High Test Deli

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 next trip back.

Amazing staff and food!!! I finally was able to enjoy a GLUTEN FREE DELI SUB IN A DELICATESSEN!!! Would have tried an ice cream sandwich but was soooo full from the sandwich!! Small space and fills quick but nice atmosphere

This small but mighty location is a special delight. Something for everyone, but only seating for a few, so be prepared to wait or get it to-go. They do close early- 3pm. Glad we got there just in time. The serving size is perfect. Absolutely loved the chili cheese fries. We added bacon. And the Reuben- yummy!!!! Will certainly come back to try their other items and desserts.

First time vistor to Bryson City. Research said High Test Deli was a great lunch stop. 😋 It was better than great. Located for 17+ years in a reconverted gasoline station. Go in the door on your right, order your food from the very friendly staff and the many menu boards, then get assigned your table. Take in the history and enjoy your very tasty meal. You might even get a chance to say hi to Barry, the owner. This is a must stop when in Bryson City. Thank you all.

This was our favorite food place we ate at while in Bryson city! The sandwiches were yummy, the cheese curds with ranch was amazing, and the ice cream sandwiches were so good! Really impressed overall with the food and wish we had time to eat here again before we left. If they were open later in the day we would have had dinner here as well lol

We greatly enjoyed High Test Deli while on our vacation! It was recommended to us by our hiking guide and he was spot on. They had good gluten-free options with special precautions for those with celiac disease. Their menu had a wide variety of sandwich styles and some really cool ice cream sandwiches. Make sure you visit!

5/5 across the board! Rueben was legit, my daughters loved the Turkey sandwich and chicken tenders. The wife and I ate the Cuban before we even considered taking a picture. The sweet potato fries are big and fat, as am I after eating everything! But the best of all, the ICE CREAM SANDWICHES! We had the black & white. Super friendly people that run it. Definitely a stop through if rafting the Nantahala.

Quaint little diner in the heart of downtown Bryson City. We went for lunch, and really enjoyed this place! Food was great, and service was excellent! They have great sandwiches, and offer handmade ice cream sandwiches! Food is ordered from the counter, and you can sit inside, or at one of the few three-top tables on the sidewalk. We were there during a busy lunch rush, but the owner himself found us a small table beside the front window. We also chatted with the owner and saw him working hard throughout the restaurant. Will definitely be back when we visit Bryson City again!

What a find! We had been traveling Route 441 through the mountains from Pigeon Forge, TN to CHEROKEE, NC. We stopped in Cherokee, but didn't see anything that interested us ( to be fair, it OFF SEASON so many places were closed). We had stayed in Bryson City a few years ago and had some decent meals there. Using YELP, I read the menu at the High Test Deli and lots of things looked good. We drove around and around and still couldn't find the restaurant so I called to see if they were open. A lady came out and asked which car I was driving and when she spotted me she waved. We ordered the Philly Cheese Steak for my wife and I had the 1/2 sandwich (the Premium - Roast Beef and Cheese) and a cup of chili. The food was outstanding, especially my wife's Philly Cheese Steak and my chili. Being from Cincinnati we KNOW chili, but this was the kind of chili I grew up eating in Northern Ohio. The gals working at the counter and delivering our food could not have been nicer. What great personalities!!' Growing up in a small town I have a deep appreciation for people working in small restaurants like this. We cannot wait to come back! I am dying to try the ice cream sandwiches, but my wife is in a Lactose Free Diet so we didn't even bring the subject up. But, if we were near here on Valentine's Day, we would break the rules!

The staff here was very thoughtful and kind as we were dealing with being away from our home during Hurricane Milton (and they had just barely come out unscathed from Helene). The food however wasn't quite as good as I hoped based on all the reviews. The one thing that lived up to expectations though was the meatball sub. Their version of the Philly was average. I loved the generous amount of cheese but the steak had just an okay flavor so it kind of balanced out to a mid-range sandwich overall. The sandwiches were also only about 6-8" so not as much quantity as I would prefer. The fries and sweet potato fries could definitely use more salt or something. They were fairly bland. The ice cream sandwiches were also average. Good size but only okay taste. We got the peanut butter one but it barely had any peanut butter flavor.

