The city of Boone, North Carolina emanates the rustic charm of pioneers. With many incredible Boone vacation rentals nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, your getaway will be unforgettable. Moreover, Boone boasts diners, grills, and cozy sandwich shops that welcome adventurers of all ages with kid-friendly menus and an easygoing atmosphere. Looking for a place to refuel after a hike or snowshoeing excursion? Here are 10 of the best family restaurants to visit during your Appalachian vacation in beautiful Boone.
1. Melanie’s Food Fantasy
Fuel up for a day of hiking and wilderness adventures with a hearty breakfast at this cute country cafe. Satisfy any appetite with the Extreme Appalachian breakfast with biscuits and gravy, Canadian bacon, eggs, and all the works. Kids with a sweet tooth are bound to enjoy the stuffed French toast filled with raspberries, and if you’re looking for a healthy meal, the avocado scramble and other vegetarian dishes are just as satisfying.
2. Proper
Stop into this old-fashioned restaurant any time of year to enjoy drinks served in Mason jars and hearty Appalachian favorites for the whole family. The baked mac and cheese is a popular choice for younger vacationers, while adults can sample signature dishes such as the meatloaf sandwich or catfish with hushpuppies and collard greens. Before heading back to your vacation rental for the evening, grab a slice of dark chocolate pecan pie.
3. Coyote Kitchen
Step into this colorful establishment to order from an eclectic menu boasting a fusion of Latin and Caribbean flavors. Gluten-free and vegan options make this a good choice for travelers with special dietary needs, and the kids’ menu offers plenty of options for your tiny tots. If you’re feeling really adventurous, try the Moab Bowl or Cactus Bowl loaded with a hearty serving of meats, vegetables, and flavorful sauce. The fried plantains are another tasty favorite.
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4. Farm Cafe
This pay-what-you-can restaurant is a unique stop on your Boone vacation, but don’t let the lack of prices fool you. The white bean chicken chili, black bean burgers, and other items on the ever-evolving menu are top-notch regarding flavor and quality ingredients. You can even choose to volunteer at Farm cafe for an hour in exchange for your meal, a unique family experience for a fun vacation memory.
5. Our Daily Bread
Grab a bowl of veggie chili, a grilled Portabella sandwich, or a plate of Gouda and beef at this trendy eatery that lies just minutes from your Boone vacation home. The younger members of your party can enjoy grilled cheese and other kid-friendly menu choices, and soup choices such as curry squash soup make this deli a great option for warming up on a cool fall or winter day.
6. Daniel Boone Inn Restaurant
This fun pioneer-themed restaurant featuring servers in period clothing is a favorite among families, offering a unique banquet-style dinner during which you receive all-you-can-eat Southern favorites such as fried chicken and Southern-style vegetables. You also get country ham biscuits, a drink, and a home-style dessert. Kids may get fidgety as you wait in the short line to get your table, but vacationers agree the payoff is well worth it.
7. The Red Onion Cafe
Grab a table on the outdoor terrace of this old-fashioned restaurant to enjoy mountain views while snacking on sweet potato fries or chips with spinach and artichoke dip. Kids can choose from an extensive children’s menu with options such as grilled cheese and chicken nuggets, and fresh options such as trout and salmon are perfect for vacationers seeking a light, healthy meal. Looking for something a little more robust? Try one of the pizzas or the French onion soup dripping with warm cheese.
8. The Cardinal
With its down-home grill atmosphere and huge selection of all-American favorites, the Cardinal is the perfect spot for a quick meal at the doorstep of your Boone vacation home. The bacon cheese fries and Cardinal burger are always a safe bet, and occasionally, you may even see the famous chorizo and emu burger as one of the specials. While families wait for their orders, kids love playing games in the arcade area.
9. Troy’s 105 Diner
Take a break from your Appalachian adventures to travel back to the good old days at this classic diner. Stop in for breakfast to enjoy staples such as bacon and eggs, or grab some burgers and Southern-style plates for lunch. Kids have a blast eating their children’s meals out of paperboard classic cars. Have room for dessert? Enjoy a banana split or a slice of home-cooked apple pie.
10. Mellow Mushroom
Recharge after a hike to Linfield Falls at this trendy family restaurant that specializes in fresh-cooked pizza. Vacationers rave about the meatball subs, hot calzones, and refreshing salads. Plus, Mellow Mushroom has plenty of gluten-free and vegetarian options. Ask for a table outdoors on a sunny day in Boone, and even take your pooch along if you’re traveling with the family pet. Remember to get the kids a round of chocolate chip cookies topped with all-natural vanilla ice cream before heading out the door.
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