May 2014
DL
Dining and Lodging
A publication of The Highlander and the Crossroads Chronicle
THE SUMMER HOUSE Widely recognized as the most fascinating and diverse shopping experience in Highlands!
HOME FURNISHINGS CENTER Accessories, Gifts, Antiques, Lighting, Handcrafted Custom Furniture and Interior Design Services
NEW SUMMER CLASSICS NOW ON DISPLAY
The Sedona Collection
Ask about our Home Buyers and Home Renovators Discount Program! Monday-Sunday 9:00-5:00 2089 Dillard Road, Highlands (2 miles from Main Street)
828-526-5577 www.summerhousehighlands.com • summerhousehighlands@brmemc.net 212076
Let us have your e-mail for special “ON-LINE” savings during the winter!
Does watching the fading light
of a mountain sunset make you want to linger a little longer over dessert? Or maybe the view on an early morning hike on Whiteside Mountain makes you want to stay to see just one more morning. The simple pleasures of fine dining and unique and comfortable accommodations are irresistible, especially when paired with our postcard-perfect setting. In this Dining and Lodging issue of Legacy magazine, you’ll find stories about the restaurants and lodging choices in the area. If you grow weary of cookie-cutter options at big chains, you’re in the right place. All of the businesses featured here are local favorites — each offering a style all its own. There’s been a lot of work done around the plateau this year. Take a tour of the work in progress on Main Street in Highlands and in various Melody S locations in Cashiers. purney, E ditor Who doesn’t love cake? Orders for “Bunny Bites,” created by Cashiers resident Vickie Webb, are flooding in from area restaurants, shops and even Harrah’s Casino. Also in this issue, Mountain Flavors columnist Marilyn Underhill explores various uses for that spring farmer’s market favorite, asparagus. Whether you’re here for the day, a week or a lifetime, relax and enjoy the best that spring in the mountains has to offer. We want to hear from you. Call us at (828) 526-4114 or e-mail Publisher Michael Johnson at mjohnson@highlandsnews.com or Managing Editor Melody Spurney at mspurney@highlandsnews. com.
Your Kitchen Store
& More!
► Cookware by All-Clad, Emerilware, Le Creuset, Cuisinart & Scanpan
► Full line of heavy duty Bakeware in metal & pottery
► Huge selection of top quality Cutlery, Gadgets & Utensils
► Casaina Stoneware, Schott Zwiesel German stemware
To be included in the pages of Legacy, please contact us at: The Highlander (828) 526-4114 or the Crossroads Chronicle at (828) 743-5101 or online at news@highlandsnews.com Publisher
Michael Johnson
Editor
Melody Spurney
Staff Writers
Kelly Donaldson Jessica Webb
Account Executives
Tyler Shook
Mike Henry
Graphic Designers
Katherine Brown
Peter M. Morlock
On the cover: Ruka’s Table/Photo by Peter Frank Edwards
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
► Countertop Appliances by Breville, Cuisinart, Waring, & Vitamix!
► The best in Bath & Body from
Thymes, European Soap, and more!
Main Street Highlands, NC (828) 526-5226 Open Monday thru Saturday 10am - 5pm Open Sundays 1 to 5pm beginning May 25th
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Presented by: Beth & Dan Riley, Valeria & Peter Whitcup, Diane & Ray McPhail, Ruth Gershon & Sandy Cohn, Louise & Rick Demetriou, Jane Webb & David LaCagnina, Carole Simmons, Cindy & Rick Trevathan, Patsy & Bill Wolffe
Dining Whether you’re looking for fast and casual or formal dining, there’s something for everyone. Pages 6-17
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Contents C
214029
An All-American Burger Joint
Lodging Mountain accommodations range from rental cabins to word-class luxury. Pages 18-29
Open 7 Days for Lunch & Dinner
Full Beer and Cocktail Menu!
Also inside ...
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Call for Catering or Carryout 30 Dillard Road, Highlands Next to the Farmer’s Market
(828) 526-4241
twitter@Justin_burdett 200141
Work in progress: Bunny Bites: A Asparagus: Offseason Cashiers woman’s This spring favorite renovations abound carrot cakes make offers a variety at businesses on the a big splash in of preparation plateau. area’s restaurants. options. Page 30 Page 34 Page 36
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Dining DandL Lodging
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Cyprus International Cuisine
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very story has a beginning, middle and end, and as the 2014 season approaches the story of Cyprus International Cuisine continues. Twelve years ago executive chef and owner, Nicholas Figel, used his unique perspective of life, which is overflowing with imagination and creativity and merged it with world histories and recipes. As Cyprus begins its 13th summer season, it will do so on center stage as construction has officially commenced at its new location on Main Street in Highlands. From its genesis, Cyprus has captured the attention of not only those who dined inside but of those who work side by side with Figel as he provokes an infectious passion and enthusiasm for his food and the stories it tells — whether it is an epic novella that tugs at the heartstrings, an adventurous hero’s tale that ignites its audience with excitement or something as organic as following the lifecycle of local fruits and vegetables as they travel from the earth to the dinner table. The Cyprus experience is a story waiting to be written by each patron who steps inside. Tommy Lasley, one of the original chefs to work along side Figel, returns to join him once again after departing Highlands to pursue his education at The Culinary
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Institute of America in New York. When asked why he felt a need for a scholastic degree in the culinary arts, Lasley stated, “I wanted to turn my career into a profession.” During his time in New York Lasley learned and collaborated with acclaimed chefs Andre Soltner, an internationally recognized French chef and author, as well as Dan Barber, owner of several restaurants including the Blue Hill, a nominee for the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant. “He’s truly a rising star in the world of cuisine,” stated Figel. When asked about the expectations of Cyprus and the collaborative effort of both, Figel replied, “I’m happy to announce that we will be combining our skill sets to produce an exceptional cuisine and an inspiring international experience. I believe our unique food will be a great vehicle to facilitate the ideas and concepts we are striving to achieve.” Season after season, Cyprus embarks on a culinary expedition around the world and back again. Each week the menu showcases a new region of the globe accompanied by seasonal produce to enhance it — from the herbs that complement every entrée to the salt water fish that is ordered every night, in-transit, to ensure freshness and variety. “Cyprus is designed to easily incorporate any ingredient in the world,”
Lasley said about the benefit of working in the Cyprus kitchen. “Some restaurants become pigeon-holed by ingredients that dominate their genre, where as at Cyprus there is no border that restricts our culinary ambitions.” A recent Cyprus creation is a perfect example of how this philosophy can be achieved as chefs served Golden Tile fish, found in Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans; Jerusalem artichoke native to eastern North America and found as far north as Eastern Canada; a vegetable fritter filled with hand picked local produce; and a sautéed Langoustine covered in a saffron Fume. Cyprus tests the boundaries of the senses as it infuses local ingredients with an exotic aesthetic. As Cyprus takes its place on Main Street the expectations couldn’t be higher. A ceiling-to-floor window and open-air patio will allow each and every patron walking the streets of Highlands to look up and see the adventure that awaits them. “I’m visualizing a city center experience that invokes the energy and passion of the traditions of cuisine that we are exploring,” Figel said about the new location. “I’m intrigued about the ‘outside-in’ point of view and the opportunity for passersby to take a glance past our copper sign and into our windows.” Copper is a dominant component of décor at Cyprus, and it will continue to be so. The characteristics of copper and that of the restaurant itself share numerous qualities, and the continuity of this detail is prevalent to Cyprus as a whole as copper was principally mined on the Greek island Cyprus, hence the origin of the name Cyprium. As every story has its three-act structure, Cyprus finds itself ascending through the second act with its audience dying with anticipation of how it will all end. Figel and Lasley both agree it will be the combination of Tommy’s subtlety and attention to detail interlaced with Nick’s energy and excitement that will allow this dream to become a world class restaurant.”
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Cornucopia & Slab Town Pizza
Something for everyone
Cornucopia Restaurant in Cashiers has been a favorite for locals and visitors alike for 36 seasons. Enjoy lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch on Cashiers’ favorite porch. Our experienced and friendly staff will tend to your dining needs while you enjoy fresh and flavorful homemade soups, sandwiches, vegetarian options and hamburgers for lunch. The Cornucopia dinner menu provides dishes crafted from the finest and freshest ingredients. Diners will explore Southern dishes with an eclectic twist with chicken, beef, seafood and pasta. Everyone is sure to find something to please their palate at Cornucopia Restaurant. If you’re hungry for pizza, head through the crossroads to the new Slab Town Pizza. You can build your own custom creation or try one of our specialty pizzas, which include a white pizza with pork sausage and arugula, a vodka pizza with meatballs and a vodka sauce, a pesto pizza and a salami pizza. Diners can also enjoy a variety of appetizers and chicken wings, salads and calzones — including two specialty creations, a buffalo chicken calzone and a Philly cheese steak calzone. Don’t pass on dessert, either. The menu features Budino, a butterscotch custard with Nutella and whipped cream, seasonal flavors of ice cream sandwiches and the locally made Bunny Bites carrot cake.