Wow! This place! They know how to run a business and restaurant! The staff were on point and were able to handle a big lunch rush for such a small restaurant! They had the perfect run down of how to get customers in and out through the restaurant while not feeling rushed and able to sit down and enjoy! And the food was so good! Our son is so picky and we got him the grilled cheese which we were scared he wouldn't like! He ended up eating most of it and said how good it was! Even eating a few bites is a win for him so I'm glad he liked it so much( and us too because we HAD to try it!) my husband got the meatball and I got the Cuban! Both delicious and full of flavor!! We were on our road trip back home and so glad we stopped in Bryson city on the way out! Can't wait to come back and enjoy more!

Delicious Cuban! The kids loved their subs and the service was amazing! Perplexed and disappointed it's only open 4 hours a day/5 days a week

Fantastic stop! Meatball hoagie was delicious with nice soft and chewy bread. Ice cream sandwiches were also great, especially the Pink Cadillac strawberry shortcake. Super friendly service. We'll be sure to visit next time we're in town.

High Test Deli is located in downtown Bryson City and has some free parking available in a lot next door.there is some outside seating available in front of the restaurant on the sidewalk. Inside there are two rooms. One is where the ordering g counter is and the other a small dining room. I think most people get there orders to go. This restaurant operates on a gas station theme. I ordered The Premium sandwich on rye bread for $9.49 and added a 8 oz. cup of chili for another $4.29 and the food was delivered about 10 minutes later. The chili was excellent. It had beans in the beef and cheddar cheese on top and the taste was rich and savory. I could have ordered a bowl of it and made a lunch of it by itself. The sandwich was on quality marbled rye bread and filled with roast beef and provolone cheese with lettuce and tomato. Horseradish mayo was added and wasn't strong tasting at all. It was a quality sandwich that I enjoyed. High Test Deli serves high quality food.

This place is a must stop if you're downtown Bryson City. My parents shared the Ruben, my wife had the Cuban (which they're known for) and I had the meatball sub and chili. It was all delicious especially the chili and my wife said the Cuban lived up to its name. To top it off we tried one of the frozen sandwiches because why not?? It's vacation. Believe it or not, the great food and great price wasn't the best part. In a time when good customer service seems to be a thing of the past this place was a pleasant surprise. The counter where you order your food was busy with patrons and there was a miscommunication on my order. The owner made right and was so friendly to my family and me. Do yourself a favor and try this deli if you get the chance.

While on Vacation we stopped at the High Test Deli for Lunch. Our sandwiches were made fresh and grilled. The Chili taste like you made it yourself. The Owner and Staff was so friendly. This little Dinner has an Old Automotive look to it.

Great place! Had delicious soup and sandwiches. Food was amazing and service was great!

Gluten free - No Problem! We were in Bryson City for 2 days and had lunch both days. My husband is celiac so finding gluten free food can be problematic while traveling but these people understand and have many options on their menu. Highly recommend!!!!!

We were in town for a trip on the polar express and my brother in law has been raving about this place since we moved to NC! Stopped by on a Tuesday afternoon and it is definitely a top 5 sandwich. We got the Italian turbo and it was so delicious we brought 3 back home to charlotte! We also got the ice cream cookie sandwich. I wouldn't go back for the ice cream but would 10 out of 10 go back for the turbo!

Barry from High test deli served our family as if we were part of his family. We were on vacation and was blown away by the service and his Cuban sandwich's can beat most Cuban sandwich places in central Florida. We will definitely stop back for next year.

