The Secret Garden

208 N 5th St, Highlands
(828) 305-7509

Recent Reviews

Ryan Bender

Ok…I’m a sandwich person. Traveled all over. I think it was The Gobbler…shaved turkey on toasted baguette with havarti dill cheese spread, lettuce, cucumbers, and whatever else she put on it…it was seriously one of the best sandwiches in my 46 years on this planet. It made me choke up. Literally thanked her with tears welling up. Damn sandwich was a spiritual experience. I will go back to Highlands just for that sandwich and a waterfall. We spent lots of $$ eating out in this town over the weekend, all the best spots. This was the best thing I ate all weekend.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Howard Benz

The best sandwiches!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 5

rebecca derrick

I have been traveling to Highlands, NC for the past 15 years, and I must say that The Secret Garden is hands down the best lunch spot in town. Whether you're looking to grab a quick bite or sit down and enjoy a glass of wine in their cute courtyard, it offers a truly memorable experience.Now, let's talk about the food. The soups at The Secret Garden are out of this world, and their charcuterie boards are absolutely gorgeous. They also serve the best subs in town, made with high quality ingredients that result in superb flavors. I personally love this place and believe that anyone who says otherwise is simply not well-traveled. Perhaps they should visit Subway to grab a sub instead.

M. Mac

Not up to the standards of Highlands, NC food scene. Bland.

James Poole

Amazing food! Hole in the wall but I’m so glad we found it! The Godfather has to be one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever eaten!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Colonel Sanders

Amidst the aesthetic extravagance of this small mountain town, where beauty often comes with a hefty price tag, this lunch spot distinguishes itself as a savvy choice. Its allure lies not just in the panoramic surroundings but also in the economical balance it strikes, offering a delightful dining experience without the usual exorbitance.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Bee Dougherty

Such a lovely group of individuals running this place, I can’t wait to come back!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Winter Gary

My #1 lunch spot in Highlands! Rachel is the BEST. She makes the most delicious soups that are full of flavor and perfect for a fall or winter afternoon. If you're in more of a sandwich mood, I definitely recommend the Hudson any time of the year!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Julian Vilardo

Great place to have a great meal with great people.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Ken Stevenson

Delicious chicken salad and they were so accommodating! Fantastic service

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Ashlie Mitchell

Love this Highland's local restaurant! I visit every time I go to Highlands! Rachel always has the freshest ingredients, and the most innovative sandwiches, her soups are incredible and diverse, and her prices can't be beaten for the quality!I love the intimate atmosphere at The Secret Garden both inside the market and outside on the terrace. I love taking friends and family for lunch and sitting on the patio under the covered umbrellas and just taking in the quiet and friendly nature that Highlands is and always has been.Thank you, The Secret Garden, for a wonderful experience, as always!Vegetarian options: So many fabulous vegetarian and vegan options for any pallette!Dietary restrictions: Rachel and her staff can work with you to build a custom meal.Kid-friendliness: There are ALWAYS children in and out of The Secret Garden, and I love that about this place!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Street Corn Pasta Salad, The Basic Chick

Ashlie Mitchell-Lanning

Love this Highland's local restaurant! I visit every time I go to Highlands! Rachel always has the freshest ingredients, and the most innovative sandwiches, her soups are incredible and diverse, and her prices can't be beaten for the quality!I love the intimate atmosphere at The Secret Garden both inside the market and outside on the terrace. I love taking friends and family for lunch and sitting on the patio under the covered umbrellas and just taking in the quiet and friendly nature that Highlands is and always has been.Thank you, The Secret Garden, for a wonderful experience, as always!Vegetarian options: So many fabulous vegetarian and vegan options for any pallette!Kid-friendliness: There are ALWAYS children in and out of The Secret Garden, and I love that about this place!Dietary restrictions: Rachel and her staff can work with you to build a custom meal.

Cindy Clayton

The Secret Garden Market is a go to for fresh gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups located in a quiet courtyard off Main Street. You can also find unique gift items, spices, drinks, chips, popcorn, home made oatmeal cream cookies, and delicious pasta salads—to name a few.Prices are very reasonable and sandwiches are huge! It is nice to have a less expensive chef-prepared lunch rather than trying to find a parking place on Main Street and paying Main Street prices.Those of us who live and work in Highlands love The Secret Garden. We order take out for work and Rachel has local kids deliver food to businesses on Main Street (weekends andsummer.)Please remember to “Be Kind” when reviewing a restaurant. I personally helped Rachel for 3 months to make her dream come true.We support our small businesses ❤️And we love Rachel and The Secret Garden.

Recommended dishes: Street Corn Pasta Salad, The Basic Chick

Tom Kellogg

Had a delicious turkey, havarti, cucumber sandwich on fresh bread. Nice courtyard right outside for seating. Will definitely be back !

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

tabby bewley

My veggie pita was excellent. Nice owner and sweet outdoor space for lunch. Thanks so much. Glad you are in Highlands!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Street Corn Pasta Salad

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