12 Best Restaurants in Cashiers and Highlands, North Carolina | Eater Carolinas

"The Highlander Mountain House is said to have originally been a mountain house for a retired sea captain from Charleston – now it’s a boutique inn with 18 rooms and a charming restaurant named the Ruffed Grouse Tavern. Proprietor Jason Reeves took care to make the space feel lived in and cozy with antique art and aging taxidermy. Stop by the bar and sit in front of the fireplace with an Old Fashioned in hand. For brunch, lunch, and dinner, the Ruffed Grouse serves Southern fare with Appalachian flair. Chef Adam Bresnahan showcases local ingredients on dishes like fried green tomatoes with pickled spring vegetables or lamb chops with fava beans. Also, keep an eye on the Highlander Mountain House Instagram for live music announcements." - Erin Perkins