Want to know the top restaurants in Dillsboro, NC? Dillsboro is a town in Jackson County, North Carolina, with a population of 232.
Dillsboro has been a tourist destination since the late 19th century when the railroad was Brought on the pole to the “landofthesky” to escape the summer heat.
More than a century later, little has changed in this small village with immaculate white houses, old-fashioned shops, galleries, restaurants, and quaint country inns. The home of the town’s founder, Thomas Dills, still stands, as do many of the businesses that first opened their doors in the 1800s.
Dillsboro is one of North Carolina’s top places to reside. Residents enjoy a dense suburban atmosphere in Dillsboro, where most people rent their homes. Conservative values are prevalent amongst Dillsboro locals.
Dillsboro restaurants offer some delectable choices for whatever you’re craving, including gourmet sandwiches, seafood, steak, artisan chocolate, traditional southern cuisine, wood-fired Pizza, and mouthwatering BBQ.
Many dining choices are available, including a brewery with 32 taps, a family-friendly,pet-friendly,fast-casual restaurant, and riverside dining. Additionally, Dillsboro has a chocolate factory with various hand-crafted chocolates you must sample!
Are you planning a trip to Dillsboro, NC? Here are the best restaurants in Dillsboro, NC.
Best Restaurants in Dillsboro
1. Haywood Smokehouse
Number one on our list of best restaurants in Dillsboro, NC, is Haywood Smokehouse, a restaurant established by Joe and Brenda Beasley in 2013.
Haywood Smoke House is an expert in BBQ. They are known to give you the best Texas-style barbecue outside of Texas, which is quite remarkable.
The everyday lunch and dinner specials at Haywood Smoke House restaurant will surely blow your mind as you savor the mouthwatering dishes sites on the menu.
The Haywood Smoke House restaurant will keep you returning for more as they use high-quality specialty meats and are famous for their fresh, house-made sausages, homemade sauces, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and smoked brisket. Or savor our tender, smoked turkey or pig breast.
At Haywood Smoke House price is considerable, and service is exceptional, contributing to the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this Restaurant.
Operating hours at Haywood Smokehouse are from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays and from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Address: 403HaywoodRd, Dillsboro, NC28725, UnitedStates, Phone: +1828-631-9797.
2. Boots Steakhouse
Boots Steakhouse is next on our list of best Dillsboro restaurants; this Restaurant is owned by Collin Sims and was established in August 2017.
Since its establishment, the Restaurant has been recognized for its top-notch services and great quality food and drinks.
Enjoy food made from scratch at Boots Steakhouse; due to this fact, you can’t expect fast food, as their preparation is not equipped for a “quick bite” except for the hors d’oeuvres dish, but be rest assured that the meals are worth the little wait.
Though Boots Steakhouse majorly offers Steakhouse cuisines, they also have seafood items on their menu, so if you love seafood and find yourself in Boots Steakhouse, you are covered.
The best meals are good filet mignon, fillet, and nu rib-eye steaks. Key lime pie, red velvet cake, and tasty cheesecake have good flavors. The most popular beverages at this steakhouse are the delicious house wine, cordial, and martinis. Also, they offer excellent coffee and tea.
Operating hours for Boots Steakhouse are from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Sundays and from 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Address: 64FrontSt, Sylva, NC28779, UnitedStates, Phone:+1828-631-9713.
3. Kostas Family Restaurant
If you’re new to the area and you are looking for a place to eat good food in Dillsboro, stop at Kostas Family Restaurant in Sylva, where they provide a wide variety of Greek cuisine.
Kostas Family Restaurant is a privately owned and run fast-casual Restaurant known for its freshly prepared dishes using the highest-quality ingredients.
Kostas Family Restaurant supports family dining, so your kids are all welcome, and they also support an outdoor dining patio, which you can enjoy in favorable seasons and weather conditions.
In addition to this, you can enjoy affordable Greek, Italian, and American cuisine at Kostas Family. The gyro platter, chicken shish kabob, greek lamb burger, and chicken pita are among the menu options. Customers and guests of Kostas recommend them.
Good food is enjoyed in a comfortable environment, and Kostas Family Restaurant is present in that aspect, as the ambiance emits a welcoming atmosphere, good service, and quality food. And in case you are driving, you can park at the parking lot, come in, and enjoy, or if you are in a hurry, you can also order takeouts.
Kostas Family Restaurant operates from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on Sundays, from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on Mondays to Thursdays, and from 11:00 am to 9:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Address: 489 Haywood Rd, Dillsboro, NC 28725, United States, Phone: +1 828-631-0777.
4. Foragers Canteen
Sitting on the historic “Murphy Branch” is this Restaurant, making it a great place to sit and enjoy good food and the sound of the creek.
