Banner Elk

Banner Elk is a town in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. It lies between 2 ski resorts: Sugar Mountain Resort to the south, and Beech Mountain Resort to the north. In town, the Banner House Museum displays period furnishings, tools and clothing in an 1860s home. Wildcat Lake has a beach and a pier. To the southeast, Grandfather Mountain is home to a nature museum, trails and the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
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Multi-city stops

Slide 1 of 13

Top places to eat

1Stonewalls Restaurant

4.6
(1684)
4.5
(1142)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Steak house
Stonewalls Restaurant is a long-standing establishment in Banner Elk, NC, known for its old-school vibe and locally owned and operated since 1985. The restaurant takes pride in serving amazing prime ribs, seafood, steaks, and cocktails. It offers a casual dining experience with an extensive wine list and outdoor seating options around a large fire pit. Located at 344 Shawneehaw Ave S., Stonewalls Restaurant is a must-visit for foodies exploring the Banner Elk area.
Great place for a date night. It was our first time being there and the waitress we had was awesome. The food was so good. Definitely a nice cozy place and well worth the hour drive. Definitely listen to reviews and get the fried deviled eggs. Also crab cake appetizer was phenomenal for my first time eating crab. The pork chop was better then the steak! Whatever sayce/gravy they use on it, it made the entire meal for me! If you are ever in the Banner Elk/Boone area, definitely give this place a try!
Nicholas Mullins — Google review
Very nice restaurant. Our waitress was really great. Be ready to pay attention to all the daily specials. The list when we went was pretty long and the waitress did a great job explaining everything. Go over the desserts while placing the order in case there is something you really want. Some of them don't last long and you can claim yours early. Steaks were cooked perfect for us. Medium rare was spot on. I highly recommend the addition of the blue cheese butter on the steak. **Plan ahead and make a reservation**
Chad Treadaway — Google review
What a great experience. They looked really busy and I think they were. But we were seated immediately. The service was quick but not forced. The food came out when you would expect it. It was hot and fresh and well made. The French onion soup was so good. My wife and I were celebrating our anniversary and it was perfect. We both ordered a special. She had the baseball cut sirloin. It was cooked a very nice medium rare. The salmon was well cooked. The hoisen sauce was a little string and overpowered the fish, but it had good flavor and was cooked well. The fresh bread and butter was nice as well. The old fashions were perfect. Next time we are in town, we will be back.
mike harris — Google review
Ate here for an early valentine's day dinner. Jillian was a fantastic server, very attentive and helpful with suggestions. The food was delicious and so were the drinks! Would highly recommend the peanut butter cup martini, the scallops, crab cakes, and the fried deviled eggs.
Dana Horlick — Google review
Everything was PERFECT! Came here for a romantic dinner and I could not have asked for anything better. Wonderful food, friendly service, and an all around great experience. I was really happy coming here. Thanks for a great night!
Dallas Moseley — Google review
This was our first time coming here and everything we had was delicious. The restaurant was full but not too loud, and we loved the ambiance. The staff helped me with my proposal, she said yes, and they were awesome. Our waitress Amy was especially great, she was very cheerful and helpful, her suggestion for my drink was the Half Blood Prince which I'll definitely be getting again when we come back. We will for sure ask for Amy again as well, thank you all for a perfect night.
Kenny Owensby — Google review
Hands down amazing! Everyone was exceptionally friendly and professional, the food was beyond delicious and cooked to perfection 🔥 we finished off our steak meal with a dessert recommendation from our waitress Heather, black cherry cheescake & espresso! It was BOMB 💣 no other words needed. Get the cheescake 🤯
Cheyenne Lee — Google review
We had an excellent meal at Stonewalls! I came here for my birthday and everything from start to finish was delicious. The French onion soup came with actual scissors to cut through the layer of cheese, my steak was cooked perfectly, and the molten chocolate cake for dessert was super tasty. The service was phenomenal too - Reagan, our waitress, was very attentive and pleasant to talk to. They also have a nice outdoor area with a fire pit. I would definitely make an advance reservation as it’s in a small town so spots fill up quick.
Deena H — Google review
I went here with my family during our short family retreat. This was a wonderful restaurant their prime rib was highlight of our dinner everyone but Mom ordered some delicious prime rib. She got the pork chop and was blown away. We love the escargot as an appetizer and my husband and I shared the lobster bisque soup. Everything was delicious. This is our second visit and it was just as good. I love a consistent business. I'm glad I got to eat here I'm now refreshed to head back to Destin Florida to sell some houses 💯🏡❤️
Sonja Rankin REALTOR (RealtorRankin) — Google review
I was pleasantly surprised. Most of the reviews were very good but they all stated special occasion. The service by Jason was very good, he was very attentive and very patient with all our questions and offered helpful suggestions. The beets salad was very fresh and delicious. The bread was very good. The fillet mignon was perfectly done and very tasty, good amount of spices. The halibut came out too dry and when we complained Jason was very understanding and he facilitated bringing scallops as a substitute. Overall, it was a very good experience. I would repeat it.
