High Test Deli — Restaurant in Bryson City

Bryson City’s Hidden Sandwich Goldmine

If you’re passing through Bryson City and craving something hearty, homemade, and flat-out delicious, make your way to High Test. This little gem is buzzing with energy—and for good reason.

From the moment you walk in, the place feels alive. The line might be long, but it moves fast, and trust me, it’s worth the wait. The staff is quick, kind, and clearly care about the food they’re serving. Everything that came out of that kitchen looked like it was made with love—and tasted like it too.

The sandwiches? Incredible. We tried a few, and every bite was a winner. The bread alone deserves its own shoutout. The marble rye was rich and flavorful, the kind of bread that makes you slow down and appreciate what you’re eating. And the berry wheat—now that was a pleasant surprise. Slightly sweet, a little nutty, and the perfect partner to the high-octane sandwich. The layers of flavor in that one were something else: bold, balanced, and satisfying.

Even with the crowd, our food came out quickly and fresh. It’s clear these folks know what they’re doing—nothing felt rushed or slapped together. The vibe is relaxed but upbeat, like everyone’s in on a delicious secret.

Bottom line: if you’re in Bryson City and want more than just your average deli lunch, High Test is the move. Whether you’re hiking, rafting, or just wandering through the mountains, stop in, grab a sandwich, and taste why this spot is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. It’s the kind of place that leaves you full, happy, and already planning your...

This gem of a spot was recommended by a local during my visit to Beautiful Bryson City. The moment I walked in, I realized that this was FAR from the small town deli it was described as. The menu selection was amazing, the staff was happy, friendly, patient and helpful and the food was the OUTSTANDING!!!! I am a vegetarian and usually have difficulty finding something to eat in eateries. Seeing they offered a grilled cheese, I opted for that. The woman who took my order suggested some options to spice my grilled cheese up and it was the absolute BEST grilled cheese I have had in my life along with perfectly cooked homemade fries.

Pt 2... I was told they also have the best homemade icecream sandwiches. Since I was there working, I vowed to return once I was off to grab one. I did, and brought 2 coworkers with me (they saw how much I enjoyed my lunch). The woman behind the counter remembered me and called me by name. I ordered the GRAB MY KEYS. I decided to take a bite before leaving for my trip home and I literally felt tears form in my eyes. My only regret was that I didnt have the proper storage to bring more home with me.

Bryson City, NC will forever be a place for me to stop whenever I am near and only because of The...

I was really bummed by the whole experience. From walking in to a door that slams extremely loud behind you. The staff is bickering, I step up to the counter to order my food while the employee impatiently takes my order, the Cafe is closed so I am asked to wait outside in the rain, which I did not do. I watched numerous people want to come and dine in but were rudly turned away and were told the dining and bathrooms were closed. I listened to the employees continue to bicker and work in a constant state of confusion while they took forever to process my small family's order. The food was mediocre and the service was poor. My suggestion, #1 get a damper for the slamming door #2 move back the barricade from the front door to allow customers to wait inside and not on the busy street in the rain #3 be nicer to the people who are supporting your business #4 you will not find help/employees if you continue to allow the seemingly toxic work environment. their sign and reasoning for having people wait out said, having a closed bathroom dining room, and having a limited menu was due to a nation wide worker shortage. But honestly, who wants to work in a toxic work environment that serves sub-par food a high...