Category Archives: Dining in Highlands NC and Cashiers NC

Breakfast at Mountain Fresh

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The secret of Mountain Fresh’s breakfast and lunch menus? Choice ingredients and owner J.T. Fields and his team’s attention to detail.

Brighten your morning with a hearty breakfast at Mountain Fresh Grocery.   Over the past three years Mountain Fresh has built a reputation for being one of the best lunch spots in town.  This winter they began providing delicious “take out” dinners and now they are expanding into the breakfast arena.

Enjoy “fresh,  hot-from-the-kitchen items” including eggs with a choice of grits or potatoes, toast or biscuit, and waffles, pancakes or French toast; muffins too.   Add fruit or your choice of meat: sausage patties, country ham, or bacon.   Put your egg on a biscuit with cheese, add sausage. Eat your eggs and bacon, then top your hot biscuit with gravy. You may want to try the biscuit with chicken. You decide.

Don’t you just love the aroma of fresh coffee brewing at Mountain Fresh?  Their coffees are organic, imported from around the world and are roasted on site.  MF takes pride in being Highlands’ only micro-roaster. They roast in small quantities as business demands.  You have the choice of single origin or blends.  Find the coffee that is right for you.

Grab a cup of coffee and enjoy your favorite blend as you wait just a short minute or two for your freshly prepared breakfast items.  Be sure to buy some coffee beans to take home so you can enjoy your favorite blend there too.  Enjoy espressos, lattes, cappuccinos.

Owner JT Fields and the Mountain Fresh team have worked diligently to create a breakfast menu that offers tasty, fresh foods and a fair price.  The sausage is made from a private recipe;  the fruit is fresh-straight from the produce department and the maple syrup is real maple syrup-no artificial preservatives.

The rooster’s strutting cause he is mighty proud of the delicious breakfasts that folks are enjoying here at Mountain Fresh.  As JT says, “We offer deceptively simple foods, always fresh, always tasty.  We offer you food just like we like to eat.  We hope you like it too.”

Mountain Fresh Grocery and Wine Market is located at 521 Main Street.  (828) 526-2400. Breakfast is served daily from 7:00 p.m.-10:30 a.m. and Sundays 8:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.

Evenings at Lakeside Restaurant

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Lakeside Restaurant is celebrating its 22nd season in Highlands. Owners, Marty Rosenfield and Donna Woods are once again excited to offer their Wednesday night benefit, “Evenings at Lakeside.” These unique events offer local non-profits a chance to fundraise in a delicious, fun manner. When making your reservation be sure and specify that you’re dining to support the non-profit. After a successful evening, the organization receives 15 percent of the gross sales from its supporters.

Upcoming Schedule:

Wednesday, June 15th- Scaly Mountain Women’s Club

Wednesday, July 6th- Literacy Council

Wednesday, July 13th- Highlands Playhouse

Wednesday, July 20th- REACH of Macon County

Wednesday, July 27th- The Bascom

Wednesday, August 3rd- Highlands-Cashiers Chamber Music Festival

Skyline Lodge Welcomes Chef Buzza

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Chef Jimmy Buzza and his wife, Lilly

Chef Jimmy Buzza, who’s made a name for himself at his restaurant in the Karling’s Inn in Florida, has opened the exciting Altitudes Restaurant at Skyline Lodge in Highlands.

For lunch and dinner, he’ll be offering some of the favorites from Karling’s Inn with some new choices for the Highlands crowd.

“We always are coming up with new items for the menu,” Chef Jimmy says. “I have a passion for creating new assortments of flavors and enticingly refreshing original appetizers, soups, and entrees, as well as desserts. We plan on creating special menu items weekly.”

Diners can expect to find appetizers like celery cake with chilled beet mousse, plump green cake with a wondrous texture and crunch with slight celery seed and garlic undertones, ruby-colored mousse frozen yogurt on the tongue — cool and creamy with a sweet-tart finish.

For entrees, consider The Florida grouper show-stopper with two jumbo shrimp poised on top of the nice-sized fillet presented in cream sauce studded with roasted red peppers, pine nuts and olives.

There’s the roast duck, a traditional German favorite and a Karling’s signature dish. The ample pool of thick, deeply flavored Montmorency cherry sauce doesn’t hold back with its red wine infusion. The duck skin is crunchy-crisp and the meat underneath retains a rich, succulent flavor.

A large golden, pumpkin-shaped puff pastry bowl cradles the traditional beef stroganoff. Strips of filet mignon are lavishly bathed in sour cream mushroom sauce.

For dessert, the cinnamon-scented apple strudel rises from a tender flaky pastry and the Key lime baked Alaska is a delicious throwback.

“We wanted to offer the Highlands a little taste of Europe and to add a little contrast to the southern cooking emphasis that the South is largely praised for with a German cuisine and dining experience,” Chef Jimmy explains. “Competition is not what it’s about; we have put our hearts and souls into this business and we hope people can experience the genuine mindset and passion we have for our business. Also we hope to introduce an experience that people have not yet tasted in German cuisine and the whole dining experience in general. In the end it’s all about giving the guest something original, produced with the highest of quality produce, and made fresh just for them.”

Altitudes Restaurant opens June 1st and will be open for lunch (something new for Skyline Lodge) from 11:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and for dinner from 4:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.  They will also be open for Sunday brunch beginning at 11:30 a.m..

Karlings Altitude Restaurant is located at Skyline Lodge. For more informaiton, give them a call at (828) 526-2121 or visit thm on the web at www.skylinelodge.com.

Sports Page Sandwich Shoppe

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Each spring as visitors return to Highlands for the season, they look for the changes that occurred during the winter months.

Bobby and Kristy Lewis of The Sports Page Sandwich Shoppe were especially busy this winter expanding and renovating their restaurant.  Now with seats for up to 105 customers, an expanded counter area covered with delicious desserts, and an expanded full commercial kitchen, Sports Page can certainly satisfy your lunch cravings.

Sports Page has been a Highlands lunchtime tradition for over 20 years. For years the Lewises had discussed an expansion to alleviate the wait for tables.

“Now, with 105 seats, we have room to seat everyone,” says Kristy. “Plus, the extra space means that customers can eat at a more relaxed pace instead of rushing because of people waiting for tables.”

