Mount Mitchell Cafe & Eatery

This restaurant, suggested by a local member of our crew, is new and primarily serves tourists visiting the highest point east of the Mississippi. Pros: a limited menu listing really good food and generous portions, terrific views from the tables closed to the east windows, fast and friendly service, nice-looking decor, excellent interior lighting, close in parking. The not so good: even on the region's hottest day, temperatures at nearly 7000 ft are much cooler, yet the multiple ceiling fans are set on high speed that sent some of us back to the equipment van to grab jackets, the seating is solid, unforgiving, uncomfortable, steel, it's extra noisy since all surfaces are hard and really reflect sound, diners pay their tabs directly to waitstaff via mini-computer terminals, but the wait

Still needs improvements, but we liked it. Beautiful view is to be expected (lounge area to the right when you walk in has an educational section and Adirondack chairs to relax in). You order when you first enter, then they give you a number, and you go into the dining area and pick your table. The atmosphere in the dining area needs decorating (quilts, Appalachian art, ?). The food was good, but be prepared to pay $ 15-20 for a sandwich and 1 side (May be able to share).

Service was fast, friendly and attentive. The food arrived quickly and was fresh and tasty. They actually had vegetarian options which was great for us non-meat eaters. The prices were as expected, but the portions were perfect. Cobbler, yes please!!! Lots of fruit and a nice scoop of ice cream. Open May-October

I was so hungry I didn’t get a photo of the food but our server got a photo of us! She was super sweet, food was delicious and large portioned! I was highly pleased! I had the chopped steak entree & my husband had the pulled pork entree. We both had there smashing fruity lemonade that we couldn’t get enough of. It was great! My sides were coleslaw and potato salad his were sweet potato fries and tomato bisque soup!

been too long without a restaurant up there. watch out for fresh jalapeño in chili.. woke me up.. food tastes better at higher elevation. expecisly after mt Craig hike.. no extra charge for chili as side.. order when walk in door and get a number. low key relaxed and friendly.. eat the view.. need to camp there now.. .