Waynesville, NC, nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, offers a charming blend of natural beauty and culinary delights. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these 7 must-try restaurants in Waynesville promise to satisfy your taste buds with their unique flavors and inviting atmospheres.
I have stated many times that Western North Carolina is one of my favorite places to visit. There is something about that part of the Smoky Mountains that has a special place in my heart.
It could be the childhood memories that I have experienced there. Or like a close friend of mine said when talking about a restaurant we both have been going to since childhood: "It is not really about the food for me but about the atmosphere, tradition, and memories."
Either way, the food, and places we visit as a child hold special places in our hearts. It is a way of connecting those memories with the past. Even if the food or place is not as good as we remember, you still like to visit it for memories.
Each time I visited Maggie Valley, NC, we also visited nearby Waynesville. Waynesville is similar in style to Asheville, NC, but on a smaller scale.
There are many cool and unique shops located in downtown Waynesville. There are just as many awesome restaurants throughout the town too. That is why I am sharing this list of 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC.
After exploring these 7 must-try restaurants, consider taking a short trip to Core 450 in Travelers Rest, SC, for another exceptional dining experience.
#7 Ammons Drive-In & Dairy Bar
To start the list off, we check out a restaurant located at the intersection of Hwy 19 (Dellwood Rd) and Hwy 276, Ammons Drive-In is serving up your classic Drive meals.
The last time I visited I ordered the Hamburger Steak and it was awesome. You can come in and sit down or pull up for the curb service.
They serve all your classic drive-in meals like cheeseburgers, hamburgers, hot dogs, fish sandwiches, and chicken strips.
After your meal, you can opt for a milkshake or a banana split. Ammons has to be included in our list of 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC.
Ammons Drive-In and Dairy Bar
1451 Dellwood Rd
Waynesville, NC
#6 Fat Buddies Ribs and BBQ
Next, we have a BBQ joint on the list. Fat Buddies is your typical southern BBQ restaurant. They have two locations, one in Franklin, NC, and one in Waynesville, NC. It is located in the Waynesville Plaza right off Hwy 276. They are serving up some of Western NC's best BBQ and ribs.
They have all your normal BBQ offerings and a few unique ones like fried pickles and fried green beans.
Fat Buddies is certainly worth being on the list of 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC.
Fat Buddies Ribs and BBQ
193 Waynesville Plaza
Waynesville, NC
#5 Frog's Leap Public House
Note: FLPH has since closed and is only open for private events. The owners have decided to semi-retire.
Frog's Leap Public House is a unique restaurant on its own. They are located in Downtown Waynesville in one of the old historical buildings. They did an awesome job dressing the building up and showcasing the building's natural and unique features.
It has that industrial-modern feel on the inside of the
building with really high ceilings and lots of exposed brick. I like what they have done with it.
The food there is just as great. When I stopped in I had a hamburger and it had a homemade sauce that was out of this world. They have a very eclectic menu that matches their style.
Many of their dishes look as if they were cooked in a fancy New York City restaurant. The kicker is that you don't pay the New York City Prices. Most of their ingredients are locally sourced and are extremely fresh. Try it out, I think you will love it too. We had to include Frogs Leap on our 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC.
Frogs Leap Public House
44 Church St.
Waynesville, NC
#4 Jukebox Junction Canton, NC
Jukebox Junction is located off the beaten path but it is not that far from downtown Waynesville. We love this restaurant and thought why not include it in the 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville?
We found this place by accident one year while visiting a pumpkin patch just around the corner from Jukebox Junction.
Jukebox Junction made our list of 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC for the awesome food and staff that run the place.
The food is great and the people working there are extremely nice. I recommend the club sandwich here. It is awesome.
Stop by and check them out just remember to bring your GPS because you may need it to find them. It is definitely off the beaten path and one of the local's favorite places.
Jukebox Junction
6306 Pigeon Rd
Canton, NC
#3 Clyde's Restaurant
We just visited Clyde's Restaurant a few weeks back. I love the way Clyde's Restaurant looks. It has that old dinner feel to it.
They have it decorated to a tee for the fall season and I imagine they continue that theme throughout the different seasons.
I also love their sign. Very few places have their original sign left but this appears to be one of them. It has that iconic diner shape and design to it.
The food there was really good. I had the open-face sandwich and that gravy on it was to die for. I also want to mention those homemade rolls, mmm mmm good. My kids had chicken tenders and you could tell they were hand-cut and breaded. It is worth the trip to stop by Clyde's Restaurant. We simply had to include it in our 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC.
Clyde's Restaurant
2107 S Maint St
Waynesville, NC
#2 Sweet Onion
Sweet Onion is located in downtown Waynesville just on the opposite block from Frog's Leap. Every time I go downtown, park, and walk around, I can smell the fumes wafting from the kitchen of Sweet Onion.
It makes my mouth water every time. After all, it has a high score on Trip Advisor sometimes being number 1. The food here is simply amazing.
