An extraordinary and singular culinary experience. Every course was imaginative, layered, and meticulously composed--at once inventive and deeply satisfying. The Venue The experience begins long before the first bite. A winding drive through a ranch-like entrance sets a tone of quiet anticipation, leading to a stunning property that feels both secluded and intentional. Valet parking is seamless, and from that first interaction, the service establishes a standard of excellence that carries throughout the evening. The Food The prix fixe menu is a true celebration of farm-to-table cuisine. Each dish is thoughtful, seasonal, and executed with remarkable precision. No two plates felt repetitive; instead, each course revealed a new perspective, a new technique, a new flavor story. We were told the menu evolves constantly with the seasons--aside from the bread, which thankfully remains a constant. And rightly so: it is nothing short of spectacular. While every course impressed, one dish remains unforgettable--the chocolate wasabi ice cream. Initially, we hesitated. Wasabi in a dessert seemed implausible, even risky. Yet our server confidently assured us it was exceptional--and his personal favorite. Trusting his expertise proved rewarding. The result was revelatory: balanced, nuanced, and utterly addictive. So much so that after finishing both desserts, we wished we had ordered a second serving of the chocolate wasabi alone. It was a moment of culinary brilliance we will not soon forget. The Service If the service could be described in one word, it would be excellence. Attentive without intrusion, knowledgeable without pretense. One gentleman, distinguished by his accent and effortless professionalism, stood out as a true asset to the establishment. Service of this caliber elevates the entire experience. Final Thoughts Living five hours away is almost unfortunate--but also an invitation. This meal alone is reason enough to return to the Appalachian Mountains more often. We are grateful to have experienced such a memorable and inspired expression of modern cuisine. Thank you for an evening we will long remember. read more

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An all-time favorite of ours where we come whenever we are in the high country. Tonight we celebrated my husband's BD. The staff knows how to make the dinner special. From the little dinner rolls to the tasty appetizers and entrees we loved every bite. The pictures say it all. Thank you Jordan for great service and to Anita who keeps this place special. We wish you continued success. read more

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My friends and I were very excited to try Artisanal. We tried to get reservations 3 weeks before our last trip, and could not get in. I made reservations 4 weeks in advance this time, and held the reservation with my credit card through OpenTable. It was easy to find using our GPS. The building is very simple and elegant. The only parking option is valet. The hostesses seated us immediately. For such an exclusive restaurant, we expected a little warmer welcome. They did not give their names. We were seated on the patio with a view of the trees and stream. It was very comfortable, and we enjoyed being able to hear the brook. Our server was April. She was very friendly and checked on us frequently. She was very complimentary of the chef. Wyatt, the busser, was also super friendly and always had a smile on his face. Beware the the menu is prix fixe and there are no substitutions. There are also no free soda refills. We started with the Pomme Frites, which is a $15 upcharge. They were delicious and were covered with parmesan cheese, smoked bacon and garlic her butter. The rolls homemade yeast rolls were delicious. For an amuse-bouche, were each given a small crab salad filled pastry shell. It was simple and light and not too filling. The descriptions of the first course and main course were hard to go by when making our selections using the menu. They definitely could have been more detailed. We were asked to pick our first course and main at the same time for timing of dishes. For the first course, we ordered the Springhouse farm baby lettuce salad, Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, Sesame Octopus, and Poached Lobster with pearl pasta. I loved the fresh peach slices on the salad and the lettuce was very fresh. My husband said the Tuna Tartare was refreshing, and the sauce enhanced the flavor. The sesame octopus had an unbelievable miso mushroom broth, but my friend said the octopus didn't taste very fresh to him. The shrimp dumplings were tasty. My other friend enjoyed the lobster, but felt it was a little undercooked and chewy. For the main dishes we ordered the Campanelle, Halibut, Duck Breast and Filet Migon, which was another $15 upcharge. My friend said the Campanelle was not the quality that she expected. It was light on the seafood with a lot of heavy cream and grated cheese with a mushy texture. My friend that ordered the Halibut said it was excellent with a light lemony sauce, but the asparagus and vegetables were overcooked. My husband ordered the Duck Breast with confit sweet potato and bacon cabbage. He said that it was the best duck breast he had ever had. It was cooked perfectly, and he loved the flavor that the peach added to it. I ordered the filet mignon medium well and specified that I wanted it slightly pink. It arrived medium. I did not send it back. The serving size was also small, given the dinner prices and upcharge. The duck fat potato bar was okay. I liked the green peppercorn bordelaise. The presentation of the food was nice. For dessert we ordered various ice cream dishes, which were tasty. The ice cream portions appeared to be tablespoon sized, but left me wanting more. We were given raspberry chambord macarons after dinner. They were single bite-sized, but tasted nice. The bathroom was a single stall bathroom, but it was clean and spacious. The manager stopped by our table to check on us. We walked down to the wine cellar to have a look around after dinner. It is very well stocked. As I went in and out of the patio area, someone always held the door open for me. I do have to mention that not one person volunteered their names to us throughout our visit. It was a nice enough meal, but definitely not worth the cost. We expected to pay a certain amount for the prix fixe menu, but there should not have been an additional charge for the french fries, and the steak was a smaller size and not cooked to order. I was irritated leaving having paid more for the steak and soda refills. The soda refill charges were unexpected. It did not live up to the hype for us. For the kind of money we paid, we expected more of an experience. There was definitely sticker shock when we got our checks. They also include 21% gratuity. It averaged about $150 per person. No one even ordered alcohol. I would give 3.5 stars if I could. read more

