Birthday dinner with my daughter last night (Fri 4/10/26). We got there at 5 and were seated right away. The evening was perfect and the outdoor seating near the river made a perfect backdrop. Live music began at 7 which was also nice. We ordered our drinks, appetizer (trout nuggets are very good!) and entrees at the insistence of our hostess and glad we did. By 5:30 it got very busy! I was dissatisfied with my grilled chicken sandwich. The grilled chicken had no seasoning. Plentiful portion but very bland and tasteless. I ate the grilled onions and mushrooms and a couple bites of the toasted wheat bread with melted cheese. My daughter had the Chicken Caesar wrap and she said it was messy but not bad. The Pizookie was delicious which made everything alright!! Who does not love a hot chocolate chip cookie with ice cream, caramel drizzle & whipped cream?! This was my 2nd time and even though my sandwich was not perfect, I still enjoy eating here. It is worth the trip! read more

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This place serves the ABSOLUTE BEST MARGHERITA PIZZA we've EVER had. Sitting outside, by the river, watching the kayakers go by, and eating this magical pizza, is one of our absolute favorite things to do, every time we visit the area (twice a year). Now, let me tell you why I CANNOT give them 5 stars. I have been telling my in-laws about this place (AND this pizza) for about 3 years. Last month, we took them to Waynesville, for what will likely be their last trip to Waynesville, their favorite place. (health reasons) We were staying in Waynesville and shopping in Pigeon Forge and it was lunch time. We were headed to Mel's Diner, and at the last second, I suggested we go by Tapoco Tavern, instead, to get the pizza I had been telling them about. Everybody was hungry, but agreed they could hold out for another hour to try this pizza they'd heard so much about. We were all starving by the time we finally pulled up to the LOCKED GATES at Tapoco Tavern. Their website had NO MENTION OF BEING CLOSED. We assumed they must close for the season, but a few days later, I saw an advertisement for Tapoco Lodge, on Facebook. Go figure. We drove 60-100 miles out of the way and still had to drive another hour to get to the third restaurant attempt. (Luckily, Native Brews, in Cherokee was open (obviously, we called first). Any other restaurant would have a one star review for this train wreck dining day. But, that awesome pizza will STILL keep us coming back. Sadly, my in-laws will never experience the best Margherita pizza. Go here. Get the Margherita pizza. It's a game changer. But, CALL FIRST! read more

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Excellent food, amazing and gorgeous views. Wood fired pizza is very authentic and the pancakes were some of the best I've had. Service is always excellent and ambiance can't be beat if you like nature. read more

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We had a chance to stay in the historic lodge and of course enjoyed the Tavern. I will say the draft beer selection is very good variety. And the pint is reasonable. We enjoyed burger and trout tacos one afternoon and came back to trout and chicken for dinner the following evening. Dishes are generous portions and well prepared. Service is good and all staff is friendly. We really enjoyed our visits read more

Tapoco Tavern - Trout with slaw and okra. Generous topping of bacon and onion. I had the slaw with both meals and really liked it - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

We've are here several times and have never been disappointed! The food is always delicious and just enough to fill us up! Service is often a little slow but not enough to drop a star from us. Ambiance of course is amazing next to the river! We drive over 2 hours to eat here and drive the dragon. Great spot! read more

Happy Endings +++. Ambiance is open and covered full service patio resto and covered bar along the Cheoah River. This lodge is at the end of many trails and is a great place to finish any adventure. ++. Food is casual upscale pizzas and Southern catering to well heeled visitors. Their trout, brick oven pizzas, superfood slaw and lemonades were popular with us. +. Service was pleasant but slower as it was packed and the wait was long. +. Price is high...about double elsewhere around here. Even for the quality it's slightly higher than what you pay in big cities. +. Parking was tight, controlled entry and directed by attendants. read more

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We stopped here for lunch on a cold day & we set by the river. So beautiful. The waitress was so friendly and quick. I ordered the chicken Caesar wrap with fried okra. The okra was hot and crispy. The wrap had just the right amount of dressing on it. My husband had the grilled chicken sandwich with sweet potato fries. He loved it. This is a must stop. read more

Tapoco Tavern - Grill Chicken Sandwich with Sweet Potato Fries - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

