New years almost always bring new lists, including resolutions. But most of us keep a running bucket list for new places to dine, too. We're getting yours started for this new year with this short list of must-visit spots at which to dine in the coming months. Don't expect a lot of pomp and circumstance from these establishments. To the contrary, these no frills, come-as-you-are restaurants are perfect for just enjoying the company you keep, the atmosphere, and the delicious food. Dig in!
1. Smokehouse Grill at Deadwood - Williamston
Travel off the beaten path for a savory meal at the only restaurant in North Carolina that has its own Wild West theme park out back. Whether you bring the kids, or make it a date night, this place is full of delicious fun! More from this previous article about Smokehouse Grill at Deadwood.Address: 2302 Ed’s Grocery Rd. in Williamston, NC 27892, USA
2. Bavarian Restaurant and Biergarten - Asheville
Whether you dine inside this cozy German restaurant or outside, an authentic meal awaits. Arrive at just the right time, and you may even be treated to live music, Lederhosen included! More from this previous article about Bavarian Restaurant and Biergarten.Address: 332 Weaverville Road, Asheville, NC, 28804, USA
3. Restaurant at Shatley Springs - Crumpler
Many North Carolinians make it a tradition to visit this remote restaurant at least once every year. Discover for yourself what the hullabaloo is all about when you visit and dine on some of the best fried chicken and more at this destination eatery. More from this previous article about Shatley Springs.Address: 407 Shatley Springs Rd, Crumpler, NC 28617, USA
4. Poe's Tavern - Wrightsville Beach
Visit the North Carolina location of this delightfully macabre Edgar Allan Poe themed eatery and bite into some of the best gourmet burger combinations you'll ever taste. The daily specials alone are enough to visit again and again, but the everyday menu is also loaded with extraordinary selections. More from this previous article about Poe's Tavern.Address: 212 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC, 28480, USA
5. Anne Bonny's Bar & Grill - Wilmington
Located in a prime spot for incredible views along Wilimington's historic waterfront, Anne Bonny's is a perfect spot to hunker down for a few drinks and some amazingly fresh seafood. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Check it out the next time you're anywhere near Wilmington. More from this previous article about Anne Bonny's Bar & Grill.Address: 106 S Water Street, Wilmington, NC, 28401, USA
6. Daniel Boone Inn - Boone
The food at this time-honored eatery in the High Country is served family style and guests pay one price for endless portions of the foods selected from the menu. Whether you dine at breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you won't leave hungry, that's for sure! More from this previous article about Daniel Boone Inn.Address: 130 Hardin St, Boone, NC 28607, USA
7. Naber's Drive-In - Bryson City
Step back in time at this no-frills drive-in on Main Street in Bryson City. Dine inside, in your car, or at a picnic table with views of the scenic Tuckasegee River only steps away. More from this previous article about Naber's Drive-In.Address: 1245 Main St, Bryson City, NC 28713, USA
8. Fat Andy's - Southport
Choosing what you want to eat at Fat Andy's is an easy decision. This popular hamburger hut only servers burgers, hot dogs, and fries (and drinks). Only eating one of each delicious selection, however, may be more difficult! More from this previous article about Fat Andy's.Address: 4655 Long Beach Rd. SE, Southport, NC 28461, USA
9. Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe - Nags Head
Broiled, fried, grilled, or blackened, the seafood selections at this coastal restaurant are always fresh and prepared exactly the way you like 'em. Any visit to Nags Head should include at least one meal at this seafood joint. More from this previous article about Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe.Address: 7623 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959, USA
10. Yesterday's Grill - Snow Camp
Chow down on delicious meat pie, tenderloin pork chops, burgers, hot dogs, and more at this eatery found practically in the middle of nowhere. In spite of its remote location, Yesterday's can get very busy, so prepare to wait if you arrive during a traditional meal time (the wait is worth it, though). More from this previous article about Yesterday's Restaurant.Address: 716 W Greensboro Chapel Hill Rd, Snow Camp, NC 27349, USA
Do you keep a restaurant bucket list? What's at the top of your list after reading this article? We'd love to know - and to know if you have other favorites to share. Feel free to add to this list in the comments!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!