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My wife Anna and I dined at Artisanal this past Thursday evening, and while it was overall excellent, as it always is, I'd be lying if I said it quite matched the high bar of previous visits. We've eaten here several times over the years and it consistently ranks among my top dining experiences anywhere in the world. The setting is spectacular, blending refined design, thoughtful lighting, and a location that feels almost magical in its mountain charm. Artisanal is the rare kind of place where ambiance alone makes it memorable. This time around, we opted for the three course meal with no wine pairing, and it was, as expected, a great value given the quality and presentation. My tuna appetizer was absolutely incredible, fresh, balanced, and beautifully plated. My cocktail was also expertly crafted. It was a pretty cool spin on a smoked old-fashioned. However, we did have one hiccup. The fries we ordered were noticeably unsalted. A 15$ up charge (Anna, whose palate I trust without question after nearly 20 years of marriage, sent them back. When they returned, they were still a bit underwhelming in flavor. Not a huge deal, but surprising for a restaurant of this caliber. That said, the warmth of the staff, the beauty of the space, and the strength of the rest of the meal more than made up for it. Even with that one miss, Artisanal remains a place we look forward to returning to again and again. If not for my deep affection for this restaurant and the memories we've built here, I might have rated it slightly lower. But love matters, and in this case, it earns them a well deserved five stars. I'm just trying to be truthful in my review. Do not in any way hesitate to go to here. If you're in the Banner elk or Boone Blowing Rock area it is an absolute gem. read more

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These phenomenal offerings were presented with pride & elegance. Each course was thoughtfully prepared & seasoned to perfection. The attentive/knowledgeable FOH staff made us feel so special & taken care of. Artisanal is the best choice for dining in the High Country. read more

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Took my boyfriend here for his birthday this year and I was not disappointed. Immediately upon arrival the valet takes your car and you are walked into the restaurant. Everyone is so unbelievably nice. We got there a little early for our reservation so they sat us near the bar and we got amazing cocktails while we waited for our table. Once we sat down, we had the best meal of our lives. Everyone was so incredibly nice and it was one of the best dining experiences I've ever had. We drove an hour to come to this restaurant and I would do it again!! I recommend it to everyone I know in the area. read more

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This place is amazing! The ambience is perfect and the food is to die for! The menu is a three course meal and everything on the menu is delicious. I got the ribs and the steak. The ribeye is one of the best I've ever had. It was cooked perfect and the flavor was amazing. Great service as well! If you're anywhere near Boone, you definitely want to check this place out! read more

Artisanal Restaurant - Beef short rib - New American Near Me - Banner Elk, North Carolina

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The food is typically comparable to the upper quintile of bistros in major metoropolitan areas (e.g. LA, NYC..) and the ambiance and service are old-school great. We have noticed a tad of a fall-off this fall (compared to the last three experiences spaced out over the previous 12 months). After the price fix, a few drinks, and a few extras, plus tip, expect $300 ish for a couple.... and you will still feel satisified (not gouged). The fries..aka Pommes Frittes are off the chart great. The deserts are a bit of a weak link. At our last visit they served a sous vide short rib and opted not to finish it on a hot top or fire... so the visual was, as you would expect, anemic. Still, a must-go for foodies that want to pamper themselves. Enjoy. read more

