20+ Best Waynesville NC Restaurants (and food trucks too!)

Written By Larry Deane, local expert for 20+ years.

Waynesville, NC, is known for its Norman Rockwell-like historic downtown and its location as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, surrounded by many great outdoor attractions. But many don't realize that Waynesville is full of several exceptional restaurants, owned by local owners, who make some outstanding food.  

We're locals ourselves, and live in Waynesville, NC. We have tried all these restaurants multiple times. Below are our top pics for what we consider the very best restaurants in Waynesville. We also include some outstanding local food trucks as well.

These Waynesville restaurants offer excellent food, at reasonable prices, are locally owned, and have a high cleanliness rating. We rarely do chains, as we prefer to support our local friends and business owners.

Updated: 4/3/2025 - Updated with new restaurants we have visited. Marked some restaurants that are now closed. Added categories for the various restaurant types.

We mainly dine at more traditional restaurants, where we can sit down, enjoy some drinks, some great food and take our time. We rarely eat at fast food/take out places, except for local food trucks.

The restaurants included here are all locally owned and restaurants that you will only find in Waynesville. We have been exploring and trying local food trucks as well. You can find more about them further down.

Let's explore our favorite Waynesville restaurants!

Upscale Dining

While we categorize these as upscale dining, all of these restaurants are still very casual and provide a relaxed atmosphere. Don't think white table, suit and tie experience. That just isn't Waynesville. Prices at these restaurants are a little higher than many other places in Waynesville, and they deliver a more refined dining experience.

We're foodies, and don't mind paying a little extra for excellent food and service, and all of these restaurants deliver on that.

We recommend making reservations at these "Upscale restaurants", as they are high demand and book out quickly.

The Sweet Onion - Our Top Pick

While our picks are in no particular order, The Sweet Onion is an exception. It is hands down our favorite place to eat in Waynesville, NC, and considered one of the best restaurants in Waynesville by many visitors and locals as well.

The Sweet Onion provides a very nice dining atmosphere, that isn't stuffy and great views of the surround mountains and Waynesville, though the large glass doors and windows. It's a place you can go wearing nice clothes, or just shorts and a shirt, and feel very comfortable. The food is amazing and the staff and owners are exceptional.

They have an open kitchen as well, so you can see, smell and hear the food being prepared. We like that, and get to thank the skilled cooks and staff on the way out.

Sweet Onion Crab Cakes

While our favorite dishes are their nightly specials, they offer some incredible menu items as well. Probably one of the best menu items is the crab cakes. Trust us, we've eaten a lot of crab cakes, and these are the best we've had ... anywhere. We also enjoy the fresh locally caught trout, steaks, county friend steak, and the shrimp and grits!   

Be sure to try their complimentary cheese biscuits and get a bowl of their hot sweet onion soup. It's amazing! They also make all their dressings and sauces in-house. They have the best ranch dressing anywhere.

"The Onion" stays very busy, so you'll want to make reservations to avoid a long wait. The bar is very nice, and offers seating for those just looking for drinks, or for those eating dinner as well.

The Chef's Table

The Chef's Table

We were told to visit The Chef's Table in Waynesville NC, and for some crazy reason, until recently, we just never did. Some years ago, with us raising 6-children, it was just out of our budget, but the kids have grown up and moved on.

After hearing from some friends how fantastic The Chef's Table was, we recently decided to finally give them a try. Well, they weren't lying, it's amazing.

The restaurant, though small, boasts a warm, cozy, and well-decorated interior. The Chef's table boasts an internationally renowned wine selection, and the decor reflects that theme effectively. Wine corks and the ends of wine boxes cover the walls. It's actually a very elegant, yet casual decor that fits perfectly.

Our server was top-notch and could find that perfect balance of not being too invasive, but also not under attending, either. We ordered drinks, and the server brought us some really delicious bread. I ordered my usual Vodka Martini, and Jenn ordered a glass of white wine. Both were excellent.

We ordered their signature Risotto Goat Cheese Balls for an appetizer, which was well beyond what we expected. Really delicious, and not too heavy.

For our main entrees, Jenn ordered one of their specials. Halibut and I tried their Grouper Piccata. Both meals were outstanding with large portions, which we could not finish.