Eva T — Google review
Great restaurant, there is food for all ages that have a good pallet. We had a group of 7 and their service was great. I would recommend the Angus New York Strip ($55) and the prime rib. We did make reservations and then asked us if we wanted the upstairs or downstairs and even though we wanted the down stairs they gave us the upstairs which looked like a wedding reception and not the rest of the restaurant. The salad bar was expensive but worth it. I would 10/10 recommend especially if you just came back from a long day of skiing.
Dark_ Vhoq — Google review
This is an excellent choice for a lovely dinner in the mountains. The filet might be the best I've ever had - and I mean that with my whole heart... It's the PERFECT medium. Try the deviled eggs... And, the salad bar! Will definitely be back!
Keeley Dowling — Google review
The food was good. I like my food super hot, and it wasn't. It was still very good. The service was good, our waitress kept our drinks full, and made sure we had everything we needed. The atmosphere was casual. We made reservations for 5, and we were seated quickly. The restaurant soon filled up. Reservations aren't needed, but I would recommend it. Overall this was a great dinner spot for a nice evening out.
chris reid — Google review
I highly recommend this restaurant and our waiter Alex. We came into town and tried other restaurants and this one far exceeded the others in flavors and service, and we are discerning "foodies" for sure. We will definitely make coming here a tradition during our visits. I highly recommend making reservations because we were seated right away. 😊
Kevin Smith — Google review
Hubby and son #2 went here without me. They talked about it for days!! It sounded amazing. The garlic bread is made fresh daily by the chef. Our normal concern about overdone pork was not an issue here. Upon ordering, the server told them exactly what they needed to hear. "We don't ever overcook the pork." Hubby said the photo doesn't do it justice, but that's all I've got to go on. We will return.
Patricia Vasko — Google review
We came here on a Sunday night. We made reservations the day before. The restaurant was clean and up to date. The service was wonderful. The food was top notch. I really enjoyed my NY strip. They have plenty of non-steak options if you are in the mood for something else. I recommend the grilled asparagus. We did not try any of the deserts, but from what I saw they looked delicious.
Ben McGuire — Google review
Stonewall Highly rated and recommended we stopped into this nice restaurant found on Yelp with high ratings. We started with their fresh bread, warm to the table. We did not have reservations, and they were completely booked for days. They have an outdoor patio with a fire pit going and music inside tonight at the bar. We were told a 2 hour wait, so we sat outside as the bar was not an option as they reserve the spots in the bar. Completely booked, we were given a table on the outdoor covered and closed patio with heaters. It was quite comfortable and sad we could not hear the music. If they had a little piped in music, it would have been better. However, our server Brenna made up for the lack of music. Funny and informative, we went with The  Onion soup, perfectly made at the perfect temperature, and the cool thing is they give you a pair of mini scissors to cut the cheese and bread. Delicious and hearty! Then I went with the salad bar over 50 items to choose from, and it was enough to fill me up. We also had The Ribeye steak with I had a piece of and the Special of the day, Pistachio crusted trout. Oh, so delicious! We followed with the homemade cinnamon roll bread pudding.  Which was flavorful but a little too stiff for my liking. It had a bourbon sauce, which could have used more for my liking. All in all the meal was terrific, wonderful atmosphere and great service!
Joel Zaidspiner — Google review
344 Shawneehaw Ave S, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USAhttp://www.stonewallsrestaurant.com/(828) 898-5550
4.3
(310)
4.5
(269)
Mentioned on 
Restaurant
LP on Main is a refined dining spot in Banner Elk that celebrates Creole heritage with its upscale take on Louisiana cuisine. The restaurant offers a farm-to-table approach, ensuring that their ingredients are at their peak and frequently rotating the menu to reflect seasonal produce. The elegant and artsy space features a mural, creating an inviting ambiance for guests to enjoy authentic Cajun dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and blackened mountain trout.
So far, our best dinning experience in Banner Elk. Bison meatloaf was tender and flavorful. Roasted red pepper soup was a wonderful start. But do NOT pass on the bread pudding dessert.
Steve Sutherland — Google review
This place was amazing! We stopped here on a whim, and we almost left when we noticed the dining room was empty. I am so glad we did not! This little gem was a huge surprise and we still cannot figure out why there was not a line out the door. If you are in the area looking for lunch I highly suggest this place. Their Caesar Salad and the Poutine House Cut Fries - loaded with Ashe county cheese curds and lobster gravy were absolutely to die for! The staff were amazing and the atmosphere was great! We devoured the fries before I could get a picture and this picture is of our SECOND Caesar salad! (Yes, it was that good, we ordered a second one! )
Nichole Jones — Google review
Had a lovely experience here celebrating a dear sister. The staff here were all really friendly! Everything we ordered from the starters (fried oysters, crab cakes, octopus, soup) to the entrees (scallops, salmon, beef short ribs), and even the dessert were excellent! They even have a long list of wines to select from. We would definitely recommend anyone to visit for a delightful meal!