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: - , ---- Over the past 16 years, I've been fortunate to visit 68 countries and 36 states, exploring a diverse range of cuisines and regional flavors crafted by world-renowned chefs. My passion for culinary exploration is complemented by a rigorous approach to restaurant reviews, focusing on three key criteria: Ambiance, Service, and Food. Exceptional establishments that excel in all these areas are rare, but I recently discovered one in the Southeastern US that surpassed all expectations. I aim to offer an impartial perspective, showcasing both strengths and areas for improvement. --- Ambiance: The restaurant is set in a converted barn on this large acreage of land with meticulously kept grounds and beautiful statutes. It is designed with both indoor and outdoor seating (with a beautiful creek), depending on your preferences. As you walk inside, you are greeted by this amazing horse statute made from wood and a dining space with large chandeliers hanging from the rooftop, open dining areas that allow for plenty of space between the tables, and great acoustics to enjoy a conversation while you are immersed in this culinary journey. --- Service: Impeccable. The table service was truly amazing; there was never a moment that you didn't have to worry about meeting all your needs while you chat with your spouse, friends, family, and business associates. With an open kitchen concept, we were able to see how they meticulously and strategically organize dishes as they come up on the final prep area to be delivered to tables. This was truly a well-oiled machine, with everything done in synchronization, from the kitchen to the delivery of the food at your table. --- Food: Every dish we ate was truly outstanding. I really thought hard during the dinner to see if I could find anything wrong with the taste, presentation, and quality of the food - I truly could not. Even their house rolls were amazing, soft, hot, and sprinkled with a little salt on top. We ordered the following. --- Appetizer: Burrata & Local Heirloom Tomatoes (with Roasted Corn, Sherry Vinaigrette, Arugula Roasted Pepper Purée) and 15 Layer Lasagna with Black Summer Truffles (with Oyster Mushrooms, Marcona Almonds, San Marzano Marinara) --- Table Side: Pimento Cheese Scones with Sorghum Butter and Pepper Jelly --- Main Entrée: 48 hour Short Rib (with Potato Purée, Broccoli Rabe, Sage, Sauce Bearnaise Grilled Shishito Relish) and Berkshire Pork Chop (with Brussels Sprouts, Baby Carrots, Charred Radicchio Chimichurri, Grilled SC Peaches & Golden Raisins) --- Dessert: Unfortunately, the desserts were known on the menu, and I don't recall the names or descriptions. However, you can clearly see the pictures attached. --- Normally, I would write a breakdown of each dish, but this would make the review far too lengthy. What I can tell you is that each dish was combined with the perfect combination of quality ingredients, creating an experience like no other. This was truly a 5-star Michelin star experience that was executed with precision and flawlessness. read more

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Best restaurant at the Mountains. Amazing food, great service and beautiful place. It was our first time there, but we will go back next summer for sure!!! read more

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A beautiful restaurant that serves amazing food, and the ambience is breathtaking. Consistently it is one of the best meals I have every year. read more

It's been a year maybe a little more but they have not skipped a beat. Everything that made it special still is there and from pulling up, to seating , service and food is still just as amazing. It is the kind of place where it is safe to have expectations because it is always just right , and if not they will fix it. So looking for that special place, this is it! Well done every time Artisanal and staff! read more

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Incredible service and food! We had the burrata and octopus first courses. Then the short rib and bouillabaisse. read more

Artisanal Restaurant - Burrata, octopus and Pomme Frittes - New American Near Me - Banner Elk, North Carolina

Wow!! This place did not disappoint! The grounds are gorgeous the building is fabulous. Wait staff is extremely attentive, but the real focus is the fabulous food! By far my best experience dining in NC. We came for my husband's birthday. Every course was better than the next. Drinks were great too! I think the price fixe is actually a fairly good deal for what you're getting. I wouldn't normally order 3 courses We left stuffed! They throw in little extras like 2 types of breads/ sides and a palate cleaner to start. Our waitress April was wonderful at explaining how each dish is prepared We will certainly be back. Worth the 1 hr + drive!! read more

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I'm giving artisanal 5 stars because it is a welcome establishment of quality and efficiency in Banner elk but I do have some complaints. The grounds and building are beautiful and the interior feels special without much art to be seen. The wood construction is just neat to look at. The non-alcoholic drink choices were pretty weak. We tried a couple and they were literally weak. Think La Croix. I know that sounds weird complaining about weak moctails, but they had no taste. The food itself was good. I wouldn't say that it was creative, but it was tasty and better than anything else you can get within 30 minutes of Beech Mtn. It's pricey for the food quality but I get it considering the property and the efficiency. The staff is plentifully and attentive. Our main waitress wasn't the best, fake smile, fake attitude, canned responses, but the rest of the staff was great. Biggest complaint has to be the terrible bathroom. One stall with barn door and no urinals. Also the latch is meant to be decorative and does not function. I would have preferred to just walk out to the woods. It may sound like I am being nit picky, but this was clearly a well thought out restaurant that spent millions on the build, and the men's bathroom was frankly embarrassing and did not fit with the rest of the vibe. read more

