Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Taste Grill in Boone, NC, offers a culinary experience that masterfully blends local flavors with contemporary American cuisine. Known for its warm atmosphere and commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, this restaurant has become a favorite among both residents and visitors.
The menu reflects a thoughtful approach to dining, showcasing a diverse selection of dishes designed to satisfy a variety of palates. Whether you’re craving a hearty entrée, a light appetizer, or a decadent dessert, Taste Grill’s offerings deliver an exceptional balance of taste and presentation.
Boone’s culinary scene is rich and vibrant, and Taste Grill stands out by emphasizing local sourcing and creative preparation techniques. Its menu evolves seasonally, ensuring that each visit offers something new and exciting.
From farm-fresh vegetables to hand-cut steaks and seafood, the ingredients speak volumes about the care taken in crafting each plate. The blend of Southern comfort food with innovative twists keeps guests returning time and again.
For those seeking a memorable dining experience in Boone, exploring Taste Grill’s menu is a journey through the region’s best flavors, enhanced by expert culinary craftsmanship. This exploration reveals a dedication not only to taste but also to the essence of hospitality and community connection.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section of the Taste Grill menu sets the tone for an exceptional meal, offering a variety of options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. These starters emphasize fresh ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for sharing or enjoying as a prelude to the main course.
Each appetizer is thoughtfully prepared to highlight local produce and artisanal techniques. From crisp salads to savory bites, the starters provide a versatile range of textures and tastes.
The menu includes both classic and inventive dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Many dishes incorporate seasonal elements, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to freshness. The appetizer offerings also cater well to groups, making it easy to combine flavors and create a personalized tasting experience.
Popular Choices
- Smoked Trout Dip – A creamy blend of locally smoked trout paired with house-made crackers.
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy and tangy, topped with a zesty remoulade sauce.
- Seasonal Vegetable Soup – A rotating selection featuring the freshest harvest from nearby farms.
- Charcuterie Board – An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments sourced regionally.
“The appetizers here are a perfect balance of tradition and innovation, each bite telling a story of Boone’s rich culinary landscape.”
Main Courses and Entrées
The main courses at Taste Grill showcase an impressive array of dishes that appeal to meat lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and vegetarians alike. The kitchen’s skillful execution ensures each entrée is a harmonious blend of flavor, texture, and creativity.
Signature dishes often feature locally raised meats and fresh-caught fish, prepared with techniques that enhance natural flavors rather than mask them. The menu includes classics like grilled steaks and roasted chicken, alongside more adventurous options inspired by global cuisine.
Portion sizes are generous, offering satisfying meals without overwhelming the palate. The presentation of each entrée is carefully considered to engage diners visually as well as gastronomically.
Entrée Highlights
- Grilled Ribeye Steak – A prime cut, seasoned and grilled to perfection, served with roasted root vegetables.
- Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout – Fresh trout from local streams, accompanied by a lemon butter sauce.
- Vegetable Risotto – Creamy Arborio rice with seasonal vegetables and Parmesan cheese.
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich – Slow-cooked pork with house-made slaw on a toasted bun.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Preparation Style |
| Grilled Ribeye Steak | Beef ribeye, rosemary, garlic | Grilled over hardwood, seasoned with herbs |
| Pan-Seared Rainbow Trout | Fresh trout, lemon, butter, herbs | Pan-seared with a lemon butter sauce |
| Vegetable Risotto | Arborio rice, seasonal veggies, Parmesan | Slow-cooked, creamy risotto |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich | Pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, coleslaw | Slow-cooked and shredded, served on bun |
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking lighter options or a refreshing break from richer dishes, the salad and lighter fare selections at Taste Grill offer a variety of crisp, flavorful choices. These dishes are crafted with fresh ingredients that complement the restaurant’s commitment to health-conscious yet indulgent dining.
Salads often feature house-made dressings and a mix of local greens, nuts, and fruits that provide a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. They can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a complement to other menu items.
The lighter fare section also includes sandwiches and small plates designed to be both nourishing and delicious, perfect for midday meals or casual dining.
Signature Salads and Plates
- Beet and Goat Cheese Salad – Roasted beets, creamy goat cheese, candied walnuts, and mixed greens.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine, house-made dressing, Parmesan crisps, and croutons.
- Grilled Chicken Wrap – Marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Veggie Plate – A selection of seasonal roasted and raw vegetables with dipping sauces.
“Taste Grill’s lighter options prove that healthy can also be hearty and flavorful.”
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert menu at Taste Grill rounds out the dining experience with a selection of indulgent treats that satisfy the sweet tooth without overpowering. Each dessert is made in-house, showcasing a blend of classic techniques and innovative flavors.
Seasonality plays a key role here, as desserts often feature fruits and ingredients that are fresh and locally sourced. Whether it’s a rich chocolate creation or a delicate fruit tart, the offerings are crafted to provide a perfect finale to the meal.
