Superb fine dining experience open seasonally (May-October). Artisanal features contemporary American cuisine in the upscale rustic elegance of a converted barn. The menu is known for an innovative and progressive farm-to-table approach. The cuisine rotates in accordance with the season. The restaurant has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

Practically everything you need in one location: two restaurants (the cafe and the lodge), an espresso bar, bakery, smoothie bar and an ice cream shop. Also has covered and outdoor patios. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. Menu includes American, Italian, Mexican, seafood and some of the best mountain trout in the High Country.

The Bayou Smokehouse & Grill, which includes an adjacent general store, offers a Texas-Louisiana inspired menu. Popular items run the gamut from Texas-style smoked beef brisket to spicy Cajun shrimp gumbo. Cajun pastas are also available, along with a local favorite – mountain trout. Restaurant is open 363 days a year (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas).

Authentic Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere. Guests enjoy a variety of dishes, such as: specialty soups, spring rolls, lettuce-wrapped chicken rolls, hibachi and teriyaki dishes served with fresh vegetables and sushi. Whether dining in or carrying out, Can Ranh Bay offers delicious Hibachi-style dishes in a modern American style.

This farm to table restaurant in downtown Banner Elk is the newest creation of chef Nicole Palazzo. It features a rotating menu of fresh, seasonal local foods paired with local and regional wines. The atmosphere is slightly upscale. Typical menu items range from steaks and seafood to chicken, beef and sushi. Particular favorites are the North Carolina rainbox trout, blackened chicken tacos and roasted beet salad with fried goat cheese.

A true New York-style deli just a stone’s throw from the only traffic light in town. Dunn’s uses premium meats and locally-baked breads to craft hearty sandwiches, subs, wraps and burgers. The deli earns high praise for its breakfast offerings and is open until early evening for dinner. Good beer selection, daily specials, gluten-free breads and kid’s menu (12 and under).

Louisiana Purchase offers fine dining that is heavily influenced by Cajun, Creole, French and Northern Italian cuisine. The menu features both traditional selections and seasonal offerings. Among the favorites are BBQ North Carolina shrimp, Cajun seafood etouffee, and Creole jambalaya. The wine list has received Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. Reservations preferred.

The Painted Fish Cafe & Beer Bar is known for putting a unique twist on recognizable dishes. The menu varies from pastas, ahi tuna and curried scallops to bacon chicken and southern style trout. The beer bar offers a rotating selection of artisanal brews in a fun tasting atmosphere. Overall, the Painted Fish is upscale dining in a casual and relaxed ambiance.

Puerto Nuevo is known for its Mexican dishes, seafood entrees and vegetarian selections. All meals are prepared fresh daily. Menu selections range from pollo asado to tacos San Felipe to chilaquiles Mexicanos to fresh grilled tilapia. Puerto Nuevo has a full bar with a large selection of margaritas and tequilas. Kids’ menu available.

A cozy cafe and bakery serving fresh sandwiches, soups, quiches and desserts. Some noted items on Sister Lees’ menu include: homemade pimento cheese, Cuban sandwiches, baked Greek yogurt and chocolate chip cookies. Sister Lees also serves full breakfasts with items like Belgium waffles, stuffed crepes, egg croissants and the usual breakfast meats.

Nestled in the village shops in the heart of town, Sorrento’s is an upscale bistro known for its authentic Italian cuisine. The chefs use family recipes dating back to the family’s roots in Sicily. Menu includes salads, pastas, veal, chicken, seafood pizzas and gourmet sauces. Also open for lunch and Sunday brunch. Contemporary artwork inside and a large patio garden open seasonally.

Open daily at 5 p.m., Stonewalls is a cornerstone of the Banner Elk food scene. Menu highlights include prime rib, seafood, gourmet steaks, chicken & ribs and the “famous salad bar.” A recent addition is a large selection of olive oils and balsalmics. The wine list is extensive, with offerings from across the globe.  Atmosphere is upscale casual.