Charmaine A — Google review
I honestly don’t even know where to start. The food is absolutely superb! Cocktails are always amazing and super fresh. The wine list is most certainly on point to complement the incredible food prepared by the chef. From the moment you walk in, to the moment you sit down and after you take the very last bite, the staff works harmoniously together and never misses a beat. Service is always attentive with no detail unnoticed. The best part about this location is the very tranquil and relaxing setting. I have personally dined here for many years. Our event team has also had the pleasure of hosting amazing private events for clients. The setting lends itself for a lovely night out with family and friends without a pretentious vibe. The food is always fresh and very consistent. It is a must when you visit the Banner Elk area! I would highly recommend trying one of everything on the menu;) If I was able to give them 10 stars, I would!!!!
ElizabethAshleyNC — Google review
Truly fantastic. The Bee Pollen cocktail was perfectly balanced and is truly one of the best whiskey cocktails in NC. The food; incredible; thoughtful and unique flavors. Great atmosphere and service was top notch. Must try!
Macie Fellows — Google review
Service was phenomenal! Sarah was our bartender and all her recommendations were spot on. My wife and I ate there two days in a row and felt like we were truly welcomed. The staff was courteous and attentive. Food was at our places in a timely manner. The drinkers were great. Small bourbon selection, but it was the right bourbon selection. Will definitely visit this restaurant on our next trip to the banner elk town!!!
Jason Kenon — Google review
Food is very good. Wine selection is excellent. But food is not good enough to disallow modifications (I say this seeing owner’s comments on other reviews- maybe there’s a more optimal operating strategy?). Server was very nice but maybe undertrained as she grabbed my wife’s plate before finished? Kitchen a bit slow.
Dan Bolta — Google review
This restaurant is a gem! Terrific food, cocktails, local beers and ambiance. I’m from DC and this restaurant is on par with the greats there. We had the lobster poutine, Caesar salad, and bison burger. All amazing. We will be back!
Kelsey at Revelrea — Google review
We had a great time visiting LP on Main for dinner. We had reservations on a Saturday evening and the restaurant was busy when we arrived. Although almost every table was full, we were seated quickly and served as though we were the only ones there. Our server Candela was amazing! She had great food and wine recommendations and presented our courses with care and grace. Everything we had was delicious! I highly recommend LP on Main to anyone looking for a great evening out in Banner Elk.
James Canterbury — Google review
I’ve stayed around Boone twice and both times I came here for dinner. Their food is fantastic and they have great cocktails. Also thank you to the woman working there in the colorful long dress who held my two month old baby while my fiancé and I were eating. Love this place!
Grace Blackmer — Google review
I was surprised at how good the food was. The food was excellent. I ordered BBQ shrimp with grits and it was delicious, more like an excellent Cajun shrimp and grits.
Clifford Perry — Google review
On a whim we stopped in at opening time. Realized we better get in line because this place filled up quick. Could only sit at the bar due to not having reservations. Katie quickly made us feel welcome with a signature cocktail. Started out with fried oysters, both had a caesar salad. I had the bison meatloaf and wife had the hanger steak. Finished up with a hot caramel cake dessert. Everything was on point. Beautiful plating, flavor profiles and service. We will be back!
John Fletcher — Google review
The ambiance and space is very nice. Enjoyed sitting near the fireplace. Staff was friendly. Meal took quite a bit of time to arrive. The Ceaser salad is delicious! The barbecue shrimp with grits is very spicy so that you just experience heat without much flavor. We also had the smoked Mac and cheese which was delicious. Another issue for me was serving size. The salad was a good size, very small amount of Mac n cheese, and the shrimp and grits was out of proportion - good number of shrimp, not enough grits and swimming in barbecue sauce.
April Williams — Google review
This is an excellent dining option in Banner Elk. The food and cocktails were exquisite and belied the price. We ordered the BBQ shrimp and charred octopus for apps. The sauce in the BBQ shrimp was smoky, earthy and delectable. It paired really well with the risotto. The charred octopus was cooked perfect and ensured the octopus wasn't chewy. The Jambalaya was good but there was nothing special to note. The short ribs were supposedly perfect! The icing on the cake was the toffee pudding, it was as good as it can get. The cocktails were really good but pricey, presentation and flavor were on the money. We had a great dining experience with top class service. Will definitely visit again.