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Celebrating Our 25th SeaSOn A unique fine dining experience on Harris Lake in Highlands, NC featuring fresh seafood, an extensive wine list and excellent service.
Lakeside
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Catering available
Restaurant
akeside Restaurant celebrates its 25th season bringing its customers a unique fine dining experience overlooking the charming Harris Lake. The restaurant’s specialty dishes often center around the freshest seafood that is available. Much of the seafood is caught in the coastal Carolina areas, ensuring freshness not often found elsewhere. Working with a supplier who specializes in coastal catches, we have been able to provide fantastic Carolina black grouper, red snapper and black bass. By focusing on great seafood choices, Lakeside has excelled and succeeded in its goal of being a top restaurant serving the freshest seafood in the mountains. We work with the finest suppliers to present a dish so many return for year after year. If you’re looking for something other than seafood, Lakeside features all-natural grass-fed beef, chicken, duck and a chef-crafted vegetarian selection. We are well known for serving up some of the area’s best local rainbow trout, simply prepared and perfectly presented. The restaurant is also known for the finest grilled Colorado free range lamb chops, a specialty most nights. One of the most popular menu items is the Triggerfish Maison, sautéed with artichoke hearts and mushrooms in a light lemon white wine sauce, as well as the grilled Filet au Poivre. Nightly specials like Redfish etoufee and whole tempura fried black bass are some of our clientele’s favorites. To end an incredible dining evening, we always recommend the bread pudding with warm whiskey sauce or the mile high mud pie, all produced in-house. A favorite of residents and visitors alike, Lakeside’s carefully selected management and its well-trained staff have concentrated on caring. Attention to detail by all who work at the restaurant and the sincerity of the individual service person is most evident throughout the dining experience.
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Welcome to Lakeside Restaurant, where a warm welcome and delicious dinner await you. From it’s setting on Harris Lake and whimsical interior, to the award-winning wine list and culinary experience, Lakeside Restaurant is truly one of life’s pleasures. The freshest of all ingredients are the beginning of Lakeside’s culinary creations. The value driven wine list explores wine regions from around the globe. Lakeside is a restaurant where the ambiance is exciting, the food is center stage and the staff is dedicated to every detail. It’s a perfectly positioned restaurant one block off main street and advance reservations are recommended. Tuesday - Saturday Dinner Beginning at 5:30 • April - November 1 531 Smallwood Ave. (On Harris Lake) • Highlands, NC 828.526.9419 • www.lakesiderestaurant.info
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On the Verandah
n the Verandah stands by its mantra “Our Passion Your Plate” with each carefully prepared dish that is delivered from the kitchen to our guests. No detail is too small to be overlooked; from carefully placed fresh greens set gently atop the Thai Coconut Ginger Shrimp to a bottle of Patz and Hall Pinot Noir poured table side. At the heart of the operation is Executive Chef Andrew Figel, who carefully oversees every aspect of his guests’ experience. Nestled on the shores of Lake Sequoyah for more than 30 years, On the Verandah has become an important spot for many guests who have made dinner and drinks on Friday night a ritual and quiet Sunday brunches with family and friends a tradition. Chef Figel, together with his team, offers guests a unique opportunity to sit back, relax, and enjoy the splendor Highlands has to offer.
Join us this season and see what we are cooking.
On The Verandah Bar & Restaurant Highlands, NC
Our Passion, Your Plate
Now Serving dinner from 5:30pm . 1536 Franklin Road Highlands, NC 28741 Reservation: (828) 526-2338
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Ristorante
Paoletti 2014 marks our 30th year on Main Street in Highlands, providing a premier dining destination since 1984. The area’s freshest seafood, handmade pasta and daily specials have built a loyal following. Craft cocktails and exceptional wines by the glass, along with one of the Southeast’s deepest wine cellars, enhance the evenings selections. The full dinner menu is offered at the bar nightly. Treat yourself and your family to one of the town’s finest dining experiences. Dinner reservations are always suggested.
Dinner service from 5 p.m. Every evening in season Reservations: (828) 526-4906 www.paolettis.com
Paoletti Uptown Italian Dining Since 1953 Downtown Highlands Since 1984
Exceptional Wines & Craft Cocktails
Dinner/Bar 5:00 Exceptional WinesNightly & Robustfrom Cocktails Dinner / Bar Nightly from 5:30 Reservations Reservations
828-526-4906
828 - 526 - 4906 440 Street 440Main Main Street, www.paolettis.com Open All Year Highlands
www.paolettis.com
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Ruka’s Table About Justin Burdett Executive Chef of Ruka’s Table, Justin Burdett joined the Ruka’s Table team in summer of 2012, bringing his esteemed farm-to-table knowledge and practices to broaden the restaurant’s locally influenced menu. Prior to his work at Ruka’s Table, Burdett was Chef de Cuisine at Miller Union, a nationally recognized and acclaimed restaurant in Atlanta. Burdett was named by Food & Wine magazine in March 2013 as one of the top ten chefs in the Southeast.
About Ruka’s Table
Located in the mountain town of Highlands, Ruka’s Table offers a variety of inventive dishes, showcasing sophisticated Southern flavors. The restaurant proudly partners with local farms to source fresh proteins and produce in support of the local slow food movement. Every dish is made from scratch, including its cheese, with seasonal and local ingredients, to invoke a homemade feel along with its authentic and rustic menu.
Photo by Peter Frank Edwards
“Come experience fine, southern dining at its best.” Dinner 7 Days A Week at 5:30pm Bar Open Daily at 4pm 163 Main St. in Wright Square Highlands (828) 526-3636 RukasTable.com Intimate Dining Eclectic Food Locally Farmed Ingredients Housemade Specialties Fresh Squeezed Cocktails An Innovative Twist to Southern Cuisine
Photographs by Peter Frank Edwards
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Chef Justin Burdett Nominated for Two Years in a Row Top Ten of the Best New Chefs in the Southeast by Food & Wine magazine and a 2013 Carolina Rising Star Chef by Star Chefs. Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Sapphire Mountain
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Brewing Company
apphire Mountain Brewing Company is located at the clubhouse of Sapphire National Golf Course, a semi-private 18 hole championship golf course, open to the public. We are a family friendly restaurant open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, offering scenic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, golf course and lakes. We offer a diverse food menu and more than 100 micros, Belgians, imports, domestic beers and wines, along with our award-winning wood-fired pizzas and calzones cooked in our rustic mountain setting. With a full menu, inside and outside seating, projection big-screen, TVs throughout the restaurant, a game room and live music on select nights, you’re sure to have a good time! Come join us, and enjoy a country club setting without the commitment, at Sapphire National Golf Course, and get a taste of the best menu selections in the valley at Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company!
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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The Ugly Dog & The Dog House
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he Ugly Dog Public House and Dog House are located on “the hill” at 294 S. Fourth St. in Highlands. We are a casual pub with a relaxed atmosphere in which people can come and enjoy craft beer selections on tap and by the bottle, well-designed cocktails, great wines and good friends. Our seasonal and specialty cocktails include lavender-blueberry mojitos, fresh margaritas, strawberry-basil caipirinhas and perfect Manhattans, just to name a few. Our extensive bourbon selection is the best in the area. This season we will offer a reserve wine list as well as Champagne and sparkling wine specials every Friday. Our outside seating at the Dog House is a great way to enjoy a relaxing libation on a cool evening in Highlands, especially to end a rigorous day of golfing, shopping or outdoor activities. If you are hungry, don’t miss our pub menu. We have great burgers that are hand pattied and cooked to order. Alongside our wonderful burgers, we serve premium hot dogs and naturally hickory smoked meats from Highlands Hickory Market. In addition to these wonderful options, we offer housemade soups and salads. There is always something to enjoy at the pub or Dog House
as we have weekly drink and menu specials and live entertainment. Every Wednesday night you can enjoy the sounds of Nitrograss, a bluegrass band from Asheville, starting around 7:30 p.m. Every Saturday night starting around 9 p.m. we play host to a different band that will get you off the streets and out of your seat! Every Sunday we offer a brunch menu and a fresh Bloody Mary bar with shrimp, bacon, different types of Bloody Mary mixes, hot sauces and many other ingredients so you can create your own unique and favorite flavor. So come, sit, stay with us here at The Ugly Dog Pub and Dog House! The Ugly Dog Public House opens at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at noon Friday through Sunday. The Dog House opens at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Call us at 526-8364.
