Local restaurants and diners scatter the hills of Hampton and Roan Mountain, like the authentic Thai restaurant lingering in the valley and the wood fired pizza joint hidden near the state border.
These mountains have no shortage of hiking and biking trails, along with lakes and rivers for water sport enthusiasts. Meandering through these hills, there are views around every corner and a peaceful feeling that can only be found here in the mountains of Northeast Tennessee.
And what pairs better with big adventures than great food? We’re spilling the beans, and here are the best spots from Hampton to Roan Mountain to grab your next post-adventure meal.
Smoky Mountain Bakers
Roan Mountain
US-19E is an adventurer’s bridge to endless mountain exploration. There is the kayaker’s haven at Watauga Lake, mecca of waterfalls for the rainy day trekkers up in Dennis Cove, and hiking and camping in the renowned Roan Mountain State Park.
All this exploring leads to the call for a nice, hearty meal like the perfectly hot and tangy Buffalo Chicken Pizza from Smoky Mountain Bakers. This gem isn’t too far from the Tennessee/ North Carolina border which makes for a perfect stop after a day of skiing, hiking, or road tripping.
Ingredients are fresh, the location is off the beaten path, and they bake homemade desserts for sale right at the counter. Once you find it, the atmosphere will leave you feeling right at home in the mountains and can easily become your new favorite pizza spot.
Bob’s Dairyland
Roan Mountain
Bob’s Dairyland is a classic diner meets homestyle Tennessee mountain BBQ. The thick cut slices of wood-smoked pork served with their homemade barbeque sauce is a vibe and will have you craving more next visit to this small mountain town. The staff is friendly and welcoming, offering indoor dining and takeout options.
The “Boss Burger” takes it up a level with bacon, ham, swiss & American cheese. Throw some fries on the side, and you can say you’ve earned your calories after a hike up to Grassy Ridge. They also serve hand-dipped ice cream for dessert.
Thai-Am
Hampton
Photo By: Thai Am Facebook
This authentic Thai restaurant is a genuine treasure to locals and visitors of the area. The homemade egg rolls are unforgettable, along with nearly everything on the menu. It is a small and intimate dining experience and some of the absolute best food around. Try the no. 11 Tom Ka Guy at medium spice with hot coconut and fresh lemon grass.
Photo By: Thai Am Facebook
During the pandemic, Thai Am is offering to-go orders only.
Call 423-725-3424 ahead for operational hours and to place your order for pick-up.
