A Favorite in Lake Lure Since 2022
The Appalachia Restaurant at the Lodge on Lake Lure has been one of our favorites since it opened in the summer of 2022. As the name suggests, it sits in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, right in Lake Lure, North Carolina. Lake Lure has been like a second home to me, my family has had a place on the lake since before I was born, so finding a new standout restaurant here was a big deal.
From Small-Town Dining to “Greenville Good”
Growing up, dining around Lake Lure meant a handful of local spots, not bad, but definitely not “fancy.” So when The Appalachia opened, we were thrilled. To put it in perspective, I describe the food as “Greenville Good”, a nod to our hometown of Greenville, South Carolina, which is now a true foodie destination. In other words, The Appalachia brings “big-city” dining quality to our cozy lake town.
Lakefront Location & Stunning Views
Both the lodge and the restaurant sit right on the lake, offering sweeping views of Lake Lure’s main channel and the surrounding mountains. If you time your reservation just right, you’ll catch the sunset dipping behind the peaks, an unforgettable dining backdrop.
Seasonal Menus & Locally Sourced Ingredients
The food is consistently excellent, with menus that shift throughout the year to showcase local ingredients. From appetizers to entrées to desserts, everything we’ve tried has been spot on. The kitchen strikes a balance between refined and approachable, making it perfect for both special occasions and casual lake nights.
Cocktails, Beer & Wine
The beverage program deserves its own spotlight. Cocktails are inventive and fun, my favorite is their “525,” a smoked old fashioned that has become a menu staple. My wife’s favorite was a seasonal drink they called Fiore e Pepe, which I’m going to try and reproduce soon at home. The beer and wine selection is well-curated, and the staff does a great job recommending pairings that suit both your palate and your meal.
Attentive Service in All Seasons
Whether the dining room is quiet or bustling, the staff always manages to provide attentive, upbeat service. We’ve been impressed by their consistency, it really adds to the experience.
Atmosphere: Upscale Yet Lake Casual
Inside, the décor channels cozy lodge vibes, with warm wood accents and those expansive lake views visible from nearly every seat. In good weather, outdoor seating takes the experience up a notch. For boaters, there’s even a dock, so you can arrive right from the water.
The dress code is relaxed: you’ll see everything from jackets and dresses to flip-flops and swim trunks. It’s elevated dining, but still feels approachable.
When to Visit & How to Reserve
During peak season, I recommend making reservations, though they do accept walk-ins. One bonus: since the restaurant is part of the Lodge, they’re open seven days a week and nearly year-round, a rarity in Lake Lure.
Our Recommendation
In short, we highly recommend The Appalachia Restaurant. With its stunning location, seasonal menus, creative cocktails and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a true gem in Lake Lure. Whether you’re a local, a longtime visitor like me, or a first-timer, this is a dining experience you won’t want to miss.
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