Take a step back in time when you visit Mount Airy, North Carolina. The home of Andy Griffith, this quaint town is home to an incredible wine region, breathtaking views of the Blueridge Mountains, and old-time bluegrass music. But their food does not fall far behind – in fact it doesn’t fall behind at all. Check out some of the best places to eat in Mount Airy. 

1. Aunt Bea’s

If you’re in the mood for barbecue, look no further than Aunt Bea’s. Their hickory smoked barbecue has been a hit since 1984 throughout North Carolina and Virginia.

Aunt Bea’s menu features a number of American classics including chicken tenders, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and Philly cheesesteaks. You can pair these delectable entrees with any of their classic (and not so typical) side orders including chicken fries, cheese munchers, and BBQ slaw.

This joint also serves breakfast all day and features a varied dessert menu with homemade ice cream and peach cobbler. Aunt Bea’s has something to satisfy every craving and also offers catering.

2. 13 Bones

Family-friendly casual dining offering a hometown atmosphere, 13 Bones is a favorite among Mount Airy locals. The restaurant got its unique name from one of its specialties – baby back ribs. In order to be considered a full rack, there must be 13 bones.

From seafood to steaks to sandwiches, the rich flavors at 13 Bones keeps guests coming back for more.

The owners of the restaurant are very passionate about their community, and involvement within the Mount Airy community is a priority. You can even set up a fundraiser night and receive 10% of your party’s net sales as commission.

3. Olympia Family Restaurant

Olympia Family Restaurant identifies itself as a Southern cuisine restaurant, but they also serve several Italian dishes. A significant portion of their menu is comprised of sandwiches – everything from fried flounder to egg salad.

There are also daily specials which include an entrée and up to three side items at a great, low price. And while the portions are very generous, be sure to save room for dessert as Olympia Family Restaurant is known among locals for their sinfully delicious homemade desserts including cobblers and pecan pie.

Be sure to plan for an early dinner, though, as the restaurant closes its doors at 8:00 PM Monday through Saturday. They are closed on Sundays.

4. The Loaded Goat

Doesn’t the name just pique your interest? The Loaded Goat is a well-loved sports pub and grill in Mount Airy.

Their fare includes typical American food – burgers, sandwiches, and salads. One of the most popular dishes is the Fried Green Tomato BLT – a crispy fried green tomato with Applewood bacon, lettuce, and spicy mayo on Texas toast. A section on their menu entitled “Meat in Tube Form” boasts an array of different sausages.

True to its name, there is a small pub (not large enough to be called a bar) in the corner of the restaurant featuring a few draft beers and an assortment of cocktails.

5. Snappy Lunch

The Snappy Lunch first opened in 1923, so you know it has to be good if it’s hung around for this long! The restaurant was also featured on The Andy Griffith Show.

The “World Famous Pork Chop Sandwich” is the most popular item on the menu. And truly, your options at the Snappy Lunch are limited to sandwiches, so we sure hope you’re in the mood for one! You can opt for a burger, bologna and cheese, hot dog, BLT, and a few others. True to their name, they only serve breakfast and lunch and close for the day at 1:45 PM most days of the week.

6. Old North State Winery

Nestled amidst the mountains of North Carolina, Old North State Winery offers a very romantic dining experience.

The lunch menu includes your typical sandwiches and salads. There are also several delicious flatbreads and quesadillas to choose from as well as freshly squeezed lemonade and orangeade. Considering the ambiance, the restaurant is very affordable.

ONS is open for lunch from 11 AM until 3 PM and dinner from 4 PM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday. You can visit for Sunday Brunch between 12 and 3 PM. Reservations are required, so be sure to call in advance.

7. Little Richard’s Barbecue

Hickory smoked barbecue at its finest, Little Richard’s Barbecue is sure to please. There are four locations throughout North Carolina as well as a catering menu.

There are two salads on the menu, but everything else is just tons of meat, so this may not be the best place for vegetarians. But if you’re not a vegetarian, be prepared for mouthwatering goodness. Start off with an order of wings or BBQ nachos. Then, tear into a massive barbecue pork, beef, or chicken sandwich. You can also opt for a “Pit Master Plate” featuring meat with two sides and hush puppies.

8. Gondola

An Italian restaurant in a sea of barbecue spots, “Gondola” truly stands out. Everything made at Gondola is homemade including the pasta, pizza dough, and tomato sauce.

A few of the house favorites include chicken parmigiana, Slovakia lamb, surf and turf, and Sierra chicken. If you’re not up for that, though, there are tons of other options as well. Gondola serves grilled sandwiches, steaks, Stromboli, calzones, pizza, wings, dessert, and more.

Visit Gondola Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 10 PM or Friday and Saturday from 11 AM to 11 PM. They are closed on Wednesdays.

Chase & Charli

Located on the banks of the Ararat River, Chase & Charli offers dining with a view. The menu was inspired by the children of the owners, who also gave the restaurant its name.

This restaurant has something to offer everyone – Caribbean jerk chicken, steaks, burgers, tacos, salads, sandwiches, seafood, and more. There are also some atypical options including the Mac-N-Cheese Pizza on the kids’ menu. 

The prices are very fair, the portions are generous, and the staff treats you like family.

Chase & Charli are closed on Sundays and Mondays. They are open from 11 AM until 9 PM Tuesday through Saturday.

Odell’s Sandwich Shop

The fact that there is no indoor seating at Odell’s should not deter you from trying one of their kick-ass sandwiches. This old-school sandwich shop has a little speaker box (kind of like Sonic’s) where you place your order. Once it arrives, you can enjoy it in your car or take it to go. Be warned, though, that service is a little slow but worth the wait.

The menu includes burgers, hot dogs, coleslaw, tater tots, French fries, and other popular American dishes.

Please do note, though, that they only accept cash, so a visit to the ATM beforehand is essential.

Our Favorite Breakfast and Lunch Spot

Next time you’re in Mount Airy, North Carolina, we recommend paying a visit to Aunt Bea’s. This locally famous BBQ joint offers mouthwatering barbecue and other American favorites including burgers, hot dogs, and chicken tenders. But if you’re not in the mood for that, choose from their extensive breakfast menu, which they serve all day.