These 4 NC spots made Yelp’s list of the top 100 US restaurants

North Carolina’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes, from the rolling Appalachian Mountains to the sandy shores of the Outer Banks. This year, Yelp’s list of the top 100 restaurants in the country shines a spotlight on some of the Tar Heel State’s most beloved eateries, ranging from an authentic Mediterranean kitchen in High Point to a cozy gastropub in Greensboro.

The four establishments reflect the rich tapestry of flavors and cultures that make North Carolina a food lover’s paradise.

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Here’s some additional information on each spot, including location, food, scenery, reviews, and pricing.

Haywood Smokehouse, Dillsboro

• The Ranking: No. 11 in the country.
• The Location: 403 Haywood Rd, Dillsboro, NC 28725. The restaurant also has locations in Waynesville and Franklin.
• The Food: Specializing in Texas-style barbecue, Haywood Smokehouse is renowned for its dry-rubbed meats, including brisket and ribs, slow-cooked to perfection. Their menu highlights include dry-rubbed ribs and a variety of house-made sauces.
• The Scenery: The ambiance is family-friendly and casual, perfect for a laid-back dining experience that emphasizes comfort and quality.
• The Reviews: Patrons frequently praise the quality of the barbecue, particularly noting the brisket’s flavor and tenderness. The ribs are often described as fall-off-the-bone tender.
• The Pricing: $$.

Photo courtesy of Haywood Smokehouse – Dillsboro via Facebook

Odeh’s Mediterranean Kitchen, High Point

• The Ranking: No. 43 in the country.
• The Location: 3805 Tinsley Dr, Ste 111, High Point, NC 27265.
• The Food: Odeh’s offers a taste of traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a personal touch from the Odeh family. Their menu features freshly ground spices from the Middle East, enhancing dishes like hummus, falafel, kabobs, kafta, and gyro. Weekly specials also include Italian- and American-style dishes, showcasing their culinary diversity.
• The Scenery: Descriptions suggest a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere that mirrors the warmth of Mediterranean hospitality.
• The Reviews: Patrons highlight the authentic flavors and variety, particularly praising the Beef & Chicken Shawarma platter for its bold and fresh spices. The restaurant’s commitment to traditional preparation methods has earned it a beloved spot among locals.
• The Pricing: $$.

Photo courtesy of Odeh’s Mediterranean Kitchen via Facebook

Freeman’s Grub & Pub, Greensboro

• The Ranking: No. 49 in the country.
• The Location: 1820 Spring Garden St. Greensboro, NC 27403.
• The Food: Freeman’s serves an eclectic menu of international comfort food. Notable dishes include the Chopped Brisket sandwich, Buffalo Fried Chicken, and Crispy Brussels Sprouts. Their brisket (which is smoked for 16 hours) and their house-made blackberry barbecue sauce are both particularly celebrated.
• The Scenery: The gastropub’s ambiance is likely cozy and welcoming, fitting the profile of a place where quality and comfort are priorities.
• The Reviews: Customers rave about the quality of the brisket and the unique flavors of the blackberry barbecue sauce, emphasizing the homemade, fresh quality of the food.
• The Pricing: $$.

Photo courtesy of Yelp NC Triad via Facebook

The Table, Asheboro

• The Ranking: No. 54 in the country.
• The Location: 139 S Church St, Asheboro, NC 27203.
• The Food: The Table offers a simple, clean, and elevated take on American classics, featuring sandwiches, grain bowls, and coffee. Popular items include house-made quiches and a Grits and Greens bowl, reflecting a farm-style bakery cafe’s charm.
• The Scenery: Situated in a repurposed old office building, The Table boasts a farm-style design, contributing to its status as a hidden gem in downtown Asheboro.
• The Reviews: Patrons appreciate the hospitality and the sense of community at The Table, often mentioning the warm welcome they receive.
• The Pricing: $$.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The Cardinal & Pine staff.