Good Eats!
Appetite for the
Appalachian Trail
& OTHER MOUNTAIN GETAWAYS
If you’ve ever hiked the Appalachian Trail, then you
know how it feels to be hungry, sweaty, and tired, only
to find a bag of half-crushed Ramen in your pack for dinner. Opt out of the campfire setting for a night at The
Homeplace, in Catawba, Virginia. The Homeplace is said
to be the best restaurant on the entire trail by almost all
who hike it. The Homeplace is known for its sit-down
buffet style menu that makes you feel as though you’re
having a meal with family. Large tables are covered with
china dishes and serving spoons, and the dinner menu
is always 3 meats and various sides, with a fruit cobbler
for dessert.
Upon arrival, there is almost always a brief wait for a seat.
When you finally sit down and prop your jacket on the
back of your chair, you will be greeted by friendly servers that are all too happy to bring you whatever drink
you desire. Once the meal comes, you’ll pass around the
platters of fried chicken, roast beef, and country ham.
The sides usually include several types of vegetables,
from corn and green beans, to pinto beans and mashed
potatoes, along with freshly-made biscuits and a housemade specialty slaw.
All who are hungry are welcome, from those who arrive directly from the trail still covered in dirt, to families
dressed up for the evening. The portions are all-you-caneat, but the meal is presented so well and the dishes are
so filling, that you most likely won’t be able to have a
second helping. This unique service and delicious dinner
is all served up for less than $20, and the atmosphere
itself is breathtaking.
FoodTraveler l Winter 2016
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