Every time I mention going to Waynesville, people always say try out Sweet Onion. We did and we loved it. We ate here for lunch and as I mentioned above it was amazing. This is why Sweet Onion is number 2 on our 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC.
#1 Bogarts
Finally, drum roll, please...We love Bogarts. We have eaten here a few times and it has always been right on cue. Most of the time this is a dinner place we eat so we have steaks. They are always flavorful, tender, and juicy.
Just the way a steak should be. On Trip Advisor, they are always near the top like Sweet Onion's, and are sometimes number 1 too. I have never had a bad meal here and would recommend this to anyone.
Bogart's is one restaurant you must try and that is why we made it number 1 on our 7 Must-Try Restaurants in Waynesville, NC.
Bogarts
303 S Maint St
Waynesville, NC
While you are visiting the area, make sure to check out our list of 19 things to do while in Maggie Valley, NC. I think you will find there is something for everyone!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Waynesville, North Carolina boasts a delightful culinary scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. From mouthwatering barbecue to American cuisine, these seven must-try restaurants offer a diverse range of dining experiences that showcase the town's culinary excellence.
Whether you're a resident or a visitor passing through, exploring these culinary gems is a culinary journey well worth embarking on. With their unique flavors, welcoming atmospheres, and exceptional service, these restaurants have undoubtedly earned their place on any food lover's list of must-visit destinations in Waynesville. So, don't miss the opportunity to savor the delectable dishes and create unforgettable memories at these culinary hotspots in this charming North Carolina town.
Thanks for stopping by Southern Food Junkie. It is our hope that you enjoy this recipe sharing it with friends, family, and coworkers. Make sure to take time to give thanks to the creator, God, by which all blessings flow.
-Ronnie | Let's Get Food Junked
John 6:35
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FAQ's
Yes, here is a list of all the places I have visited in North Carolina.
Known as a fun place to visit, I compare it to a smaller Asheville, NC. It is a quiet, small town, but has many cool shops and excellent dining options.
Waynesville, NC is roughly 26 miles west of Asheville, North Carolina.
Waynesville North Carolina is very close to the eastern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are lots of outdoor activities to do in and around this area. Located just minutes from Maggie Valley, NC, and Cataloochee Valley where Elk was reintroduced in the early 2000s. You can visit this area, hike, see the Elk, Visit nearby Cherokee, and ride the train in Bryson City, among other things. It is a great central location to do many things to keep you occupied. Also, Waynesville has awesome shops such as the Mast General store and food options.
Mike says
Pioneer in Clyde should be on the list.
Southern Food Junkie says
Hey Mike,
Next time I am in the area I will check them out! Thanks for letting me know. I love trying new places and like when people suggest their favorites!
Dustin says
Try Boojums brewing
Southern Food Junkie says
Thanks for the suggestion Dustin. Thanks for commenting.
Carla says
Check out Church Street Burgers, too! Amazing, local beef and ice cream!
Southern Food Junkie says
I will add that one to the list too. I love finding restaurants that serve local ingredients! Thanks for letting me know!
D. Trull says
Nope, the best restaurant in Waynesville is Angelo's Family Pizza.
Southern Food Junkie says
Hey D. Trull,
Thanks for sharing. When you only visit an area once or twice a year it is hard to try all the restaurants. I will add this to my list and give it a try next time. Maybe it will make the list next year! Thanks for sharing.
Beth says
Is that the same angelos that used to be in hazelwood next to the starlight?. Best shrimp pizzA EVER
Southern Food Junkie says
Hey Beth,
I am not sure what you are meaning. Were you meaning Ammons? If so Ammons is a drive-in burger joint. I appreciate your comment.
Brenes Moore says
Grew up in Waynesville. I live on the coast of South Carolina now. I would drive back up to Waynesville just to eat at Bogart's. It really is is that good!
Southern Food Junkie says
Thanks for your comment. I agree!
Aaron Fernandez says
You should add Blue Rooster to your "to try" list also!
Southern Food Junkie says
Aaron,
I will add that to my list also. I am getting some great suggestions! Thanks for commenting.
Heather Homan says
Blue rooster is a definite must try! Located in the lakeside Plaza off paragon parkway!
Southern Food Junkie says
Hey Heather,
Someone else also mentioned Blue Rooster or is there two in the area? Must be really good if it is the same one. Thanks for commenting.
D.Kuehn says
The Tipping Point, The Haywood Smokehouse & The Chefs Table, all located in Waynesville, would probably make your list. Next time that you're in town, check them out if you can. Of course, I haven't included the other places that have already been mentioned in the comments section, as to not be redundant.
Southern Food Junkie says
I will add those to my list. As mentioned in the post we tried to go to the Chef's Table. I heard it was really good. BBQ is probably my favorite food too so I am interested in Haywood Smokehouse also! Thanks for commenting.
