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The Secret Garden in North Carolina

Discover The Secret Garden in Highlands, NC. Casual restaurant offering fast service, local specialties, outdoor seating, vegan options, and family-friendly dining.

4.8 71 reviews $10–20 Restaurant American · Southern

208 N 5th St, Highlands, NC 28741, United States

FoodPlacee Passport United States · North Carolina · 83274
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The Secret Garden

Highlands, North Carolina, USA

Salads Croissant Cucumber Butternut Squash
Rating★ 4.8 / 5
Price$10–20
CategoryRestaurant
Today 11:30 AM - 04:00 PM

Overview

About This Food Place

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

Photos from The Secret Garden

Real shots of the food, atmosphere, and signature dishes at this location.

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Local favorites

Why People Come Here

Visitors appreciate The Secret Garden for its inviting atmosphere and a menu filled with comfort food and healthy, local flavors.

Fast Service

Enjoy prompt and attentive service ensuring meals are delivered quickly, ideal for lunch breaks or a quick bite.

Great Tea Selection

A thoughtfully curated tea menu complements meals perfectly, appealing to tea lovers seeking variety.

Local Specialty Dishes

Menu highlights include fresh salads, croissants, and unique sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients.

Family-Friendly & Accessible

The cozy, casual atmosphere welcomes families and tourists alike, with full wheelchair accessibility throughout.

Versatile Dining Options

Whether dining in, enjoying outdoor seating, or taking meals to go, flexible service accommodates all preferences.

Comfort Food & Healthy Choices

Offers something for every taste—from hearty sandwiches and soups to vegan and vegetarian options.

Convenient Parking

Free parking and street options make visiting hassle-free for locals and visitors alike.

Experience

When & How to Enjoy This Place

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

Casual Lunch Break

Enjoy an assortment of fresh salads and sandwiches made to order, perfect for a midday retreat with quick, friendly service.

Afternoon Tea or Snack

Sample a great tea selection paired with signature baked goods, like homemade oatmeal cream pies and doughnuts, in a cozy setting.

Takeout for On-the-Go

Order to-go sandwiches and comfort food made fresh, ideal for individuals or families looking for a quick, wholesome meal outside the restaurant.

Family-Friendly Dining

With kid-friendly options and outdoor seating, it's a relaxed spot for families to share a flavorful meal together.

Weekend Gathering

Perfect for weekend visits, gather with friends to savor local specialties like butternut squash soup or a classic tuna sandwich.

Best for

Highly Rated Family-friendly Great Tea Selection Free Parking Popular for Lunch Vegan Options Cozy Atmosphere Takeout Available

Guest sentiment

What People Feel

A snapshot of what local diners frequently mention about this location.

CC
Cindy Castro 3 week ago

"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."

JC
Jeannie Chambers 1 month ago

"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."

JB
Jessie B 1 month ago

"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."

TP
Teresa Pittman-Wall 2 month ago

"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"

AS
Ansel Strickland 2 month ago

"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."

AG
Andrea Gabbard 3 month ago

"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!"

MW
Molly W 4 month ago

"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"

CM
Catherine Moon 4 month ago

"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

When to Visit

Weekly hours below — always confirm with the business before holidays or special events.

Today Closed
Weekly hours
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
Hours may change. Please confirm with the business before visiting.

Best time to visit

The Secret Garden is perfect for casual lunches and relaxed dinners in downtown Highlands, offering welcoming seating both indoors and outdoors.

Weekdays 11:30 AM - 4:00 PM for lunch Fridays & Saturdays open from noon till afternoon Ideal for solo dining or family visits Enjoy afternoon tea or a quick bite anytime during service hours

On the map

Where This Food Place Lives

Find your way to The Secret Garden in North Carolina .

Address 208 N 5th St, Highlands, NC 28741, United States
Phone +1 828-305-7509
Area North Carolina
Call Address copied ✓

Questions answered

Food Place Questions

Find answers to common questions about The Secret Garden restaurant in Highlands, NC, including dining options, menu highlights, accessibility, and more.

The Secret Garden is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Friday from midnight to 4:00 PM, and Saturday from noon to 4:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays. Hours may vary, so checking ahead is recommended.

Yes, there is outdoor seating available along with dine-in and takeout services. However, delivery is not offered at this location.

The restaurant features a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating, making it convenient for guests with mobility needs.

The menu includes comfort food, healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options, as well as alcohol, beer, and wine. Popular dishes include salads, croissants, tuna sandwiches, and tomato soup.

This restaurant is family-friendly and considered good for kids. The casual and cozy atmosphere suits families and tourists alike.

Payments can be made using credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payment options for convenience and security.

Free parking is available both in a parking lot and on nearby streets, providing easy access for guests arriving by car.

Nearby brands

Related food places near The Secret Garden

Other casual restaurants and brands diners often visit in North Carolina.

For owners

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Menus, prices, hours, services, and availability may change. Please contact the food place directly before visiting or ordering.