While North Carolina certainly has plenty of incredible restaurants in its larger towns and cities, sometimes you’re richly rewarded by venturing further afield. Here’s a restaurant in the tiny town of Hayesville that’s well worth the journey.

The little town of Hayesville has fewer than 400 residents, and it’s tucked way down in the southwestern corner of the state, in Clay County.

Hayesville, NC and Clay County

A visit to this little town means a visit to the Copper Door — one of the best restaurants in the state. You’ll find it at 2 Sullivan Street.

Google

The dining room is cozy and romantic. The Copper Door is the perfect place for an anniversary, birthday, or other special occasion. The ambiance is intimate and the service is stellar.

Business Owner/Yelp

Start off with an oyster or shrimp shooter.

The Copper Door/Facebook

Or try the grilled caesar salad.

The Copper Door/Facebook

The roast rack of lamb is one of the house specialties. You won’t believe how tender and juicy it is — it will melt in your mouth.

The Copper Door/Facebook

If you prefer beef, try the ribeye. It’s well-seasoned and grilled to perfection.

management/Tripadvisor

Vegetarians will love the Aubergine Ada — roasted eggplant with polenta, mushrooms, onions, tomato, roasted red pepper, basil, and parmesan.

The Copper Door/Facebook

Everything on the dessert menu will tempt you. The bread pudding is particularly tasty.

The Copper Door/Facebook

The Copper Door has an extensive wine list, with more than 200 labels available. Watch for special wine pairing dinners, too.

The Copper Door/Facebook

Visit the Copper Door Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are strongly recommended.

The Copper Door/Facebook For reservations, call 828-389-8460 or visit the restaurant’s website.

Have you dined at Copper Door? We’d love to hear about your experience there!

Hayesville, NC and Clay County

Google

Business Owner/Yelp

The Copper Door/Facebook

management/Tripadvisor

For reservations, call 828-389-8460 or visit the restaurant’s website.

If you’re interested in exploring more of North Carolina’s best restaurants, take a look at these 25 restaurants you must visit before you die.

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