Bistro Roca

Not a bad experience. I was hungry for a good burger, and…read moretheirs left something to be desired. But my husband had the best pot roast ever. So just get recommendations. The waitress said to try the fish and chips, that they have the best in town...next time I'll listen! The atmosphere was quiet because we were the last guests of the night. The hostess stand is in an obscure place, making it difficult on a busy afternoon to get to her. There is no waiting for a table inside (at least none that I saw) And during lunch, I've often seen a line there.

We ate at the Six Pence Pub twice during our visit, and while we enjoyed much of the food, there…read morewere a few things that left me disappointed. On our first visit, I was looking forward to trying the French onion soup, only to be told they were out of it. When we returned a couple of nights later, I overheard our server telling another table that they were once again out of French onion soup. I asked about it, and he explained that they were changing the menu and would be removing it. I guess I wasn't going to get to try it after all! On our first visit, we ordered the Loaded Banger and a Caesar salad. The Loaded Banger was good, but I thought the Caesar salad was just OK. We decided to return a couple of nights later because the fish and chips we had seen looked really good. This time, we shared an order of fish and chips along with the fried mushrooms, and we enjoyed both. I'm glad we decided to share because the portions here are very generous! The fish and chips came with three pieces of fish and a mountain of fried potatoes. There is no way I could have finished that on my own. Even the salads are more like full meals than side salads. The staff was friendly on both visits, although on our first visit, our server seemed to be running all over the restaurant rather than working a particular section. He was certainly getting his exercise! Unfortunately, there was one thing that really bothered me, and it had nothing to do with the food. When I went to use the restroom, I nearly slipped and fell as I stepped off the carpet onto the tiled floor. The floor was so greasy that it was dangerously slippery. Then I opened the restroom door, and the smell was absolutely awful. I honestly thought I was going to be sick. The restroom itself looked as though it hadn't been properly cleaned in ages. It's a shame because we genuinely enjoyed much of what we ate, and the portions were certainly generous. But a filthy restroom and dangerously greasy floors are hard to overlook. It really left me wondering about the cleanliness of the rest of the restaurant.

Fish and chips

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Parade day after thanksgiving

The Town Tavern of Blowing Rock

3.5(348 reviews)

Can't say enough about how good the food and service was! I had the Philly Cheesesteak which was…read moreoutstanding. The bread was soft, the meat and cheese tender and flavorful. My husband had the Reuben and ate every bite. Service was perfect. Wish I could remember her name. Very attentive and pleasant. We ate at a high top near a window and enjoyed the view of the patio area. Located on Main so convenient location. Highly recommend!

Had lunch Wednesday. Great staff and outstanding food…read more Had the steak burger very good. Others in our party had a Rubin sandwich, fish sandwich and the Tavern burger. All were out standing. Our waitress was Sara and she was great.

Bar area

Buffalo Chicken side pasta salad

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Blowing Rock Brewing

4.0(481 reviews)

0.3 mi

Great spot for lunch and a brew while heading to Boone. I had a delicious turkey and gueyre…read moresandwich with homemade chips. Yum . And cold Mexican lager. Hubby got the fried chicken sandwich with a cold ipa. Always great spot to stop.