My husband & I absolutely loved this place. The food was amazing (literally everything we got was delicious) and the people were so nice! We shared the Italian Turbo & the Ethyl. We got the Italian just how it came & the Ethyl in a wrap with garlic brushed on the outside. The potato salad & vegetable soup were great side options. I'm sure everything on the menu is just as delicious! We will definitely be back the next time we are in Bryson City.

Not sure about all the hype. This place is good, not great. Very friendly and nice folks. They serve you everything in styrofoam containers even if you are dining in. I understand avoiding dishes - but why not a paper plate?. The Cuban was basic, the hot dogs, basic, the dip, average. Their ice cream sandwiches, a 5.

Tried The High Test...best score is three stars only because the male owner/manager is pretty cool. The female that seemed to be an owner or manager was rude and condescending. Nonetheless we ordered $120 worth the food (very overpriced. The Italian Turbo specialty sub was pretty good...but that is where it ends. Meatball sub is tasteless and chicken gumbo was too. My daughter liked the Cuban sandwich, but certainly not to the Tampa / Miami level.

Great food and great people! I had half a Fill-er-up on some delicious rye bread with a cup of chili. They will make all sandwiches hot or toasted. There were three soups and chili on the menu as well as a couple salads. They had fountain sodas and some craft beers on tap. Fries were good also. Great lunch spot!

This place is great. Great selection, great service, and cool interior. Had to come back twice while visiting Bryson City. PS, get the chili.

This is a small shop with sandwiches, soups, salads, and frozen sandwiches (ice cream!). They also have specialty drinks and alcohol. I had a salad and my husband had chili and a sandwich. The food came out quickly and was given to us as takeout even though we were eating there. It's how they served everyone. The wrapping in the sandwich was the old-school paper style. Everyone in the restaurant seemed happy with their food, and we were too. I just wish we had been hungry enough to try a frozen sandwich! One thing I was disappointed in was the lack of vegetarian options. Sure, there were two salads, but they didn't offer vegetarian protein options with the salads. And there were only one or two vegetarian sandwiches (grilled cheese is the only one I remember seeing). Other than that, we were happy to eat here.

Best damn meatball sandwich I have ever had , and let's not forget there french dip ! OMG! Both to die for! But better yet? The onion rings!! I'm a Onion ring lover , and these Onion rings ? I've never had better ! The staff is very friendly and helpful, be prepared for a line though, when tourist season hits , they have a line a block or more long. I would suggest calling in your order works better for you and them in my opinion! But yeah ! You most definitely want to go there!!

Great sandwiches. Great service. We had a wonderful lunch here. Would come back. Adding a few more words so it meets the yelp requirement. But 10/10 would recommend.

The Cuban was delicious ! The employees were welcoming , the restaurant was clean and had a cool vibe . My boyfriend got the French dip it was also very good but the au jus was a little bland and watery. Otherwise we had a good experience and would definitely eat here again

Great lunch destination. Everything is tasty, staff is friendly and helpful. The ice cream sandwiches are superb. Cute decor. Parking is tricky sometimes.

Best sandwiches in town! Don't miss this place when you visit Bryson City. Good quality ingredients and very generous portions.

This is SUCH a good lunch stop if you're in Bryson City. For covid, they don't have any dine in so it's all just a walk up window. We ordered and waited for our food, but learned while we were waiting you could call or text your order ahead of time to make the wait time less. Still probably only waited about 15 minutes. I ordered the Philly cheesesteak sandwich with pepperjack cheese. It was cheesy, spicy, and so good. One of the better Philly's I've had - in Bryson City of all places! Husband got the Italian Turbo and also said it was delicious. We got a side of fries and they give you a ton of them - well worth the price and decent tasting. Also, get a frozen sandwich! We tried two, the lemon blueberry and the mint chocolate chip. Both amazingly good and unique, and they stayed well frozen long enough to eat them. We wish we had visited before our last day so we could've tried more flavors!