We considered trying dessert, but passed. We left full and talking about how we can't wait to go back again soon. 

The Chef's Table Halibut Special
The Chef's Table - Grouper Piccata

We would highly recommend The Chef's Table for a special occasion or the occasional romantic night out. 

Singletree Heritage Kitchen

If you're looking for a taste of the Blue Ridge Mountains, then you will definitely want to visit Singletree Heritage Kitchen in Waynesville, NC. This cozy restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Single Tree Heritage Kitchen is all about celebrating the local flavors and ingredients of the area. 

Some of the standout items on the menu for us include the Blue crab fritters, cornmeal encrusted shrimp, Peppered Char-grilled NY Strip Steak, and the Skillet seared dry pack scallops. They also have daily specials to choose from, that are excellent.

We do want to mention that they rotate out their menu seasonally.  They also offer an extensive selection of wines, specialty drinks and a full-bar. 

But it's not just the food that makes Singletree Heritage Kitchen one of our top picks. The restaurant also has a warm and welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. It's formal, yet you'll feel comfortable in a suit, or a pair of jeans.   

You can enjoy sitting at the bar, or dining in their large dining area, which has large windows for enjoying views of the surrounding mountains. They even offer outdoor seating during the warmer season.

Singletree Heritage Kitchen is open for lunch and dinner. The lunch menu is available from 11:00 - 5:00, and the dinner menu is available from 5:00 to close. The lunch menu is much smaller than the dinner menu, with only a few smaller options available.  

Rocky Face Tavern at Springdale Resort

Photo of the main restaurant building for Rocky Face Tavern.  Gray building made from Rock with beautiful green grass in front of it, with mountains in the background.

While not actually in Waynesville, Rocky Face Tavern is only a 15 minute drive from downtown Waynesville, and well worth it.

Tucked away at the beautiful Springdale Resort, Rocky Face Tavern is a Waynesville’s hidden gems—and a great option when we’re in the mood for a special meal in an upscale yet relaxed setting. As locals, we’ve enjoyed several meals here, and each visit has been nothing short of exceptional.

The restaurant itself is stunning, with a warm, lodge-style interior and large windows that showcase sweeping views of the golf course and surrounding mountains. Whether you choose to dine indoors or outside on the spacious patio, the atmosphere is friendly and never stuffy. It's the kind of place that feels just right for a date night, a family celebration, or even a relaxing dinner after a day exploring the area.

The menu at Rocky Face Tavern is full of elevated comfort food and classic favorites. We’re especially partial to the steaks, which are always cooked to perfection, and the crab cakes, which are packed with flavor and beautifully presented. 

Crab Cakes at Rocky Face Tavern

The burgers are another standout—juicy, loaded, and satisfying. Don’t miss the stuffed mushrooms, either; they’re rich, savory, and the perfect appetizer to share.

Rocky Face also features a full bar with a thoughtfully curated wine list, local craft beers, and signature cocktails.

If you’re looking for a memorable and different dining experience in the Waynesville area, Rocky Face Tavern offers exceptional food, outstanding service, and one of the most picturesque dining settings in town.

Birchwood Hall Southern Kitchen - Now Closed

Birchwood Hall was on Main Street in downtown Waynesville, NC. Birchwood Hall was a more upscale dining location in Waynesville, NC, similar to The Sweet Onion. 

Birchwood Hall Southern Kitchen closed permanently in March 2025.

Casual Eats & Local Favorites

These restaurants are all for more laid-back meals and classic comfort food in a relaxed setting. Great for families, quick bites, or every day dining.

Waynesville Main Street Diner - Breakfast Available

Photo of he interior of Waynesville Main Street Diner showing the while tile floor, front showcase full of deserts, and tables around the restaurant.

If you're looking for a classic diner charm in the heart of downtown, Waynesville Main Street Diner is the place to go. As locals, we’ve enjoyed breakfast, lunch, and dinner here on multiple occasions, and it always hits the spot. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and reliably good food make it one of our favorite go-to spots in town. Plus, they have a ton of options.