THE UGLY DOG PUBLIC HOUSE South 4th Street Highlands, NC 828.526.8364 www.theuglydogpub.com There is always something to enjoy at the pub or Dog House, with weekly drink/menu specials and live music. Every Wednesday and Saturday night we play host to a different band that will get you off the streets and out of your seat! On Sunday we offer brunch and a fresh Bloody Mary Bar with many different ingredients, such as bacon infused vodka, so you can create your own unique and favorite flavor. We love to host wedding parties and have special menu options for your event. So come sit and stay a while at The Ugly Dog Pub and Dog House! Pub: Monday - Thursday 4pM | Friday - sunday 12pM doG housE: Lunch - TuEsday - saTurday 11:30 aM - 3 pM sunday brunch - 11:30 aM - 2:00 pM dinnEr - Friday & saTurday 5:30 pM - 9:30 pM
follow us on facebook/twitter/instagram @theuglydogpub
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro
Taste the difference, always fresh! Best of Wine Spectator Award Award winning cuisine in Historic Downtown Highlands, North Carolina Celebrating our 20th season
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olfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro, in their 20th season, invites you to experience the culinary prowess of Chef Wolfgang Green, former Executive Chef for the Brennan Family of Commanders Palace. Welcoming Chef Brian Cress, who will add some exciting recipes from his travels. You won’t want to miss any of our previous selections or the best steaks and freshest seafood in town. Our unique dining atmosphere allows you to have a wonderful experience with our friendly and knowledgeable staff. Dine with us in our garden pavilion, alfresco by the waterfall or by fireside in a historic home. In the Bistro, you gather with friends and family for small bites with a great selection of wine and cocktails. Our private dining rooms provide a comfortable and elegant setting for you and your guests. We can also host private parties, rehearsal dinners and other events. Have you seen our Napa Room? For intimate wine dinners with Sommelier Annelize Giliomee. We look forward to “kicking it up another notch” this season. See you soon, Mindy and Wolfgang
Celebrating Our 20th Season Southern Living’s Top Dining Choice in Highlands Wine Spectator Award Winning Wine List
Open Mid-February - December 31 Bistro Service Starts at 4 pm Dining Room Service Starts at 5:30 pm 474 Main Street • Highlands, NC • 28741 828.526.3807 • www.wolfgangs.net • wom2@me.com Find us on Facebook
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Altitudes 470 Skyline Lodge Road, Highlands • (828) 526-2121
Brick Oven Pizza 423 N. Fourth St., Highlands • (828) 526-4121
Canyon Kitchen 94 Lonesome Valley Road, Sapphire • (828) 743-7967
Cornucopia Restaurant Flipside
16 Cashiers School Cashiers • (828) 743-3750 30 Dillard Road,Road, Highlands • (828) 526-4241
Cyprus 470 Dillard Road, Highlands • (828) 526-4429
Highlands Smokehouse 595 Franklin Road, Highlands • (828) 526-5000
Lakeside Restaurant 531 Smallwood Ave., Highlands • (828) 526-9419
Madison’s Restaurant 445 Main St., Highlands • (828) 787-2525
$$- C • • • $$$$ • • • • $$$$- C •
Outdoor seating
Reservations accepted
Open after 9 p.m.
Take out
Handicap access
Kids menu
Credit cards
Dress
Price
Dinner
Lunch
Name
Breakfast/Brunch
Dining guide • • • • • •
Type of food Soups, salads, seafood, poultry, beef, lamb and pork Pizza, salads and calzones
Chef John Fleer and staff use fresh and • $$$$ BC • • • • organic produce for farm-to-table menus Burgers, and rings, Burgers,homemade salads andfries sandwiches • • • $-$$$$ CC • • • • • • • homemade ice cream, sandwiches, breakfast • $$$$ C • • • • • • International cuisine
• • $$$$$- C • •
• • • •
• $$$$ C • • • • • • • • • $$$$$- BCC/ • • • • • • •
Homemade BBQ, brisket, chicken, pork, ribs, fried pickles, sides Eclectic American New South, farm-to-table, sustainable
Codes: Pricing — $= under $10; $$ = $10-15; $$$ = $15-20; $$$$ = $20+; Dress — C = Casual; BC = Business Casual; F = Formal
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
On The Verandah Paoletti 440 Main St., Highlands • (828) 526-4906
Ruka’s Table 163 Main St., Highlands • (828) 526-3636
Sapphire Mountain Brewing Co. 50 Slicers Ave, Sapphire • (828) 743-0220
Slab Town Pizza 45 Slab Town Road, Cashiers • (828) 743-0020
Ugly Dog Pub 294 S. Fourth St., Highlands • (828) 526-8364
Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro 474 Main St., Highlands • (828) 526-3807
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$$ C
•
••
Outdoor seating
Reservations accepted
Open after 9 p.m.
Take out
Handicap access
Kids menu
Credit cards
Dress
Price
Dinner
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78 Hwy. 64E @ Cashiers Farmers Market
1536 Franklin Road, Highlands • (828) 526-2338
Lunch
Breakfast/Brunch
Name On the Side BBQ
• Barbecue and lunch menu, take out only
• $$$$ C • • • • • • • • $$$$ BC •
Type of food
• • •
New American cuisine Italian, Seafood
• $$$$ BC • • • • • •
Modern, seasonal Southern cuisine. Wide variety of local foods prepared in-house.
• • $$$$-
C
sandwiches, • • • • • • • Wood-firedsteakspizza,andcalzones, saloon food
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C
• ••• •
•
Pizza, salads, wings, appetizers and calzones
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A new twist on pub food. High quality, organic when possible.
• • •
$$
$ C, -$$ BC,F
• $$$$
C
• ••• • • •
Eclectic international steak and seafood
Codes: Pricing — $= under $10; $$ = $10-15; $$$ = $15-20; $$$$ = $20+; Dress — C = Casual; BC = Business Casual; F = Formal
595 Franklin Rd Highlands, NC
Across from August Produce
(828) 526-5000 Open 7 days a week for Lunch & Dinner
Large full service bar • House-infused liquors Rent our large deck for private parties!
Monday: $4.00 Margaritas WEEK SPE DAY Tuesday: $0.50 Wings C Wednesday: $4.00 Well Drinks IALS! Thursday: $2.00 Draft Friday: $1.00 OFF All Bottled Beers 212084
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals
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hambers Realty & Vacation Rentals is the oldest and largest vacation rental source in Highlands. Some of our homes have great mountain views, others are walk to town, and some are nestled in the woods, but ALL of our homes are in the Highlands area. Many of our guests return year after year, and some of our rental owners have been with us for more than 30 years! We could go on and on, but why take our word for it — see what some of our last year’s renters had to say.
“Wonderful! Wonderful! Wonderful!” Pinecone Lodge, Sue & Richard, Atlanta
This is a beautiful home that is very comfortable. For us, good beds were important, and the Pinecone Lodge had excellent beds in all rooms. This home has a great layout with a master on one side and 2 guest bedrooms on the other side. The back deck is great ... a little cold and rainy during our visit to spend much time out there. I saw in the visitors book that children had fun finding all the “hidden” pinecones. There are plenty in the decor, so that could keep younger and older kids occupied for a while! We would definitely rent again!
“Love this home!” A Highlands Paradise, Nicole, Asheville
We absolutely love this home and the Chambers Agency! We have rented this home multiple times, and every single time it is perfect. Always clean and comfortable! We have had nothing but great experiences with the Chambers Agency and will continue to use them for our future visits to Highlands, N.C.!
“Perfect Highlands Cabin!” Pumpkin Hill, Pam & Jeff, Atlanta
Thanksgiving 2013 was wonderful for our family, largely due to your warm and inviting cabin. There were plenty of private bedrooms, comfy beds and well-equipped bathrooms to keep us all happy. The cozy family room and fireplace kept us together and warm, and our sunrises and gorgeous sunset views kept us on the decks and porches. The home was wellequipped, superbly located (we loved being literally 3-5 minutes from Main Street), and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants a “downtown” Highlands experience while viewing it all from near the top of Little Bear Pen Mountain. We would love to stay here again! Thanks for supplying such a beautiful home, which has already entered into our holiday fond memories.