We had a quick lunch here while exploring downtown Bryson City. We split their Cuban and Italian. Both were very tasty. Next time I was to try their Ruben as everybody was raving about it. Service was friendly and prompt even though they were extremely busy. Lots of phone orders being placed so you can tell it is loved by locals and not just tourists. We will have to come back and try one of their frozen sandwiches! The inside sitting area was cute, but we sat at one of the tables outside in front of the restaurant because we had our dog with us. They offered to get him water which was thoughtful!

Great food. Excellent service. Love the decor. Must try the cookie ice cream sandwiches and fries.

Excellent food and service Small and can crowded if wanting to eat inside. Best grab a sandwich and head to Deep Creek picnic area. Love the Cuban and the Reuben sandwiches The dessert is excellent and extremely sweet Be warned it is sweet but so good

Cuban sandwich was good, just missing the cuban bread. everyone was friendly. It was very clean.wasn't loud You could enjoy your food.wpuld definitely go back when in town

Service was great and environment is tasteful with decoration. Got a sandwich that wasn't my favorite but I blame myself, their potato salad is one of the best I've ever had and their fried pickles are great! This was a great brunch after our hiking and so sad I don't live closer! Definitely recommend

Had the Cuban sandwich and it was quite good. Friendly staff and overall good experience

Warning: Rating based on ice cream sandwich alone Random trip to Bryson city brought me to this deli for one reason....the frozen sandwich! And it did not disappoint! Atmosphere: looks like half of the shop is under construction but there is a lovely outdoor seating area. This is right on the main strip so it is super convenient. Service: The lady that helped us was very nice. She gave the suggestion to order half of each flavor The goods: Finally, the main show. This is a home made thick cookie and homemade ice cream. I may even say this was the best ice cream sandwich I've ever had! Still dreaming of it. Classic chocolate chip was my jam. Tip: get half portions to try more flavors, and please for the love stop here if you are in the area!

Great food, and surprisingly quick for how busy they were. You know when you see a line out the door, the food must be epic. Don't let the line deter you, like I said we got our food pretty quickly. They assign you a table when ordering, so don't make the mistake of "claiming" a table.

One of the best sandwich shops i've ever had! Everything was made perfectly and it was so satisfying! And the employees are so nice! Totally recommend for anyone traveling through:)

We made a day trip to Bryson City and found this place while walking around. We got ours to eat in and it was delicious! Great sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and super nice people!!

Cute little shop to stop and get something and eat in your car as they're not offering dine in which is unfortunate. Different options as I got a hot sandwich and my husband got a hot dog.

Second time coming here. Great place to get a yummy sandwich during your time in Bryson City! All sandwiches come with a pickle spear, which is great! This place was packed the first time we came here and there can be a tad of a wait for a table, since the dining area is quaint. But don't let that deter you, because the food is great. 100% worth the wait in my opinion. There is also an option to carry it out and plenary of places to eat outside in the town. *operations during COVID* They are taking plenty of precautions to stay socially aware and safe. They have an order at the window, or call in and pick up at the window. They have their menus taped to the window for easy viewing as well. All in all, great food in a great town. Definitely recommend a visit.

If you didn't come to High Test Deli, did you even visit Bryson City? This place must easily be the most famous of the food spots in town. They've knocked all of the deli sandwiches we've had out of the park and they're chili is tasty too, but the star of the show is the ice cream sandwich list. Award winning. Make sure to save room for dessert!

It was ok. A little plain and bland. Good quality products but lacking some extra stuff. Not horrible but not the best.

We loved this place so much we had lunch there all three days of our trip!!! Our favorites were The Low Octane (turkey reuben on marble rye) and the NC Ham Melt (on wheat). The potato salad was the best I've ever had!

The best customer service! Came in with less than 30 minutes to close, no problem! The high octane and the Reuben were both great. The cheese curds had an added flavor dimension, and I'm sure anything of the menu is good! Only wish I saved room or brought an ice chest for the specialty frozen sandwiches!

