5 Unexpected Scrumptious Eateries in Hayesville, North Carolina
In this small Western North Carolina town, a foodie scene is thriving. No one expected it, but it’s drawing people from the Carolinas and Georgia to make a visit to this tiny town. And with summer in full swing and Lake Chatuge beckoning boaters, fueling fun or special events is what these eateries are all about.
The Copper Door | Never did I ever assume I would find fine dining behind this copper door. Voted as one of the Top 100 Restaurants in America, The Copper Door delights diners with dishes expected in Michelin Star restaurants in urban cities, not in a small mountain town in Western North Carolina. Chef Dennis Barber creates perfection using his classic French techniques with a dose of Southern Louisiana and New Orleans. It’s the flawless popovers that come like clockwork once you’re seated that have you reaching for the butter knife; and a reminder, there’s more food to follow, so leave room. Many dine here simply for the endless stream of popovers which is not a bad concept. In addition to the substantial a la carte menu, if the prix fixe is available, that’s my go-to. It has the most succulent steak (offered a la carte as well) as the main course; and yes, it’s like butter. And, they don’t make me feel utterly ignorant when I want the meat well-done; they offer to butterfly the filet, and it could not be more superb.
The wine pairing dinners bring the world to Hayesville. The dates and themes are listed on the website. Sign up for the newsletter and you’ll always know what’s happening behind the door.
Reservations are encouraged and can be made online.
2 Sullivan St., Hayesville; open Tuesday - Saturday, 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.
Nocturnal Brewing | Located in a restored downtown building around the Hayesville square, Nocturnal Brewing serves craft beer by brewer David Grace. Nocturnal serves homemade brews as well as handcrafted cocktails. The food menu rotates seasonally; the Teriyaki Rice Bowl and Smash Burger always catch my eye. The fish, steak or chicken tacos are always a yummy selection. Some items are available for take out with online ordering.
893 US 64, Hayesville; open Tuesday - Friday, 4 p.m. until 9 p.m.; Saturday, 12 noon to 9 p.m.
A dark brew at Nocturnal
Angelo’s Downtown | There’s no website, so don’t look for it. Yes, a Facebook page, but it doesn’t do it justice. An authentic Italian restaurant, Angelo’s serves the best ‘pie’ in the area. Located on one corner of the downtown square, follow your nose for that Italian aroma.
45 Main Street, Hayesville; open Monday - Saturday
Because the answer to every question is pizza.
Epic Eatery | I do love a great Monte Cristo. Finding one is a difficult chore, but who would believe, in this little town of Hayesville, the perfect ham-swiss-French toast battered-sandwich is waiting for me. And not simply that. Sunday brunch (9:30 a.m. until 2 ish) dishes out shrimp and grits, Mountain Man Benedict or the most basic of breakfasts with a side of Logan Turnpike grits. Serving dinner Thursday through Saturday, Epic ups the game with sharable plates and the most luscious filet mignon. Live music is often heard during the dinner hour, so after dining, cozy up to Mel’s Place, the extended wine and beer bar, for a wide range of micro brews and imports. Check the website for hours of operation.
714 NC 69 Suite A, Hayesville; closed Wednesday
And if you happen to find yourself at Margarita Jacks Marina, look for the food truck before you walk to the Tiki Bar at the end of the dock. Epic on the Lake serves a Cuban sandwich to die-for and two hot dogs (chili or Chicago or boringly plain) that will keep you dropping by at least once a week. I speak from experience. Order online and pick up at the truck.
2397 NC-175, Hayesville; follow on Facebook for hours and online ordering link
On the deck at Epic on the Lake Food Truck
Laughing Waters | Another brain child of the owner of Nocturnal Brewing, Laughing Waters, located near the brewery on the other side of the historic Hayesville square, is a marvelous place to simply be. My favorite time to stop is morning or lunch, when the steamed bagels are filled with pepperoni or provolone (a.k.a. The Italian) or a scrambled egg and bacon (a.k.a The Nocturnal). I take a seat on the closed-in deck and wait patiently for my delivery. In the meantime, I sip on my lovely latte and think to myself what a treasure this is in this little town. Serving a beautiful assortment of wines and must-have of cocktails, Laughing Waters fills my need for the cozy meeting place that just happens to serve everything I adore. Check the website for hours of operation for hours change with the seasons.
Summer serves during the evening hours, Thursday - Saturday, 4 p.m. until 10 p.m.
66 Sanderson St., Hayesville; open Thursday - Saturday
Laughing Waters on the square in Hayesville.
