Eat, Drink, and be Merry
Western North Carolina is well known for its vibrant culinary scene and ever-growing craft beer industry. The possibilities are nearly endless, but here are a few of our favorites!
Location
Whistle Stop Pizza
Saluda Whistle Stop is a family-owned and operated restaurant that prioritizes fresh ingredients and a family-friendly atmosphere. With indoor and outdoor seating, delicious fare, and generous draft / canned / bottled beverage selection, this is no doubt a staple for our staff and guests.
Wakey Monkey
This is your best bet for a great breakfast, coffee, smoothie, or all of the above before heading off for the day’s adventures. Located on a quaint side street in downtown Saluda, a meal at Wakey Monkey is accompanied by good music vibes, complimentary WiFi, and a very pleasant staff led by proprietor Matthew Noller.
Sierra Nevada Brewing
Sierra Nevada Brewing’s tagline is “family owned, operated and argued over.” With this authentic approach to business, the brewery’s selection of Asheville for their HQ2 was cheered by the community, and the campus is a must-visit for any WNC vacation. It’s clear as soon as visitors turn off the roundabout and onto the approach road that the visit will be an experience. Drawing inspiration from the approach road to the Biltmore Estate (designed by Frederick Law Olmsted), Sierra Nevada’s driveway reveals a sprawling and world class facility… a veritable Promised Land for beer enthusiasts. Once on campus, visitors are treated to a food menu that is beautiful in its simplicity, optional facility tours, rotating taps, several bars, and several event venues that are utilized for concerts, weddings, corporate events, and other gatherings.
Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is one of Western North Carolina’s biggest tourist draws, and belongs on anyone’s bucket list. Harking back to the Gilded Age, the structure and grounds are steeped in American and world history, and to this day remain the largest home in the United States. The home was envisioned and brought to fruition by George Vanderbilt, with the help of the best architects, construction minds, and artisans of his time. George was grandson of Cornelius “Commodore” Vanderbilt, who created the vast majority of the railroads in the United States, and was one of several titans of industry who invented the hostile takeover that eventually resulted in modern anti-trust legislation. The home is a captivating experience for the entire family, and the Vanderbilt heirs, the Cecils, are philanthropic and engaged members of the Asheville community.
Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, Hendersonville NC
One of the main attractions at Saint Paul Mountain Farms is u-pick fruit, where visitors can pick their own fruit directly from the farm. The farm provides baskets for collecting fruit, and staff members are available to provide guidance and assistance. Saint Paul Mountain Farms hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including fall festivals, live music performances, and educational tours. The farm also offers private event space for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. Overall, Saint Paul Mountain Farms is a popular destination for visitors seeking a unique farm experience that combines outdoor recreation, fresh produce, and community events.
Point Lookout Vineyards, Hendersonville NC
Breathtaking Views: The winery sits atop a hill at an elevation of 3,000 feet, providing panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy these stunning views from the tasting room, the outdoor deck, or while strolling through the vineyard. Award-Winning Wines: Point Lookout Vineyards produces a variety of award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and more. Visitors can sample these wines in the tasting room or purchase bottles to take home. Vineyard Tours: Visitors can take a guided tour of the vineyard to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard. The tour includes a walk through the vineyard and a visit to the winery production area. Unique Tasting Room: The tasting room at Point Lookout Vineyards is a beautifully designed space with a modern and rustic aesthetic. The room features large windows that provide natural light and stunning views, as well as a cozy fireplace for colder days. Overall, Point Lookout Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina.
Oklawaha Brewing Company, Hendersonville NC
In addition to great brews, Oklawaha hosts live entertainment 7 nights a week. From trivia to mountain music jams, and full bands on the weekends the OBC schedule is packed with vibrant events. Voted best live music venue in Hendersonville (Mountain Express) numerous times. Having won “Business That Best Represents the Spirit Of Hendersonville” multiple times (Mountain Express) since its inception, regularly hosting a ‘Charity Of The Month’ and has donated to many local charities.
Sawyer Springs Vineyard, Hendersonville NC
The vineyard has a tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. They offer a variety of experiences, including guided tastings, tours of the vineyard and winery, and private events. Sawyer Springs Vineyard has received positive reviews from customers and wine critics alike for their high-quality wines and friendly customer service.
Stone Ashe Vineyard, Hendersonville NC
Stone Ashe Vineyard is a family-owned and operated winery located in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The vineyard was established in 2010, and since then, it has become a popular destination for wine lovers in the region. The vineyard is situated on a scenic hilltop, surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. The vineyard grows a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Viognier, which are carefully tended to by the family and their team of experienced vineyard workers. Stone Ashe Vineyard offers a range of wine tastings and tours, where visitors can sample the vineyard's award-winning wines and learn about the wine-making process. The winery also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music performances, art exhibits, and wine pairing dinners. In addition to its wine offerings, Stone Ashe Vineyard also has a charming tasting room and a spacious outdoor patio area, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the vineyard and surrounding countryside. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Stone Ashe Vineyard is definitely worth a visit.
Southern Appalachian Brewery, Hendersonville NC
"Southern Appalachian Brewery's taproom offers a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a variety of handcrafted beers, live music, and food from local food trucks. The brewery's beer selection includes year-round favorites such as the Copperhead Amber Ale, the Black Bear Stout, and the Lilja's Argosy IPA. They also offer seasonal and limited edition beers, so there is always something new to try. One unique aspect of Southern Appalachian Brewery is their commitment to sustainability. They use local ingredients whenever possible and work to reduce their carbon footprint by using energy-efficient equipment and implementing recycling and composting programs. In addition to their taproom, Southern Appalachian Brewery also has a barrel room that is available for private events and tastings. The brewery also participates in various community events and festivals throughout the year. Overall, Southern Appalachian Brewery is a great destination for beer lovers looking to try some unique and delicious craft beers while enjoying the relaxed and friendly atmosphere of a local brewery."