The menu is full of comforting diner classics served with a Southern twist. For breakfast, we especially love The Irishman for its flavorful corned beef hash, which is hard to find in Waynesville. We also enjoy their fluffy omelettes, and the French toast, which is always perfectly golden and sweet.

Lunch and dinner bring even more to love—from crispy fried pickles and hearty burgers to fresh salads and satisfying sandwiches. Whether you're in the mood for something light or a plate of good old-fashioned comfort food, you'll find it here.

And don’t skip dessert! The house-made desserts here are fantastic and a perfect way to end any meal—especially if you’ve saved room, and you better save room!

 Waynesville Main Street Diner offers great food, friendly service, and that classic small-town feel that keeps us coming back. Whether you're starting your day or winding it down, it’s a great choice for any meal in downtown Waynesville.

Suwana Asian Cuisine

Suwana Asian Cuisine is located on Main Street in the historic downtown area, and offer different types of fresh Thai dishes and Sushi. 

Suwana has pretty much everything you would expect and more, and the food is delicious, hot, and always fresh tasting. 

Our favorite menu items include: Steamed Dumplings, any of their sushi, Pad Thai, Pad Z Ew, Chicken Raman Soup, and the Sesame chicken. But honestly, we have tried many of the items on the menu, and have loved everything.

Be sure to get an ice cold Thai Tea, which is exceptional and refreshing.  They also serve beer, wine, and have a full bar now as well.

Whether you drive there just for the food, or decide to try them while exploring historic downtown Waynesville, you'll be glad you stopped!

Restaurants with large menus are great for selection, but sometimes, visiting a restaurant that focuses on one thing, and that does it incredibly well, is the way to go.  Church Street Depot does just that - you just can't go wrong with burgers, shakes and fries, it's a classic combination, and frankly, they nailed it.

Haywood County voters chose them as the best burger, and for good reason.   

In downtown Waynesville, Church Street Depot provides several beef options, from regular beef to local grass-fed beef, and several items in-between. They also offer many topping options, and of course, fresh made and cut fries. Don't forget to get a real ice cream milkshake too!

They also have hotdogs, and sandwiches as well.  

If you prefer a more adult beverage with your burger, they offer a selection of beers and other adult beverages, including wine.

Our favorites are the Special Blend Burger in French Style (Mushroom and Swiss) and the Bacon Cheese Burger. The Brunch burger is outstanding, but an enormous meal. We always get fries with ours as well. If you prefer a more healthy option, they offer turkey burgers too.

They make all the food to order, ensuring it's hot and fresh; this takes a bit more time, but it’s well worth the wait. They provide both indoor and outdoor seating. You won't want to miss stopping at Church Street Depot!

The Scotsman Public House

Interior photo of the beautiful Scotsman Public House in Waynesville, NC.  Photo shows a darker pub like environment with dark wood stain, and burgandy curtains.  The photo shows a portion of the bar and dining tables.

We’ve had the pleasure of dining at The Scotsman Public House several times. It’s a local and visitor's favorite hangout. Just a short stroll from Main Street. This cozy pub has a welcoming, laid-back vibe that makes you feel right at home. The restaurant and bar are beautiful, and probably the best looking restaurant in Waynesville.

The food here is consistently excellent, and we’ve worked our way through quite a few standout dishes. The smash burgers are juicy and flavorful, easily among the best in town. We’re also big fans of the shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and the indulgent saucy pig fries, which are perfect for sharing - heads up though, that beer sauce is spicy!

 The cheese curds are crispy, gooey, and very addictive, and the pork chops Dianne is a hearty, savory option when you're craving something a little more refined.

To wash it all down, a perfectly poured Guinness is a compliment, and The Scotsman pours it right. They also have a great selection of other beers, cocktails, and whiskeys if you're looking to try something new.

Between the great food, friendly service, and lively yet relaxed atmosphere (often with live music), The Scotsman Public House has become a must-visit for us—and we highly recommend it to anyone exploring Waynesville.

The Red Fox

Exterior photo of the Red Fox Restaurant Waynesville, NC showing the rustic wood exterior that resembles a mountain cabin.

