Southern Living recently named three North Carolina restaurants among the 15 best roadside restaurants in the South—two of which are in Western NC.
Caffe REL – Franklin
Located inside a gas station, this French bistro offers an “expansive” menu featuring dishes like Rosemary Infused Gruyere Mac & Cheese, French Pot Roast, and Pork Osso Bucco. Southern Living calls it a “one-of-a-kind roadside stop.”
📍 459 East Main St., Franklin, NC 28734
Caro-Mi Dining Room – Tryon (Permanently Closed)
Known for mountain rainbow trout, fried chicken, and Carolina country ham, Caro-Mi was a beloved spot tucked across a covered bridge. Sadly, Tropical Storm Helene destroyed the restaurant, and owners are looking for a new location.
Did your favorite NC roadside restaurant make the list? Let us know your top picks!