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You won't beat the view here, that's the one thing they have going for them. Food prices are resort prices for sure, probably a bit on the gouging side if you ask me. You can get a cheaper meal in Robbinsville or Tellico Plains with the same or better quality but you're a long ways out from both. I've eaten here many times over the years but this last time in May 2025 really left a bad impression on me. When I was here in 2024 they had a gluten free trout dinner that for 2025 is no longer gluten free. However, the trout nuggets are and they are pretty good. This time I ordered the campfire mountain trout and it was horrible. The fish was hard to cut and overcooked. It didn't pair well with the pecans and bacon. $29 for a bad meal. But wait...it gets worse. My girlfriend saw all the pizza pictures as well as some sitting around us. She loves pizza but there's a catch, she has celiac and needs to be gluten free. No worries, they have an option for gluten free pizza, ONLY a $4 uncharge....oh, and it's smaller than their medium pizza, but you'll pay the large price plus the surcharge. Okay, fine, we will do it because the non-GF pizza looks so amazing. But wait...they cook it in the same oven as the non-GF so there's a chance of cross contamination...okay we will take the risk. Well, talk about the biggest disappointment ever. This thing came out burnt on the bottom, took 50 minutes to make...I was done eating my meal before she got this pathetic tiny pizza. It came out with exactly 11 PEPPERONIS...11 OF THEM!! Toppings were so minimal you could count them. Burnt small pizza with countable toppings for only $27. If you're gonna price gouge people for the location and "resort" prices at least make it good. Cardboard thin pizza that's burnt on the bottom with no cheese or toppings for $27 is a complete ripoff. We had to stop for more food in Robbinsville on our way back to Raleigh because it wasn't even enough to make you full. Add in $9 for a mocktail that was mostly ice and with tip her meal was nearly $50 to leave hungry and have to get more food an hour later. But, the view was nice. read more

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We stopped into Tapoco for dinner and, everything was AMAZING! We got the fish+chips and filet, everything was hot and obviously freshly made to order. All the staff were super nice and willing to help always! great views of the river and overall a cozy place. I 100% recommend to anyone in the area. read more

What a fantastic place to go for dinner. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. Tonight, there was a guy singing on the outside patio. Service was excellent, she did a great job with our table of six. We tried the fried Pickles, and they came out hot and tasty! Delicious!!! The chicken nachos were a huge portion and tasted great. The burger was cooked perfectly, and the jalapeno cheese was the perfect heat to the burger. The fries were huge and tasted great, yet were highly seasoned. The fish was a little overcooked, and probably won't get those again. read more

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The raging rapids right next to you is a beautiful sight to see, the service is quick and they hold a good standard of care to each customer. The food for being way out in the wood was surprisingly delicious. read more

Tapoco Tavern - Outside Cascades - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

Ordered trout dinner. The trout was extremely dry and could tell it was from frozen before fried and then under a heat lamp for hours. Servers were terrible. They ignored us several times. When they brought our food out, forgot to give us silverware to eat our food. When we attempted to ask a server, she was very rude. Food was worse than a frozen dinner and very expensive. I would have been better to purchase a frozen dinner at a grocery store and heat it in a microwave. At least it would be moist. read more

This is a nice place to eat. It has outdoor dining. You can sit and look at the River. The server was great. We even got to see some people kayaking. The food and drinks were great. read more

Tapoco Tavern - My wife and our drinks - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

The service was great. The atmosphere can't be beat. Along the rapid and water. Fire pits and live music. The food was incredible. Memory was our server and. She was excellent. I had their Tapoco sunrise cocktail it was fantastic. I can't rave enough about this amazing place. Right before the dragons tail. read more

Tapoco Tavern - Rapids. Great music. Wonderful property. - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

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Fantastic food and beautiful riverside setting with great service all added up to this place instantly becoming a new favorite. After an invigorating run across The Tail of the Dragon, I enjoyed the Caesar Salad with Trout and the wife enjoyed a Stella's Chicken Sandwich. Both were superb in every way. Saw several other plates come out that looked delicious. Will certainly be back to try a burger as well as the pizza. Get there early on a Saturday because it does get busy and if you can, check the river water release schedule. Watching the brave kayakers tackling the river whitewater was fun too. For a car guy, the chance to hear some very nice sports cars charging up the mountain nearby was a bonus. For some people, that might have spoiled it but not for this gearhead!! Should have taken a picture of the food and the menu but didn't, unfortunately. Next time!! read more

