Grand Olde Station Restaurant, nestled in the picturesque Lake Toxaway, NC, has quickly established itself as a must-visit American eatery. This charming establishment is rich in history, adorned with nostalgic photographs and artifacts that tell tales of the local area. Customer reviews paint a vivid picture of a delightful dining experience, emphasizing the friendly, efficient service and a menu that showcases attention to detail.
Reviewers rave about the fried green tomatoes, the famous shrimp and grits, and the memorable Lavender Dream cocktail, bringing diners back for seconds. The restaurant's ambiance, often described as reminiscent of an old lodge, is enhanced by soothing live jazz, creating a perfect backdrop for enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Throughout their experiences, guests consistently highlight the warmth of the staff, with many noting memorable interactions with the owner, a third-generation local. Each visit feels personal and welcoming, leaving patrons eager to return. Overall, Grand Olde Station Restaurant stands out not just for its exceptional food but also for its ability to create lasting memories, making it an essential stop for both locals and visitors alike.
Amenities and More
Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great wine list
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Food
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Grand Olde Station Restaurant
Troy Norton
May 27,2025
I absolutely love this place. If you go to Lake Toxaway and don't eat here you missed out! Not only is the food delicious and the staff super kind but the atmosphere took me on a journey of the history of Lake Toxaway. Its filled with historical pictures and fun relics that flashed me back to my camp days as a kid. I found out the owners grandfather actually built the lake and there are even documentaries about the family. The owner was having a drink at the bar and was so kind to talk to me about everything Lake Toxaway, his grandfather, and the area. Hes 3rd generation up there.
Lina Territo
May 11,2025
Beautiful location, excellent food and charming/ efficient service! We had the fried green tomato’s, the wedge salad, the trout and the Cuban- all were made with love and care. I loved this cocktail so much we had to come back 2 days later to try it again- the Lavender Dream. They’ve just opened a charming upstairs patio too. The new Managment is crushing it! Best place to eat in Toxaway!
Jesse Graham
Apr 28,2025
Overall fantastic experience and dinner. The food was incredible, especially the shrimp and grits, the staff were genuine, and the atmosphere was exceptional. With two appetizers, five entrees, and two desserts, are dinner was roughly 150 before tip. Upon arriving to the parking lot, my family was greeted by a beautiful view of the lake. Although it was cold outside, the view rendered multiple pictures. For good, the bruschetta was delicious and the wings were crispy with a tasty flavor. My wife enjoyed the cheese steak, while my son devoured the chicken and waffles. Our daughter ordered the butter noodles and said, “This is the best restaurant.”
hardcorebills33
Apr 8,2025
We decided to stop in after visiting the State Park since the hiking had us hangry. The parking lot was a one way in and one out entering from the south, Walking in we were promptly greeted and sat then given complementary waters while we looked at the menu. The pricing may seem high to some, but it's well worth it. Our waitress who was excellent and friendly took our orders and food arrived in a timely manner. First of all, the cheese steak was out of this world, my chicken sandwich was very good, and I was told by another joining us the meatballs and chicken and waffles were excellent as well. We took a bread pudding to go and it turned out to be extremely tasty as well. The atmosphere was like an old lodge restaurant which we all enjoyed. 12 out of 10 will return when back in town. Would have taken pictures of the food, but as earlier stated, we were hangry and that food disappeared fast as it hit the table.
Curtis Labban
Apr 7,2025
Second time having dinner here and it did not disappoint. The plantain appetizer with chorizo was unbelievable, I could’ve eaten another for dessert. We had a filet and also the shrimp and grits. Both so good. The ambience was on point, there was a jazz guitarist playing covers, and we love the unique interior of the restaurant as well. Just love this place, we will probably come back every time we visit Sapphire in the future. Keep up the great work!
Courtney Murphy
Mar 27,2025
This place is amazing!! I visited on Sunday 8/18/24. The place is right across the street from Lake Toxaway...sit outside to enjoy the incredible view. It was very casual and laid back. I did sit outside to enjoy the breeze and the view. But the inside is so cool...it’s like a rustic old cabin. It has old photos of the lake and antique items. And the restrooms were super clean with a sink made to look like a wooden bowl. My server Josie was great! Very friendly and made great recommendations. I ordered the Cesar salad with blackened chicken...delicious! I also ordered a whiskey sour which was good. Enjoyed spending my afternoon! And it’s also pet friendly!
Jonathan
Mar 27,2025
If you’re passing through Lake Toxaway or exploring the North Carolina mountains, make a point to stop at Grand Olde Station. This charming spot offers a unique dining experience that blends history, hospitality, and seriously good food. Set in a restored train depot, Grand Olde Station oozes rustic charm. The decor is location-specific and steeped in history-think vintage photographs, antique furnishings, and relics from the area's rail and lake life past. Outside, you’ll find a historic train caboose and even a classic firetruck, adding to the sense of nostalgia paired with beautiful views of the lake. The menu hits all the right notes. We started with the fried green tomatoes-crispy on the outside, tangy on the inside, and perfectly paired with a creamy sauce. For the main course, the honey roasted bourbon chicken thighs were tender, glazed with just the right balance of sweet and smoky flavors. The buffalo chicken sandwich was another standout-crispy, juicy, and packed with just the right amount of heat, served on a toasted bun with cool ranch and gouda cheese. Each bite was comforting and full of flavor. The staff here are genuinely friendly and attentive without being overbearing. You get the sense that they care about your experience. With its warm, lodge-style interior, flavorful food, and welcoming service, Grand Olde Station is a true gem in Lake Toxaway. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed meal surrounded by history and mountain charm.
Ginger Terrell
Mar 25,2025
Didn't even know this placed existed until I Google Mapped restaurants in the area. Such a cool historical story behind it (be sure to ask your server). The shrimp and grips were wonderful. The burger was perfect. And the sweet potato fries were the best I've had.
Reviews For Grand Olde Station Restaurant