Ok, so you’re tired of eating at the same 2-3 old places every time?
Add a little variety to your dining experiences by checking out some of the best restaurants in the Elizabethton, Tennessee area. Located just 10 minutes from Johnson City, and 20 minutes from Bristol, this little town has some nice surprises waiting for you.
Are there more options than fast food restaurants in a small town?
Yes! Many local restaurants exist to give you a break from the “same old same old” food choices that have put you in a culinary rut. Plus, supporting a local restaurant is always a good thing – keeping your money working in the communities that you live, work, and play in.
So, where to eat in Elizabethton, TN when you are hungry?
Here are some of our favorite hidden gems:
1) Red Chili (Korean) – Who knew that a world class Korean Restaurant would be hidden next to the Bonnie Kate Theatre? Hmmm, dinner and a show? That’s a subject for a whole new blog post… Just a block of the main drag in E-Town you will discover such tantalizing dishes as Be-Bim-Bop (get the optional fried egg, trust us), Bulgogi Lettuce Wraps (you won’t want to share them, order 2), and Shrimp and Noodles (personal favorite). Feeling really adventurous? Get the Kimchi Fried Rice or the Spicy Noodle Soup (served in a hot stone bowl!) Also, bring the kids, because the Ramen here is not the packet style you eat at home. The whole family can enjoy this experience! Then walk off lunch or dinner in Downtown Elizabethton and enjoy the shops, drinks and entertainment. Don’t forget to take a walk through the Covered Bridge while you are there!
2) J’s Corner (Good Fast Food) – It’s amazing what you can find in Elizabethton if you just get a few blocks off the main thoroughfares! J’s Corner is a community asset. A little corner burger stand with 3 tables inside and outdoor covered seating, this restaurant is a little slice of Americana. What are you getting here? The Best Burger, fries and a milkshake you could never find at a chain fast food joint, and some seriously good pulled pork sandwiches too. Made to order, fresh, all with fast friendly service that has made this place a local’s hangout for good eats! What do we get? A fully loaded Double Bacon Cheeseburger, of course! The kids love the Corn Dogs and a milkshake. It’s an experience worth doing.
3) Puerto Nuevo Fresh Mex & Grill (Next Level Mexican/Seafood) – There are plenty of decent Mexican Restaurants, and Seafood Restaurants out there, but this place is NEXT LEVEL – the food quality and attention to detail, combined with exceptional service, make Puerto Nuevo worth driving past their competitors to eat here! From huge Salsa bar, to Street Tacos and many other delicious Mexican food choices, to exceptionally great seafood options (we may be 6 hours from a Beach, but you would never know!), this restaurant is worth checking out… repeatedly!
Did we miss any other restaurant experiences worth having in Elizabethton? Probably so, but these are our favorites.
Do some exploring and find your own after you try these top choices for local dining. Let us know in the comments what you experience. If you find some new hidden gems tell us about it in the comments section for this article.