Vinod Damle — Google review
Walked in here on a whim with my beloved wife of 13 years, sans our two little ragamuffins, and had probably the best dining experience in recent memory. Every item we ordered from our cocktails to the peanut butter and chocolate sandwich dessert was just about perfect. I can’t recommend this place enough.
Hollis Jones — Google review
4.2
(2894)
4.0
(1367)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Banner Elk Cafe & Tavern is a delightful coffeehouse and dining spot that also features an espresso bar and an ice cream shop, all connected by inviting outdoor decks. The establishment offers a charming ambiance with sections built around a large fire pit, as well as an extensive wine list to complement the dining experience. Visitors can enjoy the wonderful service while taking in the scenic surroundings of Banner Elk.
Wonderful service by Andrew 2 nights in a row. We stopped in on Friday and drank & ate while listening to the amazing live music that a bunch of the bar people sang along with. The next night we were starving after a full day of skiing and wanted something just like the night before at Banner Elk Tavern, so we just went back! We had the pecan crusted trout one night and a spread of apps the next night. All great recommendations by our server!
Bethany Stillwaggon — Google review
The outdoor seating is very nice. We had great service. We enjoyed the Greek salad and Greek pasta. They have a large selection of local beers on tap. There are two different kitchens with two menus so you have a wide variety to choose from. The only negative of the evening was the death metal music blasting from the kitchen. The cooks were dropping f bombs while blasting the music. I don't think the guests enjoyed it as much as the kitchen staff.
Richard Torbett — Google review
This place has that upper mountain charm! The food is exquisite and you get to choose from 2 different menus. Big variety of spirits also. So many different cake slices to choose from and they are mouth watering. Price ranges from $10-$30per person and for how much food you get its worth every penny.The staff is fast and friendly and the place is very clean. Best place for a first timer in Banner Elk or anyone visiting. Tried the Salmon bowl (Which is beautiful), The grilled pork chop with goat cheese and pepper jelly, lobster risotto and fried green beans and the kids cheese burger and fries. Seriously..the food is delicious! 5 out of 5!
Dawn Skipper — Google review
My daughter and son in law are expecting, and Cindy went Above and Beyond to make sure the Shower Was Perfect in Every Way! Now, mind you, the 2 proud parents work there, but I've been going there long before my kiddo was even thinking about becoming a mom! Food is GREAT, atmosphere even Better!
Jenna Cable — Google review
We came for beer because it was the only good spot open till 11pm. The draft selection is small but provides a little of everything. There is a decent bottle beer and liquor selection. The ambiance is cool. Staff is friendly. The food...the menu has a great array of choices. We chose lobster risotto and it's hands down some of the best we've had. I'll go back just for that snd to try other foods. It's the best bar/restaurant I've tried so far in Banner Elk
jbcimorelli — Google review
Food was really tasty and prices were super reasonable - great breakfast spot. There were some disgruntled employees in the kitchen speaking loud and using unprofessional language and everything could be heard where we were sitting in the dining area. We would still go back and would probably request sitting outside on the patio.
Taylor Carvajal — Google review
During our vacation, my family and I had the pleasure of dining at this establishment for both breakfast and dinner, and I must say, the experience was thoroughly enjoyable. The espresso bar in the morning is a real treat. It offers a great selection of coffee that perfectly complements the breakfast menu. Speaking of breakfast, it was nothing short of delicious. I particularly recommend the Mountain Man breakfast – do yourself a favor and opt for the French toast with strawberries. It's a flavorful start to the day that really sets the tone. Come evening, the dinner and pizza menu stood out with its variety and quality. It's evident that there's a commitment to maintaining high standards for all meals, not just a specific time of the day. The food was impressive and catered to a range of tastes, making it a hit with my entire family. The atmosphere of the place adds to the overall dining experience. It’s designed like a comfortable mountain lodge, which creates a cozy and welcoming environment. The waiting area deserves a special mention – it's equipped with comfy couches and a warm fireplace, making any wait time pleasant and relaxing. Conveniently located next to the bar, you can easily grab a drink while you wait. In conclusion, this restaurant is a fantastic choice whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day or a satisfying dinner to round off your evening. The combination of great food, a wonderful atmosphere, and thoughtful amenities like the waiting area makes it a place I'd gladly return to.
Kyle Graves — Google review
Our 3rd time here. Best pasta salad on the planet. That said... breakfast was not good, cold, Greasy. Our server, amazing. So attentive. We will always go back when in town, super cute and the lodge vibe is good Caramel cappuccino the bomb.
Sharon Biagiotti Meyers — Google review
Had the cheeseburger and fries on the patio outside. It was a lovely, calm, and quiet atmosphere. The staff is very friendly and accommodating, and Courtney was super nice! The price is very very reasonable, and the food was pretty good! The menu is too big honestly, and covers a variety of cuisines that I would be amazed by if they pulled it all off- so I went with the safe burger. I’m happy I came here while out in the mountains- not another restaurant that’s extremely over priced. Come here if you’re in Banner Elk. 4 stars because while it wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t incredible.
