Locating the best brunch in Highlands, NC can feel like stumbling on a secret garden, where the air smells of coffee and biscuits, and every plate is a discovery. My first morning wandering Main Street, the town delighted me at each turn. The gentle hum of conversation drifted from charming porches, and the promise of buttermilk pancakes mixed with mountain air. Highlands doesn’t do brunch in a hurry; each spot makes you want to linger.
If your idea of brunch leans toward a golden croissant beside fresh berries, or maybe a plate piled high with savory, Southern classics, you’re in good hands here. This guide brings together local favorites—places where brunch tastes as good as the view and the staff greet you like a neighbor. Order strong coffee, bring your appetite, and let’s set the table for the Highlands brunch experience.
1. Madison’s
Tucked into the heart of town, Madison’s feels equal parts upscale and inviting. Sun filters into the dining room, catching the clink of glasses and easy laughter. One weekend, I settled at a shaded patio table above the waterfall, savoring how tranquility pairs with creative fare.
Farm-to-table cooking sets Madison’s apart. Their menu celebrates what’s in season, often harvested from their own gardens. You taste the mountain in every bite—especially in the fluffy omelet layered with local mushrooms and tangy goat cheese or the roasted sweet potatoes alongside just-baked bread.
If you’re after brunch that’s inventive without trying too hard, this is the place. Skip straight to the garden-inspired salads or anything featuring their just-picked herbs. Each bite at Madison’s perfectly captures the spirit of Highlands.
2. Mountain Fresh Grocery
Walking into Mountain Fresh Grocery feels more like joining the locals than being a visitor. The scent of baking bread mingles with the buzz around the open kitchen, where regulars chat while grabbing their favorites. One sunny brunch, I nabbed a table by the window and watched a chef flip pancakes with practiced ease.
This spot doubles as a gourmet market and a deli. The charm is in the blend—you might sip fresh-pressed juice while scanning shelves for artisan jams. The brunch menu goes big on comfort, with standout items like the scrambled egg croissant sandwich and the buttermilk biscuit platter. Everything feels thoughtfully prepared and generous.
If you crave classic Southern flavors with a modern, local twist, Mountain Fresh Grocery delivers every time.
3. Oak Steakhouse
Just up the winding road, Oak Steakhouse brings a dose of city polish to mountain brunching. Leather booths and stone fireplaces make this spot feel special without being stuffy. On a brisk morning, I lingered near the fireplace, fork in hand, as the sunlight danced through tall windows.
What sets Oak apart is a dedication to quality—think Certified Angus Beef and produce sourced nearby. Their brunch menu takes classics and upgrades them. Standouts include the truffle scrambled eggs—rich and earthy, paired with roasted potatoes—and the house-made granola parfait for lighter appetites.
For those who appreciate contemporary takes on comfort food, Oak’s style is both refined and hearty. Every plate feels like an invitation to slow down and enjoy the Highlands’ pace.
4. The Ruffed Grouse Restaurant
The first time I slipped into a corner booth at The Ruffed Grouse Restaurant, it felt like settling into a mountain retreat with a bit of old-world charm. The space is cozy but never cramped, the windows framing glimpses of Main Street bustle and hillside green. Sunday mornings here have a gentle pace and a knack for lingering conversations.
What sets The Ruffed Grouse apart is their inventive approach to Appalachian classics. The smoked trout scramble is bright and deeply savory, drawing on regional flavors you won’t forget soon. For something sweet, the lemon ricotta pancakes strike the ideal balance between creamy and airy, finished with seasonal berries.
This is a spot where brunch stretches out and every plate feels crafted with care. Local ingredients—and a touch of creativity—shine from start to finish.
5. Calders Coffee Cafe
Every trip through Highlands deserves a pause at Calders Coffee Cafe, especially when mornings call for something simple and satisfying. I’ve ducked in while Main Street shops wake up, always greeted by the inviting aroma of fresh, fair-trade coffee. The pace is relaxed, the kind that lets conversations wander over warm mugs.
What makes Calders stand out is its dedication to quality coffee and familiar comforts. Their New York bagels have the right chew, whether you go for classic cream cheese or something with a Southern twist like pimento spread. The avocado toast, topped with ripe tomatoes, is a popular staple for good reason—fresh, hearty, and flavorful.
For an easy brunch, Calders delivers friendly service, excellent brews, and thoughtful details in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do brunch spots usually open in Highlands, NC?
Most places start serving brunch between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. Some cafes even open as early as 7:00 a.m., making them perfect for early risers.
Do Highlands brunch restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, several local favorites provide vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Mountain Fresh Grocery and Madison’s both stand out for their inclusive menus.
Is it necessary to make a reservation for brunch in Highlands?
At popular places like Madison’s or Oak Steakhouse, a reservation is wise during weekends or peak seasons. Cafes like Calders Coffee Cafe are more relaxed and usually welcome walk-ins.
Can I find classic Southern brunch dishes in Highlands?
Absolutely. Brunch in Highlands often means fluffy biscuits, creamy grits, and seasonally-inspired omelets. Nearly every spot on Main Street celebrates regional flavors in their own way.
Are Highlands brunch spots family-friendly?
Most brunch destinations are perfect for families, with menus that include kid-friendly favorites and welcoming atmospheres for all ages.