The Secret Garden
Highlands, North Carolina, USA
Discover The Secret Garden in Highlands, NC. Casual restaurant offering fast service, local specialties, outdoor seating, vegan options, and family-friendly dining.
208 N 5th St, Highlands, NC 28741, United States
The Secret Garden
Highlands, North Carolina, USA
Overview
Located in the heart of Highlands, NC, The Secret Garden is a charming restaurant offering a cozy and casual atmosphere perfect for locals and tourists alike. Known for fresh, flavorful sandwiches and a great tea selection, this women-owned eatery serves up comfort food alongside healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options.
With fast service and outdoor seating available, guests can enjoy a quick bite or a leisurely lunch in a relaxed setting. The spot is especially popular for lunch and dinner, welcoming solo diners and families with accessibility features that include wheelchair-friendly entrances and restrooms.
Gallery
Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.
Local favorites
Visitors appreciate The Secret Garden for its inviting atmosphere and a menu filled with comfort food and healthy, local flavors.
Enjoy prompt and attentive service ensuring meals are delivered quickly, ideal for lunch breaks or a quick bite.
A thoughtfully curated tea menu complements meals perfectly, appealing to tea lovers seeking variety.
Menu highlights include fresh salads, croissants, and unique sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients.
The cozy, casual atmosphere welcomes families and tourists alike, with full wheelchair accessibility throughout.
Whether dining in, enjoying outdoor seating, or taking meals to go, flexible service accommodates all preferences.
Offers something for every taste—from hearty sandwiches and soups to vegan and vegetarian options.
Free parking and street options make visiting hassle-free for locals and visitors alike.
Experience
A delightful destination for hearty lunches or relaxing dinners, The Secret Garden welcomes visitors seeking fresh flavors in a warm environment.
This small but popular spot is praised for its generous portions and friendly staff, offering an inviting hideaway just off the main street. Whether stopping by for a quick meal or lingering over fresh-baked treats, guests find a peaceful place to unwind. — FoodPlacee editorial note
Enjoy an assortment of fresh salads and sandwiches made to order, perfect for a midday retreat with quick, friendly service.
Sample a great tea selection paired with signature baked goods, like homemade oatmeal cream pies and doughnuts, in a cozy setting.
Order to-go sandwiches and comfort food made fresh, ideal for individuals or families looking for a quick, wholesome meal outside the restaurant.
With kid-friendly options and outdoor seating, it's a relaxed spot for families to share a flavorful meal together.
Perfect for weekend visits, gather with friends to savor local specialties like butternut squash soup or a classic tuna sandwich.
Guest sentiment
A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.
"i was walking around town and i’m SO GLAD i came across this place!! i tried the hudson sandwich and it was AMAZING! the atmosphere was really nice and staff were super friendly and welcoming."
"Every time I go into The Secret Garden, I tell myself I’ll try something new, but… most of the time I get the same thing. The Godfather made as a salad is my top choice because it’s SO consistently and perfectly good. I’ve eaten inside, outside at provided tables and ordered to-go, and am always impressed with this small business. Whether I’m the only person in line (rare!) or in a snaky line of people, I always feel welcome. One caveat. If you’re left a few minutes in front of the deli case while you’re waiting on your meal, it’s very easy to succumb to the fresh baked goodies like the double chocolate muffins or oatmeal pies."
"The Secret Garden is such a gem! We loved it so much we went two days in a row. The chicken salad on a croissant was absolutely delicious-fresh, flavorful, and perfectly portioned. The atmosphere is charming and inviting, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch in downtown highlands. One of my favorite parts was being able to walk here. If you’re in the area, this is definitely a must-visit for a delicious lunch."
"Absolutely the hidden gem in Highlands! A tiny sandwich counter (with park side outdoor seating) that offers the best sandwiches for miles! It was even my choice for a birthday lunch (over all the fancy pants places) because the sandwiches are so delicious! Generous portions, fair prices, always friendly smiling staff, and consistent food taste. Thank you, Secret Garden for those qualities that are a rare find these days. #birthdaywin"
"Sandwich of many vegetables on nice ciabatta roll, nicely tangy and properly seasoned. Not too expensive, freshly made and promptly delivered. Sat in the sun and enjoyed it. Restaurant is a block off the main street, and so it was peaceful place to be."
"We loved it! A Fun and hip place to relax and enjoy a wonderful meal. The fresh sandwiches are made to order.... and the slow simmered chicken noodle soup reminded me why we love soup. We already have plans to meet up twice a week - forever .... at the Secret Garden. Save 3 seats for us!"
"I got the raw and flawless sandwich it was good! With some salt and vinegar chips. The homemade oatmeal cream pies are delicious Owner is a sweet and generous person"
"I came with my two young, vocal sons and they didn’t flinch. They were accommodating and so kind — the owner is a mom with teenage boys who made me feel at ease. We sat outside and ate a delicious meal. There were families with dogs, groups of women, and business men all eating there. We will be back!"
Visit info
Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.
| Monday | 11:30 AM - 04:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM - 04:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM - 04:00 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM - 04:00 PM |
| Friday | 12:00 AM - 04:00 PM |
| Saturday | 12:00 PM - 04:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
The Secret Garden is perfect for casual lunches and relaxed dinners in downtown Highlands, offering welcoming seating both indoors and outdoors.
On the map
Find your way to The Secret Garden in North Carolina .
Questions answered
Find answers to common questions about The Secret Garden restaurant in Highlands, NC, including dining options, menu highlights, accessibility, and more.
For owners
Update this page with accurate hours, menu details, photos, and business notes — and reach food lovers searching for places like yours on FoodPlacee.
Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.