Restaurants in Highlands

Best Restaurants in Highlands

Ristorante Paoletti 440 Main St, Highlands Fine Dining • $$$$

Customers` Favorites

Seafood
Snapper
Lasagna
Oysters Rockefeller
Cacio E Pepe
Creamed Spinach
Creme Brulee
Cioppino Paoletti
Bread Pudding
Cannelloni Al

“We had a wonderful time and the food was absolutely marvelous. The service was impeccable. We will definitely be back.”

4.6 Superb487 Reviews
Highlands Tavern 205 S 4th St, Highlands American • $$

Customers` Favorites

Focaccia
Steak Sandwich
Persimmon Salad with Grilled Chicken
Yellowfin Tuna Tartare
Green Curry Entree
Chicken Sandwich
Chicken Curry
Salmon Salad
Cheeseburger
Tuna Tataki

“Everything was great here. Starting with the service. No waiting for waitstaff; muliple vists by all the servers. Even the proprietor touched base several times. The drinks were well made with top shelf ingredients. The food was intriguing, chef used imaginative combinations. I had the 4th Street Burger and Street Corn (outstanding) and my wife had the 205 Wedge Salad (what a great surprise). The ambiance was just what my wife and i were looking for; and the setlist was killer too. We will be back. Awsome night. Thanks”

4.8 Superb134 Reviews
Oak Steakhouse 470 Skyline Lodge Rd, Highlands Steak House • $$$

Customers` Favorites

Venison Wellington
Bread Service
Rolls
Filet Mignon
Truffle Fries
Oysters Rockefeller
Chocolate Cake
Brussels Sprouts
Caesar Salad
Caramel Cake

“Wonderful experience at Oak Steakhouse - excellent service, delicious meal and a gorgeous view.”

4.5 Superb788 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Paella
Beef Carpaccio
Lightly Breaded Calamari
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Gambias Al Ajillo
Shrimp and Grits
Lobster Pasta
Kale Salad

“My husband and I stopped in on Friday night and sat at the bar, as we prefer to do. We were promptly served by Nick, and he was fantastic! We had a few small plates and they were all fantastic! We finished with the deconstructed bread pudding. Not something we normally eat, but it was ridiculously tasty!! If we were local we’d be there on a regular basis. It will definitely be a must the next time we are in town!”

4.4 Superb341 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Fajitas
Carne Asada
Steak
Burritos
Guacamole
Cheese Dip
Taco Salad
Shredded Chicken
Molcajete
Chicken Flautas

“We've eaten at Los Vaqueros for lunch many times. Great food, great service & great Margaritas!”

4.8 Superb222 Reviews

“This is the coolest little bar and the staff and atmosphere are great. They checked with us often to see if we needed anything, and offered free samples of a couple of drinks. The owners - and their daughters - are the sweetest, most personable people. The bar is off a little side street in Highlands, but you should definitely search it out for a great place to have a drink, visit with friends and even play a few games!”

5 Superb50 Reviews
on the Verandah 1536 Franklin Rd, Highlands American • $$$

Customers` Favorites

Grouper
Coconut Curry Shrimp
Fish
Bone-In Pork Chop Chargrilled Chipotle Onion Jam Sweet Potato Purée
Pan Seared Brussel Sprouts with Bacon Jam
Fried Calamari Ancho Chile Lime Aioli
Grilled Filet Mignon with Sides
Horseradish Encrusted Halibut
Baby Iceberg Wedge Salad
Carolina Montain Trout

“Everything was perfection 😀”

4.2 Good286 Reviews
Don Leon's 462 Dillard Rd, Highlands American • $

Customers` Favorites

Hand Cut French Fries

“I picked up dinner from here on my way home to Scaly Mountain tonight. I’ve heard about this place and always wanted to try it. I was really impressed with the decor and atmosphere. It’s very cozy and clean. Dinner and desserts were delicious. The gentleman who took my order and the woman who packaged up my desserts were both very friendly. I’ll definitely be recommending this place and coming to eat here again. It’s nice to have a restaurant so close to home that has great food and great service.”

4.8 Superb86 Reviews
Lakeside Restaurant 531 Smallwood Ave, Highlands Fine Dining • $$$

Customers` Favorites

Bread Pudding
Crab Cakes
Brussels Sprouts
Halibut Rice and Roasted Root Vegetables
Stuffed Rainbow Trout
Tomato Florentine Soup
Scallops and Risotto
Shrimp and Grits
Grouper Maison
Caprese Salad

“As a world traveler I have dined at some of the best restaurants in the world. Lakeside didn't disappoint. Steak, trout,, pear salad and spinach did not disappoint. Great wine list with fair prices. Reminded me of Mucky Duck on Sanibel.”

4.7 Superb259 Reviews
Blue Bike Cafe 423 N 4th St, Highlands Brunch • $

Customers` Favorites

Fries
Biscuits and Gravy
Hash Browns
Pastrami
Western Omelet
Banana Bread French Toast
Cheese Grits
Sausage
Banana Bread & Pecan French Toast
Biscuits & Gravy Two

“😁. Loved the breakfast!!”

