Our Favorite Plateau Restaurants

There’s Something for Everyone on the Cashiers-Highlands Plateau

Whether you’re a “foodie” or simply appreciate a well-prepared meal, the Cashiers-Highlands plateau has you covered when it comes to dining. From casual and fun eateries to elegant, lakeside restaurants, there is something for everyone.

Though it’s difficult to name favorites, some of our friends and team members at McKee Properties offered their suggestions.


“One of our favorite restaurants on the plateau is Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro in Highlands. We love small plates, and Wolfgang’s serves these with many choices, all of which are delicious, in an intimate setting as you enter the restaurant. Wolfgang is a very hands-on chef, often coming to your table to greet you. His wine bar is spectacular!”Sandy Barrow

Winslow’s Hideaway. The service is great as well as the food!” Wayne Monday

“My everyday pick is El Manzanillo Mexican Restaurant at the Ingles shopping center – great food, good service. But I also love going to The Library Kitchen + Bar for a yummy dinner.” Joanne Bryson

On the Verandah, Highlands, NC

“As a kid, my family would come to Highlands. When we would drive the gorge road from Highlands down to Franklin, we would pass by On the Verandah. I was fascinated by the setting on beautiful Lake Sequoyah. Once my husband and I moved to Glenville, I told him about always wanting to go to On the Verandah. He took me for one of our anniversaries. I was not disappointed. As our server was telling us about the evening specials, he also mentioned they were out of duck. As if on queue, we looked out our lakeview window and there, swimming away from the restaurant, was a group of ducks.”Coleen Gottloeb

Although there are some great restaurants in the Cashiers area, to say one is my favorite overall would be impossible. I think my favorite group or family restaurant, and where I like to take clients, has to be The Orchard. It always has exactly what I am craving. On the fly, and a weekly staple, is Slab Town Pizza. No doubt they offer good food and fun atmosphere to meet up with friends — simple and easy, too! And if you are really looking for shock and awe, Canyon Kitchen at Lonesome Valley is the bomb. You will be shocked by the beautiful view and awed by the incredible food.” – Philip Bradley

Fried Green Tomatoes are a favorite at The Orchard

The Orchard! It’s been my favorite since I was a little girl. The food is always wonderful and the atmosphere is charming. Some of my favorite meals and special moments have been spent there. Year after year, it feels like coming home.”Karaline Shomaker

“I’m excited about Happs Place Barn & Grill in Glenville… a re-creation of the famous eatery by the same name that closed a few years ago. Best fried chicken and tomato pie!” Ann McKee Austin

“A long time favorite of mine is Cornucopia Restaurant. Started by my friends, Scott and Brien Peterkin, in the 1970s, it’s a Cashiers’ landmark with an excellent menu and outstanding atmosphere. My favorite sandwich is their famous Arabian Club.” – Steve Hodge

“Though newer to the plateau’s amazing restaurant scene, I love Midpoint Highlands. The desserts by their pastry chef truly are works of art! The second-story patio view overlooking Main Street, the friendly staff and the delicious, eclectic menu puts this one at the top of my list.” – Kara Addy

Chile Loco is one of my favorite restaurants in town for authentic Mexican food. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff always ensure a great dining experience. I cannot even tell you my favorite dish from there because I will literally eat anything on their menu!” Maggie Elmer

“My favorite restaurant is Happs Place Barn & Grill because the new owner is honoring the history and fabric that made up the old Happs restaurant. They’ve added a great deal of outdoor space and some interesting menu items. It’s in an area of town where a restaurant has always been needed.”Beth Townsend

Explore the area to learn more »