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Today was our 5th or 6th visit over the past 4 years. As always, the 2-hour drive along the "Tail of the Dragon" was fun and scenic. We arrived around noon, and the Tavern wasn't busy, so we were seated immediately. We ordered Tavern fries, a Blackened Chicken Caesar Wrap, and regular fries. All were served hot, and quite delicious. My only "issue", and this is a repeated problem: we pay by credit card, and are presented with one of those portable hand-held credit card readers. On a previous visit, the server "thoughtfully" pre-selected a 30% tip for himself. Fortunately, I caught it at the last moment, and instead of the 20% I would have given him, he got 10%. Today I was waiting, and it happened again. The server (blond woman) pre-selected a 25% tip for herself. While not illegal, it's DEFINITELY immoral and slightly dishonest, as obviously they were trying to get by without us noticing. Since today's server was really good, I did give her 20%. Still, SHAME ON HER. read more

Let me just say you have to go check this place out. Beautiful setting right on the water. Food was amazing. Service was on point for a group of 15 that we had. Sherry, helped me out with the reservation. They support their military vets and first responders. Couldn't have had a better experience. read more

Tapoco Tavern - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

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Found this hidden gem and so thankful! We've been coming to the mountains for 14 years and we've never stopped. So glad a few of the ladies decided to go for a drive! It's a must try if you're in the area! Food was AMAZING!! Service was stellar! Drinks were great! They have a heated patio and plenty of seating! read more

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2 stars for the view from the restaurant but the service is terrible. Also, Yelp just deleted my previous review that I posted months ago that went into detail about why the service was terrible. Isn't that what yelp is for? read more

It's been quite a while since I've been here but I realized that I never left a review. I wanted to make sure my 5 stars made it in there because this is definitely a great spot if you're in the area, and especially if you're staying in the lodge; don't pass up a meal and/or a cocktail here. I don't quite remember how the service was during our last visit but I do remember the great cocktail, the delicious food and the fantastic view. I also loved the rustic vibe, which provided for a great atmosphere. Definitely a destination spot on your list for holiday. read more

Tapoco Tavern - Old fashioned $12 - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

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Stopped in with friends for dinner. I had the smothered chicken. I am over 60 years old and this was the best chicken dish I have ever experienced. Two very thick large grilled chicken fillets. Cooked to absolute perfection. They were moist and juicy and fully cooked. The cheese and onions added to the flavor profile so well. Our server Memory, took special care of us. The location is along the river and the rushing water created a wonderful ambiance. We took some time after dinner to sit at the gas fire table and chat. Wonderful experience we are sure to repeat. Highly recommend!! read more

Tapoco Tavern - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

Stopped by after a friend referred us to their restaurant and I'm so happy we did. We were able to get a seat by the river and the views and the sound of the water cascading over the rocks was amazing. Our server was there taking our drink order as soon as we sat down and we tried the trout sandwich and hamburger and both were a 10/10. I will definitely go back anytime I'm in the area. read more

Tapoco Tavern - View from our seating area on the patio. - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

Nice outdoor eating area with views of water Food tasty. Grilled trout was delicious. Portions on the smaller side vs other places we visited in the area. I was still a little hungry after my meal. Service is okay. A little slower than I'd like. Note they close fairly early on the weekdays. read more

Stayed at the lodge for a few days and ate there numerous times, mostly because there's not much out in the middle of nowhere. Food is solid. Breakfast was always good. Lunch even better. Dinner was also tasty. Jasmin and Sandra were fantastic servers. Sitting at the bar was a different story. The bartenders either need someone helping with the service bar or learn to be more efficient. Waiting 15-20mins for another drink is crazy. Clearly the manager is watching the labor hours/costs but missing the revenue side. Every evening I watched numerous customers get frustrated waiting for a drink or refill (including us), with many leaving the bar. This service hiccup is costing the bar/restaurant hundreds of dollars every evening. Fix it. read more

Amazing place. The food was good, the people were nice, beer, a little bit on the warm side for my taste but good overall. read more

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We have passed Tapoco Tavern at least a dozen times and never stopped. This past Sunday, we stopped in for lunch and oh boy, what a great venue. Sitting outside by the river is just an awesome experience. The staff was amazing! The pizza was perfect, ordered a Hawaiian. They butter the crust! To die for pizza! The local craft beer selection served ice cold is a pleasant relieve from the summer heat. A+++++++ read more

Tapoco Tavern - Hawaiian Pizza with buttered crust. Yum yum. - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

Did you just drive the Dragon Tail Trail in your GMC Sierra AT4 with your kids screaming in the backseat and didn't realize where you were going because you'd gotten lost when your phone lost cell coverage? Well, this is the stop for you! LoL We ordered a pizza and some nice chilly beers to calm mommy's anxiety from daddy's amazing race car driving skills on the Dragon Tail. I 10000% recommend stopping in. The area is also very beautifully kept and very inviting. You can even lodge here if the Trail made you need to do so. LoL Stop here! You'll love it! read more

