Winter is a great time to visit Boone; the downtown streets are aglow with sparkling snowflakes and wisps of smoke from cozy cabin fireplaces that can be seen winding through the snow-capped mountains. Next time you’re on a wintertime adventure in Boone, you may find yourself in need of a place to warm your hands and grab a quick bite. This list of locales is perfect for relaxing by a crackling fire or on a pleasantly warm patio – and a snack or toasty beverage doesn’t hurt either!

Lost Province Brewing Co. Gastropub

Located in the heart of downtown Boone, this family-owned and operated brewpub features an impressive wood-fired pizza oven and an intimate fireplace seating area. Between the craft brews, delicious dishes, and large windows for snowfall viewing, you may find it difficult to leave such an enchanting atmosphere. 

The Horton Hotel Lounge & Rooftop

This boutique hotel’s speakeasy-style lounge and panoramic rooftop bar are open to the public, making for the perfect stop after a day of strolling through downtown shops and galleries. Unwind by the fireplace in the lobby area or make your way to the rooftop fire pit and cuddle up with one of their complimentary blankets. 

Booneshine Brewing Co.

The heated patio at this East Boone hangout is a popular gathering place for skiers and snowboarders after a thrilling day on the slopes. Booneshine Brewing Co. has a great craft beer selection with seasonal offerings that’ll have your tastebuds tingling.

The Beacon Butcher Bar

The Beacon Butcher Bar’s impressive stone fireplace offers a romantic backdrop to your winter getaway to Boone. As one of the premiere event spaces in the area, make sure you call ahead and make a dinner reservation – this upscale eatery is in high demand. 

Canteen at Rhode's Motor Lodge

New in 2023, Rhode's Motor Lodge is a mid-century modern motor lodge filled with nostalgic touches, High Country homages, and beautifully rustic details. Whether you're staying at Rhode's or elsewhere, Canteen is open to all, serving modern casual fare that nods to Appalachian ingredients and classic dishes. Grab a bite and relax fireside in the main dining area on the ground floor or kick back in an Adirondack chair around the firepits outside.

Timberlake's at Chetola

Located within the historic Chetola Resort, Timberlake’s Restaurant offers a warm and inviting dining experience inspired by renowned North Carolina artist and designer Bob Timberlake. Since opening in 2012, this charming restaurant has welcomed guests with three distinct dining rooms, an intimate wine room, and a scenic waterfront patio. Whether you're enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Timberlake’s combines cozy ambiance with delicious cuisine—perfect for a meal by the fire on a chilly day.

Gamekeeper Restaurant

Voted second-best overall restaurant in WNC by OpenTable’s 2022 Diners’ Choice competition, Gamekeeper is one of those quintessential High Country dining experiences that can’t be missed. Two indoor fireplaces ensure optimum warmth in this historic cabin, which has seen a century’s worth of winters as of 2022.

Bistro Roca & Antlers Bar

Known simply as ‘the Antlers Bar’ to locals, this upscale eatery is off the beaten path in the village of Blowing Rock. Warm up on their heated, enclosed porch or spark up a conversation with a Roca regular by the brick, wood-fired pizza oven.

Come Back Shack

This family-owned and operated burger joint has fast, casual food down to a science! More often than not, their drive-through is wrapped around the building with eager burger seekers but the same delicious offerings can be enjoyed from the comfort of their heated patio around back. 

The Cardinal

The bird is the word! One of Boone's most hip locales has recently expanded and enclosed what was once the back porch to accommodate even more burger lovers. The patio now features plenty of mounted heaters plus an outdoor bar for all of your après-ski needs. Check their Instagram for updates on live music and other events. 

Original Mast General Store

Feeling nostalgic? The potbelly stove at this original mercantile has been a gathering place since the 1960s. Today, you can still mail a letter at the corner post office, warm up by the wood-burning stove, and enjoy a 5¢ cup of coffee (paid for on the honor system). 

Hellbender Bed & Beverage

Located in downtown Blowing Rock, Hellbender is a casual, yet charming, sister restaurant to Bistro Roca. Enjoy one of their expertly crafted cocktails by the fireplace in the parlor, or soak in a vivid winter sunset by the outdoor fire pit. 

Plan your Winter Adventure with Warmth in Mind!

Browse Boone Area Lodging for Accommodations with Fireplaces and/or Hot Tubs.