This place is definitely a vibe. Live music, great service and the food did not disappoint. I had the lobster ravioli, my husband had the pork chops and my son (birthday boy) ordered the sirloin steak (mkt price ) all reasonably priced - the steak however was way too expensive $80. But overall it was a great experience. read more

Good to slightly average food. Really unremarkable, cold, under seasoned,fairly dry focaccia at $12? The stuffed barramundi was bone in which made it terribly difficult to navigate. I can remove a bone from any fish, far or cooked but with the stuffing it was just a mess and every bite had bone. Service was engaging and effective but as the restaurant got a little busier she was absent for a good while, no one came to our table for approx 20 minutes after entrees were served and we wanted another bottle of wine. I wrote a mediocre review on another app and the manager/host called me and when gave him my comments all he kept saying was, " we take great pride in everything we do"...and it was clear my comments fell on deaf ears. Good products, very nice ambiance, okay service...but all in IDK...prob wont ever return. read more

The decor and ambiance are top notch!! Awesome big roaring fireplace, good bourbon selection (and I'm a bit of a snob) and the ribeye was KILLER! My second dinner in Boone (week long stay), and The Beacon takes the cake as best restaurant I've eaten at! Broccolini was damn good!! Well done y'all!! read more

The Beacon Butcher Bar - Italian Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

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This place is a true gem! Beautifully decorated, delicious food, it was really one of the best meals we've ever had in a long time! Service was great, even though they were very busy, our waiter took the time to give us great advice, share thoughts on the food and place, laugh and listen to our excitement. We had the peach burrata (never in my life I was that excited about salad), pasta carbonara (the REAL ONE!), lasagna and the merengue for desert (we never get desert but everything was so delicious that we had to try, and yes! It did not disappoint). Thanks to everyone working hard to make this a great, unique place in the middle of the mountains! Will definitely be back. read more

The Beacon Butcher Bar - Pasta carbonara, the real recipe, delicious - Italian Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

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Top notch restaurant! Everything from the decor to the food and service was impeccable. I took my daughter and a few of her tennis teammates out to celebrate their win. Top 5 meals of all time! read more

The Beacon Butcher Bar - Boneless ribeye - Italian Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

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A disappointing dining experience. We went there to celebrate a 55th wedding anniversary. I stated that on the reservation and I told the hostess when we got there, but the waitress did not have any knowledge of it, and no one acknowledged the anniversary. Very disappointing. We were looking for a nice place to celebrate, and the menu looked great, but the food was disappointing. The branzino was bland. Just tasted like fish without any seasoning and very little salt. The osso bucco was very chewy and my husband said it was one of the worst he has ever had. I would not recommend. Not sure where else to go in the area for a nice celebration, but this place is not it unfortunately. read more

Amazing ambiance, food, and service. I could go on and on about how much I love this restaurant. My boyfriend and I happened to visit on jazz night, which made the experience even more special. Our server, Kayla, was excellent--so kind and attentive. Without a doubt, this is our favorite spot in Boone! read more

Went with a group. My date ordered quail. She spent the waning hours of that evening hugging the commode. I ordered the Crab Pasta in a Vodka sauce. Good portion but the menu mentioning Lump Crab was hyperbole. Did not find any crab and definitely no lump crab. Overall a very pricey meal pretending to be an upscale menu based, not on culinary expertise, but on price. Disappointing. read more

Another wonderful dining spot in Boone! This is located on 105 at the water wheel (you can't miss it). Great menu, fun, knowledgeable staff. I had one of the best cocktails ever (the funny-if-you- know-the-show Ms. Welton Was My Father). I had delicious lamb ragu and my husband said his steak was one of the best steaks of his life --and ate all full 16 ounces of it. The flatbread at the next table looked great, too. Really excellent meal. read more