Bobby adds, “Our expanded kitchen gives us the opportunity to expand our current offerings and make even fresher items for our customers. Daily lunch specials, new desserts, new soups…who knows what’s gonna come out of this kitchen? We are very excited. Like us on Facebook to follow our daily specials.”

Newly-renovated space with the same great food and the same fabulous service — that is what Sports Page is all about.  Whether you have a Goliath-sized appetite or are working to keep your girlish figure, the right menu item is here for you at Sports Page.  For example, their Pick Two Lunch Special includes your choice of two menu items from a cup of soup, a small garden salad, or a half-deli sandwich.  Looking for their most popular items? Try the fresh Chicken Salad made daily or the fabulous Reuben. Salad lovers delight in the Sports Page’s numerous salads.  Each of the more than 20 tasty sandwiches includes a side item and pickle.   And, if your appetite is big enough, try the loaded baked potato. It begins with a one-pound spud  loaded with your choice of up to three toppings. Yes, you can have a plain potato, too.  The Kids menu (also known as the Not-So-Hungry-Adults menu) is there to make a visit to Sports Page a truly family experience.   Be sure to plan to enjoy one of their mouth-watering desserts: cakes, pies, brownies, and cookies.

Did you know that Bobby and Kristy cater from the Sports Page?  They can help you with your next meal with a lot more than just sandwiches.  When you have a need for food at your spot, talk to Bobby and Kristy. They can make your life so much easier with their delicious, homemade items.

The Sports Page is open daily from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at 314 Main Street.  Plans are in the works for longer hours after Memorial Day, so check back.  Call them at (828) 526-3555 for hours, to go orders, or catering, you can also visit www.sportspagesandwichshoppe.com  Bring your friends for a meal everyone will enjoy.

 

Pancake Breakfast

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It must be Spring – the Scaly Mountain Women’s Club is serving up breakfast at the old Scaly School House.

Plan to bring your family and friends to Scaly Mountain for a scrumptious breakfast in the mountains at the newly remodeled  historic old Scaly School House.

These breakfasts are held on the fourth Saturday – May through October from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. This is the seventh year that the women in Scaly Mountain Women’s Club, who are known for their culinary skills, have sponsored these breakfasts.

The first breakfast is planned for May 28th. It will feature a full meal of piping hot homemade pancakes (with or without blueberries), patty sausage, coffee and juice in the historic old Scaly School House. It is on the corner of North Highway 106 and Buck Knob Road in downtown Scaly.

Guests will be treated to a seated meal either in the old school house or on the deck overlooking the mountains. Cost is $5.50 for adults and $3.50 for children. The breakfast will be served by club members or you may order takeout, if you choose.  Proceeds from the event provide scholarships for local students of all ages who wish to continue their post-secondary education. They also benefit area non-profit human service agencies that serve the Scaly Mountain community.

Come to all six of the breakfasts and join the best cooks in Western North Carolina for a morning of fun enjoying the friendly folks in Scaly Mountain and an unforgettable breakfast. For additional information, contact Susan Bankston, (828) 526-9952 or visit www.scalymountainwomensclub.org.

Dates for the Scaly Mountain Women’s Club breakfasts for 2011 are May 28th, June 25th, July 23rd, August 27th, September 24th and October 22nd.

 

Man vs. Beast

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Think your man enough to tackle the beast?? Bella’s Kitchen has a special offer for their customers. Order the Beast, a bacon and egg cheese sandwich cradled between six cheeseburgers topped with lettuce, tomato, sauteéd onions and mayonaise, all paired with a pound of fries, then chow it down in 20 minutes or less and its free. Plus you win a T-shirt and get your picture on the wall of fame at this popular Cashiers restaurant. Do it in 30 minutes and you pay, but you still win a T-shirt.

For more information, call Bella’s Kitchen at  (828) 743-5355, or join them for lunch Thursday through Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.,  for dinner Monday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday night from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., and for breakfast beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday and Monday. Bella’s is located in the Mountain Laurel Shoppes on Slabtown Road in Cashiers.

 

April’s Cover Artist Thomas Arvid

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Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro and Old Edwards Inn and Spa invite you to Wine and Dine on the Mountain

Wine and Dine on the Mountain will kick off the 2011 culinary season in Highlands, April 29th through May 1st, by pulling together a sizzling line-up of fine wines, superb food and fine art. Guests of all events will watch the wines come to life, as Thomas Arvid paints for the occasions.

The “Wine and Dine on the Mountain” weekend is a sensory extravaganza that begins with a “Blue Jeans, Bluegrass Spring Harvest Barn Dinner” at the Farm at Old Edwards on Friday. Whitehall Lane Wines will be on the tables throughout the dinner. On Saturday, Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro will host W.H. Smith Winery 4-course wine dinner starting at 7:00 p.m. On Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., a Live brunch at Madison’s Restaurant will top off the weekend.

Named one of the top “25 Artists You Should Know” by US Art magazine, Thomas Arvid receives critical acclaim for his monumental compositions of wine and his mastery of light, depth and reflection. Inspired by the grace and hospitality of the southern culture in which he lives, Arvid’s compositions are an invitation to take the time to appreciate sharing a great bottle and good conversation with friends.

“I can’t think of a better place to spend an evening with great friends,” says Arvid. “Highlands and events like this – with wonderful food, wine and culture – truly foster camaraderie, similar to what I try to evoke in each of my paintings.  I’ll have my easel with me; it’s going to be another inspiring weekend in the mountains.”

Throughout the weekend, guests will enjoy art, music and wine-inclusive culinary —including:

· Blue Jeans, Bluegrass and Spring Harvest Barn Dinner, The Farm at Old Edwards with Thomas Arvid painting live and featuring Whitehall Lane Winery and Vineyards

· W.H. Smith Winery Wine Dinner Saturday at Wolfgang’s with Thomas Arvid painting live and featuring live music

· Jazz, Wine, Art and Brunch at Madison’s Sunday. Wines included in brunch price.

· Special Spa and shopping discounts throughout the weekend.

“Last year’s event really set the bar for a fun weekend of wine and food,” says Richard Delany, President of the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. “We’re looking forward this year to offering an even more diverse assortment of experiences, all tied together with great wine, food and music.”