Foragers Canteen is run by Kevin Faini, who has an Italian heritage with a passion for fresh food, and he is Foragers Canteen’s, Executive Chef. And also skilled in mixing and matching world cuisines to create new delicious dishes.
Foragers Canteen is a restaurant that prides itself on utilizing local farmers and growers for its supply, using freshly procured ingredients to prepare exquisite meals.
According to guests and customers, it is said that you can get well-prepared flat iron steaks, trout, and shrimp tacos here at this Restaurant. Also, it would be best if you didn’t leave without trying the delicious blueberry pancakes, cheesecakes, and compote. You can accompany them with Delicious tea, draft beer, martinis, and wines.
The interior decor at Foragers Canteen is beautiful, and the Restaurant’s customer service is great, with staff always ready to help and take your orders.
Operating hours at Foragers Canteen are from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm on Sundays and from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm on Mondays to Saturdays except Tuesdays.
Address: 42 Depot St, Dillsboro, NC 28725, United States. Phone: +1 828-631-4114.
5. Lulu’s on Main
Located in downtown Sylva in Dillsboro, NC. Lulu’s on Main was founded 1989 by chef Mick McCradle, skilled in classic French cuisine involving fresh seafood, farm-to-table items, and hormone-free, humanely raised proteins. His attention to new, local, and imaginative cuisine is inspired, and locals and visitors alike enjoy his take on lunch and dinner.
Lulu’s Main menu features everything from hand-cut steaks, savory seafood, chicken, and pork to regional favorite sandwiches, salads, and pasta.
They also feature a range of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menu items to suit special diets. All entrees are non-GMO, hormone-free, and humanely raised, including fresh North Carolina seafood.
On entering Lulu’s on Main Restaurant, you will notice the beautiful decor and art on the wall, designed by Lindsay McCardle, wife to Chef Devin, and the eclectic decor that is so characteristic of Lulu’s On Main, designed by Lynda McCardle, wife to McCardle, in addition, you will also appreciate the friendly customer services rendered.
The operating hours at Lulu’s on Main are divided into two launch and dinner times.
For the launch, Lulu’s on Main Restaurant is open from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm on Mondays to Saturdays.
While for dinner time, Lulu’s on Main Restaurant is open from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Mondays to Thursdays and from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Address: 678 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-8989.
6. Creekside Oyster House & Grill
Are you looking for a restaurant in Dillsboro where you can enjoy delicious seafood meals and great drinks? Come to Creekside Oyster House & Grill; you will be satisfied. And if You are not a fan of seafood, you are covered because they offer a different selection of menu items or specials that do not contain seafood.
Not only does their menu offer a wide variety of foods, but they also often change their lunch and dinner specials. To learn about the most recent specials, visit or contact the Restaurant.
Aldo to go along with your launch or dinner, their complete bar service offers a large variety of spirits, wines, and craft brews, with bartenders who are always available to assist you whether you’re in the mood for one of our specialty drinks or a bottle of wine to enjoy with friends or family.
Some of the food recommendations to order are trout, fried prawns and oysters, Rockefeller, and the famous tasty key lime pie, and you also choose to enjoy your meal between indoor and outdoor seating.
With the helpful hostess, this establishment has outstanding ratings it does. This location has a chic atmosphere and contemporary furnishings.
The operating hours at Creekside Oyster House & Grill are from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on Tuesdays to Thursdays and from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Address: 219 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-1985.
7. The Well House Deli
The Well House is a charming sandwich store and a favorite among locals in the center of Dillsboro. Since 1977, The Well House, housed below Oaks Gallery on Craft Circle, has served delectable gourmet soups, salads, and sandwiches.
According to reviews by Guests and locals of Dillsboro, it is said that the triple Threat Sandwich, the Reuben, and the Cashew Chicken Salad are the best.
In addition to the Delicious meals, you will also enjoy the Efficient service, friendly, helpful, knowledgeable staff, Reasonable prices, and Clean and comfortable accommodations at The Well House Deli.
Also, you can enjoy delicious ribs during their prime rib nights, which are done on Thursdays and Fridays. This restaurant is also one of the best Dillsboro restaurants.
The Well House Deli is open for service every day except on Sundays, and they operate from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm from Saturdays to Wednesdays and 11:00 am to 8:00 pm on Thursdays and Fridays.
Address: 57 Craft Cir, Dillsboro, NC 28725, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-8588.
8. Guadalupe Cafe
Guadalupe Cafe is a must-try for foodies visiting Dillsboro, NC. Guadalupe Cafe is an independent restaurant serving farm-fresh dishes with a unique, international touch since 2004 on lovely little Sylva’s historic main street, tucked in the heart of the Smokies.