As a local, I'm finally getting around to reviewing my FAVORITE Boone establishments. The Beacon is THE spot for a date night, or any time you want an impeccable dining experience. The culinary staff is dedicated to accommodating any needs you may have, even offering substitutions for seed oils or any allergies. They are also creative, delivering cuisine inspired by travels and truly local resources. The bar makes the BEST cocktail in Boone, hands down (coming from a picky drinker). Ambiance is a ten. The Beacon is a higher end establishment, so those who are reviewing for speed dining, like typical Americans, may have a hard time appreciating a more advanced culinary experience. Can't wait to come back!!!! read more

On our second night, we visited the wonderful The Beacon Boone. Located just outside downtown Boone and just a half mile from our hotel, The Beacon is an upscale eatery with cozy-lodge style vibes, sweeping vaulted ceilings, large stone fireplace, lounge area, and beautiful bar. On the menu is an array of seafood, meats, shareable charcuterie and salads, a whole butcher menu, and some of the best cocktails in the whole area!   If we had to pick one food and drink pairing, we had, it has to be the stunning peppered beef carpaccio. It is meaty and savory rare beef, earthy mushroom, tangy radish and a little bit of balsamic to round it out. It even comes with a cheesy, crunchy Parmesan dome on top for crunch! Then, pair it with Heaven Wept gin cocktail with egg white, Thai Basil, and earthy lemongrass. It's sweet yet earthy, creamy, and has a hint of spice!   If you're looking at their butcher bar, we'd highly recommend the New Zealand Lamb Chop. This set of chips are tender and juicy with a spicy, bright, herbaceous chimichurri on top. It is matched with Brussels sprouts underneath with a Ceasar dressing that's tangy and creamy to juxtapose the earthiness of the sprout. Plus, a sweet yet hearty cast iron corn bread that is warm and soft inside, crunchy out. We paired this entree with the A shot in the Foot, a boozy bourbon cocktail with hot honey that's spicy, plus, vanilla up front and the peach purée on the back for a bit of sweetness. A flavor train for sure!   As well as the Charcuterie board has it ALL! Raisins, pickled veggies, assorted meats and cheese and a spicy spread, plus honeycomb and some herbaceous crackers! It's loaded. The only miss was the spinach and brie salad. Flavorless. Our waitress was quick, responsive, and knowledgeable. Manager was lovely and warm. read more

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Excellent food and service. Will definitely be back again. My husband said his steak was one of the best he's ever had.

I've been here twice now and the food has always been wonderful. The sweet and spicy Thai chicken wings were so good we got another order to go. I've had a fish dish and a roasted duck with sweet potato gnocchi as my main courses and they were both delicious, with lots of elements but not so many that the main protein was overwhelmed. The pizzas are also very tasty. The items from the butcher bar (at the bottom of the menu) look terrific but they are enormous. I saw a couple of people order the rib eye and I felt full just looking at the plate. The menu has lots of sections with different types and sizes of options, but it's not a huge menu. There are enough choices that anyone should be able to find something to like, but not so many that it overwhelms the kitchen or the diner. The first time we went, the place was kind of dead on a Saturday night. The second time (also a Saturday), it was packed but cleared out around 8:30. The bar was fairly slow with cocktails on the busy night, but they were very good drinks, carefully made. Food service was swift. The decor is lodge-like, with a big fireplace at one end with a giant painting of a blue cow over it, in case your forgot the "butcher" in the name of the place. The tables are smallish and the chairs kind of delicate. Also, a note about the parking -- the restaurant is attached to an apartment complex and shares its lot. You may have to park a good ways up a fairly steep hill on a busy night, so if you have anyone with mobility issues in your party, you may want to drop them at the door and then go searching for a space. All in all, I really like this place because of the variety of menu offerings and quality of food preparation. read more

We've been going to the Beacon Butcher Bar for a few years now. It's always good and we enjoy the atmosphere. We went this evening and it was a little disappointing. They have a new menu. Clearly the prices have been jacked up significantly. The pasta dishes are now in the $30 -$40 range. We paid $250 including tip for 4 people -- one shared starter, three mains, one starter as a main and drinks. This seems quite pricey for what it was. The food was interesting but not good value. We'll go back, but certainly not as often. read more

The Beacon Butcher Bar - Shrimp Pasta - Italian Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