Wolfgang Green, owner of Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro, says, “We’ve always had great success with our wine weekends, and last year’s Thomas Arvid event was no exception. By partnering with other businesses like the Old Edwards Inn and Spa, we can pull together offerings to celebrate spring by bringing guests to Highlands for some art, music, superb wine and fine dining—an unbeatable combination!”

Limited seating available. To reserve today, call (828) 787-2625 or (828) 526-3807. For more information, visit www.oldedwardsinn.com/wineanddine.

Chef Johannes Klapdohr Captures the Throne

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Chef Wolfgang Green, Chef Jonathan Reid, Chef Mitch Sheppard, Chef Johannes Klapdohr and Chef Nick Figel Photo by Sarah Valentine

After three zealous battles in a day-long culinary competition, internationally acclaimed Chef Johannes Klapdohr—Executive Chef at Old Edwards Inn & Spa—secured the crown in the 2011 King of the Mountain Chef’s Challenge. In this ‘Iron Chef’ style competition, four chefs battle the clock—and each other—to produce several mouth-watering dishes in front of a live audience in an open kitchen. Each round of the competition ensues for a full forty-five minutes after the chefs discover the three mystery ingredients (per round), which are pre-selected by Chef Wolfgang Green of Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro.

The Competition:

Unlike the Food Network show where the Chefs have forty-five minutes to ponder their creations prior to the event, the King of the Mountain Chef Challenge keeps the mystery ingredients a secret until the very moment that each heat begins. The chefs then go to work, making notes, grabbing ingredients and equipment, and assembling their menus in their heads. The gas-stove flames jump to life, and the heat is on.

In the first round, Chef Johannes Klapdohr secured his spot in the finals by defeating Chef Jonathan Reid, Executive Chef of Gamekeeper’s Tavern. Chef Johannes created a full five courses around flank steak and other mystery ingredients, each of which amazed the judges with their originality and focus on the distinct flavors—a signature talent of the German-born, field-to-table chef.

In round two, Nick Figel of Cyprus Restaurant successfully defended his 2010 crown against newcomer challenger Chef Mitch Sheppard of Ruka’s Table. Figel created three courses around the pork tenderloin and Brussels sprouts theme that the judges called “exquisite, masterly prepared and a culinary delight.”

That left the two 2010 finalists—Figel and Klapdohr—duking it out over scallops and shiitake mushrooms. Figel pulled out all the stops in his signature showmanship style in an attempt to overcome Chef Klapdohr’s meticulous clean and classic method of what he calls “honest food.” When awarding the crystal Sam’s Cup and the King of the Mountain title to Chef Klapdohr, the judges announced, “Such an exceptional meal in this short a time is an unbelievable culinary achievement of which we have never seen before.”

Event host, co-creator and “Sam’s Cup” Sponsor Matthew Eberz of Sam Call Productions says, “Watching these chefs battle each other and create these stunning dishes was exhilarating. I was amazed at the audience engagement and excitement throughout all rounds of the competition. And, just when you thought the event couldn’t get any better, the talented chefs provided a four-course meal that rocked your taste buds. I’m in awe of the culinary talent that we have on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau.”

Judges:

All three culinary competitions were judged by three exceptionally talented and accomplish culinary experts including:

Ms. Shelley Skiles Sawyer, Managing Food Editor, Flavors Magazine;

Chef Hugh Acheson, owner and Executive Chef 5 & 10 Restaurant and The National in Athens, Georgia, and Empire South in Atlanta;

Chef Daniel Lindley, St. John’s Hospitality Group, Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Janet Poleski, Food Contributor TALK Greenville Magazine, provided color commentary.  After the competition the audience enjoyed a four-course meal, each course prepared by a competing chef.

Chef Klapdohr will defend his title at the 2012 King of the Mountain Chef’s Challenge on April 14, 2012 in Highlands North Carolina. One competitor vying for the crown will be James Beard Foundation Award finalist Chef John Fleer of Canyon Kitchen in Lonesome Valley.

Scaly Mountain’s Pancake Breakfast

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It must be Spring – the Scaly Mountain Women’s Club is serving up breakfast at the old Scaly School House.

Plan to bring your family and friends to Scaly Mountain for a scrumptious breakfast in the mountains at the newly remodeled  historic old Scaly School House.  These breakfasts are held on the fourth Saturday – May through October from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. This is the seventh year that the women in Scaly Mountain Women’s Club, who are known for their culinary  skills,  have sponsored these breakfasts.

The first breakfast is planned for May 28th. It will feature a full meal of piping hot homemade pancakes (with or without blueberries), patty sausage, coffee and juice in the historic old Scaly School House. It is on the corner of North Highway 106 and Buck Knob Road in downtown Scaly.  Guests will be treated to a seated meal either in the old school house or on the deck overlooking the mountains. Cost is $5.50 for adults and $3.50 for children. The breakfast will be served by club members or you may order takeout, if you choose.  Proceeds from the event provide scholarships for local students of all ages who wish to continue their post-secondary education. They also benefit area non-profit human service agencies that serve the Scaly Mountain  community.  Come to all six of the breakfasts and join the best cooks in Western North Carolina for a morning of fun enjoying the friendly folks in Scaly Mountain and an unforgettable breakfast. For additional information, contact Susan Bankston, (828) 526-9952 or visit www.scalymountainwomensclub.org.

Dates for the Scaly Mountain Women’s Club breakfasts the summer of 2011 are May 28th, June 25th, July 23rd, August 27th, September 24th and October 22nd.

