2 NC restaurants are among the ‘best hidden gems’ in America, Tripadvisor says

North Carolina is home to a long list of restaurants serving up cuisines from all over the world. But two have been named among the best “hidden gems” in the U.S.

Tripadvisor released a list of the top 25 restaurants across the country that earn their under-the-radar status.

Only two in North Carolina were included in the report: Cafe Pamlico in Buxton and Haywood Smokehouse in Waynesville.

“Cafe Pamlico is located in Buxton, North Carolina and offers a world-class dining experience with exceptional food and detail-oriented service,” the Tripadvisor report says. “Their contemporary coastal cuisine is driven by locally sourced seafood, meats, and produce, and they are committed to supporting local farmers and artisan food producers.”

The casual fine dining waterfront restaurant, ranked 17th on the list, is a popular spot on Hatteras Islands located inside The Inn on Pamlico Sound boutique hotel. You can enjoy breakfast, Sunday brunch and dinner in the restaurant’s intimate dining room or on their covered patio while taking in the views of the Outer Banks.

“This place is amazing! We come here every year we’re in the Outer Banks and they always have service that goes above and beyond,” one Tripadvisor review says. “The food is always a 10/10 with a 10/10 view.”

North Carolina’s other hidden gem, Haywood Smokehouse, was no. 21 on the list for its highly-rated barbecue.

“From mouth-watering ribs and pork to tasty mac and cheese, the restaurant cooks up a variety of dishes to satisfy any appetite,” the TripAdvisor report says. “Their dedication to preparing food the old-fashioned way truly shines through in each dish, providing customers with a unique and unforgettable dining experience. With its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, Haywood SmokeHouse is the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends and family.”

Haywood Smokehouse is known for its slow cooked meats and classic Southern sides, including collard greens, burnt-end baked beans and creamy coleslaw, but you can also find Cajun, Tex-Mex and other regional cuisines on the menu. The family-owned restaurant in Waynesville has two other North Carolina locations, in Dillsboro and Franklin.

“This is one of our ‘favorite places to visit’ while in western NC,” one Tripadvisor review says. “Haywood Smokehouse is a great place to satisfy a Barbecue craving! Pork, Beef, Chicken, or Turkey, they’ve got you covered.”

You can find the full list of TripAdvisor’s best hidden gems in the U.S. online.