Where to Eat and Drink in Fayetteville, NC
I have visited Fayetteville, North Carolina three times now. It is a small Southern city known for its military history and friendly community. Its historic downtown features unique shops, diverse restaurants, and lively arts venues, creating a charming atmosphere for both visitors and residents. With scenic surroundings and many hidden gems, Fayetteville offers something for everyone, whether you’re there for a day or planning to stay longer.
Let’s go on a North Carolina adventure, shall we?
Winterbloom Tea
One of my absolute favorite places in Fayetteville is this charming tea house tucked away in downtown. It's not your average tea spot; it's where tea meets creativity. With over 30 varieties of tea and unique tea cocktails, there's always something new to try. My personal favorite cocktail is the High Priestess, a delightful mix of lychee black tea, bergamot, and rye whiskey. I also love spending time in their cozy shop, especially after work, where I can settle into their comfy chairs and work on Wandering Bel while admiring art from local artists that you can even buy. A fantastic bonus is that they ship tea right to your doorstep! My top teas are Euphoria, which feels like summer in a cup and helped me focus when writing, and Calypso, which I think captures fall perfectly. This place is truly the best hidden gem!
Blue Moon Café
This charming spot is just a quick 3-minute walk from Winterbloom, and it's truly my favorite place to grab lunch in town! The menu features delightful seasonal dishes inspired by local ingredients, all made fresh from scratch. I especially enjoy their Chicken Salad Croissant — honestly, it might be the best chicken salad I've had in ages! If the weather's nice, you can sit out on their lovely patio, or cozy up inside. Just a tip: to avoid the rush around branch time, I recommend arriving early. You'll enjoy a relaxed, delicious meal every time!
Antonella’s Italian Ristorante
If you're seeking a wonderful Italian restaurant in a small rural town, this spot is ideal. Antonella’s Italian Ristorante delivers authenticity in every bite. This family-owned establishment brings Old World Italian tradition to downtown Fayetteville. It's a perfect dinner destination close to Winterbloom, where you can enjoy their patio by a fire and savor delicious food! My favorite dish is the Spaghetti Siciliana, with grape tomatoes, Kalamata olives, garlic, oil, basil, and spinach. I also sampled their renowned Frutti Di Mare, featuring shrimp, mussels, scallops, and calamari in spicy marinara over spaghetti. While it was tasty, I still prefer the Siciliana.
Haymount Truck Stop
This place has a fascinating history that has been lovingly preserved. It was once a BP station, a cherished part of the town, but it eventually closed. Luckily, a few caring individuals saw its potential and decided to turn it into a lively local spot. They transformed the old station into a charming brewery with a variety of food trucks rotating each day. There's also a lovely back patio with games and comfortable chairs, perfect for relaxing while enjoying a drink or your meal. Visiting here, you'll truly feel like you're part of the friendly local community!
Final Thoughts
Don't overlook this charming town. It has plenty of attractions, delicious food, and drinks to enjoy, along with a lively downtown scene. This city blends community pride with creativity, with each local restaurant telling its own unique story. Share your favorite spot in the comments!