King of the Mountain

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The Blue Ridge Mountains Village of Highlands, North Carolina inspires artists of every genre—especially culinary. On Saturday, March 5th, four of the town’s top chefs will face-off in a competition modeled after the popular “Iron Chef” program on The Food Network. Using mystery ingredients, the chefs will race against the clock to create the winning culinary dish and be crowned “King of the Mountain.”
As winner of the 2010 King of the Mountain Chefs Challenge, Nick Figel will defend his title against:
Chef Johannes Klapdohr of Madison’s Restaurant at The Old Edwards Inn; Chef Jonathan Reid of the Gamekeeper’s Tavern; and Chef Mitch Sheppard of Ruka’s Table.
The competition will take place at Cyprus Restaurant, which features an open kitchen and an open iced display case where the mystery ingredients will be unveiled for each round of the competition.
Matthew Eberz of Sam Call Productions will be the emcee. Providing color commentary during the three segments of the competition will be Janet Poleski, Food writer for  Talk Greenville Magazine. Selecting and procuring the mystery ingredients that the chefs will use during the face-off will be Chef Wolfgang of Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro.
After two preliminary heats in the afternoon, the main competition will take place between two finalists.  Each competing chef will also create an appetizer to be enjoyed by the audience during the competition, along with wine and a cash bar.  Guests who choose to stay for the dinner that follows will also sample one course from each of the competing chefs.
Three  professional judges will sample the creations and decide which chef deserves to be crowned “King of the Mountain.”  They are: Chef Hugh Acheson, Five & Ten Restaurant, Athens, Georgia; Chef Daniel Lindley, St. John’s Restaurant of Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Shelley Skiles Sawyer, Managing Food Editor of Flavors.
The fourth judge will be chosen from the audience.
The competition itinerary and costs are as follows:
Cost is $118.00 for the Chef’s Challenge and dinner. This includes:
1. Access to “the event” which is all three competitions (3:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and the final heat at 6:00 p.m.)
2. Champagne greeting
3. Two beverage tickets
4.  Hors d’oeuvres through-
out the events, one of which will be provided by each of the participating restaurants
5. Four course gourmet dinner with one course created by each of the chef competitors.
Event pricing does not include taxes. Dinner pricing does not include taxes, gratuities or alcoholic beverages at dinner.
Seating is limited, and there are seven “close-to-the-action VIP counter seats” available during the event for $159. For information and tickets to the event and/or dinner, call (828) 787-2625. or visit www.winterinhighlands.com.

St. Patricks Day at Old Edwards

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Old Edwards Inn & Spa will hold the most authentic St. Patrick’s celebration this side of the Emerald Isle, March 17th-20th. To register or for more information, call (828) 787-2625 or visit www.oldedwardsinn.com/St.Patricks.

Leave it to the good folks at Old Edwards Inn and Spa to remind us of the true meaning of St. Patrick’s Day Weekend at Old Edwards – music, laughter, generous portions of comfort food, and lots and lots of spirits.
The Four-Star Inn and Spa will host an Irish weekend March 17th through the 20th.
Local musician Cy Timmons will perform live over the weekend singing Irish favorites. Madison’s Restaurant will feature special Irish dishes with an Old Edwards twist. Special Irish beers and cocktails like the Black Velvet and Whiskey Tonic will be featured on drink menus decorated with Irish jokes, quotes and interesting historical and cultural tidbits.
Guests of Old Edwards will enjoy an authentic Irish Whiskey Tasting Friday, March 18th and Saturday, March 19th from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Hummingbird Lounge. You’ll be able to compare Whiskey from the three main distilleries of Ireland with some favorite American Whiskeys and comparable brands of Scotch.
Old Edwards’ Irish Laddie Thomas Keenan will present an authentic Irish Coffee-Making Experience at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 19th. A Pot O’ Gold—including an overnight stay at Old Edwards — awaits the winner.
Complimentary Irish hors o’oeuvres will be served in the Hummingbird Lounge Friday and Saturday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. True to its Irish roots, the weekend will also offer complimentary Irish “after party” hors d’oeuvres in the Hummingbird Lounge Friday and Saturday from 10:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
And in a display of the hospitality cultivated on the Emerald Isle, there’ll be special turndown amenities throughout the weekend.
For more information, call (828) 787-2625 or visit thewww.oldedwardsinn.com/St.Patricks.

Vive La France

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Jane Smithers delivers an easy panache to The Old Edwards Inn and Spa.

The Old Edwards Inn and Spa has always enjoyed an ineffable je ne sais quoi.
It’s an easy charm that’s earned the landmark status as Condé Nast Traveler’s Number One Hotel Spa in North America for 2010 with the First Ever Perfect Score in the 20-Year History of the Reader’s Survey, inclusion on AAA’s Four-Diamond List and a berth on the National Registry of Historic Places.
The Inn and Spa will celebrate that panache with a full French immersion experience with Global French Impressionist Jane Smithers, January 21st through the 23rd.
Guests will join Jane as she recreates her summers in France through stories, music, art, and favorite foods from the  village  of  Villars, France. Enjoy this full immersion weekend where attendees can try their hand at creating French foods and art. Participants will learn how to experience their surroundings by fully engaging their five senses so that they can then express themselves through art and art journaling. Guests will leave with a personalized journal of French memoirs, a rich sense of the French culture and an experience they will want to recreate for their friends at home. Workshop materials, including a personal journal, will be supplied.
Jane will base this event on excerpts from her own journals from her summers in France where she teaches art at a French Chateau and travels the countryside for her inspiration. She will recreate the sights, sounds, tastes, smells and overall feel of life in this charming French village.
This unforgettable French experience will also draw upon the talents of  Executive Chef Johannes Klapdohr and Sommelier Curt Christiansen.
Cost is $225.
The Inn and Spa is offering an Accommodation Special — $350 for two nights for two in deluxe accommodations, including a Welcome Reception on Friday, January 21st, in the Hummingbird Lounge.
Jane will host a special French Wine Dinner on Saturday, January 22nd, for 11 guests. By the time the evening ends, you’ll feel like you’ve been truly immersed in French culture — and you’ll take away a yearning to learn more about French food and art, as well as the beautiful, expressive language.
Make plans now to experience the beauty of French culture at Old Edwards. Dining space is limited. Call (866) 787-2625. For more information, visit www.oldedwardsinn.com/FrenchImmersion.

King of the Mountain

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The King of the Mountain Chefs Challenge, set for Saturday, March 5th, at Cyprus Restaurant, tests the culinary mettle of some of the Plateau’s finest chefs.