Read more reviews; see our selection of vacation rental homes, homes for sale and links to the Highlands Calendar of Events and more on our website: chambersagency.net. Just a few other reasons to come see us at 401 N. Fifth St. in
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“Best house ever!” Tree Tops on Potter, Louise, Bristol, Tenn.
We stayed for a week and a half. This house was exactly what we wanted! Big screened in porch with trees surrounding us, very roomy living room and very clean! The downstairs was a haven for the kids ... they had their own living room, two bedrooms and a full bath. I can’t say enough about this house! We came up to Highlands for some peace and tranquility, and that is what this house provided. I would love to come up and stay an entire month! We will definitely go through the Chambers Agency again. I would have to say this is the best vacation we have ever had.
“A great weekend at Norton Creek Lodge” Norton Creek Lodge, Kathy, Louisville, Ky.
We had a wonderful weekend and loved the accommodations. Our group included me, my son and daughter-in-law and daughter and her significant other. We had plenty of room. The house has two master bedrooms with private bath on either end of the house, with the living and dining area in between. We had lots of together time and lots of privacy. We mostly enjoyed the lovely porch — with lots of comfortable seating —that overlooked a running creek. Everything was convenient, clean and up-to-date. The location at first seemed a bit remote — on the map, but it turned out to be an easy drive into town and to hiking spots. We loved it.
“Loved the house and location!” Holman Cottage, Doug & Sue, Mooresville, N.C.
Excellent service from Chambers and staff. They responded to all concerns promptly! Location was wonderful, walked to town daily, private surroundings very charming. House was very comfortable with nice furnishings and a well-equipped kitchen. Would rent again.
Highlands: We are your source for buying or selling mountain properties. Many of our renters become home owners. Many of our home owners become rental owners — we call it “the cycle of Highlands.”
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
& Vacation Rentals
www.ChambersAgency.net • GetIt@ChambersAgency.net 401 N. Fifth Street • PO Box 1235 • Highlands, NC 28741 Phone: 828-526-3717 Fax: 828-526-3718
& Vacation Rentals
www.ChambersAgency.net • GetIt@ChambersAgency.net www.ChambersAgency.net • GetIt@ChambersAgency.net 401 N. Fifth Street • PO Box 1235 • Highlands, NC 28741 401 N. Fifth Street • PO Box 1235 • Highlands, NC 28741 Phone: 828-526-3717 Fax: 828-526-3718 Phone: 828-526-3717 Fax: 828-526-3718
Home Sales Sales and andVacation VacationRentals Rentals Home CHAMBERS CHAMBERS 1-888-526-3717 • Your Mountain Memories start1-888-526-3717 here... • REALTY REALTY & Vacation Rentals ••Your start here.. here... .•• Your Mountain Mountain Memories Memories start
• How will YOU remember YOUR Highlands trip? Let us help you make it your best ever. • Howwill willYOU YOUremember rememberYOUR YOUR Highlands Highlands trip? • •How trip? Let Let us us help helpyou youmake makeitityour yourbest bestever. ever.• •
Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals
Chambers Realty & & Vacation Chambers Realty Vacation Rentals THE BEST SOURCE of Vacation Rentals in theRentals HIGHLANDS area.
THEBEST BESTSOURCE SOURCE of of Vacation Vacation Rentals Rentals in THE in the the HIGHLANDS HIGHLANDSarea. area. Please visit our website: www.chambersagency.net to see All of our listingsPleasevisit visitour ourwebsite: website:www.chambersagency.net www.chambersagency.net to Please tosee seeAll Allofofour ourlistingslistingseverything to spacious spaciousupscale upscalehomes. homes. everythingfrom fromsmall small cabins cabins and and cottages cottages to everything from small cabins and cottages to spacious upscale homes. Chris Alley Alley Chris Chris Alley Broker Broker Broker 526-2060 526-2060 526-2060
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Landmark Vacation Rentals
Take your next vacation to new heights
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estern North Carolina – including the communities of Cashiers, Highlands, Lake Glenville, Lake Toxaway, Burlingame Country Club and Sapphire Valley – is where luxury and the great outdoors come together in perfect harmony. And, Landmark Vacation Rentals will take your next mountain getaway to new heights, no matter how you choose to spend your time. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife and outdoor adventure of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains ... or simply sit back, relax and take in the breathtaking view. Best of all, you can choose among Landmark Vacation Rentals’ array of options for every taste including mountain view estates, luxury cabins, cottages, spacious condos or private golf-course homes. The experienced team of local experts at Landmark Vacation Rentals know this region better than anyone and are dedicated to offering comprehensive, around-the-clock, hassle-free service. In their ongoing commitment to service excellence, Landmark Vacation Rentals continues to employ cutting-edge innovation while maintaining a personal approach and boutique-style to their operations. As a result, Landmark Vacation Rentals offers every guest their time-proven commitment to customer satisfaction and ethical business practices. To experience it for yourself, and to learn more about seasonal
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and annual rentals with Landmark Vacation Rentals, call 877747-9234, email info@LandmarkVacations.com or visit www. LandmarkVacations.com. Are you ready to own a piece of the extraordinary lifestyle of Western North Carolina? Landmark Realty Group is the area’s top producing real estate company with expert and professional agents ready to help you realize your real estate dreams. For more information, call 888-743-0510, email info@LandmarkRG.com or visit www.LandmarkRG.com.
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
ROAN MOUNTAIN HIGHLANDS
REST. REJUVENATE. RECONNECT.
Rediscover what matters. There’s only one place to do it right, and that is in one of our vacation rentals in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, where you can experience beautiful scenery, amazing wildlife and outdoor adventure, as well as one of the most restful vacations of your life.
Contact Landmark Vacation Rentals to book your luxury cabin, cottage, condo or private home rental today.
For North Carolina vacation, seasonal and annual rentals call 877-747-9234 or visit www.LandmarkVacations.com For real estate sales visit www.LandmarkRG.com NORTH CAROLINA: CASHIERS, FRANKLIN, HIGHLANDS, LAKE GLENVILLE, LAKE TOXAWAY AND SAPPHIRE VALLEY
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Old Edwards Inn & Spa
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Relaxed luxury
ld Edwards Inn and Spa welcomes visitors to North Carolina’s scenic southwest plateau with an award-winning blend of relaxation and luxury. The grounds and amenities cascade along several acres in downtown Highlands and include two outdoor heated mineral pools with whirlpools. Guests are greeted with a glass of champagne at check-in and then shown to their rustic-luxe cottage, suite or guestroom. There, they find an arrival treat like fresh baked cookies, as well as cozy robes and slippers, fine Italian linens and heated marble bathroom floors. If it’s relaxing spa therapy you are looking for, you’ll find one of the country’s most acclaimed experiences at Old Edwards. And golf enthusiasts head straight for Old Edwards Club, a members-only club that is also accessible to guests of Old Edwards. The club features an additional outdoor heated mineral pool, clay tennis courts and lessons, workout facilities and The Grill Room restaurant and lounge. When the palate demands to be pleased, you’ll enjoy premium cocktails and fresh, healthy cuisine at Madison’s Restaurant—all delivered in European style, service and ambiance. Hummingbird Lounge and the Wine Garden feature live music on weekends. Two pool cabanas allow you to relax in the fresh mountain air while having your needs catered to. A stunning spa café offers farm-fresh menu items and provides panoramic views of nature through retractable glass walls. And Arts at The Lodge serves espresso beverages and pastries in the morning and turns into a full bar with nibbles in the afternoon. New in 2014 is “200 Main,” casual lodging by Old Edwards. This sensible-chic service model provides golfers, wedding guests and Highlands visitors with stylish accommodations, a heated pool and a few other comfortable amenities for rates starting at $125 in the summer season. Some of Old Edwards’ many accolades include the #2 Resort in the U.S. and #24 in the world in 2013 by Travel+Leisure, and Condé Nast Traveler’s #2 Hotel Spa in the U.S. in 2014.