4.6 Superb420 Reviews
Primary Restaurant & Bar 310 Main St, Highlands American • $$

Customers` Favorites

Cornbread
Mashed Potatoes
The Primary Wagyu Burger and Truffle Fries
Seared Tuna Salad
Steak Frites
Chocolate Cake
Ahi Tuna Tower
The Primary Salad
Tomato Basil Soup
Tempura Fried Brussels Sprouts

“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Lunch Experience at Prime in Highlands! Our lunch at Primary in Highlands, NC, was simply outstanding. From the moment we walked in, we were warmly greeted by the host and restaurant manager, which set the tone for a wonderful meal. We started with perfectly cooked Oysters Rockefeller, followed by a fresh and flavorful green salad. My husband had the chimichurri marinated chicken sandwich, which was the special of the day, while I opted for the 14-ounce New York strip. Although I couldn’t finish the entire steak, it was perfect for sharing, and it was cooked to absolute perfection. The service was impeccable, attentive without being overbearing, and the atmosphere made for a lovely midday meal. We topped off the experience with a delicious slice of carrot cake, which was the perfect sweet ending. If you’re looking for an exceptional lunch in downtown Highlands, I highly recommend Primary for its fantastic food, atmosphere, and top-notch service”

4.2 Good274 Reviews

“Had a very enjoyable stay at the Highlander Mountain House. It is very well decorated and quite cozy. The bed was very comfortable with fresh linens. A place I will definitely return to in the future.”

4.2 Good284 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Charcuterie Board
Wine Flights

“Loved the wine and atmosphere. Food was great! MaryGrace is the best!! Very knowledgeable and made the whole experience a 10.
We will be visiting again.”

5 Superb28 Reviews
Hummingbird Lounge 455 Main St, Highlands Bar • $$$

“We had an excellent dining experience, thanks to Casey’s outstanding service. He was incredibly attentive and made sure we felt well taken care of throughout the evening. For dinner, I enjoyed the pheasant, which was absolutely delicious, while my husband had the ribeye—perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Our son ordered the sirloin, but it wasn’t quite to our liking. Casey handled it with professionalism and care, ensuring it was promptly corrected. His warm and accommodating nature truly elevated our experience, making our evening both enjoyable and memorable.”

4.7 Superb45 Reviews
The High Dive 476 Carolina Way, Highlands Bar • $

Customers` Favorites

Fries
Donleon's Burger Grownup's Grilled
Philly Cheese Steak
Poke Bowl Salad
Mac & Cheese
Chicken Wings
Onion Rings
House Chips
Pretzels

“great atmosphere, good food, good staff. I will be back.”

4.6 Superb97 Reviews

More Restaurants in Highlands

Customers` Favorites

Toasted Coconut
Waffle Cone
Mint Chocolate Ice Cream
Reeces Peanut Butter Cup
Chocolate Caramel Apple
Butter Pecan Ice Cream

“Kids of all ages love Kilwins ice cream!”

4.7 Superb230 Reviews

“Love when I’m in the area I can grab something here and always know it’ll be delicious! 🤤 It’s my go-to choice when in Highlands. Rosewood Market also catered my wedding party in 2021 and the guests raved about the ramen bar. I still dream about the individual mushroom Shepard pies in a jar. Plus, the best people work there. Do yourself a favor and go enjoy! (And don’t skip on dessert)”

5 Superb12 Reviews
Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Rd, Highlands Barbeque • $

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork
Banana Pudding
Fried Pickles
Brisket Tray
Chopped Chicken
Cole Slaw
BBQ Nachos
Onion Straws
Creamed Corn
Brisket Melt

“we took eight of our friends from The over the hill hiking group to eat there on July 24. We ate on the back deck which was very pleasant and undercover. The brisket was great all the sides were great. Everybody was happy with their food. It was even better than I remember from my previous visit. Wright before close we even got to see a bear. Try to get into the dumpster, which was quite entertaining.. we will be back.”

4.5 Superb447 Reviews
El Agave 72 Highlands Plaza, Highlands Mexican • $

“This is excellent food. Good atmosphere. Friendly service. Great prices. We are from Las Vegas and would definitely go to this often if it were in our neck of the woods”

4.6 Superb31 Reviews
The Wine Garden 445 Main St, Highlands New American • $$

“Great food and atmosphere!”

4.1 Good17 Reviews
Madison's Restaurant 445 Main St, Highlands Southern • $$$$

Customers` Favorites

Pimento Cheese
Smoked Trout
Caesar Salad with Sundried Tomato Pesto Crostini Toasted Parmesan White Anchovies and Capers
Chicken Salad Sandwich on Croissant
Banana Creme Caramel Pudding
Black-Eyed Pea Hummus Plate
Southern Fish and Chips
Calf Liver and Onions
Seared Diver Scallops
Charcuterie Board

“Great food and atmosphere!”

