If you seek elegance and masterful craftsmanship in your cuisine, visit the world-famous fine-dining restaurants in Highlands, North Carolina. From the moment you step inside these beautiful places you’ll know that work ethic is a No. 1 priority from the service, to the ambiance, and yes — the food — which is unforgettable.

1. On The Verandah
gregory c/TripAdvisor
At this elegant restaurant, you are ensured a delicious meal and a gorgeous view overlooking Lake Sequoyah. Discover more at On The Verandah’s website.
Since 1981 the staff provides the best international cuisine and seafood entrees.
On The Verandah, 1536 Franklin Rd, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
Carl K/TripAdvisor
Locally-grown produce and herbs fresh from the garden bring out the best in the entrees, such as this North Carolina trout with lemon butter.
2. primary restaurant + bar
primary restaurant + bar
This unique place serves a wide variety of upscale lunch and dinner options. For more information, visit primary restaurant + bar’s website.
By the looks of this colossal shrimp cocktail with house-made remoulade sauce, it is evident that the rest of the menu is just as polished.
Primary Restaurant & Bar, 310 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
primary restaurant + bar
From burgers to crispy fried duck wings, and steaks, there is something for everyone with an eclectic twist.
3. Wild Thyme Gourmet
Wild Thyme Gourmet/Facebook
Offering American cuisine with an Asian influence, be pampered by the warm and courteous service. Read more on Wild Thyme Gourmet’s Facebook page
A popular appetizer is the imaginative Crabmeat Fillo purses.
Wild Thyme Gourmet, 343-D Main St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
Wild Thyme Gourmet/Facebook
This luscious dinner entree is a hand-cut filet wrapped in love with homemade pimento cheese, topped with hand-cut sliced and battered onions over garlic mashed potatoes.
4. Ristorante Paoletti
Ristorante Paoletti/Facebook
Read about the interesting history of this beloved family-owned restaurant on Ristorante Paoletti’s website
One of the small plates offered is Maine Lobster Piccata with fried capers.
Ristorante Paoletti, 440 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
Ristorante Paoletti/Facebook
Or try the simple linguini with shrimp and garlic - well actually nothing is simple here.
5. Lakeside Restaurant
Lakeside Restaurant/Facebook
Celebrating its 34th season, enjoy a unique dining experience at this lovely eatery. For more information, visit Lakeside Restaurant’s website
This appetizer is more like a meal with smoked pork belly and cast-iron seared scallops finished in a balsamic reduction.
Lakeside Restaurant, 531 Smallwood Ave, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
Lakeside Restaurant/Facebook
For reservations call 828-526-9419.
6. Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar
Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar/Facebook
The unforgettable eatery offers handcrafted wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and cast-iron sandwiches. See more on Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar’s Facebook page
Keep your eyes open for the house specials, such as this Bear Shadow Garden Vegetable Lasagna.
Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar, 465 Main St Box 2130, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar/Facebook
7. Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro
Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro/Facebook
After 27 years, if you haven't enjoyed a meal at this exquisite restaurant, it's time to go. For more information, visit Wolfgangs Restaurant and Wine Bistro’s Facebook page.
Specials change weekly, including this hearty Braised pork Shank osso bucco over Yukon gold mashed potatoes with a sweet vegetable bundle.
Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro, 474 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741, USA
Wolfgang's Restaurant & Wine Bistro/Facebook

We hope you enjoy at least one of these world-famous fine-dining restaurants in Highlands, North Carolina.

And while you’re there, spend the night at this unique North Carolina Inn that will transport you straight to Europe.

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Highlands, NC 28741, USA