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Old Edwards Inn and Spa
European Style Wellness Resort in the Heart of Highlands, NC With Farm-to-Table Dining, Live Music, Abundant Amenities and Multiple Accommodations Styles New This Year
200 Main Casual Lodging by Old Edwards, With Access to Old Edwards Club oldedwardsinn.com Call 828.787.2625
Bear Lake Reserve
For the perfect mountain vacation, just add water. Along a crystal clear lake amid the Blue Ridge Mountains lies a place of unforgettable moments and uncompromising beauty. Here, roads gently roll through the mountainside and along miles of North Carolina lakefront property, where custom mountain homes, Craftsman-style cottages and new mountain lodges are tucked thoughtfully into their surroundings. There is a true sense of community here where the pure joys of a North Carolina lake and mountain vacation may be experienced with family and friends. Located on Bear Creek Lake in Tuckasegee, Bear Lake Reserve boasts waterfalls, 2 trout stocked fishing ponds, 15 miles of hiking trails, a Nicklaus designed golf course, fire pits for s’mores, picnic
areas and parks and a luxuriously appointed lakeside clubhouse. Enjoy dining at the Lake Club restaurant, lounge at one of two pools or hot tubs. Ready for adventure? Kayak, canoe, float, swim, ski, rent a pontoon boat or bring your own boat. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy our Nicklaus designed course that boasts some of the most spectacular views on property. Bear Lake Reserve’s 2,100 acres have been masterfully planned to create a Western North Carolina vacation where you and your family can connect with the natural environment and re-connect with each other. Bear Lake Reserve Endorsed Accommodations offers a variety of vacation rentals from two bedroom mountain lodges to three and four bedroom mountain cottages to custom built mountain homes. Bear Lake Reserve combines mountain living with modern comfort and features open floor plans, alpine inspired architecture and panoramic views. We have the most amenities of any resort offering lake property in North Carolina and, in fact, we believe we have it all: lake, mountains, Nicklaus designed golf, tennis, pools, clubhouse, amphitheater and more. Book your lake and mountain escape now!
For the perfect mountain vacation Bear Lake reserve endorsed accommodations Presents
just add water!
THE PERFECT MOUNTAIN & LAKE GETAWAY 2100 acre private resort community
Luxury mountain lodges, cottages & custom homes available for vacation rental Complimentary use of our canoes & kayaks Complimentary use of our private Lake Club, swimming pools, hot tubs & work out room
Access to fine & casual dining at our award-winning restaurant
Complimentary use of our picnic areas & hiking trails In-room complimentary breakfast gift basket including muffins & coffee Golf & pontoon boat rentals (additional fee)
BLRvacations.com • 828-293-7414
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
High Hampton Inn
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beacon of Southern hospitality and tradition, High Hampton Inn is celebrating its 92nd season. Tradition reigns here, where gentlemen don coats and ties for dinner, high tea is served everyday at 4 p.m., and Southern favorites like High Hampton Fried Chicken make an appearance on the menu each week. Meals are served family-style three times a day in the spacious dining room and include local produce and High Country favorites like North Carolina Mountain Trout and Sunny Silver Pie. High Hampton’s 1,400 acres offer endless options for activities, including mountain golf, tennis, boating, swimming or fishing on Hampton Lake.
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
After a day of outdoor adventure, guests can stop by the Hampton Market to grab a quick bite. Options include prepared gourmet salads, party platters, wine, beer, rustic breads, desserts and a selection of gourmet deli sandwiches. In the evening, Rock Mountain Tavern is great for gathering with friends. Every day from 5:30-8:30 p.m., diners can enjoy
a selection of small plates in the tavern or on the patio. Throughout the season, holiday House Parties and special events like Dinners in the Dahlias allow Cashiers residents to experience High Hampton Inn’s culinary creations in a different setting. Visit www.HighHamptonInn.com for additional information.
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Laurelwood Inn
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he Laurelwood Inn, located in the heart of Cashiers, offers rooms, suites and cabins. All accommodations are affordably priced, and we are open year-round. You can access the Cashiers walking trail right from our property to visit the many downtown shops and restaurants. Our free standing log cabin has a fireplace, kitchen and wonderful screened in porch — perfect for a summer or winter vacation. Our grounds include two beautiful water features, gazebos, playground and large front porch with rockers. Laurelwood Inn is a family-owned and operated business. We enjoy taking time with our guests to help them plan the perfect vacation. Our business was founded in 1959, and in 2009, we were selected as the winners of the Cashiers Historical Society’s Village Heritage Award. We look forward to seeing you at the Laurelwood Inn.
LAURELWOOD INN Rooms, Suites & Cabins
LOCATED IN THE HEART OF CASHIERS Open Year Round! 800-346-6846 • 828-743-9939
58 HWY 107 N., CASHIERS, NC 28717 www.laurelwoodinncashiers.com
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Skyline Lodge & Altitudes Restaurant
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kyline Lodge, the best kept secret in Highlands, has it all — from mountain views to private balconies, nature trails, Jacuzzis, fishing, lakes and our own waterfall, swimming pool, Wi-Fi, fireplace, tennis courts, a conference center, wedding deck, pavilion and cable TV. We are also pet friendly! Skyline was built in 1929 of redwood and granite and constructed in the Frank Lloyd Wright tradition. The same staff serves guests year after year with old fashioned values and professionalism. We are looking forward to a wonderful season filled with many surprises. We have recently added a bar to the lobby area of our restaurant along with new hardwood flooring. What a great area to sit and enjoy cocktails and appetizers next to the crackling fireplace while taking in mountain views. We will also have an extraordinary variety of specialties, each one a delight — from lump crab cakes or roasted French onion soup
to our entrée selections of Trout Meuniere, Black Angus filet mignon or Chateaubriand. Don’t forget our famous desserts by Lou Lou. Whether you choose to dine inside or outside on the patio, Altitudes is the most intimate and beautiful dining room in Highlands with the best mountain views. We also have lovely areas for weddings, reunions or private parties of any kind. Our wedding specialist would be happy to plan your next event.
Skyline Lodge & Altitudes Restaurant Unforgettable Experiences Await You Designed circa 1929 in the Frank Lloyd Wright tradition at 4300 ft elevation. Along with our sweeping panoramic vistas, we offer a full line of amenities to enhance your mountaintop experience: Fine Dining at Altitudes Restaurant, A Lobby Bar, Lovely Rooms and Cabins with Native Fireplaces, Private Porches, Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts Game Room, Horseshoes, Spa, Sauna, Nature Trails, Waterfalls
The Loose Moose Full Service Bar
190881
470 Skyline Drive, Highlands, NC 28741 (828) 526-2121 or (800) 575-9546 www.skylinelodge.com
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Pebble Creek Village
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ebble Creek Village offers reasonably-priced vacation rentals year-round. There are eight two-bedroom houses, four motel rooms and one townhouse chalet available to rent for short-term stays. Houses have a two-night minimum stay, and motel rooms can be rented nightly. Long-term stays of one to six weeks are also available, if booked well in advance. Pebble Creek Village has become a popular place to host destination wedding groups, family reunion groups, church retreats and business meetings. The two-bedroom houses are all fully furnished with queen beds, extra loft sleeping area with queen bed, kitchen, living room, dining rooms, outside decks, charcoal grills and flat
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e r u t n e v d ily A m a F t s e The B ds! n a l h g i H in
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ADVENTURE FOR ALL AGES! • Zip Line Tours • Family Challenge Courses • Ground to Air Nature Trail
5 out of 5 stars! 9625 Dillard Road 828-526-8773 Visit TripAdvisor.com to see what great Scaly Mountain, NC 28775 experiences previous visitors have had. www.highlandscanopytour.com • 28
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
screen HDTVs with DVD players. The townhouse chalet has one bedroom with a queen bed and half bath upstairs, and the downstairs has a small kitchen, living room, full bath and deck area with a charcoal grill. The motel rooms have two queen beds, full bath, small table and chairs, recliner, minifridge, microwave oven, coffee maker and a small patio area off the back. The houses are popular for longer stays as they are very comfortable, open and airy. The conference center can be used by individuals for meetings or can be booked for groups staying on the property. It has four conference-sized tables with chairs, flat screen TV for presentations, two bathrooms and a fully-furnished kitchen for cooking or catering in. There is also a charcoal grill on the outside deck. The property also has free wireless internet and a walking trail and is close to the center of Cashiers and shopping, dining, waterfalls, hiking, fishing and other activities.
