When Waynesville locals crave a bite beyond bustling Main Street, the Highland Forest neighborhood offers surprises galore—a food scene that’s unpretentious but bursting with flavor and charm. From cozy cafés tucked under mountain oaks to food trucks serving inventive southern twists, Highland Forest rewards those who wander off the beaten path. Whether you’re in search of an artisan pastry, tangy barbecue, or an unforgettable date-night dinner, this neighborhood has you covered. Here’s my guide to the standout dining experiences—and some delicious secrets—you’ll find among the tranquil streets of Highland Forest.
Where to Start: The Heart of Highland Forest
While Highland Forest is known for its leafy roads and peaceful vibe, keep your eyes peeled near the intersection of Hazelwood Avenue and Forest Drive. Here, a cluster of small eateries draws a loyal crowd. This is the unofficial “food hub” of the neighborhood—perfect for setting out on your culinary adventure.
Must-Visit Restaurants
- The Forest Table (Hazelwood Ave & Forest Dr, $$)
- A local favorite for elevated Appalachian fare, The Forest Table updates classic mountain cuisine with fresh, farm-to-table ingredients. Think trout cakes with ramp aioli, wild mushroom risotto, and local pork chops glazed with sorghum syrup. The atmosphere is cozy—think reclaimed wood and soft lamplight—and the kitchen’s commitment to local sourcing is second to none. Their weekend brunch is legendary; don’t miss the skillet cornbread or the bourbon pecan waffles.
- La Abuela’s Cocina (Forest Dr & Maple Lane, $–$$)
- For authentic Mexican comfort food, Highland Forest regulars flock to La Abuela’s. This family-run spot serves up unforgettable tamales, queso fundido, and homemade mole. Prices are downright affordable, and the welcoming staff always remembers your name. Ask for the daily agua fresca, and definitely add a side of elote (grilled street corn).
- Hazelwood Smokehouse (near Hazelwood Park, $$)
- Tucked near the neighborhood park, Hazelwood Smokehouse puts a creative spin on Carolina barbecue. Their hickory-smoked brisket draws folks from all over Waynesville, but don’t overlook their pulled mushroom sandwich for a great veggie option. Sides—like the sweet onion hushpuppies and house-pickled okra—are just as craveworthy as the main event.
Café Culture: Where to Get Your Caffeine Fix
- Forest Brew & Bean (Hazelwood Ave, $)
- This neighborhood café is Highland Forest’s hub for all things cozy and caffeinated. With rustic mountain décor and a barista team that knows how to coax out the best in local beans, Brew & Bean is the place for top-notch cappuccinos, cold-drip coffee, and killer homemade scones. Their Friday Night Open Mic events make it a lively spot for locals.
- Meadowlark Bakery & Café (Maple Lane, $–$$)
- Pastry lovers, rejoice: Meadowlark’s croissants and hand pies are famous throughout Waynesville. Granny Smith apple turnovers, flaky sausage rolls, seasonal danishes—every bite is baked with care, using locally milled flour and farm eggs. Lunch brings creative sandwiches (pan-seared chicken with foraged greens is a highlight), and you can enjoy it all on their sunny porch overlooking the hills.
Food Trucks & Outdoor Eats
- Smoky Mountain Fry (rotates at Hazelwood Ave Food Lot, $)
- Highland Forest’s answer to comfort food on wheels, Smoky Mountain Fry serves hand-cut fries loaded with all sorts of toppings—short rib gravy, pimento cheese, or house chili. Try the “Hiker’s Helper” topped with buttermilk fried chicken and tangy slaw. Check their social media for daily locations, though they're often found by the Hazelwood Ave Food Lot on weekends.
- The Pickled Peach (Forest Dr near the park, $–$$)
- This cheerful food truck fuses southern classics with playful inventiveness. The “Mountain Bahn Mi” features pulled pork, pickled fiddleheads, and a zingy ramp aioli. It’s a great spot for a casual park picnic or to grab a quick lunch before a hike.
Unique Food Traditions & Local Favorites
- Highland Forest Potluck Picnics
- Every June, Highland Forest Park hosts a neighborhood potluck that’s become something of a local tradition. Residents—and lucky visitors—bring their best homemade cakes, cobblers, baked beans, and casseroles to share. It’s the best way to sample family recipes passed down through generations.
- Spring Ramp Festival
- Celebrate the Appalachian spring with Highland Forest’s Ramp Festival, where restaurants and vendors highlight wild ramps in everything from risottos to savory tarts. It draws foodies from across Haywood County and is a delicious way to experience local flavor at its freshest.
Hidden Gems Worth Finding
- Kitchenette at The Nook (behind Forest Brew & Bean, $)
- Even locals sometimes miss this tiny takeout window behind the coffee shop. The Kitchenette serves a rotating menu of globally inspired soups, stews, and sandwiches—think Thai coconut chicken soup or a Cuban medianoche sandwich. Perfect for a rainy day cozy-up or a quick, affordable lunch.
- Maple Honey Stand (Maple Lane, seasonal, $)
- Not a restaurant, but totally essential: this pop-up honey stand is run by an elderly couple who harvest small-batch honey from their backyard hives. Available some weekends in autumn and spring, their honey is beloved for its wildflower notes and silky texture.
In Conclusion: Flavor and Community in Highland Forest
What makes Highland Forest’s food scene so special is its roots: in local farms, family recipes, and a community that loves gathering around the table. Prices range from wallet-friendly food truck bites to special-occasion splurges, and every stop has a story. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, take a stroll through Highland Forest—you never know when you’ll stumble onto your next favorite meal. And don’t be surprised if, by dessert, you feel like part of the neighborhood yourself.