When it comes to dining out sometimes simplicity beats elegance, yet sometimes a touch of the finer things are exactly why we're enjoying a night out to begin with. While you can't judge a book by its cover and some of the best food in North Carolina does indeed come from a hole in the wall, sometimes it's nice to indulge a bit and enjoy both amazing food and an amazing ambiance. These ten restaurants don't disappoint.

1. The restaurant tucked right into a forest, Ryan's, Winston-Salem

Ryan's - Steaks-Chops & Seafood has long been a Winston-Salem staple from special occasions to a Saturday night out. Tucked into a unique and woodsy forest setting, every seat has a view and if you're lucky, you also might get to dine on the gorgeous 'Starlight Deck.' Read all about Ryan's

here.

2. The timeless and extravagant steakhouse, Angus Barn, Raleigh

Since 1960, The Angus Barn has been the go-to steakhouse for Triangle residents. From the eclectic Wild Turkey Lounge, the award-winning wine selection (and cellar), and even the meat smoking locker...Angus Barn is more than a restaurant but an entire dining experience meshed into one. Read all about what to expect on your visit

here.

3. The most whimsical, Stoney Knob Cafe, Weaverville

This Weaverville dining destination stands apart and on its own from the more inventive and nearby Asheville eateries. Featuring a Mediterranean Room, Red Room and Diner Room...both the food and the ambiance are extremely unique...and diverse. Read more about Stoney Knob

here.

4. No shortage of southern elegance, Fearrington House, Pittsboro

Fearrington House is a favored destination for not just a great meal, but also a great weekend away on the gorgeous estate grounds. Chef Colin Bedford was even recently nominated for a James Beard Best Chef Southeast Award.

5. Seclusion at its finest, The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge, Blowing Rock

Just in time for summer, dine high up in the Blue Ridge at one of the most beautiful and scenic restaurants in the state. Better yet, if you don't want to leave you can book a room because Gideon Ridge also operates as a unique, cozy inn. Read all about it

here.

6. Beachside dining, The Oceanic, Wrightsville Beach

The dock of The Oceanic is SO beautiful, some people even rent it out and get married on it! When there's not a declaration of eternal love occurring, you can enjoy dining right over the ocean and bonus : the food is actually really delicious! Read why this Wrightsville Beach staple is beloved by both locals and tourists

here.

7. Simple dining with extravagant views, River's End Restaurant, Bryson City

Located on the grounds of the Nantahala Outdoor Center, River's End is perfect for grabbing a hearty lunch after a morning of adventure. Each seat here promises a great view, fuel up with a delicious breakfast or kick back and chill with lunch. You'll love this riverside restaurant.

8. Best Blue Ridge Parkway Pitstop, Pisgah Inn Restaurant, Brevard

There's just something about summer in the Blue Ridge and while many restaurants are in gorgeous surroundings, this one still makes you feel as if you're suspended right over the Blue Ridge Parkway. While there's really no fancy to the dishes, just simple, yummy southern food, it's the view that's the real winner here. Read about this gorgeous restaurant

here.

Wow, what beautiful places. Which ones have you dined at? Any you want to add to the list?

Looking for more scenic vistas with great food, these 15 restaurants are beautiful as well.