Super super yummy food, I got the pasta cacciatore Pepe and arugula peach salad with burtatta . It is a very expensive place so get ready for that get ready for $35 entrées and $17 salads. It is yummy and the place looks very cute for a date night.. what I didn't like was the really disengaged poor service read more

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: - ---- We are visiting Boone for the next few weeks and decided to check out some of the local restaurants, which landed us at this restaurant just down the street from downtown. --- As an experienced traveler, having explored 68 countries and 36 states, I approach restaurant reviews with clear criteria: Taste, Presentation, and Service. My goal is to provide an unbiased perspective, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. --- The ambiance was a cross between country and modern flare, with exposed beams, plumbing, and eclectic art combined with beautiful rock walls and pillars and a fireplace, creating a warm, cozy, and perfect environment to meet friends and family, go on dates, or have social get-togethers. --- Wait Staff - Braeden was our waiter. You could tell he was a little green, but I was truly impressed with his attention to the table, which made sure the entire journey this evening went flawlessly. --- Let's talk food. --- Fritto Misto Appetizer - I thoroughly enjoyed the combination of calamari, artichoke, zucchini, and pickled peppers. The batter was expertly executed--crispy but not overly so and wonderfully light. The lemon caper aioli was a perfect complement. My only suggestion would be to differentiate the textures a bit more. If the pickled peppers were sliced and left unfried, they would add a vibrant color contrast and a sweet, tangy balance to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. --- Roasted Chicken Cacciatore - I want to start with the sauce as it was terrific. The combined tomatoes, onions, olives, artichokes, and sweet peppers create a rich and hearty sauce to complement the dish. This truly held the dish, complimenting both the chicken and roasted potatoes (perfectly seasoned and prepared). This chicken was cooked well and juicy inside; however, it was SALTY. I would have preferred no salt because the sauce was so good it was a great flavor for the chicken. The dishes presentation overall was well done and very inviting. --- New Zealand Lamb Chop - The lamb chops were cooked to perfection. I had asked the waiter to let the chef choose the ideal temperature, and they absolutely nailed it. The chops were impeccably seasoned and prepared, making them a standout dish. Accompanying the chops was grilled broccoli, which had a well-seasoned flavor profile with crispy ends, adding a slightly grilled taste. Though it was a bit undercooked, the overall flavors made up for it. Unfortunately, the Italian pepper risotto was less successful. It was overcooked to the point where it could be shaped and lacked the robust flavor one would expect. The subtle hint of peppers was barely noticeable. The presentation was also disappointing; the dish seemed haphazardly arranged. A more thoughtful plating approach, with the risotto as a base, broccoli neatly arranged on top, and the lamb chops elegantly stacked, would have significantly enhanced the overall presentation. --- Clams Linguine - This was my least favorite dish, primarily due to the sauce. When it arrived at the table, I was surprised to see clams linguine served with a red sauce, which is quite unusual. Despite the menu mentioning white wine as part of the preparation (which I generally enjoy), the heavy tomato presence overshadowed it. The sauce's flavor was unappealing and lacked the balance I was expecting. I couldn't quite identify what was off, but it detracted from the overall appeal of the dish. --- Overall, I would still go back. I think from a flavor profile standpoint, most of the dishes tasted excellent overall, but there was some poor execution on a couple of the sides and too much salt on the chicken. I think a few little tweaks could help maintain an elevated position in the local community. read more

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Big disappointment. First felt very rushed, waitress kept asking for full full order every 2 minutes. Appetizer came before drink, one if which was a diet coke. The drink if the day was a mezcal, spicy with hibiscus. Tasted like hibiscus juice. Got the chicken wing appetizer, good except one had flaccid skin. How did u miss cooking? The pork chop was unimaginably sitting on a big pile of beans. The tenderloin was raw, chimichurri sauce was oil with a few parsley specks. Of course, no waitress when you want her. Our Wine pours were tiny, table beside us double. We wont be back. read more

The Beacon Butcher Bar - Pork chop on pile of beans. - Italian Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

