For a small mountain town, Highlands, NC delivers big when it comes to food. Elevated at over 4,000 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming destination has a dining scene that rivals larger cities. From fine dining and farm-to-table spots to cozy cafés, dog-friendly patios, and lakeside escapes, Highlands has it all. Menus lean into Southern flavors, locally sourced ingredients, and the kind of warm hospitality the town is known for.

Trailborn Highlands  sits right in the middle of it all, making it easy to sample the best restaurants in Highlands during your stay. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, grabbing lunch after a hike, or planning a food-focused getaway, this guide covers the top places to eat—from upscale experiences to hidden local gems.

Highlands’ reputation for fine dining is well earned. Expect award-winning wine lists, elegant atmospheres, and menus that celebrate both Southern tradition and creative twists. 

One standout is The Supper Club at Trailborn Highlands.  More than just a restaurant, it offers a refined experience with seasonal menus, inventive cocktails, and a stylish setting. Perfect for a romantic evening, group dinner, or special celebration.

Other local favorites include:: 

• Madison’s at Old Edwards Inn – A Highlands staple, Madison’s is known for refined Southern cuisine with farm-to-table ingredients, a celebrated wine list, and elegant dining in the historic Old Edwards Inn. Perfect for anniversaries or special occasions.
• Ristorante Paoletti – An intimate, long-standing favorite offering upscale Italian dining with fresh seafood specials, house-made pastas, and an extensive wine cellar.

Highlands also shines when it comes to casual bites. Think hearty breakfasts, cozy cafés, and diners where comfort food feels just right after a day outdoors. Many are within walking distance of Trailborn Highlands.

Our top picks include: 

• Mountain Fresh Grocery – A Highlands go-to that’s part market, part café. Great for breakfast, lunch, or grabbing a picnic to take on a hike.
• Blue Bike Café – Relaxed atmosphere with hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and coffee, it’s a true local favorite for a casual bite.

Few things compare to a meal with fresh mountain air and lake views. In summer and early fall, outdoor seating and live music make these lakeside restaurants especially inviting. 

Check out: 

• On the Verandah – Longtime Highlands restaurant with sweeping lake views and a menu of upscale American dishes.
• Lakeside Restaurant – True to its name, it’s set right by the water and specializes in seafood and Southern classics with a view.

Traveling with your pup? Highlands has plenty of patios where dogs are welcome. Perfect for warm-weather meals without leaving your four-legged friend behind.

Pup-friendly places include: 

• Ugly Dog Pub – A Highlands institution with casual pub fare, craft beers, and a dog-friendly patio.
• Highlands Wine Shoppe – Welcoming atmosphere with outdoor seating where guests can enjoy wine tastings alongside their pups.