Explore Local Gems

Alpen - Don't let their website hide this gem! The view is great!
Famous Brick Oven - Great pizza with activities for kiddos. They have GF pizza options, too.
Holy Smokes BBQ - Very reasonable prices and good food with more great views while dining.
Fred's Backside Deli - If you need it, it is likely you can find it at Fred's. The Deli downstairs is solid; breakfast buffet on the weekends is quite the spread!
First Chair Coffee Shop - good coffee and close by!
Whistle Pig Pub - great drinks and the owners are awesome - they have limited (but delicious) food.

Stonewalls - reservations fill up fast; great food and reasonable prices.
Banner Elk Cafe and Tavern - serves all mealtimes with typical tavern/cafe food; great outdoor space and is dog friendly
Uncle Lee's - good sushi at the base of the mountain
Luna - great Thai food (pro tip: if you have an allergy, order online only)
Puerto Nuevo

Cardinal has the BEST GF fried chicken ever and is well-known for their hamburgers