Sweet Onion

Duration

1-2 hours (longer for multi-course dinners with wine pairings)

Price

$15-35 per person for entrees, $50-80 per person with appetizers and drinks

Best For

Couples seeking romantic farm-to-table dining • Food enthusiasts who appreciate local sourcing • Visitors wanting authentic Appalachian cuisine

Pro Tip

Ask your server about the Appalachian Cheese Board - it features local cheeses that change based on what's available from nearby farms, and they'll explain the story behind each one.

About Sweet Onion

The Sweet Onion has been earning rave reviews since opening in downtown Waynesville. This farm-to-table gem sources 90% of its ingredients from within 50 miles, creating dishes that taste like the mountains themselves.

The seasonal menu changes quarterly, so diners will always find something new. Think blackberry BBQ beef short ribs and ramp risotto that'll make visitors forget every chain restaurant exists.

The atmosphere strikes that sweet spot between cozy and upscale. Brick walls, knowledgeable staff who actually know where the food comes from, and prices that won't break the bank create an inviting experience.

Fair warning: the restaurant is closed Sundays and Mondays, which many visitors discover upon arrival. The weekend dinner rush gets busy, but the experience is worth the wait.

The restaurant works with over 25 local farms, and it's not just a marketing gimmick - guests can actually taste the difference in every bite.

Amenities & Features

Exceptional comfort dishes including tender pot roast, flavorful meatloaf, and what many call the best French onion soup in the regionCreative Southern-inspired appetizers like pimento cheese with fried crackers and fried mozzarella with smoked tomato chutneyAttentive, personalized service with servers frequently mentioned by name for their excellent recommendationsCharming building with mountain views that enhance the dining experience

Don't Miss

Seasonal Farm-to-Table Menu

The menu changes quarterly based on what's available from their 25+ partner farms within 50 miles. We've never had the same dish twice, and that's part of the magic.

Appalachian Cheese Board

Features rotating selection of local cheeses with house-made accompaniments. The staff knows the story behind each cheese and farm, making it educational and delicious.

Blackberry BBQ Beef Short Ribs

Their signature dish combines traditional Southern BBQ with local blackberries in a way that shouldn't work but absolutely does. The meat falls off the bone.

Zero-Waste Kitchen Practices

They compost everything possible and use every part of ingredients in creative ways. It's sustainability you can actually taste in dishes like their vegetable stock risottos.

Historic Downtown Location

The brick-walled space feels cozy and intimate while maintaining an upscale vibe. Large windows let you watch downtown Waynesville life while you dine.

Know Before You Go

Make reservations ahead of time, especially for weekend dinners
Dress is casual but slightly upscale - think nice jeans and a button-down
They accept cards and cash, but call ahead for large parties
Menu changes seasonally, so check their current offerings online
Located in historic downtown with wheelchair accessible entrance

Visitor Sentiment

Based on reviews

Sweet Onion impresses visitors with quality cuisine and attentive service. The atmosphere creates a memorable dining experience in Waynesville.

Sweet Onion Opening Hours

MondayClosed

Tuesday11:30 AM to 9 PM

Wednesday11:30 AM to 9 PM

Thursday11:30 AM to 9 PM

Friday11:30 AM to 9 PM

Saturday11:30 AM to 9 PM

SundayClosed

Best Times to Visit Sweet Onion

For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend dinner rush 5PM - 8PM

☀️Relaxed

Tuesday & Wednesday evenings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Sweet Onion?

They're open Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 AM-3:00 PM and 4:30-8:00 PM, Friday-Saturday 11:30 AM-3:00 PM and 4:30-9:00 PM. Sunday brunch runs 10:00 AM-2:00 PM, and they're closed Mondays.

How much does Sweet Onion cost?

It's mid-range pricing ($$-$$$) that reflects the quality of locally sourced ingredients. Most entrees run comparable to other upscale casual restaurants, but the value is excellent for what you get.

Do I need reservations for Sweet Onion?

Yes, we highly recommend making reservations, especially for weekend dinners. They get busy and you don't want to miss out on this experience.

How long should I spend at Sweet Onion?

Plan on 1-2 hours for a full dining experience. The service is attentive but not rushed, and you'll want time to savor the seasonal dishes.

Is Sweet Onion good for kids?

While it's more upscale casual, well-behaved kids are welcome. The menu focuses on sophisticated flavors that might appeal more to adventurous young eaters than picky ones.

Is there parking at Sweet Onion?

Parking is available in the downtown area near the restaurant at 39 Miller Street. You might need to walk a block or two during busy times.

Does Sweet Onion accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes, they have gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available. Give them advance notice about serious allergies so they can prepare accordingly.

How often does Sweet Onion change their menu?

The menu changes quarterly to match local harvest seasons. This means your favorite dish might not always be available, but there's always something new to try.