By Administrator Local Favorites and Must-Try Restaurants
Looking for a satisfying meal after a day of exploring the historic Kings Mountain National Military Park or enjoying the scenic beauty of Crowders Mountain State Park? Kings Mountain, North Carolina, and its surrounding areas, offer a surprising array of culinary experiences waiting to be discovered. From down-home Southern cooking and mouthwatering barbecue to international flavors and sweet treats, there’s something to tantalize every taste bud. This guide will take you on a delicious journey through some of the best food options near Kings Mountain, ensuring you find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the region. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure!
Kings Mountain boasts a variety of restaurants that are cherished by locals and eagerly discovered by visitors. These establishments offer not just a meal, but a genuine taste of the community’s character and hospitality.
Let’s start with Pleasant City Wood Fired Grille. Located right in Kings Mountain, this place is known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious wood-fired pizzas. It’s a perfect spot for a casual family dinner or a fun night out with friends. The aroma of wood-fired oven immediately greets you, preparing you for a culinary experience. The pizza dough is made from scratch, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful. Don’t miss their signature pizzas like the “Margherita” or the “Spicy Italian.” They also offer a selection of salads, sandwiches, and appetizers. The price range is moderate, making it accessible for most diners. A recent online review stated, “Best pizza in Kings Mountain! The crust is perfect, and the toppings are always generous.”
Next up is Veroni Cafe, a delightful Italian restaurant with an authentic feel. This is the place to go when you are craving a great Italian meal. From pasta to pizza, the quality of the food is absolutely top notch. The restaurant offers a casual and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a date night, or for hanging out with friends. One thing that stands out is the fresh ingredients that they use. Even for something simple, such as the tomato sauce, you can tell the ingredients are high quality and fresh. You can tell they put a lot of attention to detail when making the food, and the dishes all reflect that. Their lasagna is a favorite, as is the chicken parmesan. Expect to pay moderate prices for great quality.
Then there’s Ruby Sunshine, a vibrant spot bringing New Orleans brunch to Kings Mountain. This place is a celebration of all things brunch, with a menu brimming with creative takes on classic dishes. Think Eggs Benedict with a Southern twist, creative pancakes, and savory breakfast sandwiches. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it the perfect place to start your day. The beignets are a must-try, transporting you straight to the French Quarter. They also have a great selection of cocktails and other drinks. Ruby Sunshine offers a moderately priced dining experience.
For something a bit more upscale, consider The Backstage Restaurant, located in nearby Shelby (a short drive from Kings Mountain). While not directly in Kings Mountain, its proximity makes it a worthwhile addition to this list. This restaurant offers a fine-dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative dishes. The atmosphere is elegant and refined, making it perfect for a special occasion. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest ingredients available. Expect to find dishes like grilled steaks, seafood risotto, and roasted duck. The Backstage Restaurant is definitely on the pricier side, but the quality of the food and service make it worth the splurge.
Finally, don’t overlook Mayworth’s Public House in Gastonia, another worthwhile trip not far from Kings Mountain. This establishment offers a diverse menu of American pub fare with a modern twist. Known for their craft beers, gourmet burgers, and lively atmosphere, Mayworth’s is a favorite among locals seeking a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience. The public house offers a unique, welcoming ambience. The menu features an array of creative dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Expect to pay moderate to high prices.
Barbecue Hotspots
No exploration of food near Kings Mountain would be complete without mentioning barbecue. This region of North Carolina is renowned for its distinctive barbecue styles, and there are several excellent spots to satisfy your cravings for smoky, tender meats.
R.O.’s Barbecue in Gastonia is an institution, serving up classic Lexington-style barbecue for generations. This is a must visit for BBQ lovers. Their BBQ is some of the best in the region. The barbecue is cooked low and slow over hickory wood, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. They specialize in barbecue plates, sandwiches, and sides like coleslaw and hushpuppies. The price is incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for a casual and affordable meal. Be sure to try their famous dip, a vinegar-based sauce that perfectly complements the smoky pork.
Kyle Fletcher’s BBQ is a good choice for delicious barbeque in the Gastonia area. Kyle Fletcher’s is a full-service restaurant that strives to provide an excellent dining experience for the whole family. The menu features all of your favorite barbeque dishes. It is a relaxed atmosphere, and a great place to hang out with friends and family. They also cater, so you can also bring the barbeque home for a party, or whatever else you need it for.
Casual Eats and Quick Bites
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor or quality. Kings Mountain and its surrounding areas offer a variety of casual eateries that are perfect for a quick lunch, a grab-and-go dinner, or a late-night snack.
Webb’s Custom Kitchen is a great example. Located in Shelby, this diner is a local favorite for its classic American comfort food. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the menu is filled with hearty dishes like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and soups. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the prices are very affordable. It is the type of place you can go to and feel right at home.
Southern Perks Coffee is a specialty coffee shop and cafe located in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. They proudly serve specialty coffee, espresso drinks, lattes, frappes, cappuccinos and a variety of smoothies. They also offer a variety of bakery items, sandwiches, soups, salads and snacks. They have a relaxing, calming, comfortable environment for everyone to enjoy. They have both indoor and outdoor seating available, and they offer free Wi-Fi.
Sweet Treats and Dessert
No meal is truly complete without a sweet ending, and Kings Mountain offers plenty of options for satisfying your sweet tooth. From classic ice cream parlors to decadent bakeries, you’re sure to find the perfect dessert to round out your dining experience.
Luv Bug’s Ice Cream in Kings Mountain offers a wide array of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to creative concoctions. They also have lots of toppings to personalize your ice cream. This place is a perfect spot for a cool treat on a hot day, and the friendly staff makes it a welcoming spot for families. They also offer shakes, malts, and sundaes.
The Perfect Cup Cake is another good dessert choice. They also sell candy, and gifts. They bake a variety of delicious sweets that are sure to make your mouth water. They also serve drinks, such as coffee and water.
Beyond Kings Mountain
While Kings Mountain itself offers a wealth of dining options, it’s worth exploring the culinary scene in nearby towns as well.
Gastonia, a larger city located just a short drive east of Kings Mountain, boasts a diverse range of restaurants, from chain establishments to locally owned gems. One standout is Viva Chicken, a Peruvian rotisserie chicken chain that has gained a cult following. Their chicken is marinated in a secret blend of spices and cooked over an open flame, resulting in a flavorful and juicy bird.
Shelby, located to the west of Kings Mountain, is home to a number of charming restaurants that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. One notable establishment is Uptown Shelby Diner, a beloved local spot that has been serving up classic diner fare for decades. The diner offers a classic menu that includes all the traditional diner favorites.
In conclusion, the area around Kings Mountain, North Carolina, is a food lover’s paradise. From barbecue joints to Italian cafes and New Orleans brunch spots, there’s a wide variety of options. Each offers a unique and flavorful experience. We encourage you to explore these restaurants, try new dishes, and discover your own hidden gems. What are your favorite restaurants near Kings Mountain? Share your recommendations in the comments below!