The Blue Ridge Mountains Village of Highlands, North Carolina inspires artists of every genre—especially culinary. On Saturday, March 5th, four of the town’s top chefs will face-off in a competition modeled after the popular “Iron Chef” program on The Food Network. Using mystery ingredients, the chefs will race against the clock to create the winning culinary dish and be crowned “King of the Mountain.”
As winner of the 2010 King of the Mountain Chefs Challenge, Nick Figel will defend his title against:
Chef Johannes Klapdohr of Madison’s Restaurant” at The Old Edwards Inn; Chef Jonathan Reid of the Gamekeeper’s Tavern; and Chef Mitch Shepard of Ruka’s Table.
The competition will take place at Cyprus Restaurant, which features an open kitchen and an open iced display case where the mystery ingredients will be unveiled for each round of the competition.
Providing color commentary during the three segments of the competition will be Shelley Skiles Sawyer, Managing Food Editor, Flavors. Selecting and procuring the mystery ingredients that the chefs will use during the face-off will be Chef Wolfgang of Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro.
After two preliminary heats in the afternoon, the main competition will take place between two finalists.  Each competing chef will also create an appetizer to be enjoyed by the audience during the competition, along with wine and a cash bar.  Guests who chose to stay for the dinner that follows will also sample one course from each of the competing chefs.
Three judges will sample the creations and decide which chef deserves to be crowned “King of the Mountain.”  They are: Chef Hugh Acheson, Five & Ten Restaurant, Athens, Georgia; Chef Daniel Lindley, St. John’s Restaurant of Chattanooga, Tennessee; and Janet Poleski, Food Writer, Talk Greenville Magazine.
The competition itinerary and costs are as follows:
Cost is $118.00 for the Chef’s Challenge and dinner. This includes:
1. Access to “the event” which is all three competitions (3:30 p.m., 5:00 p.m., and the final heat at 6:00 p.m.)
2. Champagne greeting
3. Two beverage tickets
4.  Hors d’oeuvres through-
out the events, one of which will be provided by each of the participating restaurants
5. Four course gourmet dinner with one course created by each of the chef competitors.
Event pricing does not include taxes. Dinner pricing does not include taxes, gratuities or alcoholic beverages at dinner.
Seating is limited, and there are seven “close-to-the-action VIP counter seats” available during the event for $159. For information and tickets to the event and/or dinner, call (828) 787-2625. or visit www.winterinhighlands.com.

Wolfgang’s Winter Wonderland

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Drop by Wolfgang’s on December 4th for holiday entertaining ideas.

It’s easy to celebrate the magic of the season with the Winter Wonderland at Wolfgang’s, slated for immediately after the Highlands Olde Mountain Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 4th.
Wander into the Winter Wonderland and gather ideas for your holiday entertaining from The Christmas Tree, Cyrano’s Bookshop and, of course, Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro.
Enjoy sumptuous seasonal hors d’oeuvres and desserts prepared by Chef Wolfgang. A special holiday demonstration will take place in the Main Dining Room. Select wines will be paired with seasonal food from Germany and the Deep South. Take away recipe cards for each hors d’oeuvres and dessert dish. Great entertaining wines will be available for purchase by the bottle or the case at special holiday price.
Decorative ideas and gifts from The Christmas Tree, including exquisite nutcrackers from Germany and traditional American ornaments, will be displayed around the restaurant to give you ideas on how to decorate for your holiday parties.
Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bar is located at 474 Main Street in Highlands. J

Paoletti’s Wine Tasting

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Paoletti’s is prepared to put the cheer in Holiday Cheer.

You already know about Paoletti’s – it’s been a landmark Highlands dining experience for 27 years.
The regional Italian dishes are offered in an elegant dining room where the dinner menu is printed daily.
Paoletti’s boasts the freshest seafood, house-made pasta, prime steaks, chops and fowl. When it’s all served up by a remarkably polished service staff, the result is a magical evening that’ll long linger as a cherished memory.
Complementing the entire experience is a deep and carefully assembled wine cellar.  The selection is one of the South East’s largest with vertical selections of Barolo, Barbaresco, Brunello and Bordeaux.  From the lists’ value priced selections to the rare and hard to find treasures, all are hand picked by the owner who truly stocks every wine on the list.  All winter long, the restaurant will offer an enticing 25 percent discount on all bottled wines on Sunday and Thursday nights.  This promotion has proved inviting for those wishing to experience some of the more coveted wines at a substantial savings.
Paoletti’s will host sales and tastings throughout the holiday season on Fridays and Saturdays at 1:00 p.m.  Those selections are being offered at uncommon, internet-competitive pricing.
“Exceptional quality, value priced wines by the bottle, six-packs or cases are available for taste and immediate purchase,” explains restaurateur Arthur Paoletti.  “We’ll offer sparkling wines, whites and reds from California and around the world, those special for the holidays as well as everyday quaffing.”
The wine tasting offerings change weekly, so call (828) 526-4906 for information. If you’d like to experience a Paoletti’s meal, reservations are definitely suggested. The restaurant is located at 440 Main Street in Highlands. J

Annual Christmas Dinner

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The Annual Highlands Christmas Dinner is back again for its 9th year. And, this year it has a new home: The Hudson House at Highlands Country Club!
The Annual Christmas Day Dinner has become a tradition for Highlands’s families and visitors since 2001. It was originally organized by innkeepers who wanted to provide a place for their guests and local families to have a traditional holiday dinner on Christmas Day, when at the time no restaurants were open.  It was also a way to contribute back to the community, as all proceeds went to local charities. Each year the event raises in the neighborhood of $13,500.
Recipients have been Habitat for Humanity; Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Highlands; The Friendship Center; The Literacy Council of Highlands; and Hospice. This year the money will go to R.E.A.C.H. of Macon County; The Gar’s Kid Program of Carpe Diem Farm, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Highlands.
Our new home, the Hudson House was built in the early 50’s for the specific purpose of being a casino and dance hall. The casino was closed by the late 50’s. The money earned from the slot machines was used to build a couple of guest lodges for the Highlands Country Club & Resort. They have since been removed from what is now the Highlands Country Club croquet court and were relocated behind the administrative offices for employee housing. The facility was then used for storage until such time that the property was purchased by a developer group for the purpose of creating a private membership owned country club. The Hudson House was converted for use as a lunch grill and snack counter for members and their family and guests enjoying the pool, playing golf and using other club amenities. It still serves as a lunch grill for the club, a studio for art and fitness classes, and is used by members as a venue for special and private events.
Dinner will be served from 11:00 to 4:00 on Christmas Day and will feature the same wonderful traditional fare Highlanders have come to look forward to. Chefs are Marty Rosenfield (Lakeside Restaurant); Holly Roberts (The Kitchen); Martha Porter (Morningside B&B); and Jan Zehr (Banana Pudding Goddess); and, of course, another star performance from Donna Woods with her mouth watering dressing.
The cost for this amazing buffet is only $35.00 for adults; $25.00 for children under 12; and children under 5 eat free.
Come enjoy this fabulous fare in the quiet elegance of The Hudson House at Highlands Country Club and let us prepare your meal and wash your dishes so you can enjoy your family on this most special day.
For reservations call 828-526-5102. Last year we served over 275 people, so call today! J

