Hendersonville, NC: A Small Town with Big Flavors
Hendersonville, North Carolina, is more than just a charming mountain town; it’s a foodie destination on the rise. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor eager to explore the culinary scene, Hendersonville offers a diverse range of dining experiences to satisfy every palate.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best Hendersonville, NC restaurants. Our goal is to help you navigate the many options and discover the places that offer the best combination of atmosphere, food quality, service, and overall value.
We’ll be featuring some local favorites, from the elegant ambiance of Arabella and the refined dishes at Postero to the casual Italian charm of Mezzaluna. Each restaurant has been carefully selected to showcase the best of what Hendersonville has to offer.
Of course, taste is subjective, and what one person considers the “best” another might not. This guide reflects our perspective, and we encourage you to explore, experiment, and discover your own favorite Hendersonville restaurants. Happy eating!
Breakfast & Brunch Delights: Starting the Day Right
Hendersonville boasts some fantastic spots to kick off your day. Here are a couple of my favorites for breakfast and brunch:
Arabella Breakfast & Brunch
Arabella is a cozy, inviting spot with a menu that makes you want to try everything. Be prepared to wait a bit, especially if you arrive around noon, but trust me, it’s worth it. Their “Swimming Piglet” – biscuits smothered in gravy – is the stuff of legends. Seriously, the biscuits are light and fluffy, and the gravy is rich and flavorful without being too heavy.
Arabella is a great choice because they clearly prioritize quality ingredients, and the ambiance is so welcoming. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over your coffee and feel completely at ease.
Harvey’s at the Henderson
If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale and special-occasion-worthy, Harvey’s at the Henderson is a must-try. The setting is absolutely charming, with an elegant yet comfortable atmosphere. Harvey’s is located in The Henderson, a boutique hotel in downtown Hendersonville.
Their Baked Brie en Croute is a showstopper – perfectly creamy brie wrapped in flaky pastry, drizzled with honey and served with fruit. It’s divine!
Harvey’s is a recommended spot for a memorable meal because they pay attention to every detail. The service is impeccable, the food is beautifully presented, and the overall experience is top-notch. It’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or simply treat yourself to something truly special.
Modern American cuisine: Fresh and innovative flavors
If you’re looking for a contemporary take on classic American dishes, Hendersonville has some great spots to try.
Postero
Postero offers a fresh, modern spin on traditional dishes with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and creative presentations. The menu changes frequently to showcase seasonal ingredients at their peak.
Some popular dishes include the Burrata Toast, a creamy and flavorful starter; the Pan Roasted Salmon, cooked to perfection with crispy skin and a moist interior; and the 8 oz bistro tender Steak, a perfectly cooked delight.
Silo Cookhouse at the Horseshoe Farm
For a unique farm-to-table experience, head to the Silo Cookhouse at the Horseshoe Farm. This restaurant offers family-style dining with a focus on local ingredients. The setting is rustic and charming, with a focus on the freshness of the food and the communal dining experience.
The atmosphere at Silo Cookhouse is special. It’s a great place to gather with friends and family and enjoy a meal that celebrates the bounty of the surrounding farms. Expect the freshest ingredients prepared simply and thoughtfully, allowing their natural flavors to shine.
Pizza Perfection: Brick Oven Creations and Unique Twists
Sometimes, nothing satisfies like pizza. Luckily, Hendersonville offers some amazing options for pizza lovers.
Mezzaluna
Mezzaluna has earned a reputation for excellence in brick oven pizzas. Their Grouper Bites appetizer is a local favorite, and their pizza options are varied enough that everyone in your party will find something to love.
What makes Mezzaluna’s pizza so good? The crust is perfectly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, and the toppings are fresh and high-quality. You can tell they don’t skimp on ingredients. Try the Funghi pizza for a rich, woodsy flavor, or go for the classic Margherita to taste the quality of the tomatoes and mozzarella.
Flat Rock Wood Room
If you’re looking for something a little different, Flat Rock Wood Room offers a unique blend of BBQ and Neapolitan pizza, all cooked in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant has a rustic, cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of their dishes.
The combination of BBQ and pizza might sound strange, but Flat Rock Wood Room pulls it off beautifully. The wood-fired oven gives the crust a smoky char, and the BBQ toppings add a sweet and savory element that’s hard to resist. It’s the perfect spot for those who can’t decide between BBQ and pizza—you get the best of both worlds!
Unique dining experiences: Ambiance and atmosphere
If you’re looking for a restaurant that offers more than just food, Hendersonville has some great options.
Shine
For a memorable night out, consider Shine, a restaurant with a rooftop bar. The views from the rooftop are fantastic, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. The menu features dishes like Stuffed Shitake Mushrooms, Shrimp Tortellini, and Crab Cakes, all of which are delicious.
Shine is a great place to go if you want to enjoy a vibrant evening with good food and drinks.
The Book & Bee
If you’re looking for something a little more cozy and relaxing, The Book & Bee is an English-style cafe with a whimsical atmosphere. The decor is unique and charming, and the setting is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The Book & Bee has a wide variety of teas to choose from, as well as a menu of delicious food options.
It’s a great place to curl up with a good book and enjoy a cup of tea.
Comfort food favorites and historical ambiance
Sometimes you just want a restaurant that feels like home, serving up the dishes you remember from childhood. Here are a couple of Hendersonville and Flat Rock favorites that fit the bill.
Mike’s on Main
Mike’s on Main offers up classic American comfort food in a nostalgic setting. The restaurant is located in a historic building with decor that evokes a sense of simpler times. Diners rave about the fried chicken, meatloaf, and mashed potatoes, all served with a smile.
If you’re looking for a taste of the past and a hearty meal, Mike’s on Main is a great choice.
Campfire Grill in Flat Rock
For a dining experience that’s a little more playful, head to Campfire Grill in Flat Rock. This restaurant has a rustic summer camp theme that’s fun for the whole family. Their Sunday brunch is particularly popular, featuring dishes like Smoked Fish Dip, Shrimp and Grits, and Apple Caramel Bread Pudding.
With its wide variety of brunch options and kid-friendly atmosphere, Campfire Grill is a great choice for families and anyone looking for a unique and memorable dining experience.
Steakhouse satisfaction: Generous portions and Western themes
If you’re looking for a steakhouse with hearty portions and a fun, Western-themed vibe, then Hendersonville has a great option for you.
Binion’s Roadhouse
Binion’s is all about pleasing steak lovers with plenty of food and a good time. The decor is Western-themed, and the atmosphere is lively.
You can get a pretty reasonably priced steak here, along with other filling meals. The filets come with a side of steamed broccoli, and the fried pickles come in a portion that’s big enough to share with the whole table.
Closing Thoughts
From upscale farm-to-table bistros to casual eateries serving up Southern comfort food, Hendersonville has a restaurant to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re craving international cuisine, wood-fired pizza, or a perfectly grilled steak, you’ll find it here.
This list only scratches the surface of Hendersonville’s vibrant culinary scene, so I encourage you to get out there and discover your own favorites. Remember, taste is subjective, and the best way to find a restaurant you love is to try it for yourself.
While food quality is important, a truly memorable dining experience depends on more than just what’s on the plate. The atmosphere, the service, and the company you keep all play a role in creating a special moment. Hendersonville restaurants have a knack for getting all the details right.
What are your favorite Hendersonville restaurants? Let me know in the comments below! I’m always looking for new places to try, and I’d love to hear your recommendations.