Vacation Rentals
Elegantly decorated two bedroom homes with open loft bedroom. Spacious great room with cathedral ceiling, fireplace and dining area. Furnished kitchen with adjoining laundry room (including washer/dryer). Two full baths, sunroom with wrap around deck, gazebo and grill.
www.pebble-creek.com • info@pebble-creek.com
828-743-0623 Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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Escape Moun tain s! Escape toto thethe Mountains! Pebble Creek Village VACATION�RENTALS
Cashiers, North Carolina
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Hwy. 107 S., Cashiers (828) 743-2411
Inn at Half-Mile Farm
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Skyline Lodge
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Walk to town
Handicap access
On-site parking
Fireplaces
Children welcome
Entertainment packages
Golf packages
Internet available
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95 $$$$$$$
140 Pebble Creek Drive, Cashiers (828) 743-0623
470 Skyline Lodge Rd., Highlands (828) 526-2121
Pets allowed
114 $$$$$$$
Hwy. 107, Cashiers (828) 743-9939
Pebble Creek Village
Open year-round
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17 Hwy. 64E, Cashiers 877-747-9234
445 Main St., Highlands (828) 526-8008
Pool
$$$$$$
Landmark Vacation Rentals 64 $$$-
Old Edwards Inn & Spa
Kitchenettes
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214 Half Mile Drive, Highlands (828) 526-8170
The Laurelwood Inn
Smoking rooms
$$$$$
401 N. Fifth St., Highlands (828) 526-3717
High Hampton Inn
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412 Lake Forest Drive, Tuckasegee (828) 293-7414
Chambers Agency
Pricing
Name Bear Lake Reserve
Units/Rooms
Lodging guide
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Rooms, suites and cabins Hotel, cottages
Motel, townhouse, homes Rooms, suites and cabins
Codes: Pricing — $= under $100; $$ = $100-$150; $$$ = $150-200; $$$$ = $200+ *Note: Not all services listed are available in every room
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Work in progress
Renovations abound on the plateau
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By Jessica Webb
he sound of nails being hammered and the sight of freshly painted buildings can be seen both along Main Street in Highlands and around the Crossroads in Cashiers this spring as a few dining and lodging locations are renovating properties. The projects are welcome activity and a sign that the plateau continues to be a cherished destination in the mountains.
Highlands In Highlands, two hotels on Main Street will be noticeably improved as visitors return over the summer season.
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
200 Main
Under the ownership of Old Edwards Inn & Spa, 200 Main, located in what was formerly Mountain High Lodge, 200 Main will open in June offering guests a mountain chic retreat with eco flare in a scaled-down version of Old Edwards. The interior has undergone a complete renovation, with a reconfigured lobby and a social gathering room that will open to a slate patio with a fire pit and a water feature that looks out onto Main Street. In addition, a heated mineral pool will be added to the property for guests. Guestrooms will have hardwood floors, heated Carrara marble floors in the bathrooms, new fixtures and plantain shutters on the windows. Exterior renovations include new
paint, all new doors and windows, a new tin roof and landscaping. “Those wanting a comfortable, stylish, economical place to stay while playing golf at Old Edwards Club or taking advantage of all that the Highlands-Cashiers area has to offer can opt for 200 Main,” said Amanda Sullivan, OEI marketing director. The hotel will add about 20 employees. “We were happy to be able to renovate existing rooms in Highlands, enhancing the overall quality of the lodging and street-scape while also providing additional accommodations for our wedding and meeting guests,” Sullivan said. “We feel that the fresh mountain-chic style will have appeal with a younger demographic that is starting to surface (Generation X and Millennials) that enjoy
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hotel eagerly awaiting the new guests to arrive and any furry friends the guests may bring with them.”
Cashiers
In Cashiers, properties at the Crossroads and in Slabtown are seeing significant changes.
Slabtown Shopping Center
coming to Highlands for outdoor recreation and culture. This same demographic has a high preference for arts, culture, adventure, authentic local experiences and great dining experiences, which will hopefully be another boon to Highlands’ economy.”
The Park on Main Hotel
RLR Investments, of Captiva, Fla., purchased the property that was formerly Highlands Suite Hotel, located at 205 Main St., last year and is looking to open in mid to late June with reservations starting this month. The newly painted lodge-style, agedcoal black exterior of the hotel opens to a bright, fresh interior with a strong sense of contrasting white, black-brown wood flooring throughout. The foyer features a custom crystal chandelier and zebra sitting chairs by a cobbled stone fireplace. Trademark Vermeer-style dog paintings will echo throughout the interior and decorations include tartans and plaids. The new park in the central courtyard offers guests a new way to enjoy nature
and includes a fountain and reflecting pond. Jeff Weller Architecture and Ric Owens Planning and Design worked on the project. The company anticipates the hotel will employ six people. “We are pleased to introduce The Park on Main Hotel to the Highlands community, and we are creating a warm, welcoming environment that exudes relaxation and comfort,” said Holly Boldrin, of Priority Marketing. “The Roberts family’s Scottish terrier, Mr. Pickles, will be at the
Michael Benitez, owner of The Chinquapin Company of Cashiers, purchased the Slabtown property in January and has made some extensive renovations to the outside of the buildings and the property. The exterior renovations include new siding, parking lot improvements, new signage and landscaping. “We’re trying to do more of what we do, which is good quality development here in Cashiers,” Benitez said. “I think we’ve helped to give Slab Town Road a facelift and take what many believed to be a not too terribly inviting atmosphere and turning it into a comfortable place to shop and dine.” Outdoor seating areas between the two shopping centers and at the end of the
Page 31: 200 Main is one of two major hotel projects being undertaken in Highlands this year. Above: Cashiers Village Inn is one of the properties in Cashiers that also saw renovations. At right: Employees are pictured in front of the menu board at Slab Town Pizza, which opened after renovations to the Slabtown Shopping Center earlier this year. • 32
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
second center next to The Zookeeper are also in the works. Slab Town Pizza, owned by Brien Peterkin (who also runs Cornucopia), opened in the center this spring after renovating the interior of the restaurant. Other restaurants in the center include The Zookeeper and Chili Loco, with both of those businesses also recently making improvements to their space. The Zookeeper also plans to open an ice cream shop next door this summer. “Adding another year round restaurant that’s family friendly” Benitez said, adds a lot to the Cashiers community. The plaza is almost fully occupied with space for two or three more retail businesses, he added. “By including more parking it should make for easy access for our patrons and tenants,” he said. “It’s one of the few shopping centers that has covered walkways, so it’s convenient for patrons.”
Cashiers Village Inn
Located at 45 Slabtown Road, Cashiers Village Inn was purchased by Sawyer Family Farmstead in December and has continued to be open and operated as a
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
year round hotel in Cashiers. Renovations were made to the property prior to it being purchased. Three people are employed at the hotel. “The Cashiers Village Inn is excited to give visitors to Cashiers another place to stay that is conveniently located, clean and reasonably priced,” said Nicole Wade, with Sawyer Family Farmstead. “Whether they are here for vacation or a wedding, we believe that our amenities and location will give visitors a great experience while in Cashiers. We are located within walking distance to three great restaurants (with an ice cream place coming soon), Buck’s coffee and lots of local shops and boutiques. Giving visitors another place to stay will only increase our town’s overall opportunities to generate revenue.”
Laurelwood Inn
The campus of Laurelwood Inn, centrally located in Cashiers, continues to evolve. Owner Bob Dews has renovated the lobby and rooms in recent years and plans are continuing to build a pond area and pavilion for guests and the community to enjoy. Most recently, he’s purchased a building, located next to Zoller Hardware, that will serve as a restaurant for visitors and guests. Currently under construction is a flat parking lot for the building that will provide 46 spaces. “I think that’s really going to change the dynamics for the potential of that building,” Dews said. The intent is to complete renovations of the restaurant this season and hopefully have the pond installed in the next year or two. “I want it to grow organically,” Dews said. “I truly believe it’s going to be a killer place, a great place to have lunch. I believe this will be a draw for a lot of people.” Plans include a three-tiered deck that will serve as a connector between the restaurant and future pond area. Located along Cashiers Walking Trail, the outdoor space and restaurant will provide an ideal area for people to relax and a central location for folks to explore Cashiers’ central district’s businesses by foot, Dews said.
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(828) 526-4121
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(828) 526-3283 33 •
Bunny Bites
Cakes gain loyal following of local residents, restaurants and grocery stores
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By Kelly Donaldson
ast summer in Cashiers, locals and businesses on the crossroads started a word-of-mouth campaign about phenomenal carrot cakes being made right here on the plateau. Since that time, Bunny Bites Carrot Cakes has grown by leaps and bounds. Harrah’s Casino and countless other restaurants have since contacted the unique Cashiers-based business that specializes in this gourmet specialty dessert. Vickie Webb is the owner of the Bunny Bites Carrot Cakes business and said the business had the humblest of beginnings. Webb was a nurse in the Atlanta area for 35 years and retired with her husband, David, and moved to the Cashiers area. Her mother, who is 83 years old, also helps out with the business.
“We sold everything, packed it up and came up here,” said Webb of the drastic change from working in the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, to retiring to the mountains of western North Carolina. Webb said she’d been making a particular carrot cake nearly her entire life, which over time, became popular among friends and neighbors. “Every event or any function had to have that cake,” said Webb. “People just kind of came to know me as that person. We moved up here a year and a half ago and went through the winter sitting around and I just kind of decided I’d start making them and see what happens.” Through the encouragement and support of landlord and dear friend Debby Hattler, Webb began making the carrot cakes at an empty space in the Norton Center (across from Blue Ridge School.)
