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Gamekeeper Restaurant

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Rustic fine-dining in a charming stone cottage, specializing in unique game meats and offering an intimate, memorable experience.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
dining room

Gamekeeper Restaurant

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Rustic fine-dining in a charming stone cottage, specializing in unique game meats and offering an intimate, memorable experience.

"An exceptional fine-dining experience with a unique menu, impeccable service, and a magical atmosphere."

TIP

Book Well in Advance

Tables book up quickly, especially for special occasions. Reservations are a must, often far in advance.

Inform for Special Occasions

Let them know about celebrations for personalized touches like table signs or special greetings.

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Quick Facts

Closed·Opens Wednesday 5PM

Cuisine

American (Game)

Price

$$$

Phone

(828) 963-7400

Address

3005 Shulls Mill Rd, Boone, NC 28607, USA

Insta-Factor

Medium

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exotic Game Cuisine

Exotic Game Cuisine

Indulge in world-class dishes like emu, bison, elk, and antelope, expertly prepared for a unique fine-dining adventure.

Cozy, Rustic Ambiance

Cozy, Rustic Ambiance

A warm and inviting atmosphere in a 1950s stone cottage, complete with a fireplace and mountain views.

Inventive Cocktails & Desserts

Inventive Cocktails & Desserts

Savor creative cocktails, including tailored mocktails, and don't miss the highly recommended Bourbon Vanilla Bread Pudding.

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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

These are some old photos of our trip to the Gamekeeper restaurant in Blowing Rock, NC! The gamekeeper restaurant was one of the best meals. Highly recommend! #gamekeeperresturant #blowingrocknorthcarolina #blowingrockrestaruant #boonencresturants #boonerestaurants #blowingrocknc
@mariannaseats
3 likes • 1.1K views

Book Well in Advance

Tables book up quickly, especially for special occasions. Reservations are a must, often far in advance.

Inform for Special Occasions

Let them know about celebrations for personalized touches like table signs or special greetings.

Restaurant The Game Keeper en Blowing Rock CN #thegamekeeperrestaurant #blowingrock#sugarmountain #carolinasdelnorte #bannerelknc #northcarolina#hiddengensnorthcarolina #wheretoeatinblowingrock #thingstodoinblowingrock #sitiosquevisitarenblowingrock #viajes #viaja #viajar #travel #travelling
@wanderlustisreal
223 likes • 11.2K views
#nourisheveryyou #sugarmountain #bannerelk #blowingrocknc #mejorairbnb #verano2022 #boone #thegamekeeper #mejoreestaurante #amoviajar #celebracion
@wanderlustisreal
360 likes • 11.2K views

Ask for Mocktails

If you don't drink alcohol, inquire about their creative and personalized non-alcoholic beverage options.

Consider Off-Peak Times

For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekdays or less busy hours.

Been going to this restaurant for my birthday for 5 years now and it never disappoints. I absolutely adore this place. #restaurant #wildgame #uniqueexperiences #amazing #fivestars
@mariah.k.a
16 likes • 726 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Well in Advance

Tables book up quickly, especially for special occasions. Reservations are a must, often far in advance.

Inform for Special Occasions

Let them know about celebrations for personalized touches like table signs or special greetings.

Ask for Mocktails

If you don't drink alcohol, inquire about their creative and personalized non-alcoholic beverage options.

Consider Off-Peak Times

For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekdays or less busy hours.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Gamekeeper Restaurant is celebrated for its unique exotic game cuisine, rustic charm, and exceptional service, making it a memorable destination for special occasions. While the adventurous menu and cozy ambiance are frequently praised, some diners note the high price point and occasional service hiccups. The overall sentiment is that it offers a high-quality, unique dining experience worth the visit.

"Wow! Wow! Wow! If you find yourself in Boone, NC I highly recommend this restaurant. Food, service, ambiance is exceptional! Thank you to Tonya for taking great care of us."

Molly Gaughan

"We had such a wonderful anniversary dinner for our first time at the gamekeeper! Everybody was so kind and attentive and the food was absolutely amazing! Brett is just so awesome at what he does in the bar and incredibly kind. Jonathan was kind to come out and chat with us. Tonya was our server and was the absolute best! Everyone was caring and the environment had a special warmth to it. We felt so welcomed for our first time here. We will definitely be back soon! Pictures include the meat sample appetizer, the lamb rack and the elk Denver leg! For dessert we had the strawberry shortcake."

Jake Keller

"A Hidden Gem for Exotic Game Lovers!

Gamekeeper in Boone, NC is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in high-quality wild game cuisine. If you’re craving something unique—like bison, elk, or antelope—this is the place to be. No ordinary chicken dishes here, just bold flavors and expertly prepared meats.

Beyond the incredible menu, the staff made the experience even better. The waitress was exceptionally friendly, accommodating specific dietary requirements with ease, ensuring that every dish fit my needs perfectly. The valet service was top-notch, handling my Z4 with great care.

Each plate was beautifully presented, showcasing the creativity and expertise of the chefs. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making the entire experience feel special from start to finish.

If you're looking for a restaurant that delivers on flavor, service, and uniqueness, Gamekeeper is a fantastic choice! Highly recommended."

Ken Durbin

What People Like

Adventurous game dishes
Cozy, rustic ambiance
Attentive and friendly service

What People Dislike

High prices
Occasional long waits for drinks/service

Frequently Asked Questions

It's famous for its unique wild game cuisine, including bison, elk, emu, and antelope, served in a rustic, fine-dining setting.

Yes, reservations are highly recommended and should be made well in advance, as tables book up quickly.

While not explicitly stated, the atmosphere suggests smart casual attire. Many diners dress up for special occasions.

Yes, the menu offers diverse choices beyond game, and they can accommodate dietary requirements.

Yes, the staff is known for being accommodating to specific dietary needs and preferences.

Absolutely! They offer creative, personalized mocktails for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

The restaurant is located in the mountains, and the drive can involve mountain roads with turns. GPS is recommended as reception may be spotty.

Popular choices include the mixed game grill, emu fillet, bison short ribs, and the Bourbon Vanilla Bread Pudding for dessert.

Gamekeeper Restaurant (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Food Guide