Looking like an opulent chateau that’s been airdropped from Burgundy, Biltmore is an estate whose architectural splendor defies belief. As America’s largest home, built by George Washington Vanderbilt starting in the late 1880s, this Gilded Age estate sprawls across a mighty 8000 acres in Asheville’s stunning Blue Ridge Mountains.

With its secret society-worthy regalia and initiation ceremonies, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs is an organization steeped in tradition and ritual.

Originating in France in 1248 as a guild of goose roasters, it has evolved into a global network of epicureans, chefs, and enthusiasts who share a passion for gastronomy.

“Hey, come on in! Sit wherever you like,” calls the amiable bartender. It’s 5 PM and eager patrons pour into Highlands Tavern. The next visitor is greeted by name as Chef Kim Vos bustles through the dining room and recognizes one of her regulars. Tables begin to fill rapidly, even though the restaurant has just opened for the evening. As servers joke with their customers, it’s readily apparent that everyone knows one another. It was on this Monday that I found my new favorite haunt.

Outdoorsmen who arrive on the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau this Spring will be greeted by a brand new Brookings Anglers store on Cashiers Lake, with a grand opening planned for May 11.

Culture vultures descended upon downtown Highlands, North Carolina, from May 17-19 to savor the varied delights of the town’s inaugural High Style event. Described as “a celebration of art, cuisine, [...]

Perfectly positioned within the Old Edwards complex on Main Street in Highlands, North Carolina, Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar provides an ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle while immersing oneself in the distinctive local culture. Upon entering the restaurant, diners immediately notice the open kitchen, stone bar lit from [...]

Steeped in history, surrounded by nature, and infused with passion, The Orchard Restaurant has delivered epicurean masterpieces for over 23 years. An atmosphere brimming with Southern hospitality, diligent service, and exceptional dishes highlighting local produce. Tuck into the ambiance and let The Orchard make all your foodie dreams come true. 

Wine and cheese, a pairing as old and honored as time, and the perfect combination of rich, earthy, and wholesome flavors that will elevate any entertaining experience. There’s a reason so many people opt for charcuterie when hosting a gathering – not only are gourmet cheeses, cured meats, and their accouterments mouth-wateringly [...]

 Photo by Nik Owens on Unsplash

Just off Main Street in Highlands, North Carolina, you will find Four65 Woodfire Bistro and Bar - the perfect spot to stop for a drink or a bite to eat after perusing the shops downtown. The bistro specializes in handcrafted wood-fired pizzas, cast iron sandwiches, and fresh salads using ingredients from their [...]

Ingredients

(Yields 6-8 Portions)

6-8, 2-inch Center Cut Veal Shanks (ask your butcher)

1 Large, Yellow or Sweet Onion, Medium Diced

2 Large Carrots, Medium Diced

4 Stalks Celery, Medium Diced

3 Cloves of Garlic, Minced

4 Tablespoons Tomato [...]

Jennifer and Steve Snead-Smith have owned Highlands' Mountain Fresh Grocery for just one year, but if the lunchtime crowd on a recent Wednesday is any indication, they've already caught on to the vibe of downtown [...]

There is something about the orangey glow of an Aperol Spritz, Italy’s famous warm-weather sipper, that brings happiness. Originating in Italy in 1919 from the Barbieri brothers, Aperol can be the perfect added touch to just about any cocktail, but the Aperol Spritz is its most famous [...]

Lobster, specifically cold-water American lobster, are found in the Atlantic Ocean all the way north of Newfoundland to the Carolinas, the vast majority coming from Canada and New England. This is the type of lobster you generally see in restaurants, as well as grocery stores and specialty fish markets. Warm-water lobster tails, also called [...]

Nothing says summer quite like kicking back with friends over some good eats and chilled beverages on a warm summer night. With stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as your backdrop, ready the grill and don your “Kiss the Cook!” apron for your next backyard soirée. With holiday weekends fast approaching, take note of our entertaining [...]

Summer is quickly coming to an end but there's still so much left to do! Before it's all over, check out these simple summer recipes.
This Aperol Spritz is perfect for entertaining guests or just relaxing on a warm summer night. 
Foil-wrapped Baby Back Ribs might sound hard but they're actually really easy and cook in less than an hour. 
And if you're looking for a salad recipe, Grilled Peach, Onion & Bacon Salad with Buttermilk Dressing is sure to hit the spot.
So don't let summer slip away without trying these delicious recipes!

Jackson County requires visitors to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival.

Black Sheep Taxi is offering delivery of takeout from restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacy, shopping, etc. Call, text 828-200-7006 or  theflock@blacksheeptaxi.com. Rates are posted on their website for one-way trips.  

We will keep this list updated as we receive information. If you are a business and have an update for us, please email info@ncliving.com. (Updated 5/7/20 at 2:24 pm)

NORTH CAROLINA STATE COVID-19 HOTLINE: 866-462-3821

On Friday, May 8 at 5 pm, North Carolina will move into Phase One of easing restrictions. The Stay-at-Home order stays in effect with some [...]