Diana Nest — Google review
This place looks incredible and the atmosphere and vibe seems unparalleled but I think the amount of customers it receives really slows down its focus on the individual customer. We sat down at 1100, ordered (nothing fancy mostly chicken wraps, fries and a few cheeseburgers) and we waited for over an hour and nobody said a thing to us from the original order until we received our food an hour later. I was very disappointed at the customer service and lack of attention given to us.
Paul Foster — Google review
We stopped in for lunch. My wife ordered the fried mountain trout, and I ordered the same except grilled. They were very delicious and very full serving.
Jay Curley — Google review
We had both dinner and breakfast the next morning here, and I was kind of shocked at the difference. For dinner, the 30-minute wait was quite reasonable, given we were here the 3rd weekend in October, so it's crowded with all the tourists seeing the fall colors. The food was really good: Baked penne, Pesto Mahi-Mahi, and burger. The cornbread was literally the best I've ever had ever. I'm drawing a blank on the draft lager I had, but it was excellent, and my wife enjoyed one of the IPAs. Yes, it's loud, and the live music made conversation difficult, but we enjoyed it. Breakfast the next morning however, was remarkably different and disappointing. Our server came promptly and took our drink, then our food orders. We then had to wait an EXTREMELY long time to get the food. I had the Mountain Man breakfast, and the only part of the meal that was still warm was the grits. The sausage patties, pancakes, and scrambled eggs were all cold. One daughter's Belgian Waffle was really dry and crumbly, and only the added strawberries and syrup made it palatable. Our other daughter's French Toast and sausage certainly weren't hot, but just barely warm. My wife said that at least her Eggs Benedict were good. So basically, it's kind of hard to write a review. Maybe I can summarize by saying - if you're lucky, you'll get a great meal. If you're unlucky, you'll be very disappointment. Maybe it had to do with them being slammed busy because of all the tourists, but it was just weird.
Charles “Chip” Payet — Google review
If you come to Grandfather Mountain, please stop by Banner Elk Cafe & Tavern, their food is amazing! Look at the pictures you will see how the food presentation is made! Beautiful to perfection! You have to look for the server named Mackenzie, she is so helpful and super friendly!
M K — Google review
Hot Cocoa was AMAZING!!!!!! Highly recommend their breakfast! We enjoyed it very much! Our waitress seemed like she was on meth, but it made for an experience on our trip. Truly enjoyed this meal overall! Would come here again! We got the Mountain Man breakfast with a side of gravy 👍
Jennifer Weathers — Google review
Small with buzzy atmosphere. Staff was service fast and adequately “friendly”. We had the specialty toffee coffee which was delicious. But for a large cup they left approx TWO inches from top!? Felt ripped off for price paid. Carrot cake was amazing and priced fairly for a large wedge.
Roz Rivers — Google review
Overall - decent experience. Two menus - so tons of options. The burger was huge and tasty. The Reuben was pretty good. The Alfredo was enjoyed and the ribs were really good. One of the better pretzel appetizers we have had in a while. It’s crowded. Service was def slow. Had to ask multiple times for the same thing. Forgot an entree (same thing happened to the table next to us as well). Didn’t get a drink. Was over-charged for sodas. Got the wrong app. With the right staffing level or limit the seating - would have been 4 stars.
Jon White — Google review
Looking for lunch in Banner Elk and we came across this cafe. Many of the restaurants in town don’t open until dinner. We arrived before 11:30 and were seated immediately. However there was a waiting line when we left. There are two menus which offers a wide range of choices. We decided on chicken sandwiches and they were tasty. Our server was friendly and efficient. Our overall experience was good.
Cathie Bales — Google review
Service was awful and the food came cold, no one apologized for the wait or offered compensation. Never coming back here. My server also added gratuity on her own when we had less people than the policy stated.
Media Vasquez — Google review
324 Shawneehaw Ave S Highway 184, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USAhttp://www.bannerelkcafe.com/(828) 898-4040Banner Elk Cafe & Tavern reservations

4Bella's Breakfast And Lunch

4.1
(641)
3.5
(106)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Breakfast restaurant
Lunch restaurant
Bella's Breakfast And Lunch is a cozy and welcoming cafe located at 142 Main St. E. in Banner Elk, NC. This charming spot offers delicious made-from-scratch breakfast options such as two eggs, bacon, grits, and a biscuit at an affordable price. Additionally, they serve New York-style deli sandwiches for lunch every day of the week. Bella's is known for its friendly atmosphere and tasty meals that keep customers coming back for more.
