Our first time visiting the Blowing Rock area in 35+ years. I went to school in Boone many years…read moreago. In town for a few days for my birthday. We chose this restaurant for my birthday dinner - based on reviews. Reservations seemed to be required at least 10-14 days in advance and we still could only get 8:30. That's OK for us as we tend to eat later most of the time. It seemed we may have been the last party to arrive as the restaurant was clearing out shortly after we were seated. The Good: beautiful place and great views, at least for me. And although there was a table open at the window where we could both see views, we were placed at table closest to lounge area where my husband's back was to the window. The server was very nice, knowledgeable and mostly attentive. My husband's mentioned he would have liked a 2nd drink but after all the food was served (see below) we didn't see her again until the end. She did acknowledge my birthday when she initially greeted us. She recommended we each order a plate from each the appetizer, salad and entree menus and described one from each in great detail. The menu is very pricey and she is likely trained to make these suggestions. For example, on the appetizer menu, one scallop was $22. This is the one she recommended. Our garden salads and entree's were good - but not extraordinary. Husband ordered the tuna but was able to substitute scallops for the tuna ($55). I ordered the pork tenderloin ($48). I received it barely warm. The server promptly returned it to the kitchen to be heated. She was very kind about it. Once it was warm it was tasty. Was served with carrot puree that was excellent (seemed to have some brown butter and warm spices). Will likely try to recreate this at home. The Bad: There were 3 other tables being served in our area while we were there. I might guess they were locals based on the major difference in the level of service we received vs what the other 3 received. Don't get me wrong, as previously mentioned our server was very kind, knowledgeable and helpful. There was also a young man (dark curly hair) dressed in all black that spent a considerable amount of time at all 3 of the other tables when he brought their food out. He seemed to offer extensive explanations and have general conversations. He also brought out food, dropped them and was gone before we could even say thank you. There was a lady (straight dark hair in a sleeveless green dress with a name tag - (seemed to be a manager) that spent significant time at each of the other three tables as well as in the lounge area next to us with 2 couples there. Even after I had to return my cold food, she never stopped by to even say welcome/hello and make sure the plate was now satisfactory. My husband was a chef/proprietor/manager in restaurants for 35-40 years. He couldn't believe there was no check in after having to return a plate. One other table had a birthday and they brought her a dessert with a candle. I wasn't offered anything like that. Not sure if it is complimentary. We were only asked if we wanted to see a dessert menu and there was no other mention of my birthday except when we were first greeted. For the prices on the menu, I would think everyone would get great service and the manager would check on every table. Just left a bad taste in our mouths, not because the food was bad, but since we received average service when all around us received over the top service, I don't foresee returning and don't recommend them.

Absolutely outstanding! Gideon Ridge exceeded every expectation. The food was exceptional, the…read moreservice was warm and attentive, and the mountain views made the experience even more memorable. Every dish was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. A perfect spot for a special occasion or an unforgettable dinner. Can't wait to come back! A special thank you to the young gentleman valet who walked me to my car in the rain and lightning. He was exceptional!!