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Andon-Reid's Guide to Waynesville NC Restaurants

One of the best things about Waynesville, NC is its thriving food scene.  There is truly something for everyone here.  Centered around our charming and historic Main Street area, the restaurants are unique, full of character, and feature delicious food, fun beverages, and Southern ambiance and comfort.  While Asheville also has great restaurants, Andon-Reid is just a short drive from an abundance of dining options right here in town.  Here are some of our favorites plus a detailed guide to what you can expect to enjoy for your meals when you visit Waynesville!

Great spots for fancier meals

From celebrating special occasions to date nights or treating yourself, Waynesville has great upscale dining.  Here are some of our favorites and those that our guests have told us they've enjoyed, time and time again:

The Chef's Table - For a special occasion, The Chef's Table on Church Street is the place to go. Featuring fantastic, creative dishes, an extensive wine list, and a cozy, vibrant ambiance. Andon-Reid guests always rave about their experience at this iconic Waynesville restaurant. Make sure you try the deconstructed lasagna!  Reservations are definitely recommended.

Singletree Heritage Kitchen - In a great location on Depot Street, you won't be disappointed with a special occasion meal at Singletree. Their menu is full of local flavor and creative flair, plus they have their own parking lot! Check out this great article about them in OurState Magazine.

Sweet Onion - On the corner of Miller and Montgomery Streets. The Sweet Onion is a local favorite that has stood the test of time.  Sweet Onion serves contemporary southern comfort food and has a fun atmosphere, particularly in the warmer months.  The meatloaf is to die for!

Switchback at Cataloochee Ranch - While not technically in Waynesville but in nearby Maggie Valley, Switchback at Cataloochee Ranch is a fabulous dining experience for a special occasion.  The steak is to die for, the menu is creative and fresh, and we can't recommend the bread service enough.  Their focaccia bread is absolutely amazing!

Ilda in Sylva - In Nearby Sylva, Ilda is one of our favorite restaurants in the area. It is only 20 minutes away and features a great downtown location, fabulous southern-inspired dishes, and ingenious cocktails. Definitely worth the short drive for a special occasion.

On busier weekends or in the fall, we definitely recommend reservations for all of these restaurants.

Casual Meals, Breweries & Pubs

For a casual experience or laid-back feel, Waynesville has incredible options. Our favorites for a fun meal include the following:

The Scotsman - Right across the street from The Chef's Table is a traditional Celtic pub with fun food and even more fun drinks.  Lots of live music as well!  Scotch Eggs, Mac and Cheese, Fish and Chips, great appetizers and fabulous drinks ...  YUM!

Boojum Brewing & Frog Level Brewing - Our two local breweries are both awesome spots to relax and enjoy quality food and drinks.  Boojum is on Main Street with upscale pub food and a vibrant atmosphere.  Frog Level has fun beers and a super-relaxing outdoor space along Richland Creek with live music most nights.

Haywood Smokehouse - Located in the Hazelwood area of Waynesville, Haywood Smokehouse is a very popular option for award-winning Texas-style BBQ.  It's a great option for takeout.  The atmosphere at the converted home restaurant is buzzy and always busy. 

Vale 243 - Also in Hazelwood, this is our go-to spot for great, authentic Italian food. You'll also find them on our pizza recommendation list.

Burgers and Pizza

For that classic burger craving, Church Street Depot is a downtown staple reminiscent of Five Guys. Don't miss their classic burger and milkshake combinations. And, of course, many other restaurants on this list have great burgers, like Boojum and The Scotsman.

For great pizza, our favorite spots are Dough Boys (across from the American Legion tucked inside Mad Anthony's Tap Room), Vale243, Sauced and Waynesville Pizza Company.  For creative pies with a fun culinary flair, definitely give Dough Boys a try (FYI, the pepperoni is pretty spicy!). For more classic options, try Sauced, Vale243, or Waynesville Pizza Company.  Sauced is a cool bar on Main Street that also specializes in tacos and draft beer (and great appetizers).

Asian

Two very popular Asian cuisine options on Main Street are Suwana and Watami.  Suwana serves tasty Thai and Japanese dishes in a buzzy atmosphere in the heart of Main Street.  For sushi cravings and an extensive menu of Asian favorites, Watami is the place to go.

Lunch

While you may be a bit full after Andon-Reid's gourmet two-course breakfast, some of our favorite lunch spots are great local businesses with super tasty food.  In the Hazelwood area is Beach Mountain Diner, a classic diner and a local favorite. In and around the Main Street area are The Patio Bistro, Smoky Mountain Sub Shop, Main Street Diner, and Kanini's.

Coffee

We are also fortunate to have three really good coffee places within a very short drive from the Inn.  Panacea Coffee in Frog Level is a guest favorite and shares an outdoor space with Frog Level Brewing along Richland Creek. They also feature yummy sandwiches and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.  In the Main Street area, give Orchard Coffee a try.  If you are headed towards West Waynesville, you might check out Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters in Hazelwood (Peter's go-to spot).  If you are heading towards Asheville and need a driving coffee, we recommend Coffee Cup Cafe in Clyde.

Fast Food and Groceries

Of course, if you are looking for a quick bite or to grab some food or refreshments for your room, Waynesville also features numerous fast-food and coffee chain options (Dunkin', Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Zaxby's, Popeye's, Taco Bell, Cook-Out, Jersey Mikes, etc.), plus major grocery chain options.  Our town features one Publix, two Ingles (one on either side of town), and a Walmart superstore.

Innkeeper Tips and Insights

  • Parking is free in downtown Waynesville. We definitely recommend using the parking garage on Branner Avenue. Head to the top for an easy walk out to Main Street.

  • Some restaurants are closed on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. We can help with great recommendations for any day of the week. Just text, call or email!

  • Downtown is walkable from the Inn, but also quite hilly. We recommend driving downtown first to get the lay of the land before deciding whether or not to walk.

  • Feel free to order takeout and bring your food back to the Inn. We have a guest microwave in the dining room.

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We hope you visit sometime soon to experience this wonderful food town!

--Your Innkeepers,

Brenda and Peter

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