Portion sizes are designed to delight without leaving guests feeling overly full, making them ideal for sharing or savoring solo.
Popular Dessert Selections
- Chocolate Ganache Tart – A rich and velvety chocolate tart with a buttery crust.
- Seasonal Fruit Cobbler – Warm, baked fruit topped with a crumbly biscuit crust.
- Lemon Panna Cotta – A smooth and creamy custard with a bright citrus finish.
- Homemade Ice Cream – Rotating flavors made fresh daily.
| Dessert | Primary Ingredients | Taste Profile |
| Chocolate Ganache Tart | Dark chocolate, cream, butter | Rich, smooth, and slightly bittersweet |
| Seasonal Fruit Cobbler | Local fruits, sugar, flour, butter | Sweet, warm, with a crisp topping |
| Lemon Panna Cotta | Cream, lemon zest, sugar | Light, creamy, and tangy |
| Homemade Ice Cream | Milk, cream, natural flavorings | Creamy, varied by flavor |
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage menu at Taste Grill offers a curated selection of drinks designed to perfectly complement the food. From craft cocktails to local brews and non-alcoholic options, the drink list balances creativity and tradition.
Cocktails feature fresh ingredients and house-made syrups, with many recipes inspired by Southern flavors and mountain botanicals. Wine selections are carefully chosen to enhance the dining experience, with a focus on regional vineyards alongside international favorites.
Non-alcoholic beverages include fresh juices, artisanal sodas, and expertly brewed coffees and teas, ensuring all guests find something appealing.
Featured Drinks
- Mountain Mule – A twist on the classic mule using local ginger beer and a splash of mountain honey.
- Boone Old Fashioned – Bourbon with house-made bitters and a smoked orange garnish.
- Local IPA – Rotating craft beer selections from Boone-area breweries.
- Herbal Iced Tea – Freshly brewed with rosemary and lemon zest.
“Our cocktails are crafted to tell a story, blending local ingredients with time-honored techniques.”
Special Dietary Options
Taste Grill takes pride in accommodating a variety of dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. The menu clearly identifies gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, and the kitchen staff are happy to discuss any special requests.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free or can be modified to suit allergy requirements. Plant-based diners will find thoughtfully prepared meals that do not compromise on flavor or presentation.
The restaurant’s flexible approach allows for creative substitutions and adjustments, making it a welcoming destination for diverse dietary preferences.
Accommodation Highlights
- Gluten-Free Entrées – Including grilled meats and vegetable-based dishes.
- Vegan and Vegetarian Options – Such as the vegetable risotto and seasonal salads.
- Nut-Free Choices – Clearly marked and prepared with care.
- Customizable Sides – Swap out starches or vegetables to suit needs.
| Dietary Need | Menu Options | Customization |
| Gluten-Free | Grilled Ribeye, Pan-Seared Trout, Beet Salad | Substitute bread-based sides with vegetables |
| Vegetarian | Vegetable Risotto, Beet and Goat Cheese Salad | Omit cheese for vegan option |
| Vegan | Seasonal Vegetable Soup, Veggie Plate | Use vegan dressings and sauces |
| Nut-Free | Most grilled meats and seafood | Exclude nuts and check for cross-contamination |
Seasonal and Chef’s Specials
The seasonal and chef’s specials at Taste Grill highlight the creativity and adaptability of the kitchen team. These dishes change regularly to incorporate the best of what local farms and suppliers have to offer, ensuring freshness and innovation.
Specials often include unique combinations or experimental flavor profiles, giving diners an opportunity to try something new and exciting. This evolving menu section reflects the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence.
Many specials are inspired by Appalachian traditions, reimagined with modern techniques and presentation.
Examples of Recent Specials
- Maple-Glazed Duck Breast – Served with roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potato mash.
- Wild Mushroom Stroganoff – Creamy sauce with local mushrooms over house-made noodles.
- Apple Cider Braised Pork – Slow-cooked pork with an apple cider reduction.
- Blueberry and Lavender Cheesecake – A seasonal dessert special with floral notes.
“Our specials allow us to celebrate the seasons while delighting guests with unexpected flavors.”
Conclusion
Taste Grill in Boone, NC, offers a menu that is both a celebration of local flavors and a showcase of culinary artistry. From the carefully crafted appetizers to the rich and satisfying entrées, every dish demonstrates a commitment to quality and creativity.
The thoughtful inclusion of seasonal ingredients and dietary accommodations makes it a versatile destination for a wide range of diners.
The beverage and dessert selections further enhance the dining experience, offering complementary flavors and unique twists that elevate each meal. Special dishes and rotating chef’s creations keep the menu fresh and exciting, inviting guests to explore new tastes with every visit.
Whether you are a local resident or visiting the picturesque town of Boone, Taste Grill provides a warm, inviting atmosphere paired with a menu that reflects the best of the region’s culinary spirit. This dedication to excellence in food and hospitality ensures that every meal is not just a dining experience but a memorable event worth returning to time and again.
