Located just north of the historic Village, The National neighborhood in Pinehurst is quickly earning a reputation among locals and savvy visitors as a culinary destination in its own right. Whether you call Pinehurst home or are just visiting, The National’s blend of celebrated dining, creative newcomers, and old-school Southern flavor demands attention. Tucked along leafy streets and clustered at a few lively intersections—especially around Midland Road and National Drive—this neighborhood offers a diverse, surprising food scene. From sunlit bakeries to elevated bistros and food carts with cult followings, here’s the ultimate guide for eating your way through The National.
Upscale Classics and Refined Fare
- The Tavern at The National
Situated at the centerpiece of National Drive, The Tavern is beloved for blending casual club vibes with a touch of Southern finesse. The wood-paneled dining room is welcoming—think tartan accents, fireplace, and golf memorabilia. Chef Daniel Hart’s menu takes inspiration from both Carolina classics and Continental favorites.
- Recommended: The Low Country Shrimp & Grits ($22), Dry-Aged Ribeye ($42), and Bourbon Bread Pudding ($10)
- Signature Cocktails: Try the Pinehurst Old Fashioned or sweet Peach Smash.
- Ambience: Perfect for date nights or refueling after a round of golf.
- Magnolia Table
Nestled in a renovated cottage off National Drive, Magnolia Table is a standout for Sunday brunch or intimate family gatherings. The ambiance is bright and garden-inspired, with a porch for relaxing meals.
- Must-try: Buttermilk Biscuits & Country Ham ($14), Lemon Ricotta Pancakes ($12), and the signature Magnolia French Toast ($13)
- Eggs Benedict aficionados will find their fix here—don’t miss the Crab Cake version.
International Eats and Global Bites
- Trattoria Forno
Over on the corner of Midland Road, Trattoria Forno brings authentic Italian warmth to Pinehurst. Their Neapolitan pizzas, wood-fired to perfection, are rivaled only by handmade pastas.
- Local tip: Order the Margherita D.O.P. ($14) or the Wild Mushroom Tagliatelle ($18).
- Desserts like the house-made Tiramisù ($8) are worth every forkful.
- Vibe: Cozy, lively, family-friendly.
- Pho 9 Pinehurst
For a lighter, yet flavor-packed meal, head to this hidden Vietnamese eatery tucked behind the main intersection at Haywood and National Drive. Its simmering broths and fresh herbs offer a delicious alternative to heavier Southern fare.
- Favorites: Oxtail Pho ($14), Lemongrass Chicken Vermicelli ($13)
- Price: Budget-friendly, perfect for lunch or casual dinner
Coffee Shops and Sweet Escapes
- The Blue Whisk Bakery & Café
Just off Midland Road, The Blue Whisk is a morning institution in The National. The aroma of freshly baked croissants and French press coffee calls to early risers and pastry lovers alike. Locals rave about the almond croissants and cinnamon rolls.
- Breakfast Sandwiches ($8), Lox & Everything Bagel ($10)
- Don’t leave without a box of seasonal macarons.
- Scene: Bright, bustling, ideal for working or relaxing.
- Petal & Bean
For those seeking a cozy nook, Petal & Bean offers specialty coffee, loose-leaf teas, and artfully crafted desserts. Their latte art is Instagram-worthy and the red velvet cupcakes are legendary.
- Standout drinks: Lavender Latte ($5.50), Chai Tea Latte ($4.75)
- Quiet corners for reading or catching up with friends
Food Trucks & Quick Bites
- Sandhills BBQ Truck
On weekends, the aroma of hickory smoke signals the arrival of this celebrated food truck parked by the intersection of National and Midland. Serving slow-cooked pulled pork, brisket, and their addictive baked beans, it draws crowds from across Pinehurst.
- Can’t-miss: Pulled Pork Sandwich with Slaw ($9), St. Louis Ribs ($14 half-rack)
- Price: Affordable, with combo plates under $15
- El Sol Taqueria
A local secret, El Sol’s food truck is usually found parked by the soccer fields at National Park. Their carnitas tacos, made with homemade tortillas and zesty salsas, are some of the best in Moore County.
- Taco Plates ($8), Horchata ($3)
- Cash only—so come prepared!
Hidden Gems and Local Traditions
- Sunset Market
Not just a convenience store, this independent corner shop stocks local honey, handmade pimento cheese, and Southern pickles. On Saturdays, their small kitchen serves hot fried chicken sandwiches ($7) and rotating casseroles—true comfort food.
- Great stop for picnic supplies before heading to the nearby greenways and parks.
- Sunday Pie Social
Once a month, neighbors gather at Centennial Green for Pinehurst’s favorite pie social. Home bakers and local pastry chefs showcase seasonal pies—think peach in summer, pecan in the fall. Not only is it a sweet Pinehurst tradition, but a fun way to mingle with locals and discover new flavors.
Where Flavors and Community Meet
The National’s culinary treasures aren’t just about great meals—they’re about community, creativity, and a dash of Southern hospitality. Food clusters around the crossroads of Midland Road and National Drive, but some of the best experiences require venturing down shaded side streets or keeping an eye out for weekend food trucks. Whether you’re craving hearth-baked pizza, downhome barbecue, artfully brewed coffee, or a surprise from a neighborhood market, The National welcomes you with open arms and open kitchens. So pack an appetite and explore—the best bite of Pinehurst might just be waiting at the next corner.