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The food is delicious here! We've been here several times for a quick meal after driving the Dragon, but this time, we were celebrating my husband's birthday. We had lunch and dinner while we stayed at Tapoco Lodge. I suggest making room for dessert because we ate all the Cheesecake with bourbon caramel and would've licked the plate too (if, I was at home)! read more

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Went here on a date recently. It is a nice place along a large stream and has a great atmosphere. The food was pretty good I had a club sandwich and homemade chips mydate had a taco trio. It is on the pricey side and can get crowded with the tourists and motorcycle crowds. read more

Great view eating lunch. Food was delicious. Had delicious tea too! Loved the cigar lounge. Worth the trip for sure!

Our family had a wonderful visit Tapoco. Everything was super delicious, the view and location cannot be beat, and the service was perfection (above and beyond to be honest). My husband and I each had some local fish - blackened - and it totally hit the spot. The homemade chips were excellent as well. Our kiddos had a pepperoni pizza and grilled chicken and fruit. Our server, Patience, was so lovely and attentive and helped us order delicious food that was safe for our family's (several) food allergies. We are grateful to the folks here and especially to her and the chefs in the kitchen. They made this stop one of the highlights of our whole vacation. The Lodge is beautiful and historic. The location outside next to the river is perfection. Watching all the cool cars and motorcycles coming off the Dragon is so much fun. A must stop! We cannot wait to come back! See y'all again soon! read more

Beautiful restaurant nestled next to a flowing stream and bridge where we could see our car buddies buzzing by. We chose to dine outdoors; even moved around a bit to get shade. Service was friendly and attentive denoted by my star rating. Fried trout appetizer was chosen by friends. It was just OK; an attempt to elevate a dish with something other than catfish. But, it doesn't work. Any fried trout doesn't work period. But, they had to hit that $14 price point on a classier dish. My Tavern Burger ordered medium rare was overcooked to nearly well done. Ghost pepper jack cheese was a nice addition without adding all the heat of the Hot Dam burger featured just below on the menu. Tacos looked better than my overcooked meat Hashbrown Casserole as my side was cheesier than Cracker Barrel and a better choice than dang 'ol fries. We even made it into the dessert round with carrot cake and cheesecake. Lovely place, relying on the scenery for the extra dollars read more

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I cannot count the number of times my wife and I have been to Tapoco over the past several years and it's always been great. This past June I wanted pizza. The problem is I cannot eat dairy, so no cheese. I inquired about just sauce with toppings. Our server thankfully informed me that there is actually cheese in the regular sauce, so no go. She suggested pesto because that was cheese free. I added some toppings and it was actually quite tasty. read more

Great atmosphere and great service. I would go everyday if I could. Incredible place and food

It was lovely weather to sit outside and listen to the water bubble through the creek. Food was sufficient and didn't take long. Server was pleasant. Nothing spectacular, but a very decent burger. It's really hard to find any really great food in this part of the world.... Believe me , we've tried over the past several months .... so by that standard, I'd say this place was pretty satisfying. Now, if you are not a biker, please be advised that this place caters to bikers and the Tale of the Dragon is right there so that equates to an enormous amount of road noise. In turn , if you are a biker , than this place is an ideal destination where your business is valued by virtue of the location and amenities for you. However, bc food is few and far between in these parts , beggars can't be choosers , either eat here or carry a well stocked cooler. We chose the latter from now on. read more

Fries....get the fries! Something unique I haven't had before but definitely enjoyed. They sprinkle some brown sugar on them and they come out great. Awesome spot to eat and hang out at. Food was great as well. Really nice river that flows by that provides a relaxing audio track. read more

Tapoco Tavern - Resorts Near Me - Robbinsville, North Carolina

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Good pizza Good salad Good service Beautiful seats by the River Nice areas to walk and chill after the meal I don't live very close but will make the 90 minute trip again to try other menu items read more

The location is true to our mountainous region, but we found the food to be nothing special. Our dog was welcomed on the covered patio, which was very enjoyable. It was nice to go this one time for lunch on a beautiful day. read more

Great service and great food with great view on the river. I will be back soon. The pizza was exceptional

The service provided by "Patience" last Friday was amazing. We had a party of 20 bikers and celebrated a bday and she was amazing and actually very patient with us. Thank you for the amazing service. read more