Fantastic food, value for the buck and even better service. My chicken fried steak and biscuit was what every chain/Dennys should aspire towards getting on the level of. The waitresses here were also super sweet to my offspring… who were both being quite annoying. This spot was homey in all the best sorts of ways
Gnome Chomsky — Google review
Bella’s is absolutely delicious. (The cappuccinos are so cute and sweet) The service is great, staff are so friendly. And the food was lovely. Our waitress was made of sugar, she was so sweet! It was so nice to come have breakfast at a place so friendly and welcoming. My family’s new favorite spot!
C Sofi — Google review
Well. I ordered the only thing that I would not recommend. The Tuna Melt. While the Tuna itself was tasty, it was scarce and put between two pieces of dry toast. Unlike any Tuna Melt I've ever had in all our travels. My onion rings were hard, very greasy, and dark. Hubby ordered the Mediterranean Omelet and said it was amazing, while my son thoroughly enjoyed his Breakfast Burrito. We eat here every time we visit the area because their food is so good. I've had the Salmon Omelet before, and it was delicious. They're only open until 1:00, so plan accordingly. Their sister location, also called Bella's, has the best Italian food and pizza in the area of you have a craving.
Patricia Vasko — Google review
Tried out this nice little place for breakfast this AM. It was great! Food was hot and tasty, nothing super unique but a good classic breakfast choice. Our service outshined everything, our waitress was super friendly and hospitable and consistently checked up on us and made friendly small talk. Kind helpful and friendly service makes a world of difference. I would recommend trying this place out and seeing if it's your cup of coffee 😌
Cade Nicholson — Google review
Enjoyed an excellent breakfast at Bella’s. Our waitress, DonRae was superb and super friendly. Our meal came out super fast and was steaming hot! My wife had the Smoked Salmon Omelette and I had 3 egg breakfast plate with a side of pancakes. We will definitely be returning to this little gem the next time visiting Banner Elk.
Donnie Cannon — Google review
At most, adequate service and food. At arrival server was attentive which was misleading to their disappearance after order arrived. Good is extremely pricey for what you get. Sides of grits ordered and expected the usual size for a side. What was received was a salad dressing sized plastic ware. Equal to maybe 3-tablespoons.
Roz Rivers — Google review
Definitely a mixed review. Staff was very attentive & friendly. Food was good. Prices for the omelets seemed a bit high since they don’t come with sides other than toast. For me the ambiance is lacking. When we first walked in I could look straight into their bathroom with the toilet in plain view. They have a supply cart right next to the tables at the front of the restaurant- very unsightly. They seated all the diners into the same small area (maybe low on staff as most places are right now) & there was no music or any other sound in the restaurant- it was as quiet as an empty library & if anyone in the next table spoke everyone at the other tables could easily listen in because there was no buffer. comfort during a dining out meal is important for us. Again, food was good & staff was attentive. Ambiance really could use some help.
RobertsMom NC — Google review
The food was good and the prices and reasonable prices. The staff was friendly and helpful. I ordered the big rooster i think. It came with waffles, 2 meats, grits/fries, toast and 2/3 eggs.
wolf pack — Google review
Would give 0 stars if I could. Staff was rude. We came last year and it was amazing. Not this year, all new staff, came for my birthday and had a group of 8 made us put everything on the same tab after we had already ordered. Told us it was stated on the menu but it wasn’t and they couldn’t show us where it was at because it wasn’t there! 24% up charge. Asked for the side options and she read them out about 50 miles an hour and when I said I didn’t understand what she said she proceeded to just stare at me. Tried charging for pancakes when the menu said choice of waffles or pancakes.
Savannah Eskew — Google review
My friends and I just came back from a four day trip to Banner Elk NC, and on our last day we came to Bella’s for breakfast. It was amazing! The service was great, the food was so good, the employees were so sweet and professional! Everything was great! The restaurant isn’t big and the line gets long so if you go definitely get there early. Either way the experience is worth it!
Eboneezy — Google review
Walked in waited for a 2 minutes and no one working showed up so we sat our self, despite a seat your self sign they should get one. Coffee and o.j. juice were good. Food came out, I ordered a plate of biscuits and gravy.. which is exactly what I got, just flower gravy and lousy biscuits, when I said I wouldn't have ordered this if there was no meat her response was "sometimes they add meat". Hash, browns, eggs, and cornerbeef hash was all mediocre at best. Me and my Wife agree a solid 2 star experience.
Trevar Wallesverd — Google review
My family and I went for breakfast. The waitress was not as pleasant as you would expect in a cafe. They never checked on us during our visit to see how things were. I had hair in my food. Nats were flying around everywhere so much to where it was hard to enjoy your food. Disappointed as I was hoping for a better experience. Maybe it was an off day here.
kelly flynn — Google review
Nice little place for breakfast. The French toast and the hot coco were delicious. Great location. Good Service.