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Vickie Webb works in the Norton Center in Cashiers.
it, but the public really wanted a choice. I really just wanted to do the carrot cake.” As for what makes the cake so popular, Webb said, “There’s just something addicting to it. It’s just a homemade cake that I’ve been making for 35 years. I just got it from an old recipe book and started playing around with it. I want to put the best organic ingredients that I can use. I never deviate from the recipe. If they are out of it, I’ll wait until I can get my hands on the best stuff.” Cake sizes come in six-inch or nineinch two layer cakes or a nine-inch three layer cake. Prices range from $20-40, de-
pending on size and/or gift wrapping. Webb said she needs at least 24 hours notice for most orders, since they are all made to order. To order one of Webb’s cakes or for more information, visit the website www. bunnybitescarrotcakes.com, her Facebook page, call (404) 660-2833, e-mail vickiewebb@email.com or simply drop in and see Webb at the Norton Center in Cashiers. “I love it,” said Webb of the experience. “It’s hard work, but I love it and I love the response. I can’t tell you how embracing this community has been.”
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“She said go in and do what you can with it and bake and let’s see where it goes,” explained Webb. “I said, ‘OK, this is it.’ I’ve got too much energy and can’t sit down and I have to direct it somewhere.” Webb officially started at the Memorial Day Rotary Club Arts and Crafts Festival in 2013, where she sold out. From there, the word-of-mouth campaign grew. Through Robin Crawford, Webb began selling the cakes at the Cashiers Farmers Market. “It just took off,” said Webb, later expanding to offer her tasty treats at Bryson’s Grocery Store in Highlands, the Zookeeper’s Bistro in Cashiers, the seasonal farmer’s market in Highlands and even Harrah’s Casino in Cherokee. “I was here working one day and the executive over retail at the casino called me and said they had got my name from Louise Dillard of the famous Dillard House,” said Webb. “I had never met Ms. Louise. She suggested that I could supply cakes for the casino’s VIPs. They said Louise said I was ‘it.’ It’s insane, it just took off. I’ve never even met her. Right off the bat, they ordered 75 cakes around Thanksgiving last year.” Ironically, Webb said the casino wants the Red Velvet Bunny, which perplexes her. “The carrot cake is a much better cake,” she said. “And I’m about to launch the chocolate bunny around Easter, which was by request. I really didn’t want to do
quiet beauty and graceful hospitality highl ands, north carolina
8 0 0 . 9 4 6 . 6 8 2 2 | 8 2 8 . 5 2 6 . 8 1 7 0 | s ta y @ h a l f m i l e f a r m . c o m | w w w. h a l f m i l e f a r m . c o m
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Asparagus A
By Marilyn Underhill
fter winter’s long chill, spring brings us the best offerings of vegetables and that includes asparagus. What a wonderful history asparagus has. Pictures of asparagus as an offering appear on an Egyptian frieze dating to 3000 BC. A recipe for cooking asparagus appears in the oldest surviving book of recipes from the third-century AD. Madame de Pompadour is said to have been served points d’amour (love tips) as a favorite delicacy. It took until the mid-1800s for asparagus to arrive in the United States. China is the largest grower of asparagus followed by Peru, Germany and the United States. Asparagus grows in North Carolina and can be purchased at most local farmers’ markets and grocery stores. North Carolina State University hosts an excellent site with information on growing your own asparagus. In Europe white asparagus is favored and called white gold or edible ivory. When the asparagus shoots are covered in soil allowing no sunlight on the shoots the result is a lack of photosynthesis, which then results in the white color of the asparagus. Young asparagus is tender and truly a delicacy of the spring season, but once the shoots open the asparagus turns woody and requires longer cooking. There are only two guidelines when preparing asparagus: first, use the freshest and best asparagus you can find, and second, do not be afraid to prepare asparagus in varied ways. Tender asparagus requires nothing more than a light steaming with a drizzle of melted butter while the more mature stalks require more attention. The following varied recipes are sure to be enjoyed by one and all, but remember, a recipe is just the starting point for your own culinary adventures. Bon appetit. Contact Marilyn at dmunderhill@gmail.com.
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Asparagus Soup Emeril Lagasse Ingredients 3 pounds fresh asparagus, rinsed 8 cups chicken stock 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 cup minced shallots 1 cup minced leeks, whites only, well rinsed 1 tablespoon minced garlic ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper ½ cup heavy cream ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan, garnish Directions Trim the attractive top tips from the asparagus, about 1 to 1½ inches in length. Cut the woody stem ends from each spear and reserve. Cut the remaining tender stalks into 1/2-inch pieces. In a medium pot, bring the stock to a boil. Add the tough woody stems, lower the heat and simmer to infuse with asparagus flavor, 20 to 30 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and discard, reserving the stock. Add the decorative tips to the stock and blanch until tender, 1 to 1½ minutes. Remove with a strainer and refresh in an ice water bath. Drain on paper towels and reserve for the garnish. Reserve the stock. In a medium stockpot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. When foamy, add the shallots and leeks and cook until tender, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped asparagus stalks, salt and pepper, and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the reserved broth and simmer until the asparagus are very tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from the heat.
With a hand-immersion blender or in batches in a food processor, puree the soup until smooth. Adjust the seasoning, to taste. If serving right away, return to medium heat and add the cream and reserved asparagus tips. Cook, stirring, until the soup is warmed through, about 3 minutes. Alternatively, if serving the soup later, do not add the cream and let cool at room temperature (or in an ice water bath). Cover and refrigerate. Before serving, add the cream and asparagus tips, and warm the soup gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. To serve, place the soup in a soup tureen and sprinkle with cheese. Ladle into demi-tasse cups or small coffee or tea cups, and serve.
Asparagus Spread (An oldie but favorite recipe) This cream cheese and asparagus spread is delicious on bread or served as dip for crackers and pita chips. Ingredients 1 (15-ounce) can asparagus tips, drained 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened ½ cup finely chopped almonds 3 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 teaspoon finely minced onion Directions Mash asparagus in bowl; pour off any remaining liquid. Mix in the cream cheese, almonds, mayonnaise and onion until thoroughly blended. Cover and refrigerate until serving.
Crispy Baked Asparagus Fries Asparagus coated in panko bread crumbs and Parmesan and baked until golden brown and crispy. Ingredients 1 pound asparagus, trimmed ½ cup flour 2 eggs, lightly beaten ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs ¼ cup parmigiano reggiano (Parmesan), grated salt and pepper to taste Directions Dredge the asparagus in the flour, dip in the egg and then into a mixture of the panko, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Place the asparagus in a single layer on a wire rack on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 425˚ oven until golden brown, about 7-13 minutes.
Omelette Aux Asperges Bon Appetit, May 1999 Ingredients 10 ounces asparagus, cut into 1/3-inch pieces 6 large eggs ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 4 bacon slices, cut into ½-inch pieces 4 green onions (white parts only), thinly sliced Directions Steam asparagus until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Drain. Whisk eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper in large bowl to blend well. Sauté
Look beyond the roasting pan to make the most of this tasty spring vegetable Dining & Lodging • May 2014
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bacon pieces in heavy large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Add sliced green onions and sauté until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes. Add cooked asparagus; sauté until heated through. Reduce heat to medium. Spread asparagus mixture in single layer in skillet. Pour egg mixture
over asparagus. Cook until eggs are very softly set, tilting skillet, gently running rubber spatula around edges and allowing uncooked egg portion to flow underneath, about 4 minutes. Tilt skillet and slide omelet out onto plate, folding omelet in half. Cut omelet into wedges and serve.
Appetizer Asparagus Taste of Home Ingredients 1 container (8 ounces) spreadable cream cheese 8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled 2 tablespoons chopped green onion 12 slices white bread, crusts removed 24 fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
“We Look Forward To Seeing You” Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Jams & Jellies baked goods PrePared Foods take out bbQ Catering
¼ cup butter, melted 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Directions In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, bacon and green onion. Flatten bread slices with a rolling pin; spread tops with cream cheese mixture. Trim asparagus 2 inches longer than bread. Place two spears on each slice; roll up bread and place seam side down on a greased baking sheet. Brush with butter; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake at 400° for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Serve immediately. Yield: 1 dozen
Hwy 64 East • Cashiers, NC 28717
828.743.4334
www.CashiersFarmersMarket.com
176368
Seeking solitude......or a grand mountain vista? Dargan Landscape Architects of the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau serves the area with landscape architectural consultations and master plans for projects large and small.