Excellent service. Great valet team! I had to send back my lamb dinner to cook it more and had to wait for that. However, it returned to my table and I still had to have it cooked a little bit more. I don't like wrong me! I got a fresh plate, but then everyone was done eating. The dessert was very small, but it was super tasty and we all had dessert. read more

Artisanal Restaurant - Summertime cake - New American Near Me - Banner Elk, North Carolina

This restaurant was AMAZING. First of all the most beautiful setting, the building is stunning and the surroundings are dreamy. We sat outside and the weather was perfect. It was my father's 80 birthday and it couldn't have been more perfect. The food was to die for. We all had a bite of each others meals and every entree was amazing. The service was outstanding. By far one of my favorite restaurants. read more

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Unbelievable dining experience. Food was very good and the service was off the charts. Very well trained staff. Ambience couldn't be better. We dined on the porch next to the stream. Hope to go back next time I'm in High Country read more

My fiancé and I had the BEST meal here. We sat on the terrace, which was really nice with the stream flowing alongside us and the lit fire pit behind us. We both ordered the chef's tasting menu and every dish was delicious, from the amuse bouche to the dessert. The tuna tatake, duck confit agnolotti, and filet course were phenomenal. We also did the wine pairing with each dish which made everything so much more enjoyable. We ordered coffee at the end of the night and were not charged for it. The bread was also fantastic. The service was also top notch, and there is free valet parking. I highly recommend this restaurant and we can't wait for an opportunity to go back. read more

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Let me start off by saying that arriving to artisanal was like stepping into another world. It was definitely off the beaten path and surrounded by beautiful farmland and scenery. The restaurant itself is like a modern barn. Very cool! Stepping inside I was wowed by the ambiance! Artisanal is only offers a prefixed menu where you choose 3 courses for $95. That price would have been easier to swallow if the portion sizes were a little bit bigger. I will say they do give the table some delicious yeast rolls so that helped some. I ordered the heirloom tomatoes with Brie and peaches. It sounded fantastic and the Brie and peaches were great but the tomatoes missed the mark for me. I tried my mom's lobster phyllo and that was so much better. For my second course I ordered the sea bass with lobster tortellini. I was a little thrown because I was not expecting the fish to be sitting in a broth. It reminded me of ramen. So I would not recommend that. I am not sure if I would come again. Even for a special occasion because I feel like there are other fine dining options that are much better food wise but it may have been what I ordered. I think you come for the experience and I feel like if you want to splurge then it is definitely worth it for that alone. read more

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Our visits earlier in the season were much better than our recent visit. Negatives: Our Server "A" did not know the dishes well enough to explain some of their preparations unlike our previous servers. He removed dishes and drinks without asking first...three times before the diners were finished. When my husband asked that an ingredient he was very allergic to be omitted and perhaps maybe an increase in the one veggie in the dish added, he was served broth, a slice of fish, and a sprig of bok choy. I guess their "no substitution" rule means they will leave off an ingredient but they will not increase any other in its absence...even with severe allergies. They ran out early of the night's special. The rice in my jambalaya was crunchy and not fully cooked. And, I'm sorry, the option of a heaping tablespoon of ice cream should not really constitute a third course. Positives: Very nice ambiance. Great valet service. Our ribs, tuna tartare, pork chop, and veal were well prepared. Our drinks were very good (just wish we had been able to finish them). After spending over $2000 here in the season thus far, I think we need a break. read more

I live in St Louis, MO which is a pretty "foodie" city. I have been here over a half dozen times. NOT ONCE have I put anything into my mouth I didn't love. Perfection! Every time!!! Never an off night. IMPRESSIVE. Would I typically order chicken when dining out? Nope. Last week I dined there and thought...what the heck, try the chicken. This is a very special restaurant. They set the bar high. Thank you to all the staff who makes this place magical. read more

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Food was outstanding. Service excellent. Waitstaff and sommelier were very helpful. Ambiance was very good.

