The Best Restaurant in The North Carolina Mountains, North Carolina

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We've compiled the best of the best in The North Carolina Mountains - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

The Cardinal

$$ Fodor's Choice

Cocktails and burgers achieve sublimity at this temple of ground meat, be it locally raised bison, the game of the month, or a 50/50 blend of emu and chorizo. Infusions like beet vodka and bacon fat bourbon ensure that the creations from behind the bar rival those from the kitchen. A log cabin interior packed with curios (and classic Pac-Man on the back porch) sets a friendly tone that's matched by the good-humored service. 

1711 Rte. 105, Boone, NC, 28607, USA
828-355–9600
Known For
  • Seasonal cocktails, including rotating house slushies
  • Burgers that are works of art
  • House-made vegan options like a beet burger and tempeh tenders

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