Where to start my review of this truly horrible luncheon experience. In a town that is geared…read moretowards tourists (I'm a resident), and where one restaurant tries to outdo the other, this restaurant is sorely lacking, in everything from wait staff to food. What they do have is a lot of different types of beer. So I guess if you just want a beer with tasteless food then this is the place to go. My friend and I had lunch at around 12 noon. There were literally only four other tables with a few people. Our waiter came to take our order and basically gave the impression that he wishes he was anywhere other than in this restaurant working. Not even a smile or a hello how are you doing? He was truly uncaring and answered us in half syllables when we had questions about the menu. OK whatever -/so we ordered a burger and the turkey Gruyère sandwich. At $19 for a burger (most other places in Blowing Rock charge around 12) and another 19 for a turkey sandwich you would expect at least french fries or coleslaw as a side. The sides are potato chips ( how cheap can you get) or green beans?????? if you want anything else like a side salad or fruit you have to pay an additional five dollars. Literally every other restaurant in town that serves sandwiches or burgers gives you a choice of several sides that come with the meal . But here a hamburger with a side of fruit was $23. Our waiter never came back to check on us, but another waitress did come a couple times and filled my tea glass with ice and asked us how everything was and brought samples of the beer. Thank you to whoever that was. Wish you could have been our waitress. Because our waiter was so unconcerned about waiting on us that he apparently forgot we were there. After a half an hour of not receiving our food in a restaurant that was mostly empty, I flagged him down and asked him what happened to our food. He said he would go and check on it. He came back and said that ours was the next ticket up.!! so basically this waiter held onto our ticket and then got reminded that he had to actually put it in for us to get our food. So we waited another 10 minutes. The burger was so tiny you practically needed a magnifying glass to see it. Burned to a crisp because of course the waiter also forgot to ask how we wanted it cooked. We like it medium rare, and definitely not charred and well done. The Turkey sandwich with Gruyère was just some turkey slices and I'm assuming gruyere cheese which I couldn't really taste. The whole sandwich was definitely forgettable. So that's my review. I still gave the waiter 10% tip, which he did not deserve. He did not deserve a tip at all. Needless to say, will never be back at this restaurant again. Nor will I ever recommend it. Because lunch for almost $60 for two people with two disgusting sandwiches was obscene.

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Café Violette

4.5(64 reviews)

•$$$

We had Stephanie she is the best waitress. This was the second time she was our server the fist…read morewas Mothers Day. Stephanie was chipper and it was the end of a long day for here. There were three of us and we had a lovely meal My daughter and I had amazing salmon so favourable it came with a bed of rice so creamy. I asked for bread it was hot and smelled so heavenly. We also had a small dinner salad I had Caesar and my daughter had regular small salad with ranch. Michael had steak and scallops cooked to perfection. The ladies had wine and Michael had his brown sugar old fashioned with extra cherries . Then we ordered two deserts a coconut cream brûlée and a pichstasio cake. We all liked the crème brûlée best. Stephanie was extremely attentive and we wanted for nothing. We will ask for her next time as well. Thank you chef and Stephanie for a lovely evening.

I'll start with saying the marshmallow whisky cocktail was amazing and I'd order it again. Now for…read morethe bad part. The mushroom gnocchi and the chicken dish were the most underwhelming meal I've had this year. Each dish was $40+ when the taste and preparation was equivalent to a maximum $20. I understand it could be an off night but for the price there should be an executive chef assessing the meals and not letting something like this leave the kitchen

I loved this wall paper so much

Duck fat fries w/lemon aioli

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Outside

Social on Main

4.6(83 reviews)

0.3 mi

Social on Main is my husband's and my favorite place for breakfast while visiting Blowing Rock…read more They are even better than our now-closed old favorite, Sunny Rock Eggs & Things. On this last trip, we went twice. I got the Beth Ann Clark both times. I just love their cheesy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, fruit, and french toast. My husband tried two different entrees this time--the Butch Triplett (corned beef and eggs) and their breakfast burrito. Their corned beef is likely from a can, but it's so good because they cook it so it's very crispy. I always steal some of his corned beef to add to my eggs! Their breakfast burrito is amazing. It's simply filled, with just scrambled eggs, cheese, small bits of ham, and hash browns. It's topped with an enchilada sauce that is similar to a ranchero sauce, and is served with sour cream and guacamole. It's a massive burrito, and SO GOOD! My husband said it's his new favorite. Social on Main is popular, and so we always go early (before 8am). After 8am, there is usually a wait--especially on Saturdays. Their servers are always friendly, and the food is delivered fast. Their coffee is nice and strong, too. I wish we had a Social on Main near our house, because we'd visit them weekly. Give them a try if you are in Blowing Rock for a visit and want a great breakfast!

Cute place with eclectic menu! I love a good mushroom so went for the mushroom sammy akin to a…read moreFrench dip but shrooms instead. It underwhelmed me - more cheese than shrooms and the "au jus" was basically mushroom soup lol not what I expected. The Lima beans were great though! The hubby enjoyed his burger and steak fries very much. It offers inside and patio seating. The parking lot was tiny and awkward but that seems to be the theme of the day in this lil town. Our waiter was great - checking on us often!