Super nice restaurant and excellent experience. Owners hand on and greeting customers. Delicious dinner with super service. Very romantic and enjoyable. read more

This is no longer becoming our favorite place to eat. The pre-set menu is very nice but our duck order was exceptionally spicy (hot) which is unusual for duck and all 6 of us felt our entrees had too much salt. The service is always excellent but not sure the food is measuring up. PS - when I told the head guy that all of us felt our food was too salty he actually argued with me that it wasn't!!!! What great restaurant does that? read more

The best restaurant in North Carolina! Period! My family has worked in food in NC for 100+ years. There is no comparison. Everytime I go is a unique experience! The menu changes but the cocktails typically stay the same. Their other restaurant, "Peppercorn" in Charlotte is just as good but the ambiance doesn't compare. If the weather is good and you plan ahead, try to sit outside! You should call ahead 3 months to get a reservation, it's that good!!! read more

A great dining experience here in the mountains of North Carolina just down the hill from where we are staying. Certainly a higher end offering on service, sommelier, and food. We all enjoyed our meals and the wine. If you have an opportunity to come, do it. read more

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Dined here during a recent Mother's Day girls retreat and the experience (food, service, ambiance) all around was better than exceptional! It was easily the best meal I have ever had. I hope to bring my husband back when we visit again in August. read more

Amazing food, service, and ambience. This restaurant has it all. From the cocktails, to the wine list, to the entrees, to the desserts- this is top notch dining at its best. We made a reservation for the patio, which is covered, and also has heat lamps if needed. There is a beautiful mountain stream that runs behind it which makes for a very calm and serene backdrop for your meal. The service was impeccable. We had the octopus for an appetizer- perfectly prepared. For entrees we had the trout and pork chop followed by a Spanish custard, similar to creme brûlée for dessert. If I could give this place more than 5 stars I would. We are foodies and this rivaled meals that we have had anywhere in the world. Definitely make a reservation- they are booked out a bit. read more

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Fine dinning in the heart of the High Country. A hidden gem in Banner Elk,NC. Make sure to book well in advance, availability can be a challenge. read more

It was my wife's birthday and we happened to be up in the mountains. There's no better place to celebrate than our all-time favorite restaurant -- Artisanal. The restaurant is nestled in a valley. We also chose to sit outside; this is a checkered area with heaters (if it gets cold), next to a stream that adds to the relaxed atmosphere. The food is beyond amazing. We started with the bread then the pimento and jalapeño scones -- full of flavors. I then had the 24 oz ribeye -- done to perfection. My wife had the short ribs -- tender and flavorful. The service is second to none. I can't recommend Artisanal enough -- a solid six-star experience! read more

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The last time I was here I was very disappointed because they had stopped serving calamari. The prices are very high and the portions are very small. They do have an elegant dining room and the wait staff is very nice But for these prices I want larger portions and I want calamari read more

The best meal of my life. Really, what more can I say other than that. The food was amazing, we rented the wine cellar for a private meal which allowed us to have plenty of time between courses to sit by the fire which runs next to a stream right outside. We were able to try many of the main dishes as we ordered everything for a sample as an appetizer. read more

Artisanal Restaurant - The private wine cellar at Artisanal Restaurant. - New American Near Me - Banner Elk, North Carolina

Hands down the best dining experience we've ever had. And we've had quite a few. Everything from the atmosphere, to the service, to the food was pure bliss. Thank you Artisanal for giving us an incredible last evening in Banner Elk. read more

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Superb setting and great food and service. Christian, our server, was outstanding! I had the salmon and my wife had the short ribs. Fantastic! Even the owner stopped by to ask if everything was perfect. read more

Artisanal Restaurant - Christian, our server, was wonderful! - New American Near Me - Banner Elk, North Carolina

What a wonderful dining experience last night at Artisanal. Have tried to make a reservation all Summer but finally was able to eat there last night . The food was excellent as was the service and the atmosphere. Would highly recommend this Restaurant . It's truly a gem... read more

Too expensive for what you get. Food is mediocre and prices exorbitant. Ambiance is sophisticated and the place is gorgeous but its a restaurant not a Spa. read more

It was amazing the food the ambiance the service we loved it and recommend , the place is beautiful

For a special occasion this is a very nice place. I loved my pork chop and my wife's seafood pasta was also very good.

Taking trip on blue ridge parkway, stayed at the banner elk. Surprised by finding a fine dining restaurant at this small town. Good service. Basically the courses are good, but if want to get a star, a lot needed to improve. read more

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