The Pure & Proper

114 E State St, Black Mountain
(828) 357-8539

Recent Reviews

Chris Turner

Sometimes I feel bad because I think I rate businesses too harshly, like maybe I just expect too much. Then I come to places like this and I see what a 5-star rating restaurant truly looks like.Everything was amazing. Our server was on top of things, continually filling our waters and we never ran low. Our food was delivered quick and fully correct. I ordered the crispy chicken, and, while I'm not a fan of collards (my wife loved them), it was one of the best meals I've had. The presentation was incredible and truly a 5-star dining experience.They don't have a kids menu, but since we really wanted to come here, we called ahead and they graciously said they can make something work. Our girls ordered chicken tenders and fries and they said it was the best (direct quote) chicken tenders they've ever gotten! I can't give this place higher praise than that.Richard, the owner, stopped by our table at the end of our meal and we had a great conversation about their story, their travels, and what led them to open this place that used to be a run-down gas station. This place is the definition of 'excellence' that so many restaurants promise but fail to live up to. I can't wait to come here again!Kid-friendliness: No kids menu, but they can work with you to make something work

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Steak, Crispy Chicken, Small Plates

David Marini

This is an intimate little gem. The rustic surroundings belie the sophistication of the food. The wait staff is pleasant and professional. We will definitely return to this place!Kid-friendliness: The restaurant is not very large and tables are close together. This is not the best place to bring kids, at least not for the dinner hour.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Steak, Duck

Katherine McCord

The food is exquisite.We enjoyed the Brussel sprouts, braised ribs, tuna, and monk fish (and only spent $50/person!). The dishes were unique, delicious, and well portioned.The staff was delightful.We're going back tomorrow!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Small Plates

Jeanne Johnson

What a beautiful addition to the little town of Black Mountain!! This old service station was turned into such a beautiful dining space. The space is warm and welcoming as the as is the people that work there. Our party of three reserved the outside covered front patio. The young lady that waited on us was very knowledgeable about the menu and very attentive. Now let’s talk about what’s really important… The food here is freaking fabulous. Every dish was beautiful and every bite was better then the last. Do you know that moment when you take a bite of delicious food and your eyes close for a brief second ? That’s what this place made me do again and again ? The cocktail list was creative and quite delicious. To be honest I can’t really decide which dish was my favorite. They all had beautiful components that I look for. Sauces, so good that it almost makes you want to lick your plate… But then you remember you’re in public ? Textures that balance so well . The brussels sprouts with whipped ricotta and spicy cashews was definitely a highlight as was the delicious steak tartare with a tarragon aïoli, which was out of this world. The blue cheese on the local cheese plate was so smooth. The Okonomiyaki texture was so light with a very pleasing mouth feel. I left feeling fabulous about the whole experience. I highly recommend you stop by this place for dinner !

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Small Plates

JAK Max&Nala

Bro, 100 out of 10! Where has this place been!? Service was exceptional. Meals were exceptional. Everything was exceptional! Service - top notch. Fish, the best! Tartar - better than in Europe. Prices - more than fair. Please try this location, don’t let them slip away. They are genuinely good…

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Justin Broome

This is a special place. From the atmosphere to the staff to the food, a 5-star experience!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Steak

Teresa Cumber

Very romantic dining! I went here for a desert. Tasty! It is candlelit! Service was good!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Savannah Walker

Brought my sister here for her bachelorette trip breakfast and it was SO good! We got coffee from the cafe, French toast, chicken biscuits, and Crab Benedict and it was all DELICIOUS! Such a charming place and love that they do reservations. You can definitely tell they are THE brunch spot in town. People were lined up at the door before they opened so be sure to get a reservation!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Kelly S

Absolutely love this spot! I recommend the short ribs and wedge salad.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Salad

Alli

I had such a great experience at The Pure and Proper!First of all, I love any restaurant that offers mocktails - inclusivity for those who don’t drink! My husband got the pineapple mocktail, and I got the Electra cocktail. Both delicious.The Brussels sprouts were so good. So many flavors, genuinely complex in the best way. Cheese board was divine as well. The smoked blue cheese was so good.My husband had the flank steak which was probably the most tender meat we’ve ever eaten.Our server was Jackie - they were so friendly, not just with us, but with every table. Definitely would come again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Steak, Cheese Board

David Mccoy

Love this place. My wife and I first had breakfast and coffee here one Saturday and was blown away by everything from the friendly service, food/coffee, and the unique atmosphere. Came back for lunch on a Sunday and was impressed even more. Staff actually enjoys working there too and it shows with their excitement over the menu and their friendliness. For the atmosphere it is obvious a lot of heart and thought went into the design where the legacy of the original business here was preserved and merged into the eatery it is now. This place makes Black Mountain that much cooler. Bravo P&P!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Natalie Warf

Amazing. Service (Addie) was great. Asked us how we wanted our courses. We said slow and she paced us in a terrific manner. The courses were so good - special salad, cheese board, venison, steak, and cheesecake. Wine and cocktails perfect. And the atmosphere is just...wonderful for a date night. So good we are going back tomorriw!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Jennifer Brecht

Delicious food and beverages from start to finish. The Brussels sprouts, steak tartare, and chocolate torte were all terrific. Service was attentive. Very much enjoyed the overall atmosphere; absolutely delighted that the bill arrived in an old owners manual.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Brussels Sprouts, Steak

Cassandra Beach

Everything was off the charts. Will definitely be back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Luke Bessmer

Absolutely incredible service. We got to meet and talk with the owner, and he was very kind and welcoming. Serving staff was very attentive. The atmosphere of the restaurant (especially the wine cellar downstairs) was perfect for a date night! We couldn't believe the affordable prices for the high quality ingredients and beautiful dishes. My only regret is that we are only visiting for the weekend and can't dine here more often!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

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