The owner of Guadalupe Cafe is Jen Pearson, and she takes pride in creating this menu item full of flavorful delight from locally grown and organic ingredients whenever possible.
Various mouthwatering menu options include Red Curry Shrimp, Blackened Plantains, Peanut Chicken, and Mango Pork Tacos In this dillsboro based restaurant. In addition, Guadalupe offers a wide variety of beers from all across the country, including one from just down the street, as well as wines from Spain and Latin America.
Additionally, they provide contemporary takes on traditional fare like our locally sourced burgers (bison, beef, watusi, and occasionally goat), a sizable taqueria menu, house-made organic sweets, a healthful kids’ menu, delightfully fresh salads, locally roasted organic espresso and coffee, local craft beers, and sustainably produced natural wines.
In addition to the mouthwatering dishes, the prices are very reasonable, and the service staffs are attentive and ready to take your orders. Also, this Restaurant emits a very welcoming atmosphere.
Guadalupe Cafe is one of the best restaurants in Dillsboro, NC, and it is open Tuesdays through Sundays from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Address: 606 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-9877.
Planning a food tour of North Carolina? Here is a guide on restaurants in Robbinsville, restaurants in Wake Forest and restaurants in Atlantic Beach for a fun meal time.
9. City Lights Cafe
The café has a long history in the community, and its name is a tribute to the nearby historic bookstore. Pick up a book from the second floor, so if you are into books, Grab a book from upstairs and settle in to enjoy this local gem that celebrities like Woody Harrelson, Frances McDormand, and Peter Dinklage all discovered while in town.
City Lights Café was created as a community gathering place & eatery in the heart of downtown Sylva, NC anx. This is a popular hangout for both locals and celebrities. The cast of the critically acclaimed “Three Billboards” movie frequents there for coffee and locally sourced, organic food.
This Restaurant features a dog-friendly terrace with 22 seats. A variety of recurring activities are held at the café, including Open Mic Nights, Live Music, Changing Art Shows, Literary activities, and even Yappy Hours with pets on the patio.
This café offers a wide selection of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian menu dishes created using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Try one of their renowned savory or sweet crepes, including the Chicken Crepedilla, a fan favorite.
They also offer a variety of soups, salads, desserts, beer, wine, coffee, paninis, and taqueria. Many of our menu’s ingredients and menu items are organically grown and produced locally. With a huge variety of home-baked foods
City Lights Cafe is open from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm on Mondays through Saturdays and from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Sundays. And you can only order online on weekdays.
Address: 3 E Jackson St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-587-2233.
10. Speedy’s Pizza
Are you driving around Main St Sylva looking for a restaurant that offers delicious Italian dishes? Stop by Speedy’s Pizza at 285 W Main St Sylva and enjoy delicious Italian cuisine.
Speedy’s Pizza offers Italian cuisine that tastes good and is filling. You might find satisfaction at Speedy’s Pizza in the delicious pizza salads, Pepperoni, and calzones. It would be best to sample the delightful margaritas, draft beer, or craft beer here. Great tea is famous in this location. And only leave with a delicious spaghetti dish if you want to taste how passionately meals at Speedy’s Pizza in Sylva are made.
Some other recommended items on the menu are Greek Pizza, vegetable pizza, lasagna, nachos, cheese pizza, cheese sticks, delicious meatballs, ribs, and salads.
The Restaurant is comfortable and with pocket-friendly prices of food items and great customer service.
Speedy’s operates from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm on Mondays through Fridays, 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Saturdays, and 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 285 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-3800.
11. Jack the Dipper Ice Cream
After a sunny and busy day, you would love to stop by an ice cream parlor to enjoy cold and deliciously tasting icecreams. If you are close to 280 Asheville Hwy, Sylva, stop by Jack the Dipper Ice Cream parlor to save the day.
Jack, the Dipper Ice Cream, is a traditional hand-dipped ice cream shop where you can get custom made Warm waffle cones that comes in Chocolate, cinnamon, and vanilla flavors, Shaved ice, shakes, malts, sundaes, and banana splits.
Jack the Dipper Ice Cream Parlor also features outdoor dining. And kids also love it here.
This ice cream parlor shop is also known for its friendly staff and delicious asides the delicious ice cream served here. Additionally, the prices on items are very affordable so that you can enjoy quality at a pocket-friendly price.
The black cherry ice cream is highly recommended among the varieties, but whatever flavor you choose will surely give you a satisfying feel with the different warm waffle cones.
The operating hours for Jack the Dipper Ice Cream are from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Sundays to Thursdays and from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Address: 280 Asheville Hwy Suite 4, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-9441.