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First impressions don't always tell the story. But I got to say, "on point" comes to mind for my first visit. The nitty-gritty details have been paid attention to. Set in what appeared to me to be an original hotel hotel restaurant. It seems the hotel part has been turned into apartments and the restaurant part sits out in front of that nearest the highway. I came in the evening so outside was dark but inside nice and warmly lit. The atmosphere was not quaint and not modern, but some kind of in between. Hard surfaces but a stone fireplace and warm fire visible throughout made it very comfortable. I sat at the bar and found everything beautifully set. From the candles on the bar top, to the menus, the excruciatingly clean glassware, and the non-paper paper towels in the restroom, the attention to detail is apparent. A excellent local band provided music - a thing they apparently do every Thursday. I got the roasted pear salad which was simple but delicious. Having a good dark stout on draft was a pleasant addition; tonight was the Fonta Flora Brackish Oyster Stout and it was very good. All in all I'd say a great place to go with friends or a date. I lucked up and got seated without a reservation which might be good idea if you don't want to possibly end up waiting. read more

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We went on Saturday night on July 4 weekend. That could have been a mistake but, good restaurants and are good no matter what! We thought the place was very impressive inside. It was our first time there.But, the service was terrible because it was very slow . We waited for our first round of drinks for way too long .The people next to us, did too. The food was just OK. My scallops were very salty and kind of raw in the center. Some people may like that, but , I don't. The salad was good but way too big. I only ate 1/2. Dessert was disappointing . I left my scallops on the plate as did my sister. . So all and all , I won't go back again read more

The food was good, cocktails were creative and excellent, service was great. Friendly bartenders. read more

The Beacon Butcher Bar - WILD GAME MEATLOAF - Italian Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

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Food and cocktails are always great served up with some friendly servers! One of our fav places in Boone

The dessert here is what keeps me coming back! The food is delicious but the desserts are some of the best I've ever had. The ambiance inside is so nice also, and I love the live music nights. The menu rotates but there is usually a vegetarian option. read more

Slow service, OK food, questionable management. Our server "Lex" seemed to be in the weeds the whole time. Our drinks took forever (20+ minutes) my appetizer took 30 minutes and they were out of both "specials" that were offered - which we found out after we ordered them. My wife settled for roasted chicken that was super dry. The sauce was good but the chicken was borderline inedible. My filet was tougher than a sirloin and the risotto was bland and poorly cooked. I see no reason to ever go back. read more

Boone's Best restaurant! The food and service was amazing! Its atmosphere made our night and dinner truly memorable!

Some of the best steak I have ever eaten! Everything we have ordered has been delicious and the cocktails are so inventive! One of our favorite places in Boone. read more

A very nice find in an unfamiliar city. We took a chance based on Yelp reviews and we were not disappointed. Great service, really nice steak cooked perfectly and a great setting. Very comfortable and peaceful place. If we lived close by, we'd definitely become regulars. read more

Really good food, really good service, and really REALLY good atmosphere. Top tier date night restaurant. A bit pricy but you get what you pay for in terms of quality and service. And don't complain about prices if the menu is available online! Do your research before you dine people! read more

This place is outstanding & a hidden gem. The decor is awesome, beautiful fireplace, great service, outstanding food & a must stop! read more

The Beacon Butcher Bar - The Beacon in Boone, NC - Italian Near Me - Boone, North Carolina

Just weird, this place has such potential. Great fireplace, great feel, tables are cool but the fake plants, the chairs from goodwill or restaurant closure?it says it's classy so dressed up business casual and walked in there were 3 groups, 1 family in t shirts and shorts college people in t shirts and jeans. So come as you are. If you took this place and placed it anywhere but here it wouldn't be classy. It is not the Artisanal, now that's classy. The menu is fairly spartan, settled for what I would eat not what really looked good. Had the pesto pasta, it was okay! It was fairly bland, the olives were wonderful and it tasted better after adding salt and pepper and it could have been hot instead of warm. The wife had the pork chop and it was good and we followed up with the chocolate dessert, which was bland also, supposedly has bourbon blah blah drizzle, just fell short, it's almost like the owners/chef have just stopped tasting the food. This place just misses the mark but it will do great where it is. I usually do 3 strikes rule but we are only here 2 or 3 times a year and so many other places we will know, will be outstanding. Maybe come in here and have drinks after eating dinner somewhere besides here. I do have a full tummy! read more

