BJ's Diner
A low-key roadside stop serving possibly the most indulgent burgers in North Carolina with scenic riverside seating.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
BJ's Diner
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A low-key roadside stop serving possibly the most indulgent burgers in North Carolina with scenic riverside seating.
Bring Cash for Tips
Consider bringing cash to avoid feeling pressured for tips during ordering.
Post-Hike Fuel
Perfect for a casual lunch after outdoor activities, with dog-friendly seating.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American Diner
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(828) 497-4303
Address
840 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Buddy Burger
Indulge in a nearly pound of beef, stuffed with peppers, onions, bacon, and cheese.
Riverside Dining
Enjoy scenic views and a casual atmosphere at outdoor picnic tables by the river.
Classic Diner Breakfast
Savor fluffy omelets, stacks of pancakes, and other timeless breakfast favorites.
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Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Tips
Consider bringing cash to avoid feeling pressured for tips during ordering.
Post-Hike Fuel
Perfect for a casual lunch after outdoor activities, with dog-friendly seating.
Burger Recommendations
Try popular items like the Bubba Burger or bacon double cheeseburger.
Breakfast or Lunch
Don't miss the wide variety of breakfast options if you're not in the mood for lunch.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Tips
Consider bringing cash to avoid feeling pressured for tips during ordering.
Post-Hike Fuel
Perfect for a casual lunch after outdoor activities, with dog-friendly seating.
Burger Recommendations
Try popular items like the Bubba Burger or bacon double cheeseburger.
Breakfast or Lunch
Don't miss the wide variety of breakfast options if you're not in the mood for lunch.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
BJ's Diner is a local gem praised for its incredibly delicious and generously portioned burgers. Diners rave about the taste and value, especially with the scenic riverside outdoor seating. While the food receives high marks, some reviewers note the service can be a bit moody, and the onion rings are considered pricey for the quantity.
"The burger was delicious! $10.99 for this monster with all the fixings. Husband had a cheeseburger which was also very good, and it was only $7.99. Not a fancy looking place, but so good. Right on the way into the Smokey Mountain National Park."
Joyce Gundacker
"Great food, perfect for a post-hike lunch. It’s all outdoor seating, so also perfect if you’ve got a dog with you. Definitely recommend!"
Kailee Rosen
"One of best cheese burgers I've ever had !!! Friendly people. Recommend to try them out .."
Nathan Howard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The Buddy Burger is a signature dish featuring nearly a pound of beef stuffed with peppers, onions, bacon, and cheese. It's considered one of the most indulgent burgers in North Carolina.
No, BJ's Diner primarily offers outdoor picnic table seating, which provides a scenic dining experience by the river.
Yes, the outdoor seating is perfect for diners with dogs, making it a great option for a post-hike meal.
Besides the Buddy Burger, the Bubba Burger (double patty, double cheese, double bacon) and bacon double cheeseburger are highly recommended.
The provided data doesn't specify exact dining hours, but it's described as a great spot for breakfast and lunch.
As a casual diner with outdoor seating, reservations are typically not required. It's best to visit during off-peak hours if possible.
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Featured in these publications
25 Best Things to Do in Cherokee (NC)
The folks at BJ’s Diner like to gloat about having the “best burgers in town” and we can’t help but agree. For less than $8 you can get possibly the most indulgent burger in North Carolina, the Buddy burger. With almost a pound of beef stuffed with peppers, onions, bacon, and cheese sat amongst all the salad and sauce you could ask for in a warm sesame bun.
10 Best Places to Eat in Cherokee
BJ’s Diner is another great alternative to traditional fast food and a local favorite in Cherokee, North Carolina. The Bubba Burger, bacon double cheeseburger, with double patty, double cheese, double bacon, and all the fixings, is a crowd pleaser. Burgers are served with crinkle fries, onion rings, or potato chips for an additional charge.
Our Favorite Brunch Spots in Cherokee, NC (2025 Edition)
Known as a classic American diner, BJ’s Diner serves all the timeless breakfast foods you love. They offer fresh and fluffy omelets, sizzling skillets, stacks of pancakes, waffles, French toast, and more. If you’re not in the mood for breakfast, they also offer a wide variety of lunch items!
17 Best Restaurants In Cherokee, NC
One of the greatest spots in Cherokee, North Carolina, to have a bite to eat is this restaurant. BJ’s Diner is a great spot for a relaxed lunch with burgers, fries, onion rings, and soft-serve ice cream served at outdoor picnic tables. 840 Tsali Blvd., Cherokee, NC 28719 is the address.
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