For the second year in a row, Tripadvisor has named The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge in Blowing Rock a top dining destination. In their 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards, the online travel review giant ranked The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge as #2 Fine Dining Restaurant and #3 Date Night Restaurant in the United States. It is the only North Carolina restaurant honored in either respective category this year.
According to Tripadvisor, Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best is their highest honor. The award “takes into account the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings, and ranks the very best accommodations, destinations, beaches, attractions, restaurants, airlines, and experiences in specific categories and geographic areas, as rated and reviewed by travelers. Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award winners are among the top 1% of listings on Tripadvisor.”
The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge owners Cobb and Cindy Milner consider their staff as the recipients of the award and are thrilled to see their work recognized. “Our staff really cares about the people they are serving and that makes a huge difference,” says Cindy Milner. “We are so grateful for all the hard work that they do! This would never have happened without our team; they really are the Best of the Best.”
The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge has been a fine dining staple in Blowing Rock for many years. It is known for locally-sourced fare, creatively and thoughtfully crafted. Stunning mountain views surround the intimate dining area. Dining staff is always attentive and well-acquainted with the flavors of each dish, able to offer friendly guidance on course selection and beverage pairings. Executive Chef Hunter Womble even takes time to personally greet each table whenever possible, making each guest feel welcome.
“We couldn’t be more honored,” says Womble. “This award isn’t a competition or something decided by industry folks. Our diners felt strongly enough about their experience to write those reviews. That’s everything to our team because creating memorable experiences for our patrons is what we love to do.”
Womble began working at The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge 11 years ago, becoming Executive Chef in 2014. Under his leadership, the restaurant’s positive reputation has steadily grown. In 2017 The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge was recognized in another review-based list: OpenTable’s Top 100 Most Scenic Restaurants in America. Two years later, it was included among OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in America. The restaurant is also currently recognized by Fodor’s Travel as a Fodor’s Choice selection.
Reservations are required for dining at The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge, available at gideonridge.com on a rolling 2-week schedule.
– October 2023. Photos courtesy of Restaurant at Gideon Ridge.