Stopped in at High Test Deli after seeing good reviews on our way to the Road to Nowhere and was not let down. It was around 2:00PM and the place was packed the the line still was moving pretty quickly. I ordered the Cheese Steak and the Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich. I was a little iffy at the Cheese Steak at first since it came with both White American and Swiss Cheese but I figure they know what they were doing he. Boy was I right this Cheese Steak was amazing, the best I have had in a very long time. Now on to this Ice Cream Sandwich. This thing was a monster! I could barely get my mouth open enough to take a bite out of it. Both the Cookies and Ice Cream are homemade. Easily best Ice Cream Sandwich I have ever had. Will now have to come back to Bryson City to get more sandwiches of both the meat and ice cream type.

Go there and get a Cuban! It was so delicious! I liked their potato salad too! The dining room wasn't open so we were only able to get Togo food and that was a bummer! But still soo worth it! Nice staff too!

If I could give this place 6 stars, I would. The service alone warrants 5 stars in my opinion. We rolled in after whitewater rafting, with hungry kids and a hangry wife (not a typo)! As we walked in I glanced at the hours in the door- 11AM to 4PM. It was 3:50. They welcomed us in like they were just opening for the day! No attitudes, no sighs, nothing. Just welcoming. My wife and I split the cuban sandwich, my son had a ham and turkey with cheese, and my daughter opted for the grilled cheese (big surprise). The wait staff was attentive, but not overbearing and didn't at all seem like they were trying to rush us out. Even asked us if we wanted to order dessert. Tempted, as their milkshakes looked fantastic, but we declined. The sandwiches were delicious and the service, again, was noting short of warm and inviting. We'll definitely return next time we're in the area.

My husband and I grabbed lunch here one day on our weekend trip to BC. I got the Italian Turbo and he got the Cuban. They were both very good! They are both toasted sandwiches which surprisingly didn't take very long at all. I'd love to try more if we ever visit Bryson City again because just walking in and smelling this place made me love it!

Small place but well worth the visit... Service was awesome and you have to try a frozen sandwich

Highly recommend! I have eaten here twice and everything I have had is fantastic! The NC melt is my favorite, the bread is great and the ham and cheese in the sandwich was so melty and delicious. There is also so kind of out of this world sauce that they use that I want to bath in. Seriously the sandwich is so good! I also the serve Cheerwine which pairs perfectly! This past time we went we also ordered the ice cream sandwich, we went with half grab my keys and half black and white. The ice cream sandwiches are enormous, and even though it was the beginning of August they wrap them so well that they held up until we were done eating our sandwiches. Due to Covid they are not permitting people to eat inside but there are a few benches located near the restaurant that you can sit at. I didn't however see any tables to sit at. They also have hand sanitizer and enforce social distancing so we felt very safe.

Last visit lady working was rude. Everyone is dealing with work environment challenges, but she was short and explained they have manpower issues. Well that is not the consumers problem. Now they have notices placed in the windows informing everyone about their problems and their price increases. Geez, get someone in there to take control. Over the years we have loved this place but it's slipping.

Excellent lunch spot in Bryson City! Service is quick and prices are very fair. And more importantly, the food was delicious. Our Kids got the chicken tenders and the hot dog; my husband and I had the High Octane (Reuben) and the Philly Cheesesteak and a side of hot crispy sweet potato fries. Everything tasted great! Save room for dessert!!! The homemade ice cream sandwiches are killer! This meal hit the spot after a nice long morning hike through Deep Creek.

This place seemed like a good option for a quick lunch however even on a Monday afternoon there was an almost 20 min wait. The soup of of the day was a tomato basil bisque which was good but would've been better if it was hot not just room temperature. I got half an egg salad which was pretty decent. Aunt got a roast beef, deli style that she liked. We then shared half an ice cream sandwich between the 4 of us and it was really good. Got 'the starter ' which I would've had more of if I wasn't so full. I'm glad that they half the option of getting half! The decor is great, love the cars and license plates