Joe Ezekiel — Google review
Hot chocolate I ordered tasted like warm chocolate milk, the fruit cup that costs $4 had like half an orange worth of fruit in it, the pancakes were burnt somehow, and when you ask for the check you get this obnoxious tablet shoved in your face and don't have any time to look over the bill. Only one server was working during the entire time and she was visibly stressed and couldn't really check all the tables. Considering that this place was like $22 per person for breakfast I expected much better quality. Would not return or recommend.
Garrett Tardif — Google review
Service was quite slow, once the food finally did arrive, it was all undercooked and low quality. I couldn't even finish my meal because of this. Waffle House has higher quality then what I paid for here, and I paid way too much for what I received. I recommend going ANYWHERE else in this area. Heck go to Subway instead. EDIT; Forgot to say that they charged us for a food item that the waitress told us was out of stock(still charged it though)
Archangel226 — Google review
142 Main St E, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USAhttp://www.bellasbreakfast.com/(828) 898-2594

5Sorrento's Italian Bistro

4.3
(1328)
4.0
(733)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Bistro
Sorrento's Italian Bistro is a charming family-owned restaurant that offers a delightful blend of classic Italian cuisine and comforting pizzas. The chefs are dedicated to preserving the authentic flavors of their Sicilian heritage, particularly evident in their renowned Rigatoni Bolognese. This bistro is a popular choice for both casual family outings and intimate date nights, with its inviting indoor space adorned with art and an option for outdoor dining.
We greatly enjoyed our dinner. We started with garlic rolls they bring to every table. The rolls are OK. Very strong garlic flavor and kind of dry. My Dad had the ribeye and I had shrimp scampi. We both had mashed potatoes and sautéed veggies as sides. They make homemade mashed potatoes and the veggies are fresh and delicious. My husband had the spinach lasagna. Lots of cheese and very good. For dessert I had the lava cake with ice cream. Very good but you had to pay extra for ice cream. When do you ever have lava cake without ice cream? My husband and Dad shared a slice of carrot cake and it was the biggest slice of cake ever. There is a parking lot behind the restaurant that is shared with the shopping center. You can also park on the street if spaces are available. The decor is very nice and the restaurant is full of artwork by Kent Paulette, an artist from Banner Elk. The artwork is for sale.
April Williams — Google review
Dog friendly seating. Gluten-free options. The waiter was super helpful, and everything we ordered was really good.
Adam T — Google review
Amazing atmosphere with great food ranging from Asian fusion, Italian, and Southern. Live entertainment with DJ Pete in Bayou and Paul in Chef’s Table. The summer concerts are also so much fun! The best place to hang, eat and make memories in banner elk!
Emily Bell — Google review
Fantastic experience tonight for Valentines. After an awful travel schedule we got to Sorrento’s 20 minutes before the restaurant closed hoping to still have a romantic meal. We were promptly seated and served, and treated to a fantastic meal. Jason was our bartender and not only did he make the best old fashioned I’ve ever had, his service and recommendations were superb. All around the best service I’ve received in quite some time. A++
E Mac — Google review
Used to be our “go to” for pizza as it’s hard to find good pizza in the area. We would drive all the way over from Foscoe for pizza on Fridays. No longer. What we saw when we opened the box tonight was outrageous. It never should have been given to us. It was hardly edible. The pics speak for themselves. We have had dinner there as well but we moved here from outside D.C. and this food is mediocre at best and very overpriced. But I will say they have a fabulous wine list.
AM Conns — Google review
Amazing food & Staff. Maddy was awesome. Steak made to perfection. The pasta was delicious. Drink.... oh my heaven. Will definitely be back.
C Simons — Google review
What a dynamite meal that we had. Both the chicken francese and chicken marsala were outstanding. The chicken was pounded out, perfectly cooked and tender. The mashed potatoes and sautéed vegetables were excellent. The atmosphere was comfortable and classy. And the service was excellent.
CCV NC — Google review
Came here on a Saturday night. Was able to make reservations that afternoon. We were seated right away. It did take some time for us to be seen by our waiter, but he had a large party which he was taking care of at the time. The food was delicious. I highly recommend the Sorrento Eggplant. The sauce was wonderful. The garlic knots were delightful. Not horribly expensive, especially in a tourist town.
Ben McGuire — Google review
Cassandra was absolutely AMAZING! She was very graceful, courteous, attentive and full Of energy. After a long day skiing and tubing at Sugar Mountain, it was really nice to meet a smiling face! Also, Felix made the BEST banana foster i have ever had table side. It was my birthday, and both Cassandra and Felix made me feel so special. When I return, I’ll definitely be looking for this two!
Victoria Harvey — Google review
Now this place is on a whole different level! The special was pan fried Trout! The best! Best taste, it was a fantastic experience! We will be back some day! Wife love the Salmon, I will tell everyone I know and then some, about this place! I give it 10 stars!