Flipside

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Any time of the day or evening, there’s something to satisfy your hunger at Flipside “An All American Burger Joint”, located at 30 Dillard Road – the old Don Leon’s Deli location.
Hankering for a hearty breakfast? Stop by Flipside and choose from breakfast plates including two or three eggs accompanied with ham, bacon or sausage plus grits or hash browns and biscuits or toast. Omelet lovers rave about the many choices of omelets offered here. Sink your teeth into one of the tasty breakfast sandwiches.Choose sour dough, English muffin or biscuit to surround your choice of egg or egg, meat and cheese.  You can even build your own sandwich with choices of several cheeses, meats and styles of eggs. With so many choices you may just want to sip on a cup of their steaming hot coffee as you peruse your many options. Young and old alike flip over the Flip cakes. Add your favorite syrup and you’ve got a breakfast that will carry you through a busy day.
Flipside prides itself on serving only 100% Black Angus hormone free beef. Choose from ½ lb, 1/3 lb or 1 lb burgers and add your favorite toppings. Specialty burgers include the All the Way, the Patty Melt, the Cowboy, the Side Burger, the Breakfast Burger or the Kitchen Sink.
If you aren’t in the mood for a burger, there are all kinds of options for you.  Try a chicken sandwich-grilled, fried or buffalo style or chow down on a Reuben with its juicy corned beef, braised cabbage and Swiss cheese topped with Russian dressing.  Kids love the grilled cheese or grilled ham and cheese. There are chicken tenders also.  Don’t forget their famous “Flippers” 3 mini-burgers topped with ketchup, mustard and pickle.
Pair any of the delicious sandwiches with one of the tantalizing sides including hand-cut French fries, onion rings, and seasonal options, all made right on site.
Anytime that hunger strikes, stop by the Flipside and rest a spell.  Enjoy tempting snacks such as loaded fries or onion rings, ½ order of chicken fingers, chicken wings by the ½ dozen or the dozen or pair a house salad with a cup of steaming soup.
You can’t beat the Flipside’s daily specials including $0.25 Buffalo wings or $1 off any bottle or can of beer.  Another day the feature is $1 Flippers or $2 floats and $3 shakes.  Some folks just can’t wait for the $1 PBR’s or $5 pitchers.
Bring your computer and take advantage of the wireless hotspot as you catch your favorite sports events on the large screen TVs.  Select your favorite brew from the  wide selection of domestic and imported beers.
Watch for the wings contests throughout the year and be sure to enjoy their homemade ice cream and seasonal desserts.  Bring your friends and come on down to Flipside.  They are open Sunday through Wednesday 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. and from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Breakfast is served until 10:30 daily.
For takeout call Flipside at (828) 526-4241. Flipside is part of the Highlands Restaurant Group which includes Ruka’s Table, and the Highlands’ Smokehouse. J

Highlands North Carolina Community Thanksgiving Dinner

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A free Thanksgiving Dinner, set for 6 p.m. Tuesday, November 24th, at the Highlands Civic Center, is open to everyone.
With the approach of Thanksgiving, Highlanders are invited to celebrate the holiday with a community-wide dinner at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 23rd, at the Highlands Civic Center.
Community churches will provide plenty of food for everyone and the meal is free. There will be acknowledgment of the blessings of the season and plenty of the warm fellowship that’s become a hallmark of the event. Plans were being finalized when we went to press, so for more information, call (828) 526-0542. n

Wolfgangs Restaurant and Wine Bistro Recognized

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For 17 years, Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro has been nurturing a reputation for remarkable meals and memorable celebrations.
When they opened their landmark restaurant on Highlands’ Main Street, Owners Wolfgang and Mindy Green offered a wine menu of 20 labels. Nowadays their cellar boasts nearly 700. Chef Wolfgang’s wine selections serve as the perfect complement to the exquisite New Orleans and European dishes that stream out of his kitchen on a nightly basis.
When those meals are served up by a warm, quietly attentive waitstaff, the effect is magical. In addition to drawing a loyal local following, Wolfgang’s has become a favorite of knowing gourmands from across the Southeast.
That fan base is about to grow exponentially larger with the October 2010 issue of Southern Living Magazine’s selection of Wolfgang’s as “The Best Place in Highlands for Dinner.”
“It’s easy to find the perfect wine to go with one of Wolfgang’s specialties, such as grilled venison tenderloin (wrapped in applewood-smoked bacon with a sun-dried cherry demi glace) or Cajun barbecued shrimp (a variation of the dish he once made at Commander’s Palace in New Orleans),” notes the magazine.
In fact, Southern Living isn’t the first publication to fall for Wolfgang’s marvelously indulgent ambience – Our State named the restaurant “The Place You Must Eat In For Macon County”. That’s on top of the bistro’s being named OpenTable.com’s Diner’s Choice Winner for 2010.
If you’d like to know more about this charming bistro and its palate-pleasing menu, plan to attend its pair of events for the 4th Annual Highlands Culinary Weekend.
At 7:00 p.m. Friday, November 14th, Wolfgang’s will stage the Domaine Serene Food Spectrum. It’s wine and food tasting brought to the “nth” degree, an exercise in comparing and contrasting. Chef Wolfgang will create three small pairings that will coax you into thinking outside of the box. These are controversial dishes that will challenge your palate. Each participant will be poured a taste of four different Domaine Serene wines to complement the four different dishes .It promises to challenge your senses in a most playful manner.
Cost of the evening is $75, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are a must.
At 7:00 p.m. Saturday, November 15th, Wolfgang and Mindy will celebrate their friendship with Silver Oaks Cellar Ambassador Tom Johnson with the Silver Oaks Cellar and Twomey Wine Dinner. This elegant event has become a cherished part of the Culinary Weekend and it promises an evening of culinary memories and divine libations.
The celebration starts with Champagne and appetizers at 7:00 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m.. The cost is $160 plus tax and gratuity. Reservations are required.
Of course, if you’d like to sample the splendid dishes and discerning service that has made Wolfgang’s such an honored part of Highlands’ culinary landscape, the bistro opens at 4:00 p.m. and dinner is served nightly starting at 5:30 p.m.
For reservations or to learn more about Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Bistro call (828) 526-3807. Wolfgang’s is located at 474 Main Street in Highlands. J

Highlands NC Culinary Weekend Events

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Fall in Highlands is a perfect time to celebrate the 4th Annual Culinary Weekend, scheduled for Thursday, November 11th through Sunday, November 14th.
Be sure to reserve your spots on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, as local restaurants, merchants and accommodations offer an array of activities, tastings and dinners.