C. Rogers says
I was going to say two of the same ones! Tipping Point has awesome burgers and fish tacos! And Haywood Smokehouse will beat Fat Buddies every time! Never been to Chef's Table though... We'll have to try it sometime! Another recommendation... Go to the Tipping Point for supper, and then catch a movie at The Strand, located a little further down Main Street! It's small, old fashioned, and TOTALLY worth your time! Ooh, and they serve the best homemade ice cream (made by The Hop) and homemade sodas (made by Waynesville Soda Jerks)!
Southern Food Junkie says
Hey C. Rogers,
I have seen that movie theater and have been curious about it. I love old fashioned. I will have to check that out next time for sure. Thanks for the recommendations. I will get by Tipping Point also. Sounds like it is awesome. Thanks for commenting! Make sure you take a look around and subscribe so you can get future updates! Happy New Year to ya.
Craig says
It's smoky mountains not smokey
Southern Food Junkie says
Thanks for pointing that out. I will fix that error right away. Thanks for commenting.
Caleb says
A couple of my favorites are Bocelli's and El Pobre. Also check out Waynesville Pizza Company
Southern Food Junkie says
Caleb,
Thanks for the suggestions. I will add those to the list. I have gotten so many awesome suggestions I got to make several trips now, but that is fine by me. Thanks for commenting!
Darla says
Haywood smoke house. Try the baked beans and brisket are the best.
Southern Food Junkie says
Darla,
Someone else has mentioned Haywood Smokehouse. It must be good to get multiple people saying to try it. Thanks for the suggestion. Happy New Year to you!
Gina Albert says
Best Brisket ever!
Southern Food Junkie says
It was a great place! Thanks for your comment.
Kathie says
Haywood Smokehouse has a great menu and their brisket is awesome. Maggie's Galley is a great restaurant too. We love their local trout.
Southern Food Junkie says
I will add Maggie galley to the list. Is it in Maggie or Waynesville? Haywood has lots of votes so far sounds like it is great. Thanks for commenting.
Rachell Hardison Moody says
It's in Waynesville. https://maggiesgalley.com
Others have mentioned all the restaurants I love save for Guayabitos. Mexican cuisine out in Maggie Valley where the staff treat you like family. Give it a try if you haven't already!
Southern Food Junkie says
Hey Rachell,
I have always wanted to try out that restaurant along with Franks in Maggie Valley. I will soon do a post just on Maggie Valley. Thanks for commenting.
Jordan furnisss says
Try Haywood smokehouse in waynesville.
Southern Food Junkie says
Jordan,
It must be really good. Have had lots of folks recommend it. Thanks for commenting,
Ronnie
Georgia Reeves says
Lived in Waynesville for 50 years. Clyde's Restaurant is truly the best place to eat GOOD country food. Me and my husband eat from there at least once a week. My Husband is disabled so I go pick it up and bring it home. Food is always perfect even though it's fixed to go.
Southern Food Junkie says
Georgia,
Sorry to hear about your husband. There's nothing g like good country food. How about there rolls? Loved them. Thanks for commenting,
Ronnie
Mark Taylor says
Great List! There are still a plethora of Gastric Heavens for you to savor! We are blessed!!
Southern Food Junkie says
Yes, Waynesville is blessed with tons of great restaurants!
Elaine says
The best by far is the Blue Rooster in Clyde located in strip where Tractor Supply and Food Lion are located. The Best in Southern Cuisine.
Southern Food Junkie says
Hey Elaine,
I really appreciate you stopping by to leave us a comment. I have had quite a few people leave comments on the Blue Rooster. I will try it next time I am in Clyde and do a review on it.
Thanks again,
Ronnie
Richard Owens says
Did you eat at BB in Hazelwood?
Southern Food Junkie says
I have not. I hadn't heard of that one yet. Is it good? If so, I will add to my list!
JD Alewine says
Hey Ronnie,
As Richard mentioned, I think you would very much like Bourbon Barrel, Beef and Ale. Feel free to drop in on your next visit!
Southern Food Junkie says
Next time I am up that way I will check that out. It sounds like it would be wonderful.
Keith says
Why isn’t Birchwood Hall listed? They put Sweet Onion to shame. Chefs Table isn’t listed either. You didn’t list the best two restaurants in town. Bogarts is good put not quality meat whatsoever. Poor review!!!
Southern Food Junkie says
Reviews are clearly very speculative. What I may think is the best may not be for the next person. Just like movies, you read reviews, go watch it and love it. The reviews may say otherwise. Bogarts is always listed on trip advisor as number one in the area or close to it. Birchwood Hall wasn't in the area when I wrote this piece. I am sorry you feel this way but I tried to give a variety of choices in restaurant styles. Thanks for your comments.
Linda says
Birchwood Hall Southern Kitchen would definitely be on my list before some of your picks.
Southern Food Junkie says
I have heard a few comments about this place. I will try to check it out next time I am in the area. When I wrote this piece, I don't think this restaurant was even opened. I was also trying to give a variety of restaurants. I will try to include a newly updated list next time! Thanks for your suggestion, I can't wait to try this place.