Big Wesser Riverside Pub — Restaurant in North Carolina

We stopped on the way through to take a break. They have a great bar and an amazing setting. But the food is way overpriced. I understand cultural differences, but we didn’t know our food was up because the lady called out “yaa” which wasn’t even close to my name. Our chips were super stale and apparently they prep ahead, but for $64 including tip for 3 people? And one being a child? I didn’t even know there was macaroni and cheese under the chicken in my daughter’s cup until I dug under… not very many noodles. It was delicious but very tiny. We didn’t even get a full scoop of hummus for our chips. And then when we got a batch of fresh Tostitos, it didn’t have the green onions. I don’t mind tipping (over $8), but when you have to get the food yourself and the food is stale and not even half (an ice cream) scoop of hummus, not worth it. The hummus was very tasty. The macaroni and cheese might have filled up a toddler, but not an eleven year old. This place is great if you’re just wanting a good bar with beautiful views. The bartenders were great. But if you’re expecting a decent amount of food/freshness you may be disappointed. The bartenders did bring us fresh chips and a full scoop of hummus, but that shouldn’t be on them. We ordered a Fanta, a double shot of fireball, a hard cider, a kids meal with chicken, and an order of hummus for the price of again $64 including tip. These tourist attractions need...

My family also made the mistake of ordering the puny, 2-bite-sized children’s quesadilla!! I can not believe they actually charge $4 for it! My husband, my 2 year old, and I ordered meals from this place when we stopped for a break on the Smoky Mountain Railroad. We took the food back to the train without opening the boxes because it took about 20 minutes for the food and we didn’t want to miss the train. (We also barely got back in time because BOTH of their drink machines didn’t work!) What a disappointment when we opened our daughter’s box and saw literally what is equivalent to one slice of a quesadilla but cut into 2 tiny halves. I can’t imagine if my child had been about 6-8 (even 10) years old and they had gotten that!! Such a rip-off! Our “adult” quesadillas were $10 each and were not worth the money. We will never be...

Location, location, location—Big Wesser Riverside Pub has it. Right on the river at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, this is one of those spots where the setting does half the work. But the food and service hold up too.

We stopped in for lunch and had a grilled chicken salad and nacho bowl—both solid, fresh, and came out fast. Staff were friendly and efficient, even with a steady stream of rafters and bikers rolling in and out all day. But the real show? Once a day, a scenic train pulls in and unloads passengers for lunch. It’s a sight—and adds to the whole experience.

Live music during the summer, outdoor seating with a river view, and cold drinks within arm’s reach. If you’re in the area, this is a great place to sit back, refuel, and enjoy the mountains. Will...