Thursday, November 11th
Event Name: Opening Gala Reception
Event Description: Opening Reception Celebration – Participating restaurants, chefs and wineries will be presenting a taste of all that Culinary Weekend offers. Enjoy an amazing night of food, wine and fun. Every foodies’ dream amidst the splendor of Fall in Highlands.
Venue: The Bascom
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $75
Shuttle service will be provided from Highlands Recreation Park and Highlands Plaza to The Bascom. Please utilize shuttle service for this event, as parking on site will be extremely limited.

Friday, November 12th
Event Name: Cooking with Chocolate, Sweet and Savory
Event Description: Join Fresser’s Eatery as they present, cooking with chocolate, sweet and savory. Event includes wine and lunch.
Venue: Fresser’s Eatery (828) 526-4188
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Price: $35.00 plus tax and gratuity.

Event Name: Chateau Montelena Wine Dinner with Winemaker Cameron Parry
Event Description: Chateau Montelena -The famous winery that won the Paris tasting of 1976 presents a five-course meal from the … on the Verandah culinary team. The tasting will include the highly rated 2006 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (92 pts.), 2006 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon (87pts.), 2008 Napa Chardonnay (90pts.), Potter Valley Riesling and 2006 Napa Valley Zinfandel (90pts.). Seating is limited. Reservations required. Menu online at (www.ontheverandah.com)
Venue:…on the Verandah Restaurant (828) 526-2338
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Price: $135.00

Event Name: JUSTIN the Mood
Event Description: Lakeside Restaurant is JustIn the mood for Paso Robles Winery, Justin Vineyards! Join Chef Marty, as he creates a five-course menu paired with Justin’s world class Bordeaux style blends. A delicious evening celebrating the joys of food and wine!
Venue: Lakeside Restaurant (828) 526-9419
Time: 7:00 P.m..
Price: $140 plus tax and gratuity.

Event Name: Domaine Serene Flavor Spectrum
Event Description: Domaine Serene wine and food tasting brought to the “nth” degree…
Chef Wolfgang will create three small pairings that will compliment and contrast, leaving you think outside of the box. Controversial dishes that will challenge your palate. Each participant will be poured a taste of four different Domaine Serene wines to compliment the four different dishes. Challenge your senses!
Venue: Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro (828) 526-3807
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $75.00 plus tax and gratuity.

Event Name: Fall Harvest Bounty at the Farm
Event Description: Join this one-of-a-kind gathering to celebrate great wines and seasonal harvests from local sustainable farms, including Old Edwards own organic garden. Enjoy a family style dinner at the Old Edwards turn-of-the-century period Farm with gorgeous renovated Barn as the backdrop. Share bottles of Beringer Vineyards wines with your neighbor as dusk settles over The Farm at Old Edwards. Relax into the evening with the soothing sounds of live music lending the perfect ambiance to this magical setting. Presentations during the evening by Beringer Vineyards and discussions with farmers who grew the bounty of the evening’s fare.
Venue: The Farm at Old Edwards Inn (828) 787-2625
Time: Cocktails: 6:30 p.m.. in the Barn, Dinner: 7:00 p.m.. on the terrace
Price: $150 plus tax and gratuity.
Saturday, November 13th
Event Name: From Morninside’s Kitchen…
Event Description: Part of the appeal of this custom-built bed and breakfast home is the freshly baked breakfast breads and the luscious evening desserts. During the Highlands Culinary Weekend, Martha will be repeating the popular baking class that is offered each summer through the Center for Life Enrichment. The class reveals some baking secrets and recipes that not only insure success but make it easy. Within the space of five hours, that includes a delicious lunch where you get to eat the results of the lessons, you will learn to make delicate cream scones, crisp shortbread cookies, a basic yeast bread, and a foolproof carrot cake.
Venue: Morningside Bed and Breakfast Home (828) 787-1463
Time: 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m..
Price: $50, or $35 if you are staying at Morningside

Event Name: Gourmet Cooking When the Power Goes Out
Event Description: Join Fresser’s Eatery as they present, gourmet cooking when the power goes out. Demonstration includes lunch and beverages.
Venue: Fresser’s Eatery (828) 526-4188
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Price: $30 plus tax and gratuity

Event Name: Nog Off and Table-Scape
Event Description: An artistic, culinary celebration of a favorite holiday drink featuring some delicious and unique family eggnog recipes. Come taste for yourself! While at The Bascom, visit the Stitch in Time regional quilt exhibition.
Venue: The Bascom (828) 526-4949
Time: 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Price: Free

Event Name: Pahlmeyer Wine Dinner
Event Description: Five-course dinner featuring the rare and highly acclaimed wines of Pahlmeyer Winery. Host Camille Cox, East Coast Sales Manager, will guide you through the wines expertly paired by the culinary team of …on the Verandah. Including: 2008 Chardonnay (95 pts. R.P.), 2007 Pinot Noir (93 pts. W.S.), 2007 Merlot (96 pts R.P.) and 2006 Proprietary Red (95 pts.R.P.). Reservations required. Seating is limited. Menu online at (www.ontheverandah.com).
Venue:…on the Verandah (828) 526-2338
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Price: $175.00

Event Name: Cakebread and Cashmere
Event Description: Lakeside Restaurant, Cakebread Cellars and McCulley’s Cashmere, partner to showcase an exciting evening of food, wine and style. Join us as we pair five varietals of Napa Valley Winery, Cakebread Cellars with Lakeside’s fresh, fun cuisine. Savor the evening’s fashion show of luxurious fine cashmere offered by Highlands own, McCulley’s Cashmere.
Venue: Lakeside Restaurant (828) 526-9419
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Price: $140 plus tax and gratuity.