12. Mad Batter Kitchen
Also among the top restaurants in Dillsboro, NC, is Mad Batter Kitchen, an amazing restaurant worth visiting.
Mad Batter Kitchen, which Jeannette Evans owns, is a family-friendly restaurant with delicious, freshly prepared cuisine, excellent beers, and free movies.
Another feature of Mad Batter Kitchen is the Live music, available in the evening. This place is fantastic because of the nice staff’s dedication, optimism, and hard work. These restaurateurs provide high priority to professional service.
Talking about professional service, the chefs at Mad Batter Kitchen try their best to serve diners delectable bacon, patty melt, and Mediterranean salads. Customers can sample delicious cider, draft, or craft beer at this establishment.
Additionally, from their menu items, the coconut rice, cranberries, tofu, cilantro lime sauce, salsa, sandwiches, and Mediterranean salad are a must-have. And they server great beer.
Mad Batter Kitchen is always available daily to give you delectable meals, and their operating hours are from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Mondays through Fridays, from 11:30 am to 10:00 pm on Saturdays, and from 11:30 am to 8:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 617 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-3555.
After enjoying Poteet Park, it will be nice to stop by this Restaurant.
13. Ilda
In the center of downtown Sylva, close to, Dilsboro, is this Italian Restaurant, and you are cordially invited to savor their homey Italian-Appalachian food, creative craft drinks, and distinctive wines.
Ilda is Chef Santiago Guzzetti and Sommelier Crystal Pace’s husband and wife team’s artisan passion project. The couple was inspired to create a home rich in culture, craft, and community because it is located in the Smokey Mountains of Western North Carolina.
Not just the food items but also the bar. You will enjoy innovative cocktails from their bar curated by credible NYC bar and spirits professional Antoine Maurice Hodge.
The menu at Ilda features traditional Italian dishes; if you are into Italian cuisine, you will undoubtedly love the Italian-style salads, pasta, and desserts alongside their delicious cocktails and wines.
The operating hours at Ilda restaurant are from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Wednesdays to Saturdays and from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays.
Address: 462 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-307-2036.
14. B & Al’s Grill
If you crave perfectly cooked cheeseburgers, potato wedges, or fried chicken and you are looking for a restaurant in Dillsboro that offers this dishes on their menu, you should locate B & Al’s Grill. At this Restaurant, delicious cheeseburgers, potato wedges, and fried chicken are assured.
B & Al’s is a locally owned and run restaurant that offers good food at a fair price. The owner, John Faulk, takes pride in using only the freshest ingredients and values his establishment’s “hometown” feel. After operating for more than 20 years, B & Al’s has come to be recognized as a symbol of delectable food and welcoming service.
Burgers, hotdogs, sandwiches, and salads of the highest caliber are available at B and Al’s. They also offer catering and on-site food needs, and also mobile servicing. The dine-in atmosphere at B & Al’s Grill is welcoming and comfortable, and the customer service is great.
Operating hours are from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm on Mondays to Saturdays.
Address: 1558 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-5686.
15. Lucy In The Rye
Lastly on our list of best restaurants in Dillsboro, NC, is Lucy in the rye. Lucy in the Rye is a restaurant serving breakfast and lunch daily with a full-service bakery featuring traditional diner fare and dishes devised by the chef using organic and locally sourced ingredients.
The fantastic position of this destination makes it easy to reach by any conveyance. After dining at Lucy in the Rye, you should visit Poteet Park.
This Restaurant’s menu features perfectly cooked eggs benedict, bacon, and rosemary potatoes. Delicious biscuits, Belgian waffles, and cupcakes offer enticing flavors. For delicious fresh juices, visit Lucy in the Rye.
The menu items at Lucy In The Rye restaurant include; seafood, salads, bacon, quiche, sandwiches, rosemary potatoes, cheese, biscuits and gravy, and Belgian waffles, all cooked and baked fresh homemade style.
Like other top Dillsboro restaurants listed in this article, Lucy in the Rye always tries as much as possible to promote a welcoming environment and atmosphere. Wise, the customer service here is great.
Lucy in the Rye is open for service daily except on Tuesdays from 7:45 am to 2:00 pm.
Address: 612 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779, United States, Phone: +1 828-586-4601.
Also, check out our guide on restaurants in Apex, restaurants in Morrisville, and restaurants in Belmont for a fun meal time.
Plan a Trip to Dilsboro
Dilsboro, a town in Jackson County located at the Great Smoky Mountain, is a nice city to visit, with many places to eat and restaurants to offer authentic meals.
However, this article has highlighted some of the top places to eat in Dillsboro, NC, to enjoy quality food in Dillsboro, NC.
Stop by or visit any of them and enjoy a memorable dining experience.