The food was fantastic and the service exceptional. Emma took great care of us and her review of the special and menu helped us make selections that were absolutely tremendous. So glad we were able to visit this great restaurant while in Boone from Southport, NC. read more

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What a place! Tina, veteran proprietor of many local restaurants has transformed this former sports bar into a warm inviting culinary experience. There is something for everyone here, gourmet pizzas, fresh homemade pastas, and of course all the cuts of meat. I devoured the wild game elk and bison meatloaf along with a Tuscan red. Served up by a friendly staff and underneath the beautiful art by local artist Jerry Cantwell, the Beacon is an easy choice amongst the many locally owned gems in Boone. read more

I am not sure why it has taken me so long to come here. Admittedly, I slept on this place. I didn't realize how cool it is! Their brand new bar is amazing! A great vibe with awesome, hand crafted cocktails (and a fireplace to complete the ambiance). Being vegetarian, my options are not always plentiful in Boone, but this place delivered with the best veggie dish, which was packed with flavor and perfectly fried mushrooms. I would highly recommend both! My date had shrimp pasta, which he devoured and the cocktails were great as well! I will definitely be back soon....See you there! read more

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Love this place. My husband and I sat at the bar - cocktails are top notch and unique. Food was also delicious. My husband got the duck and I got pizza and we both loved our meals. Everyone was so nice. Wonderful, laid back feel. Can't wait to return! read more

Love this place. Enjoyed multiple courses. Oddly, the entree was the weakest, and it was delicious. Great menu and drink selections. Will be back! read more

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The Ambiance was comfortable and welcoming. The food was delicious and the drinks were amazing.

Wow!! I've been coming to Boone for decades and just decided to try the Butcher Bar after a neighbor told me about it. Filet with chimichurri was wonderful, crab dip was very good, drinks were impressive and the blackberry/balsamic vinegar compound butter was so good I took it home with my cornbread!! We found our new date night spot!! Thank you for a great dinner read more

So great! Live music and the food was great. I have a gluten and dairy allergy and the waiter came back with the menu all hand marked to show me what I could eat! I'll definitely be back. The food and drinks were so good! read more

It has it all...great food, good service and it's a great space. My partner had lamb chops, which he said were very good (and he's very picky) and I had chicken cacciatore which was very tasty. They even had a jazz band the evening we were there, which was a nice surprise. I would definitely recommend the Butcher Bar for your next special night out. read more

I've been thinking about this review for a couple days because I'm so mixed about it. I gave it a 4 because the service was pretty good and everyone was helpful and quick to make any adjustments. We arrived on a rainy night and were sat pretty quickly. We ordered our drinks first, then appetizers and the the food came out much quicker. We were pretty much done eating them before the drinks came out. The juices and such are made in house which is nice. The pink grapefruit cocktail I had was delicious and the kids lemonade and orangeade was great. We ordered smoked wings which were sauced well and a bit spicy and they were a hit at the table and the gnocchi. The gnocchi was cooked perfectly but the smoked squash butter sauce totally overpowered the flavor of anything else. It needed a bit more salt and less smoke. By the time we finally got around to ordering our entrees they were out of the the lamb rack which was what k was looking forward to the most. I was so annoyed. We asked the waitress about the lamb a few minutes earlier and it would've been good to know that they were almost out before we let her walk away for 10 more minutes. We ended up with the ribeye which was delicious and my husband got the linville hot chicken which he raved about but was way too spicy for me. We also ordered the winter summit pizza and it was nice. The ambiance of the place was really nice, very modern and decorated so tastefully for the holidays. Everything was good but not so oooh la la. Service was very nice though so I have to give them that. read more

The initial service was great. Food was great, where they lost us was when we asked for the check it was almost 45 minutes and we still didn't get the check. We had to go to the bar and ask for it and they never brought us our to go Box:(. read more