Chicken Salad

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Cupcrazed Cafe & Restaurant

4.0(192 reviews)

This is one of the most lovely restaurants I've been to in North Carolina. It's directly off the…read moremain street but hard to find. There's a small sign and then you walk down the winding path which makes a unique entrance into a lovely courtyard. There's indoor eating and outdoor eating, if it's a nice day I suggest the patio and the food is just fantastic!! The hostess who seats you is the owner of the restaurant and her husband is the chef, Annie and Andy. Often Annie makes homemade desserts. They are not a disappointment. Go ahead and indulge feel guilty later lol. This was my second time in Blowing Rock North Carolina. And the restaurant was so fantastic I couldn't wait to go again. It's seriously worth the drive and the town is absolutely beautiful. Our waitress was fantastic sharing all the daily specials she was very patient and through. Yes, we ask a lot of questions and she answered them all and even gave her personal suggestions, all excellent. I forgot to take a picture I apologize I had an after dinner Carmel Latte, and my friend had a piece of homemade pineapple cream refrigerator pie. (made by Annie). If you happen to be in blowing rock or you live in that gorgeous town and haven't eaten at The Village Cafe please treat yourself and go you will not be disappointed and the atmosphere is absolutely lovely.

Not open when they said they were open. Disappointing since the menu looked good. It is tucked…read moreaway so a bit hard to find.

The patio

The path leading to the Village Cafe.

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Upstairs at the Village Cafe

Mexican Rock

3.9(82 reviews)

0.6 mi

I always enjoy a trip to the Rock and they've gone all out for Halloween too! Service is…read moreexceptional and the margaritas made right not to mention the salsa has a bit more kick than most.... Check out my pick and thoughts one the meal.

We're locals from Boone. We eat here all the time. Best Mexican Restaurant in the High Country, no…read morequestion! Santiago is our favorite Server. We have never had a bad meal. Service is always on point, the restaurant is very clean, and everyone that works here is awesome! This is a family run business, which is why the food is always delicious. You absolutely won't be disappointed. I've seen some bad reviews, probably tourists that have fruit on their license plate ... We tolerate those types, barely. Anyway, stop on in. You'll love this place! Adios!

Mexican rock

Fajitas Carnitas

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Lovely margarita fresca. Sooo good.

Storie Street Grille & Sidecar Bar

3.7(294 reviews)

This is a great place to eat in Blowing Rock. I always get the fried asparagus with their wonderful…read moreRanch dressing. Talk about a wonderful appetizer! I usually get a soup and salad combo because their soup is so truly fantastic I have never been disappointed. They have some nice salads as well. Also, their Rueben sandwich is out of this world. Service is always great and the restaurant is nice with booths and good lighting.

Service was great. location and vibe was awesome. we ate on the back patio. The tomato bisque as a…read moreside was the best food there. Flawless actually. The monte cristo was good. The salmon stack was not. But that may be just personal preference. I felt they were under cooked and the fish taste stood out way more than I was hoping for. Would go back and try something else though.

Inside

Nashville Hot Chicken

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Hellbender Bed & Beverage

I heard (maybe through YELP) that the biscuits here were THE BEST in town. And in the cool of the…read moremorning, we decided to see for ourselves. We were not disappointed. We have not experienced their brunch or dinner, but did also stop in one day for an afternoon cocktail and appetizer. Every time we've been in, the interactions with the staff speak volumes about the quality of food and ambiance. The bartender not only told us about the unique syrups made in-house, she gave us a taste test of some of the best. We will definitely be back next year.

