With so many excellent restaurants on the Highlands/Cashiers/Toxaway Plateau, it is difficult to limit this list to three. Yet when asked for recommendations, we find ourselves sending friends and visitors to these three again and again. Therefore, we've decided these are our top 3 restaurants in the area.
Osteria del Monte is known for its authentic Northern Italian cuisine, created with fresh ingredients and a gourmet touch. Be sure to check out the daily specials and their excellent wine list. It’s a popular spot, so make a reservation in advance.
1301 Highway 64 West Sapphire, NC 28774 (828) 883-2551
Gamekeeper's Tavern combines rustic mountain elegance with a sophisticated yet casual style. Offering a gourmet menu of daily fresh fish, game, beef, pork and fowl, Chef Allen Spivey incorporates fresh local ingredients whenever possible. Complex sauces and creative presentation are the perfect complements to the fusion menu. A comprehensive wine list and full bar complete the dining experience. Both the dining room and lounge are open year round. Reservations are suggested.
3646 Highway 64 East Sapphire, NC 28774 (828) 743-4263
A visit to Brown Trout Mountain Grille will take you back to the turn of the 20th century. This restaurant features seafood, steaks, fowl, pasta and other gourmet fare, with several trout specialties. The service is always warm and friendly in a cozy cabin atmosphere. Full bar and wine list.
502 Blue Ridge Road Lake Toxaway, NC 28747 (828) 877-3474