Event Name: Silver Oak Cellars and Twomey Wine Dinner with Tom Johnson “Life is a Cabernet!”
Event Description: Wolfgang’s Restaurant has always had a very special place in our hearts for Silver Oak Cellars, this is probably because of the wonderful friendship between Tom Johnson, Ambassador of Silver Oak Cellars and Mindy and Wolfgang Green. We started the tradition of hosting this elegant wine dinner during the Culinary Weekend last year and we are proud to do it again. We will be featuring Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars. Join us for a night of culinary memories and divine libations. It will be night to remember!
Venue: Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro (828) 526-3807
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $160.00 plus tax and gratuity.

Event Name: Spanish Food and Wine Party from Madrid and the Ribera del Duero Region.
Event Description: Multi-course family style food and wine fiesta in the authentic style of easy going, laid back Madrid, featuring jamon Iberico, rack-fired monkfish and many more authentic tastes of Spain. Don’t dress up, this is a Spanish style food and wine party! Please call for reservations.
Venue: Cyprus International Cuisine (828) 526-4429
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $100.00

Event Name: Madison’s Exclusive Darioush Wine Dinner
Event Description: Take advantage of this very rare treat to have Darioush Estate Attache, Allen Papp host the very special wine dinner. Experience a Darioush wine dinner first hand as Madison’s Restaurant on Main Street serves as an elegant backdrop for this unforgettable evening of sumptuous food, fine wine and relaxed conversation. These Darioush Wines will be paired with a sumptuous menu prepared by Madison’s Executive Chef Johannes Klapdohr for a perfect gastronomic journey.
Venue: Madison’s at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa (828) 787-2625
Time: Cocktails: 6:30 p.m. in Hummingbird with passed Hors and Champagne Reception. Dinner: 7:00 p.m. in Madison’s
Price: $165 plus tax and gratuity.

Event Name: A Taste of Spain
Event Description: The Inn at Half Mile Farm has partnered with Highlands’ own Tim Lundy (Rosewood Market) in creating A Taste of Spain. Prepare to be spoiled by a culinary journey celebrating the traditional yet creative flavors of Spain with a five-course Tapas dinner; each course is paired with an exquisite, award winning Spanish wine. Join us in celebration of the Spanish culture and Seating is limited and reservations are required.
Venue: The Inn at Half Mile Farm (800) 946-6822
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Price: $65 per person plus tax and gratuity.

Event Name: Late Night Shack Attack: Singing and Suds at The Rib Shack
Event Description: For $10, you can regale guests with your karaoke skills and enjoy delicious Rib Shack fare from 11:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Purchase cocktails or whet your singing whistle with a wide selection of draft and bottled beers from the Rib Shack’s full bar.
Venue: Rib Shack (828) 526-2626
Time: 10:00 p.m.. – 2:00 a.m.
Price: $10

Friday, Saturday and Sunday Events
Event Name: Country Breakfast Brunch
Venue: Main Street Inn
Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Price: $10.95
Event Name: Bubbly Brunch
Event Description: Come enjoy an array of champagne and sparkling wines from around the world. They will be perfectly paired with Fresser’s fabulous brunch items that will have you craving more bubbles for a long time to come.
Venue: Fresser’s Eatery (828) 526-4188
Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Price: Ala Carte.

Ristorante Paoletti Ristorante Paoletti

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For the past twenty-seven years Paoletti’s on Main Street, Highlands, has offered regional Italian dining in an elegant, old-world atmosphere. The bar, introduced last year, offers the full dinner menu or numerous appetizer options from opening time to late night.
Enjoy your favorite cocktail or micro brew from the liquor bar. Choose from a  variety of appetizers including customer favorites being ‘to die for’ escargot, Maine lobster martini, seared foie gras and duck confit with baby greens and raspberry vinaigrette. Salad favorites include garden arugula with Granny Smiths, pecans, gorgonzola and citrus vinaigrette and a roasted tomato, eggplant and goat cheese cake w/arugula and herb vinaigrette.
Clients clamor for the crusted black grouper as it is their most popular menu item year in and year out.  The fillet is pan seared and topped with Executive Chef Kevin Paoletti’s own shrimp, mushroom and herb crust then roasted and served with a garlic-lemon butter.
Paoletti’s is known for incredible variety of main course offerings from its daily printed menu. from fresh local rainbow trout, lobster, prime veal specialties, homemade and artisanal bronze dye pastas from Italy-and daily made lobster ravioli, there is literally, something inviting for everyone in your party.  For hearty fall or winter fare, you will find the elk rib chop has earned its following with cinnamon, apple-yams and a port wine-cassis reduction.  The porcini and herb crusted rack of American lamb roasted with dijon crumbs and served with a Madeira-veal stock reduction is in itself another proud and hearty offering touted to be the very best in town.
Complete your dining experience with the daily gelato, granita or one of the delicious homemade desserts. Peruse the enormous list of dessert wines, many by the glass, to find the right compliment for your favorite dessert.
Honored by Wine Spectator magazine’s ‘Best of Award of Excellence’ for the past twenty-three years, Paoletti’s has one of the southeast’s deepest selections of Barolo, Barbaresco and Bordeaux.  Numerous hand-picked top notch values are offered by the quarter litre, bottle or taste.
Private wine tastings are available on select Saturdays year round. Retail wine sales offer very aggressive pricing that can meet your favorite internet wine purveyor’s best prices on case and mixed cases. Bubbly, Spanish, Austrian and American offerings in addition to Italian and French classics offer up exciting flavors in an intimate but friendly space.
Serving dinner nightly from 5:30 p.m.; for reservations call (828) 526-4906 or go online to OpenTable.com.  Find their website for more photos and info at www.paolettis.com
Don’t take their word for it. Check out Tripadvisor.com for testimonials from nearly a hundred past patrons who wrote their own personal reviews.  Highly recommended by local business owners and homeowners alike, be sure to call ahead as it sells out early.  However busy you find it, you’ll certainly find it worth the wait if you walk in without a reservation.
Now open year round with a special Winter Menu offering numerous new menu items starting December 1st. J