One of Waynesville’s newer culinary gems, The Red Fox restaurant, is brought to us by the same folks behind Boojum Brewing Company—so you know it’s going to be good. Near downtown, the Red Fox blends elevated comfort food with a cozy, rustic atmosphere that feels welcoming for both locals and visitors.

We've had the chance to eat here a few times, and we've enjoyed it each time. The cowboy tacos boast bold flavors and are great for sharing or as a single meal. We’re also big fans of the creamy and savory pimento cheese, the perfectly crispy fried pickles, and the comforting shrimp & gouda grits, which are rich, cheesy, and downright delicious.

Overall, the menu and food seems to have a southwestern flare.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter but still packed with flavor, the Sapphire Salmon is a standout healthy and tasty option. And to top it all off, the Red Fox offers a full bar, so you can pair your meal with a craft cocktail, a local Boojum brew, or a glass of wine.

With its warm ambiance, creative menu, and solid drink selection, The Red Fox makes for a great night out in Waynesville.

Jukebox Junction - Bethel

Jukebox Junction near Waynesville, NC - Photo shows a blue and white decorated dining room, resembling a 50s diner.  There are bench seats for customers to sit in, and 50s era decor covers the walls.

Just a short drive from Waynesville in the charming small community of Bethel, Jukebox Junction is a classic diner-style restaurant that takes you back in time—in a great way. With its retro vibes, friendly service, and no-fuss comfort food, it’s a local favorite.

We’ve eaten here a number of times, and we keep coming back for one main reason: the burgers. They’re juicy, flavorful, and they offer a great selection. But if we had to pick a favorite, it would be the patty melt—grilled to perfection with melty cheese and onions on toasted texas style bread. It’s everything a diner patty melt should be, and then some.

They also have great daily specials, including meat loaf, country fried steak, and even spaghetti.

The menu at Jukebox Junction offers plenty of other diner staples as well, from sandwiches and hot dogs to classic sides and milkshakes. It’s the kind of place where you walk in hungry and leave happy and full.  Oh, and you'll probably leave humming a tune from the old-school jukebox as well.

If you're exploring the countryside around Waynesville or headed toward Pisgah National Forest for some outdoor adventure, Jukebox Junction  makes for a perfect stop to fuel up and enjoy some good, honest country cooking.

Bogart's Restaurant

One of the most popular places in town for years, especially with locals is Bogart's Restaurant and Tavern, just outside of downtown Waynesville NC.   Bogart's offers a number of menu items in their large bear themed restaurant, but their specialty is steaks.

One of the things we enjoy about Bogart's is that it's always consistently good, and has been for years.  You can venture in for a good steak, and expect it to be cooked correctly,  flavorful, tender, and of course juicy.   I mean, that's how a steak should be right?

Besides steaks, they offer many different sandwiches, entrees, salads, and appetizers. There burgers are excellent as well.  

Our favorites include: Fried pickles, Fried Green Tomatoes, any of their burgers, Smothered Chicken, Trout, and any of their steaks. Be sure to try the Carrot Cake or Peanut Butter Landslide as well!

The restaurant is large, and offers seating for larger parties, which is nice. The atmosphere is friendly and casual, especially if you like black bears who decorate the whole restaurant (our kids always enjoyed finding them).   

Bogart's again is very popular, and often very busy. So you'll want to be patient, or get there early.

Great food and service with a hometown feel and lots of variety. Bogart's is one of the best restaurants Waynesville NC has to offer. They also have live music on select nights.

Haywood Smokehouse

If you love BBQ, Haywood smokehouse should be at the top of your list. Haywood Smokehouse is considered to be one of the best smokehouse restaurants in the south, by many visitors and locals. They do BBQ the right way, and top it with their award-winning rubs and sauces.  

They are in an old home, in the historic Hazelwood section of Waynesville, NC, and provide excellent food, in a clean, comfortable and casual location. They offer all of your traditional smokehouse items, including brisket, pulled pork bbq, ribs, bbq beans, Brunswick stew, and much more. In addition, tons of sauce options and outstanding sides, such as mac and cheese, fries, sweet potato fries, and more, are available.   

They even have a pulled pork sandwich with Mac and cheese on top AND BBQ tacos ... is your mouth watering yet?

