star of the show on this menu.
They maintain a strong commitment to supporting the area’s local farmers, and as such, the menu changes seasonally. With a farm-to-fork guarantee, each dish feels fresh, flavorful, and carefully created. They often host local bands, so be prepared to enjoy some serenading with your supper.
They have a whole separate bottle shop on site focused on terroir driven libations. Peruse the many options and pick your favorite to enjoy with your meal or take home to save for a later date. They offer everything from small batch IPAS to crisp local pilsners to seasonal roses or rich red wines. By working to preserve and revive ingredients from the local heritage, the Speckled Trout is a truly authentic Appalachian experience.
Twigs
This fine dining institution of Blowing Rock offers upscale Southern fare in a rustic cabin setting. You’ll find all the high-country favorites with a bit of added extra flair. Everything is organic and sourced locally from farms, artisans, co-ops, and sustainable fisheries in the area.
The Venison Chops served with smoked blueberries are a vibrant and fresh dish sure to make a lasting impression. The Peach BBQ’d Duck Tenders with goat cheese crumbles are a mouthwatering masterpiece of a meal. All dietary requirements can be happily catered to here as well.
The outdoor space is just as ideal for an intimate evening, as the white table-cloth cabin interior, under string lights and the starry sky. For a more casual evening, you can grab a seat at the bar and order some gourmet snacks and a delightful beverage.
Their local beer selection is vast, the wine list is perfectly curated, and the handcrafted cocktails are creative. Twigs takes the cake when it comes to casual culinary mountain elegance.
The Pedalin’ Pig
This quirky joint is known for cooking up flavors of the Southern variety, both of the area and below the border. Everything is cooked in a traditional homestyle, from the pulled pork to the burritos.
It’s a family owned and oriented eatery with no frills and plenty of personality. It caters to that casual country customer and makes us all comfortable and cozy. It has been making some of the best BBQ in the whole state since 1970, and each meat is served fresh right off the smoker.
There is live entertainment every night, so you’re always in for a show. If you haven’t quite cured all your cravings, you can always order extra to go by the pound or the pint, and they even cater pig pickings for parties of all sizes.
You can get all the Carolina classics – pork ribs, sliced brisket, and chopped chicken, and it’s all served up with the favorite fixings. Their aptly named Jumbo Wings are known throughout town for their impressive size as well. For barbecue in Blowing Rock, The Pedalin’ Pig never disappoints.
Storie Street Grille
Storie Street Grille is known for serving up Carolina comfort food with a creative twist. If you like your food fun, funky, and full of flavor, this is a must of all the best Blowing Rock restaurants and bars.
The menu is all-around extensive, inventive, and eclectic. Offering American fare with an imagination, the Salmon Stack Cakes and Mojo Fish are some of the stand-out selections in a lineup of delightful dishes. If you’re meat-free, don’t fret – try the Herbivore Flatbread to be mindblown.
The decor is designed to give that charming down to earth feel, complete with wood worn walls, a tin ceiling, and vintage family photographs decking out the space. This warm and friendly mountain atmosphere is ideal for a mouth-watering meal ensconced in cozy comfort. They have a variety of local craft beers on tap as well, so feel free to enjoy a cold one with a view from their stunning patio space.
Bistro Roca
A bit off the beaten path, Bistro Roca is a hidden gem of Blowing Rock. Rustic yet refined, this eatery offers upscale New American variety comfort foods. It’s a favorite dining destination for locals in the know, and you can see why as soon as you step foot inside.
The dining room feels spacious, and the sun porch is a serene way to enjoy these delicious dishes. They have easily earned the title of most coveted Lobster Mac n’ Cheese in the high country, to which we certainly agree. The wood fired pizzas are the best you’ll find anywhere in town as well. The Jerk Salmon is a superb selection, and worth savoring every bite.
They have the oldest continuously serving bar in North Carolina on-site, Antlers Bar. Opening in 1932, it’s been a stalwart fixture for scrumptious libations in the community ever since. Order a craft cocktail like the Purple Rain, made of cava, blackberry syrup, lavender bitters, and lemon, or a refreshing international brew such as the Bosteels Tripel Karmeliet from Belgium.
Our favorite feature, however, is the quirky collection of pet photography adorning the wooden walls. These pictures of local pets span over the course of 15 years, and can provide endless entertainment as you enjoy an expertly crafted beverage. Bistro Roca is an impeccable choice out of all the best Blowing Rock restaurants and breweries.
Hellbender Bed and Beverage
Formally known as the New Public House, Hellbender Bed and Beverage is an idyllic escape nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains to eat, drink, and if you so wish, sleep. With a simple and chic decor, this small hideaway is a hip haven for locals and visitors alike. It’s new on the hospitality scene and making quite a splash in Blowing Rock. They show a commitment to both community and quality in all they do.
The menu is a mouthwatering mashup of the new and the old. The Collard Green Melt and Duck Confit BLT are sure to be new and instant high-country classics. There is a bite for everyone here, and each feels fresh and exciting while still being accessible and comforting.
The beverage offerings are both varied and vibrant. You’re sure to find any cocktail you may be craving, from the old school classics to modern mixed drinks. You can come to relax with a glass of wine on the scenic front porch or to pair a pint with a fabulous feast. This gastropub is a glorious getaway geared toward the younger crowd and gratifying for all.
Searching for more restaurants? Try heading to the nearby town of Boone! There are some fantastic Boone restaurants and breweries to try!