Gene Emerick — Google review
Had a delicious meal at Sorrento's Italian Bistro - Trout and Veal Franchise, served with mashed potatoes and a medley of fresh squash. Dessert was a creamy Cheesecake with Raspberry drizzle. Our server Ann was a joy, professional and knowledgeable regarding menu choices. Hope to go back again when we are in Banner Elk
Margaret Peterson — Google review
We ate at this restaurant while attending an event in Linville. The food was very delicious and cooked very well. What’s more, the chef accommodated a custom request which also turned out amazing!! I enjoyed the Crab cake as an app and the Frutti De Mare for my entre (along with a couple glasses of wine). Highly recommend if you’re in the area!
Bethany Graham — Google review
Nice restaurant in the Banner Elk area in NC mountains. This place has multiple rooms with each room a different theme. One is a romantic, more formal room, next is a wine room, one is a tasting room and one is a Bistro style room where we eat. Menu in all rooms are the same except for the tasting room. We went with two options, the calamari salad and I went with the Chicken Parmigian over veggies. August, our waiter was extremely attentive, and the manager Felton kept checking to make sure all was going well. The food was good and fresh. Was it the best I have had? No, however, for a place up in the mountains with such a great menu, wine list, and service, this place gets 5 stars from me. I think my wife would have asked for the calamari sautéed. but it came fried, and we went with it. nice and fresh! One thing I missed was the outdoor seating option, which we skipped as these FL folks were too cold.
Joel Zaidspiner — Google review
Sorrento's is a real gem in the mountains of North Carolina. Located near the traffic light in Banner Elk it performs more like it is on Houston Street in Little Italy. The restaurant offers a Chef's table experience that is sure to appeal to foodies who appreciate presentation of creative dishes with local inspiration. I prefer the more relaxed Bistro that caters to locals, renters and travellers. The menu is quite robust with items for almost any taste. The servers are well trained and will make your time there enjoyable. The floor has several tables with marble tops. The chairs are matched in style and felt very comfortable to me. You can also opt to sit at the bar for a unique perspective. The prices are in line with the quality of the food and ambiance. That said, it is affordable and consistent with the area. I make the trip from Chapel Hill anytime the urge for terrific Italian food strikes. And by the way, it is well worth it! Strongest recommendation for Sorrento's!
Erle Smith — Google review
On Friday, April 5, 2024, my husband and I hosted a Rehearsal Dinner and Welcome Party at The Chef's Table at Sorrento's Italian Bistro for our son who was getting married the next day. We and our wedding planner (Ashley Snider, @Eventswithoutahitch.net) have dealt with Susan Russ, Events and Catering Coordinator, over the span of the past 6 months planning this very special event! We can't say enough wonderful things about Susan and her staff! Her guidance was invaluable during the planning process - she gave us so much great advice on how to make our dinner the best it could be! She was easy to work with and very customer friendly! The dinner itself was fabulous from the food to the beverages to the atmosphere itself - everyone involved hit the ball out of the park! The room was set up beautifully and comfortably for our large party of 60 and we loved having the placement of the sweetheart table at the end of the room with two long tables placed horizontally across the room. The Welcome Party began at the conclusion of the Rehearsal Dinner when approximately 40 additional guests joined us. The staff moved the tables to accommodate the additional guests. All in all, it was a FABULOUS evening!!! On a scale of 1 to 10, we would give Susan and her staff a 15!!! Thanks so much! Jimmy and Lisa Dale
Lisa Dale — Google review
As someone who appreciates good food and efficient service, my recent experience at Sorrento’s was a mixed bag. The interior had a welcoming vibe, blending modern and classic styles, setting the stage for a promising meal. The Rigatoni Bolognese was impressive. The pasta was perfectly al dente, the sauce rich and well-seasoned, and the meat was tender, creating a flavorful dish. The Mediterranean Salad was equally pleasing, with fresh greens, a light dressing, and a good balance of feta and olives. However, the service didn't live up to the food's standard. Despite being seated quickly, I waited too long for a server to attend our table. My drink order took about 20 minutes, and the server checked on us only twice, which was surprising as the restaurant wasn't busy. This aspect of the dining experience was disappointing and needs improvement.
Kyle Graves — Google review
Definitely we enjoyed the time! Delicious crab cake, meatball, calamari with an amazing wine. The server did an excellent job, sadly I don’t remember his name 😞
Ilinka Hollis — Google review
Came to this place with a party of twelve for a friend's birthday. The service and food were both excellent! Highly recommend! Can't wait to go back and try something else!
Merinda Wilkinson — Google review
140 Azalea Cir SE, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USAhttp://www.sorrentosbistro.com/(828) 898-5214

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