Restaurants near John H Kerr Dam

As a local to the Littleton, NC area we are very lucky to have a restaurant to the level that the Blue Jay Bistro brings. This was not our first visit, but every dinner with the exceptional staff is rememberable. The menu changes with seasons and is always easy to find something delicious. On this occasion, it was my birthday with special friends and everyone's meal was perfectly prepared. The steak and duck were my favorite on this visit. The decor of the restaurant is very well done and comfortable. We look forward to coming back!

I almost can’t even put into words how amazing this restaurant is. The atmosphere is elegant yet chic, with modern decor, comforting colors, and a warm ambiance. We were greeted by our fantastic server Nick, he was knowledgeable, friendly, and inviting. We choose an array of tapas ranging from the NC goat cheese dip to the seared tuna, Peruvian chicken to the foie gras crème brûlée, mushroom ravioli to the crispy potatoes and while absolutely everything was an amazing explosion of deliciousness to the taste buds, my mother and I both agreed that our favorites of the evening would be the arancini balls- this one being a spin on thanksgiving flavors, the wagyu empanada and the burrataTouille. We ended our evening with the decadent chocolate mousse and pear pecan pie both being melt in your mouth delicious- a perfectly sweet way to finish. Seriously fantastic food by the creative and well trained chefs of the kitchen. Not to mention chef Serge with his years of experience and wisdom would not disappoint with his combination of fresh ingredients and tasty flavors. The variety is enough for anyone with any type of palate or dietary preferences. With the portions being just enough to enjoy multiple options without getting bored of eating the same thing and not feeling like a whale when leaving. We paired our meal with a fabulous blackberry mocktail and the ship down cocktail which was warm, tasty, and easy to drink. This place was a wonderful experience appropriate for any occasion or event and when I say this will not be the last time I come here I mean that, my only regret is not coming sooner. Thank you so much Chef Serge, Nick and all the wonderful staff who made our evening out so special.

Oxford Oaks Distillery/Verdigris was absolutely amazing. The seven-ounce filet is perfectly seasoned, and I don't think I have ever eaten better broccoli. Think about that--when was the last time *broccoli* wowed you? Well, this broccoli impressed me. Our waitress was awesome and made sure we were kept abreast of gripping developments in the kitchen. We had the sea salt and caramel cheesecake, which I can highly recommend. Fabulous all around. Definitely worth the price.

Visiting from the Philadelphia area, which has many of the best eating establishments on the east coast. Encore Ristorante fare goes way above any in Philly. Chef Josh knows how to season and cook to perfection. The tuna had a perfectly seared exterior while still retaining the steak like texture of a wonderful filet mignon in the middle. The Italian dishes were not simply pastas and sauce. Each had a unique spin of goodness! Loved my grandma but no way could she match “Grandmas Sunday Gravy”.Portions are ample, Drinks are unique. Our server Sam, she was warm and welcoming. Wish we lived here so we could become regulars.

An absolute gem. I'm quite surprised to find this in Wake Forest. As I am from the midwest, I somewhat expected an independent place like this to claim 'authentic Italian food' but only serve Olive Garden style fare. I was a bit skeptical. Not the case at all - the place had the real feel of Italy to it. Very authentic dishes and care and attention to the craft. We were served by Gaetano, the owner. He was very enthusiastic about his food. We enjoyed the special Grenache made by his family in Sardinia, the Pappardelle Cinghale, Lamb Chops, and the veal chop. Amazing. And the owner brought us some of his special limoncello - delightful. Would absolutely dine here again. Great place, food, and service.