The Waterfront Restaurant in North Carolina That Locals Keep to Themselves

Few things are as refreshing in the summertime as enjoying a hearty meal — a burger and fries, and maybe a beer or two, right next to the water. But finding a waterfront restaurant in North Carolina, especially in the mountainous city of Asheville, can feel like a tall order. That's exactly the void Creekside Taphouse fills, though. Just as the name implies, this creek-side restaurant is a quirky, local favorite where you can sip your ice-cold drink with your feet in the water while you wait for your food to be brought to the table. It doesn't get much better when the temperature begins to climb up and up, but somehow, this restaurant has remained a hidden gem. Here's what you need to know.

A Waterfront Dining Experience Worth Discovering

Once you find Creekside Tavern along the eastern stretches of Asheville, it's easy to see how one of the best hidden restaurants in North Carolina fits into the artsy culture. Visitors pass under a cow sitting in a canoe on the rooftop as they enter the restaurant, but it's the back patio that truly shines. With ample umbrellas for sunny days and picnic tables leading right up to the creek, this restaurant maximizes its outdoor space. Here, you can sit near the water and listen to it gurgle and run, making it a tranquil setting for any day of the week — except for Mondays when the restaurant is closed, of course.

What Makes This Restaurant a Local Favorite

As one of the most scenic restaurants in North Carolina, Creekside Taphouse offers far more than American classics like burgers, wings, pizza, and salads. It's a small-town, community spot. From events and sports games to live music and supporting neighborhood kids working after school, this restaurant offers a slice of local community and an air of familiarity. Guests also love the consistency of the food and joyful service here, too. Locals come frequently and know their servers by name. This isn't a spot to just stop in, but a restaurant where you can truly experience the supportive network of people and restaurants that make up Asheville's resilient spirit.

What to Order When You Visit

Setting and community aside, this restaurant with a view in North Carolina offers an extensive menu of classic American dishes. While you can't go wrong with any of the pizzas, and they are frequently praised, opt for a sandwich for a quintessential summer afternoon by the creek. The smokehouse burger is topped with American cheese, bacon, pulled barbecue pork with homemade sauce, and even a fried onion ring. It's a delicious combination of textures and flavors — crunchy, chewy, sweet and savory, all in one bite — that can't be missed. For those who lean toward greener options, the smoked salmon salad is another excellent choice, perfectly complemented by a maple vinaigrette dressing. Portions tend to be hearty, but not huge. Because Creekside is located in Asheville, customers can, of course, expect an extensive, rotating list of local craft brews to choose from, too.

So, the next time you're in Asheville and want a slice of real, local life and an impeccable burger by the creek, head to Creekside Taphouse. It's a beloved joint that continues to thrive whether you're stopping in for one day or every day.