4.4 Superb764 Reviews
Highlands Burrito 226 S 4th St, Highlands Tex-Mex • $

Customers` Favorites

Burrito
Tacos
Cheese Taco or Quesadilla with Chips
Cheese Quesadilla
Steak Quesadilla
Steak Taco Salad
Shrimp Taco
Nachos
Queso

“This place is very good! Is similar to that of a chipotle, but since it is local I think it is better! Service is great and they are fast. Food is fresh and delicious and their burritos are a personal fav of mine.”

4.3 Superb134 Reviews
4118 Kitchen + Bar 64 Highlands Plaza, Highlands Bar & Grill • $$

Customers` Favorites

Cauliflower Tacos
Fish and Chips
4118 Burger
Soup
Chicken Sandwich
Reuben Sandwich
Fried Chicken
Fish & Chips
Caesar Salad

“We ate dinner on Wednesday, our first time. The service was Excellent! Kind, and very helpful! We definitely will be back!”

4.3 Superb205 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Wings
Cheese Pizza
Gyro
Turkey Bacon Ranch Sandwich
Calzone with Your Choice of
10 Inch Pepperoni Pizza
Mozzarella Sticks
Meat Lovers Pizza
Plowboy Sandwich
Buffalo Chicken

“Highlands Pizza Place is hands down our favorite pizza spot in town! The food is always consistent, and the customer service is friendly every time we stop in. They’re always on time with our order, which we really appreciate—especially when we’re grabbing takeout. Our go-to is the pepperoni pizza with pineapple and jalapeños—highly recommend it if you like a little sweet and spicy combo. And don’t sleep on the pizza sticks—they’re a must-try! Pair them with their ranch (our favorite in Highlands), and you’ll be hooked. It’s also a great spot for a family night or even a birthday party. The environment is casual, welcoming, and family-friendly. We’re so glad to have this place in Highlands!”

4.3 Superb246 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Prosciutto
Artichoke Dip
Meat Lovers Pizza
Warm Wood-Fired Brussels Sprout Salad
Wood Oven Caesar Salad Dine in: Yes
Wood-Fired Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Wood-Fired Root Vegetable Soup
Cherrywood Farm Greek Salad
Meatball and Ricotta Pizza
Brussels and Bacon Pizza

“Perfect service, perfect day!”

4.3 Superb336 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Tenders
Pimento Cheese
Flatbread Pizza
The Cuban
Chips
Fried Green Tomatoes
Rise and Shine Burger
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Chili Cheese Dog
Crispy Fish Wrap

“One of our favorite spots when we’re in town. Tried a number of items in the menu and enjoyed them all on our visits.
Great service and a fun atmosphere. Catch a game or enjoy some live music on Wednesdays.”

4.3 Superb523 Reviews
Calders Coffee Cafe 384 Main St, Highlands Coffee Shops • $

Customers` Favorites

Muffin
Coffee Cake
Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Blueberry Scone
Apple Fritter

“Hands down the best coffee spot in Highlands! The smaller coffees are definitely tastier than the larges. The coffee tasted great, and the food was amazing. You should definitely check it out.”

3.9 Good217 Reviews
Wild Thyme Gourmet 343-D Main St, Highlands American • $$

Customers` Favorites

Burger
Fried Green Tomatoes
Waterfall Beef
Soup
Fish and Chips
Spring Rolls
Shrimp and Tasso Linguine
Crab Cakes Appetizer
Salmon in Puff Pastry
Crab Cake Sandwich

“Came in late on a Sunday afternoon about an hour before closing. Greeted and seated promptly. Had a choice of indoor or outdoor seating but chose inside as the sun was going down. I ordered the Waterfall Beef and my wife got the ravioli. My dish was very good with tender beef and crispy veggies. Just the right balance of sauce. My wife enjoyed hers and there was plenty to take home for a snack later for her. Mine totally vaporized somehow. Plenty of free parking right in the downtown area. Extensive wine list. Highly recommend.”

4 Good385 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Rolls
Sesame Chicken
General TSO Chicken
Seafood Fried Rice
Sushi and Sashimi
Chicken Broccoli
Spicy Tuna Roll
Shrimp Pad Thai
Orange Chicken
Mongolian Beef

“Asia house by far is the best restaurant in Highlands hands down.the sweet and sour civk is the bomb.but one of the best things about Asia house is the service.and specifically the white guy,matthew.u can't miss him bc he's the only American white guy in the floor.he made or stay exceptional and made sure we were good every few minutes but not enough to be a pain.everynody there is absolutely great people.tom Josephine Danny and Matthew are examples of how resturants should be run.excepionaal service.sushi extraordinary.give them a try and u won't regret it”

3.8 Good199 Reviews

Customers` Favorites

Hash Browns
Omelette
Pancakes
Mozzarella Sticks
Breakfast Burrito
Shrimp and Grits
Breakfast Tacos
Avocado Toast
Crepes
Black Bean Soup

“delicioso y todo fresquesito”

3.7 Good163 Reviews