As many of you know, Bistro Roca recently suffered a devastating fire. While their beloved…read morerestaurant is out of commission, they've found a temporary home at the Hellbender Bed & Breakfast, where they're serving dinner and continuing to do what they do best: make some seriously fantastic food! My wife and I recently stopped in for an early dinner, bringing our four-legged dining companion along to enjoy the patio. And let me tell you, the experience was excellent from start to finish! We weren't particularly hungry, so we decided to share a wedge salad and a steak. Sometimes sharing a meal means sacrificing a little satisfaction. Not this time! Everything was absolutely phenomenal! The steak was cooked beautifully, the flavors were spot-on, and the entire meal left us wishing we'd brought bigger appetites. Of course, there's always room for dessert! We wrapped things up with a warm cookie served in a cast-iron skillet, which was the perfect sweet ending to an already wonderful meal. The cocktails were flavorful and definitely didn't skimp on the spirits! The atmosphere was lively, relaxed, and welcoming, and the service was excellent throughout our visit. Even with the change in scenery, Bistro Roca clearly hasn't missed a beat. But let's be clear about the most important thing: THE FOOD WAS HITTING! It's wonderful to see a local restaurant bounce back from such an unfortunate event, especially when they're still delivering the kind of quality and hospitality that makes people want to return. If you've been a fan of Bistro Roca, or even if you've never had the pleasure, I highly recommend making your way to their temporary home for dinner. Support a great local restaurant, enjoy a fantastic meal, and remind yourself why places like this are worth celebrating. To those about to nosh, WE ARE ENVIOUS OF YOU!

Dining room

Moules frites

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Beverages

The Embers

4.1(33 reviews)

0.3 mi

Great service & great food. Amazing bar and vibe--staff as nice & accommodating as they come.read more

I enjoyed our dinner here, but I wanted an upscale romantic restaurant, and while it came up in my…read moresearch, that's not how I would describe this space. The restaurant is right off the lobby of a hotel. There is a small bar, and it's a small, but open concept dining area and it is LOUD in there. I enjoyed the old fashioneds, I got one smoked and one not, they were both very good. We split fried goat balls, and then I got the southern style fried rice. I thought both had creative flavors but enjoyed the rice better. You have to be very committed to that type of cheese to eat more than one - they are intense. I think I'd rather eat on the patio than inside and enjoy the fresh air and music they had. Lastly, give yourself time to find parking, the lot was full and people were circling when we got there. We got really lucky with a spot after circling the block.

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The Embers Restaurant opens both to the inner and outer serenity of Blowing Rock

Lemon roasted chicken

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2nd cozy fire in hotel lobby

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25 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

David K.

8 years ago

Our favorite dining place in Boone/Blowing Rock. I grew up in Atlanta, and typically ate at the Capital City Club or Houstons. That is where my wife and I would usually go. We moved to Boone 15 years ago, and I didn't know what this restaurant was, because they just had a big picture of a dog. It didn't make me want to go. But I was missing out. Once I went, it became our main place we like to go when we go out. They have the most interesting and best macaroni and cheese for a meal (for adults). They are amazing. We like the Jalenpeno Burger too. Fries are great. Their Iceberg Wedge with blue cheese is excellent. Their salmon is excellent. We really like their appetizers as well, including the pimento cheese, and bacon jambs, etc. The Calamari is excellent too. Highly recommend for a good atmosphere. read more

Tina B.

12 years ago

We were seated on time according to our reservations by a polite young lady. The surroundings were beautiful. We were served promptly by the efficient server. One meal was served at least five minutes past when everyone else was served. The meal finally came out with no apology. I'd say a good twenty five percent of my steak was fat. The steak was on top of the mashed potatoes, so it was difficult to cut the fat off the meat. It was one of the least satisfying steaks that I've had in a while. The potatoes were barely warm. Everybody else's meal seemed fine. The overall experience was pleasant. read more

J H.

15 years ago

This is a place that my friends and I often meet. I have never written a review before but I have a lot of catching up to do. This place is consistent which is what one looks for in a restaurant. I find that I cannot often find something that I am hungry for but the great wine list keeps me interested. A couple of appetizers, great company & yummy wine make for a great meeting place for friends. read more

J B.

341

13 years ago

Best landlocked calamari you'll ever eat. I loved the lobster mac & cheese and you can always count on the signature black & blue ribeye (just order it medium because of the fat content). Exceptional wood-fired brick oven pizza, too. Cool, laid back vibe with premium entrées, but no stuffiness. Seriously, though there's something for everyone. read more

Bart Mac M.