DARGAN Landscape Architects since 1973
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Hugh & Mary Palmer Dargan, RLAs
Dovecote: The Porch & Gardens • 35 Flash Point Drive 828-743-0307 • www.dargan.com • Cashiers, NC
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
FFestivals
SweeTreats Grill at the Mountain Brook Center is Changing its name to reflect its full-service dining experience.
Collective Spirits: May 15-17
T
Making Good Memories with Good Food Indoor and Outdoor Seating Plenty of Parking Pet Friendly Patio Only a block off Main Street
Mountain Brook Center, North 4th Street, Highlands 526-9822 Like us on Facebook 178581
he Bascom’s annual Collective Spirits fundraiser features dinners, seminars, a live auction and wine market. The event will kick off May 15 with exclusive benefactor-only dinners featuring renowned chefs and notable wines in private homes. May 16 will feature wine symposiums at Highlands Country Club and the Stock Your Cellars market and wine tasting at The Bascom in the evening. Tickets to the market and tasting are $100. A seated dinner on May 17 at Highlands Country Club will culminate in a live auction. Tickets are $275. For more information about events and participating chefs and vintners, visit collectivespirits.com. For ticketing information, call the ticket office at 787-2896.
Highlands Culinary Weekend: Nov. 6-9
E
Dining & Lodging • May 2014
A perfect blend of romantic country charm & understated elegance just blocks from town. 55 4 1/2 Street, Highlands, NC • (828) 526-4464 www.4andahalfstinn.com • (888) 799-4464
Looking for Pot tery? We have the largest selection of decorative and functional pottery in the area. Handmade by local, regional and national artists. 2820 Dillard Road Highlands, North CarolinA 828-526-0229
208116
at, drink and be merry at the seventh annual Highlands Culinary Weekend, scheduled for Nov. 6-9. This popular four-day event draws local residents and visitors to many of Highlands’ restaurants and other venues for a variety of activities including cooking demonstrations, tastings and dinners. The festival kicks off with an opening night gala on Nov. 6 at the clubhouse at Highlands Country Club. The gala will feature music, wine tasting and cuisine from local chefs. Returning this year will be the popular Sip & Stroll, allowing patrons to sample wines and visit many of Highl ands’ d ow ntow n me rchants. An expanded Sip & Stroll is planned, with events scheduled both Friday and Saturday. A full schedule of events will be released this summer. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. highlandsculinary weekend. com or call 526-5841.
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Index of Advertisers
Accommodations 4 ½ Street Inn . ............................................. 39 Bear Lake Reserve ........................................ 24 Chambers Realty & Vacation Rentals ............ 19 High Hampton Inn ........................................ 25 Inn at Half Mile Farm .................................... 35 Landmark Vacation Rentals .......................... 21 Laurelwood Inn ............................................ 26 Old Edwards Inn & Spa ................................. 23 Pebble Creek Village ..................................... 29 Skyline Lodge ............................................... 27 Entertainment Highlands Aerial Park ................................... 28 Martin-Lipscomb Performing Arts Center . ..... 2 Movie Stop Video ......................................... 33 Sapphire National Golf Club . ........................ 13 Home Remodeling & Décor Keystone Kitchen & Bath .............................. 40
The Summer House .............. Inside Front Cover
Creekside Casual Dining . .............................. 39 Cyprus ............................................................ 7 Flip Side . ........................................................ 3 Landscaping Dargan Landscape Architects ....................... 38 Highlands Smokehouse ................................ 17 Lakeside Restaurant ....................................... 9 On The Verandah .......................................... 10 Media WHLC FM 104.5 ............................................ 28 Ristorante Paoletti . ...................................... 11 Ruka’s Table . ................................................ 12 Real Estate Sapphire Mountain Brewing Company ......... 13 Betsy Paul Properties ........... Inside Front Cover Slab Town Pizza . ............................................ 8 TThe Ugly Dog Public House ......................... 14 Restaurants Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro ........... 15 Altitudes Restaurant . ................................... 27 Brick Oven Pizza ........................................... 33 Retail Canyon Kitchen ............................................ 16 The Dry Sink ................................................... 1 Cashiers Farmers Market .............................. 38 Peak Experience ........................................... 39 Cornucopia Restaurant ................................... 8 Silver Eagle Gallery .......................... Back Cover
SHOWROOMS: CASHIERS 828. 7 4 3 . 6 8 9 5 ASHEVILLE 828. 2 7 4 . 6 7 1 1 KEYSTONEKB.COM
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Dining & Lodging • May 2014
Betsy Paul ProPerties Homes • Lots • AcreAge • commerciAL
870 Hwy 64 W • cashiers, Nc 28717 • 828.743.0880 VieW our VirtuAL tours At BetsyPAuLProPerties.com
FABULOUS CHATTOOGA CLIFFS 4.5 +/- acres w/breathtaking views. Great Rm w/FP, chef’s kitchen, butler’s pantry. Private floor for Master retreat. 2 porches, 1 w/FP & built-in grill, deck w/pergola, 2-car carport, elevator.
PrIvATe eSTATe CLOSe TO CASHIerS Large family home with wrap-around porches and oozing with Southern charm. 5 BR suites, a great room with open floor plan, 3 fireplaces, family room with kitchen, bonus room, 3-car garage and a gorgeous Whiteside Mountain view.
GLenvILLe LAkeFrOnT HOMe Fabulous 3BR, 4BA home on deepwater lot w/270 degree lake & mountain views. Office, screened porch w/FP, 2 car garage. Indoor endless pool, workshop, attic for expansion. Dock w/332.53’ +/- frontage.
MLS# 72644
MLS# 78194
MLS# 74118
$1,799,000
$1,500,000
$1,350,000 Owner/Broker
DeLIGHTFUL FArMHOUSe On 70+/- ACreS Comes with a barn/garage, root cellar, pasture, apple orchard & creeks. 10 sites ready to build on with water lines in. Nice trails (old logging roads) to streams. 58+/acre conservation easement.
GLenvILLe LAkeFrOnT Wonderful 3BR, 3.5BA home in the gated Glenshore subdivision. Adjoins common area w/Strawberry Hill rock face. 2 levels of porches. Easy path to private dock.
yeLLOW MOUnTAIn vIeWS Enjoy the peaceful setting in this 3BR, 3BA home on 3.86+/- acres. Man-made waterfall. Great fenced-in pasture area. Cows, horses, allowed. Has a quaint old barn.
MLS# 73952
MLS# 77154
MLS# 75312
$845,000 reDUCeD
$775,000 reDUCeD
TIMBer rIDGe Completely renovated 3BR, 3BA home quietly tucked away on a beautifully landscaped pond. This secluded 3.2+/- acre tract with waterfall, feels miles removed, yet is right in town. Dan Duckham, Architect.
HOMe WITH GUeST HOUSe Tim Green designed home(s) w/awesome Whiteside Mountain & Cashiers Valley views on 5+/- acres on a cul-de-sac in gated Big Sheepcliff! Includes adjacent lot with community pond frontage. Community pavilion.
MLS# 77248
MLS# 78702
$669,000
$625,000
$700,000 reDUCeD
SOUTHern exPOSUre In BIG SHeePCLIFF Amazing views of Chimneytop, Rock, and Whiteside Mountains and Cashiers Lake. Master suite on main level. Kitchen remodeled w/granite & stainless steel appliances. Security system, cedar paneling. MLS# 77490
$600,000 reDUCeD
BeST vIeW In TrILLIUM Recently renovated home on 1.62+/- acres at 4,200’ +/elevation. Enjoy panoramic views of the Balsams, Lake Glenville, Big Sheepcliff, Whiteside, Shortoff Mtns, and fantastic sunrises.
STreAMFrOnT In COUnTry CLUB eSTATeS 3BR, 2.5BA home with double carport. Lots of light. Almost 1 acre of wooded land. Plenty of deck area for entertaining. Close to amenities. Private setting among the hardwood forest.
LAke GLenvILLe & MOUnTAIn vIeWS From this 3 BR, 2.5 BA home with 3 fireplaces & a loft. 3 decks overlook your own Koi pond. Soothing manmade re-circulating stream/water feature. Community beach, pavilion & boat access.
MLS# 76856
MLS# 78271
MLS# 78148
$599,000
$450,000
$399,000
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SILVER EAGLE GALLERY Native American & Contemporary Silver Jewelry Crystals, Gems & Minerals
370 MAIN STREET, HIGHLANDS, NC 828.526.5190 850 5TH AVENUE SOUTH, NAPLES, FL 239.403.3033
www.silvereaglegallery.com