Restaurant and Coffee Guide

Hot Springs has a number of places to eat. These are our favorites!

*Vegetarian and Vegan options available when marked with *

*Spring Creek Tavern-- $$-- lunch, supper, drinks, pet-friendly if sitting outdoors

The Tavern is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. It has extensive outdoor seating that is overlooking Spring Creek as well as having indoor seating for cooler weather. They serve “American fare” such as burgers, fish and chips, pizzas, craft beer, and jalapeno poppers (my personal favorite!).

*Iron Horse Station-- $$$-- lunch, supper, drinks

The Iron Horse is a step up from the Tavern, with cloth napkins and more menu options. They have grilled steaks, penne pasta with tofu, baby back ribs, and quite a few salads. We recommend the salmon filet and some nice wine. Also, don’t miss out on their sweet potato fries which are undeniably their most delicious side dish!

*Smoky Mountain Diner--$--breakfast, lunch, coffee

The Diner is amazingly affordable with friendly wait staff and decent food. It serves up all of the southern classics, and also has vegetarian selections for those who don’t eat meat. It is one of the only place to buy coffee before 10am in Hot Springs, which is also a reason to go there. No alcohol is served here.

*Big Pillow Brewing and Taqueria—$$$—Incredible tacos and beer brewed onsite

Big Pillow, named after an exciting whitewater rapid on the French Broad river, offers beer and tacos that are just as exciting as a rafting trip! No lifejacket required. The tacos are made fresh on site by Grey Eagle Taqueria but it all looks like and works as one business so we are listing them together here.
All of their tacos are great, including the two vegan selections, and their kale salad will make you dance with joy. So good! The burrito is the best bang for your buck. Every single beer is great. Try the Appalachian Fog IPA! They often host live music on Saturdays and open mic on Wednesdays. Their large outdoor dining area and spacious indoor space are great for groups, mingling, and families. Kids are welcome in all areas with supervision. We are big fans! Say hello to Chris and Amy, the owners, and their friendly staff! 

Vaste Riviere--$$$--fine wine, lunch, dinner, gourmet groceries

This is the newest restaurant/grocer on the scene in Hot Springs! If you go to dine, they serve things like cured meat platters, duck soup, and house-made pimiento cheese sandwiches. They have a grocery area featuring many European-style gourmet items such as salami, cheese, handmade fresh pasta, and some frozen organic vegetables and such. They also have high-end (and sometimes organic) meats and sausage.

ArtiSun Gallery and Cafe--$$$--coffee, ice cream, smoothies, baked goods (and cool local arts and crafts)

The ArtiSun Gallery serves locally roasted coffee and a selection of pastries. After a day of rafting or hiking, it is also enticing for its locally made ice cream (deeeeelicious!) and fresh blended smoothies. In winter, my favorite is their Golden Milk turmeric drink. In summer try the iced chai!

Enjoy any of these treats while browsing arts and crafts from artisans in the Hot Springs area. The owners, Phillip and Pascha, are incredible forces in Hot Springs, always bringing out the best in people. Be sure to say hi to them and their amazing staff!

The Laurel River Store--$$--coffee, tea, ice cream (and local arts and crafts)

The Laurel River Store is a 5 minute drive over the mountain and out of Hot Springs proper, but the coffee is superior to the Diner’s coffee and I find it’s charming quirkiness unique and attractive. Be sure to check out the local arts and crafts sold inside, and say “Hello!” to Jemima, the wonderful woman who will no doubt be behind the counter.

Bluff Mountain Outfitters-- $$$-- organic coffee, snacks, dry goods

This shop caters to Appalachian Trail hikers, offering dry goods such as popcorn, energy bars, cereals, and more. Here is where to buy your organic half in half in town☺

SaraJo’s Station—$$—coffee, frozen bagels, breads, pot pies etc

The coolest gas station you’ve ever been to! They open at 7, serve GOOD hot coffee, and have arts and crafts and locally made food and beer to buy as well as the normal gas station items like chips. SaraJo, the owner, is a very cool lady and longtime Hot Springs resident. Say hi to her and her staff!