8 years ago

One of our first trips out dinning when in the mountians is to Bistro Roca. A joy and a delight to dine either for lunch or dinner. Habi burger or Habi (hot) mac and cheese I order while my wife is always the same with the garden mac and cheese. In season be prepared to wait.. read more

Taylor L.

6 years ago

Visiting the area? This place is a must! Never been disappointed with a meal here. They also are taking Covid very seriously and you feel safe your entire meal! Get the Mac & cheese and the zucchini frittes you will thank me later! LOVE IT !! read more

Amanda C.

12 years ago

We live in this area we are not tourists, and this is where we eat. The food is amazing and the atmosphere is the tops. They have delicious beers and wines and mixed drinks too! it is our go to place! read more

Kate K.

15 years ago

All I can say is GREAT! The food has never dissapointed and is always served with elegance. The decor is rustic and hip while mainting a romantic vibe. read more

Michael G.

13 years ago

One of the most amazing meals I've ever had. Everything was perfect. The meal was well put together with complimenting ingredients.

Ashley G.

122

6 years ago

I've been here twice and the habanero burger is Amazing! The fries are great as well. Cool atmosphere and great service.

F. P.

2 years ago

This is my second visit to this restaurant, and it was a wonderful experience. I would recommend this place to anyone.

Brandon L.

5 years ago

Highly recommend, my lobster roll was spot on and the waiter had excellent recommendations on beer and entrees.

Collin B.

10 months ago

The food was so delicious. The service was so good. It was quiet. I would recommend this place to everyone.

Aurelia G.

6 years ago

We went here to celebrate my fiancé's birthday and the food and service was amazing! We will be back again!!

Leslie W.

4 years ago

Wonderful menu! Well informed staff for recommendations. Warm and cozy! The cocktail menu is amazing! read more

Melanie T.

5 years ago

Excellent food and service every time we go ! It is one of our favored places to eat in blowing rock

Paul W.

9 months ago

It burned to the ground. Permanently closed Just drove by so it won't be open anytime soon. read more

Marcus H.

2 years ago

Great place and fun! I have to have 15 characters so there!xxxxxfvcfffddddddfxcccccccccc

David F.

103

8 years ago

One of my favorites in Blowing Rock. Excellent food. Great atmosphere. Highly recommend

Pattie H.

9 years ago

Great atmosphere and delicious food. Love the curry mussels. Make a reservation!

Bistro Roca - bars - Updated November 2026

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I wish I could give more stars…read more We were in town for our son's track meet which happened to fall on my husband's birthday. We wanted a nice place to eat that was casual because we were in track clothes. Everyone was super friendly, from the call about my reservation to the hostesses who greeted us and especially, Ethan, our server. I'm the kind of person who looks at the menu online before I go anywhere and already have in mind what I want. Shrimp burger. Need I say more? I had mine without the tomato and onion. Think crab cake but with shrimp. I assumed (and we know what that gets you) the shrimp would be minced and unrecognizable. Nope! There were like whole shrimp in this "burger"! The flavor was amazing. I think the lemon aioli added such a richness. I tried not to eat all of the amazing fries but the fries won. A complimentary shot of bourbon with peach schnapps was a kind gesture for the Birthday Boy. Can't wait to go back!

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It's not the Over Yonder of Valle Cruis and can't say we'll be back…read more We made Sunday brunch resy, arriving ahead of our reservation. We weren't seated until ~20 minutes after our reservation. I can't say they were particularly understaffed or what the problem was. We get menus, no water or silverware. Seeing how service was we ordered everything at once. Food arrives and we have to ask for silverware. -BEC was fine. Nothing to rave home about. -Grits was creamy and buttery. -Trout bagel was fine, nothing special. -Fruit was basic Iced tea comes as we finished our food. I asked for the check as they cleared our plates. It arrives and we have the card ready. They didn't take it and didn't come back for 15 minutes. We were baffled. It was poor service all in and the menu and food didn't have the creativity and care as before. The atmosphere is transient, following it's hotel restaurant location. It's no longer the charming restaurant we once knew.

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