Did we mention their desserts are "off the chain"? Yep, banana pudding, blueberry cobbler and pecan pie. Absolutely delicious.  

We normally stop in and just pick up a to go order of pulled pork, some brisket and sides. Always delicious and consistent. Some of the best smokehouse BBQ we've had anywhere, and we've eaten a lot in North Carolina as NC natives.

The Buttered Biscuit - Breakfast available

If you are looking for an awesome breakfast, full portions, at crazy reasonable prices, you'll want to visit The Buttered Biscuit. They offer a wonderful selection of items, and the biggest biscuits we've ever seen or eaten in our lives.

They offer all of your traditional items, including French toast, big pancakes, sandwiches and omelettes. Regardless, get the biscuits and gravy, as it's a signature dish for them, and absolutely scrumptious.

Our favorite menu items include: French Toast, Eggs with corn beef hash and biscuits and gravy, the omelettes, and the chocolate chip pancakes. The coffee is super good too, which for us, matters a lot.

You'll find the food quality to be very high, and the service fast and top-notch. The owners are there in the restaurant working themselves, making sure things are up to their high expectations.  

The Buttered Biscuit isn't crazy fancy, and that's just fine with us, as they put their effort into the food, which is what matters. You won't find a better breakfast anywhere else in Waynesville.

Unless you get their super early, or visit on a weekend, you'll want to expect a wait. They are very popular, and for good reason. But trust us, the wait is SO worth it.

Furman's Burger Bar - Waynesville Location Closed

Furman's Burger Bar was the newest burger spot in Waynesville, NC and specialized in smash burgers with a number of great menu options. Their Waynesville location closed in 2024, however their Canton, NC location remains open.

Kanini's

We're surprised, but many visitors don't know about this hidden gem. Fortunately, those of us that are local do.  

Kanini's offers Frozen Meals, dinners to go, catering and lunch dining. For this article, we're just covering their lunch dining offerings. They do not offer dinner service.

Kanini's focuses on providing high-quality food that is made from scratch.  All meals are prepared using fresh and high-quality ingredients. They also strive to use organic and locally grown ingredients as well.

They offer a menu that changes often, with something different and new all the time.  They often have various sandwiches, quesadillas, bowls, salads, chicken salad, soups, desserts and more.  They also serve locally made Waynesville Soda Jerks products, which are flat out amazing.

The best part? Nearly everything on their menu is made from fresh and healthy ingredients.  Just being honest, healthy options in Waynesville is hard to find.

Head over during lunch, and give Kanini's a try. Just be aware, they stay busy, and the food is made to order, so getting your food can take a bit. We promise, it's worth the wait!

Watami

Watami Waynesville NC

Watami is an excellent and casual Asian restaurant located in downtown Waynesville. They offer a wide selection of Asian hot food options, including: Noodles, Thai, and Chinese dishes. But, where they excel is Sushi.   

Watami has a wide selection of Sushi options, including cooked and raw Sushi. Their fish is fresh and high grade as well. All Sushi is made to order by their Sushi Chef's right in the open in their large Sushi kitchen.  

We've tried nearly all of their rolls, and they are all delicious. Our favorites are the Blue Ridge Roll (imagine that...) and the Magic Mango Roll. Their Spicy Kani Salad is fantastic as well.

Their hot food options are great as well, with our favorites being their noodle soups, Pad Thai, and General Tso's chicken.

Watami provides lots of seating options, especially with their new dining area that opened next door. They also now have outdoor seating, which we really enjoy on a warm day.

Give Watami in Waynesville a try, especially if you love Sushi, you won't be disappointed.

The Cuban Guy

If you love authentic Cuban food, don't miss out on The Cuban Guy.  One of our favorite places to grab lunch in downtown Waynesville.

The Cuban guy has a pretty standard menu, and a number of daily specials.   The best way to see what they are serving is to visit their Facebook page.   We have been eating at the Cuban Guy for years now, and have tried many of the items on the menu, and they are all delicious.

Our favorite menu items are: The Cuban Sandwich, Picadillo, Ham Croquettes, and their Mojo pork bowl.   We love their specials as well.  They have pastries, great coffee, and cuban drinks as well.

