Restaurants near Whitetop Mountain

If you are visiting the Boone / Banner Elk / Blowing Rock area for the first time, this place is kind of a must-visit just because it's so on-brand. Shulls Mill Rd (the winding mountain road you drive to get there) is not for everyone, but for those of us who live here it's "just another road." Just don't have too much to drink, or you'll regret it on the drive home. The menu is suitably mountain-like, with offerings like emu, elk, bison, trout, etc. and quite honestly I'd give the place much higher reviews if they just didn't price the entrees so high. This is a lovely place to go for dinner, but it's not *actually* worth ballpark $133 per person including tax, tip, one cocktail and one glass of wine per guest. At $90, I'd feel like they've nailed it. The food is well prepared, if not five-star. But this is also the middle of High Country, and we're here not for ultra-high-end gourmet, and so this is a "fancy mountain" place if there even is such a thing. If you want true high cuisine, stick with Gideon Ridge or Artisinal.

This restaurant was a beautiful surprise! Excellent service, along with delicious food. We had the ravioli, ribeye and bolognese in our party. Drinks and desserts were also spot on. We will definitely be back.

My wife and I loved our experience at the speckled trout. Our table was ready on time. The service was very friendly and quick. We had the baked brie bowl as an appetizer and it was delicious. We both had different versions of trout for dinner. The food could not have been any better. The beer and wine selection was extensive with local, national, and international choices. They have a small room at the rear of the bottle shop stocked with all types of wine for purchase 

We had a wonderful meal with the somewhat limited menu. Prices a little high but in keeping with other local higher end restaurants. Would like to see some vegetarian options as a meal and not just sides put together. Maybe a curried lentil dish with rice, or fried tofu with sautéed veggies. Just a thought! It is a bit noisy but not over powered by music. Would definitely go back!

Our server was fantastic. We set at the bar and had the bartender serve us. The fish and chips was not my favorite. The fish was a little thick so felt a little mushy in the middle. The batter was fantastic. The crème brûlée was wonderful!