They offer both indoor and outdoor dining, in a small but comfortable location.  The business is family owned, and the owners and staff are super friendly, and make your dining experience top notch.  

Stop by, you won't find better authentic Cuban food anywhere else!

Breweries and Taprooms with Great Food

These are all primarily breweries and taprooms, serving their own local craft beers. Now, we don't normally associate breweries with great food, but these are the exception. Both of these offer great beer and food as well.

Boojum Taproom

Pet Friendly

Boojum Taproom Waynesville NC

Located just off Main Street in downtown Waynesville, Boojum Brewing Company is one of our favorite spots to kick back with a great meal and a local craft beer. As Waynesville locals, we've dined here many times and can honestly say it offers one of the best combinations of flavorful food, creative brews, and a relaxed mountain-town vibe.

The menu at Boojum goes well beyond your typical brewery fare. Some of our personal favorites include the Whistle Pigs, the crispy and addictive green bean fries, and the Caesar salad with grilled salmon, which is both fresh and filling. The Boojum Burger is another must-try: juicy, stacked high, and full of bold flavor.

If you're in the mood for something a little more elevated, the maple bourbon salmon is outstanding, and the So Gouda Chicken lives up to its name—rich, savory, and packed with flavor. And if you're a fan of truffle fries, theirs are absolutely top-notch—crispy, aromatic, and highly snackable.

Yes, Boojum is a brewery and taproom, but their food is levels above traditional bar and tavern food. It's some of the best in Waynesville. 

Of course, we always pair our meal with a Boojum brew, whether it's a tried-and-true favorite or something new from their rotating taps. They also offer a full bar with wine and craft cocktails if beer’s not your thing.

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, and the patio is pet-friendly, making it a great place to enjoy a sunny afternoon or a cool mountain evening with your furry friend by your side.

Many restaurants in Waynesville are closed on Mondays, but not Boojum. They make for a great Monday choice if you're looking to dine out.

Whether you're visiting Waynesville or you’re a local looking for great food and drink in a fun, casual setting, Boojum Brewing Company is a must-visit. Maybe we'll see you there!

Frog Level Brewing

Frog Level Brewing photo, showing their back deck and outdoor seating area that is creekside.

Located in the heart of Waynesville’s historic Frog Level district, Frog Level Brewing is more than just a great place to grab a local craft beer—it’s also home to some seriously tasty food. 

With its relaxed atmosphere, creekside setting, and spacious indoor and outdoor seating, it's a local favorite spot to relax and enjoy a meal. Bonus: the outdoor patio is pet-friendly, so your four-legged friends are welcome to join in the fun.

The menu offers a mix of pub-style favorites and creative bites that pair perfectly with their beers. We’re especially hooked on their giant soft pretzel—warm, salty, and perfect for sharing. The brisket sandwich is smoky and flavorful, and the smashburgers are juicy, classic, and satisfying every time. The shrimp tacos are another standout, fresh and zesty with just the right amount of kick.

Whether you're coming for the food, the beer, the live music, or the community vibe, Frog Level Brewing is one of those places that just feels like home—especially on a sunny afternoon by the creek with a cold pint in hand.

Local Food Trucks

Dinas Tacos - Our Top Pick

Photo of Dinas Tacos which is a white food trailer with the menu on the left front.

If you're craving authentic street-style tacos and Salvadoran favorites, look no further than Dina’s Taco Truck, a true hidden gem in Waynesville. Most days, you can find Dina and her truck set up in the Lowe’s parking lot, but we always recommend checking her Facebook page for the most up-to-date location and hours—she does move around occasionally for events and special pop-ups.

The menu may be small, but it’s packed with flavor. Dina serves up fresh, made-to-order tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and traditional Salvadoran pupusas—a real treat that’s hard to find anywhere else in the area. Everything is made with love, and it shows in the flavor.

Some of our absolute favorites include her classic tacos (especially chicken and carne asada), the cheesy, comforting pupusas, and the unique potato tacos, which are crispy, satisfying, and full of flavor. The homemade salsas are the perfect finishing touch.

Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or looking to try something new, Dina’s Taco Truck is absolutely worth tracking down. It's casual, affordable, and one of the most delicious bites you’ll find in Waynesville.

Jose's Taco Truck

The most popular and well known, and maybe the original food truck for Waynesville, is Jose's Taco Truck, which is located near the Ingles on Russ Avenue.  

Jose's has the best tacos in town, and are authentic street style Mexican tacos as well. Besides Tacos, they have Quesadillas, Burritos, and Tortas. Meats can be Steak, Chicken, Al Pastor, Chorizo, Pulled Pork, and Beef Tongue. They also have amazing fish tacos as well.

Rice and other items are available on the side, and they green sauce that comes with your food is incredible.  They also have a great assortments of ice cold drinks in coolers, including Frescas (which you must try).

We love grabbing lunch at Jose's Taco Truck, the food is great, and Jose and his family are just super nice folks.  Give them a try!

Gigis

While technically a food truck, but parked in a permanent location in the Jonathan Creek area of Waynesville, Gigis is a popular local lunch spot, that serves a variety of items hot, fresh and delicious.

Gigis has a beach theme, with a covered porch eating area, allowing for a food truck like experience, with outdoor sit down dining.   They offer daily specials in addition to their large menu of burgers, sandwiches, subs, salads.  They have hot dogs as well.

Our favorites include: the burgers, the taco salad, and the cuban sandwich.   Sides are available as well, including: Fries, Tater Tots (Larry's favorite) and Onion Rings.  

Gigis is a friendly and welcoming place, that serves great food, with a local flare.   We highly recommend them, and visit often!

Appalachian Smoke

Update 8/11/2022 - We visited Appalachian Smoke recently and absolutely loved it. The owners are supper friendly, and make some excellent BBQ!

We tried the fresh lemonade, the BBQ Brisket Nachos, and the pulled pork sandwich with Mac and Cheese, and BBQ Beans. The brisket and pulled pork were moist, and very flavorful. We've had lots of BBQs in our years, and this was some of the best. We look forward to going back soon.

Appalachian Smoke sets up in various locations around Waynesville and Haywood county. The best way to see their current menu and schedule is to check out their Facebook page.  

They serve mouth watering pork, chicken, brisket and ribs, all slow smoked and accompanied by their own award-winning bbq sources, and home made fresh daily sides. Sides include BBQ beans, mac and cheese, collard greens, slaw, and cornbread salad.

Their feature dishes include: BBQ Sundae, Brisket Nachos and a Jumbo Loaded BBQ Potato.   

Woof Street Bistro

Woof Street Bistro is another food truck that's on our hot list to check, but we haven't tried yet.  BUT ... per their Facebook page, they are "Serving Haywood County food so good it will have you howling!".   We don't mind howling a little!

You can follow them and find their location, and current menu on their Facebook page.  

As with most food trucks, their menu varies, but to give you a bit of taste of what they offer from a recent menu, they have: Burger Sliders, Alligator Tacos, Smoked Chicken Tacos, Chili dogs, salads, and crinkle fries.  

One item in particular that looks interesting are the Kryto Treats, described as "Deep fried boudin balls topped with cajun remoulade and ritz cracker crumbles!"

They had my attention at beef sliders and tacos. We look forward to giving them a try soon and will update this article once we have!

More things to do near Waynesville, NC

Waynesville and its surrounding areas are full of great things to see and do. For more information, be sure to check out our Waynesville NC Town Guide and our new website Explore Waynesville!

About the author

Larry Deane is the co-owner and voice behind Blue Ridge Mountain Life, a travel resource built from more than two decades of exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains firsthand. A Western North Carolina local, Larry has spent 20+ years hiking the trails, visiting small towns, chasing waterfalls, and documenting life in the mountains he calls home.

Alongside his wife Jenn, he created Blue Ridge Mountain Life to share their real-world experiences with others who love — or are just discovering — the Blue Ridge. Larry is a seasoned travel writer, photographer, and videographer with a background in journalism, and his work reaches more than 500,000 mountain lovers each month. Whether he's deep in Pisgah National Forest or strolling Main Street in a mountain town, you can count on Larry to give you the inside scoop from someone who’s truly been there.


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