Spruce Pine’s Skyline Restaurant: From Hidden Gem to Local Favorite

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a culinary gem with a colorful past awaits those who venture to Spruce Pine, North Carolina. What do moonshine, marble, and fine dining have in common? In the case of the Skyline Restaurant & Bar, part of the historic Skyline Village Inn, they’re all woven into a remarkable tale of transformation. This establishment’s journey from a clandestine operation to a respected dining destination mirrors the evolution of the region itself, inviting visitors to savor not just exceptional cuisine, but a slice of mountain history.

Key Takeaways

– The Skyline Restaurant & Bar is part of the Skyline Village Inn in Spruce Pine, NC, with a history dating back to a moonshine operation in 1938.
– John Greer founded the inn after using profits from his moonshine business to build it, even trading moonshine for marble to construct the inn.
– The inn and restaurant have evolved from an underground operation into a legitimate and respected dining destination.
– John Greer’s son, Hubert, helped transition the business away from its moonshine roots by obtaining a license to sell beer in the 1990s.
– In 2004, Mike and Lynn Thrift took over the inn, modernized it, and preserved its history, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals.
– The Skyline Restaurant & Bar is known for its exceptional cuisine, using local ingredients and offering a full bar with wines, craft beers, and cocktails.
– The inn and restaurant are integral to the cultural fabric of Spruce Pine and reflect the region’s transformation into a tourist destination.

From Moonshine to Fine Wine: The Birth of a Legacy

In 1938, a visionary named John Greer set the stage for what would become a local legend. Purchasing a tract of land along NC Highway 226A, Greer saw potential where others might have seen only rugged terrain. Greer’s initial venture was far from ordinary – a moonshine operation hidden within a nearby cavern. This clandestine enterprise would serve as the unlikely foundation for a legacy that continues to this day.

Greer’s moonshine business was more than just a means to make ends meet. It was a calculated risk, taken during a time when resources were scarce and opportunities were few. The profits from his illicit spirits would ultimately fuel a dream much grander than he could have imagined at the time. Little did the local community know that this underground operation would one day give rise to one of the area’s most beloved establishments, much like how Spacious Skies Bear Den Campground and Cabins has become a cherished destination for those seeking to experience the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Marble for Moonshine: Laying the Foundation

As World War II raged across the globe, John Greer was waging his own battle against scarcity and limitation. The profits from his moonshine operation became the seed money for an ambitious project – the construction of an inn that would later house the Skyline Restaurant & Bar. But in those early days, every penny and every resource had to be carefully managed and creatively acquired.

In a stroke of genius that showcases the resourcefulness of mountain folk, Greer devised an ingenious plan. He began trading his moonshine for East Tennessee marble, making multiple treacherous trips to transport the precious building material up the mountain. Abandoned railroad tracks provided steel for the construction, as Greer pieced together the foundation of his dream, one marble slab at a time. This unconventional bartering system not only provided the necessary materials but also added a unique touch to the building’s construction that would become part of its enduring charm.

Building Against the Odds

The construction of the Skyline Village Inn was no small feat, especially during the tumultuous years of World War II. Material shortages and rationing posed significant challenges, but John Greer was not one to be deterred. Drawing upon his skills as a master carpenter and stonemason, he tackled the project with determination and ingenuity.

Greer’s craftsmanship and resourcefulness shone through every aspect of the construction. From hand-cutting timber to carefully laying each stone, he poured his heart and soul into the building. The result was a structure that not only stood the test of time but also reflected the rugged beauty of its mountain surroundings. By 1948, despite the odds stacked against him, Greer had completed the inn, creating a 32-room haven equipped with oil-fired radiator heat – a luxury for its time.

Triumph and Tragedy

The year 1948 marked a significant milestone in the history of the Skyline Village Inn. After years of hard work and perseverance, John Greer finally saw his dream come to fruition as the inn opened its doors to the public. It was a moment of triumph, a testament to one man’s vision and the support of a tight-knit mountain community.

However, the joy of this achievement was overshadowed by a personal tragedy that struck just a year earlier. In 1947, John’s first wife, Eva, was tragically killed by a lightning strike. This devastating loss could have derailed the entire project, but Greer’s resilience prevailed. He channeled his grief into his work, pushing forward to complete the inn in honor of Eva’s memory. This blend of triumph and tragedy became woven into the very fabric of the Skyline Village Inn, adding depth to its story and a poignant reminder of the strength of the human spirit.

A New Chapter Begins

As the Skyline Village Inn settled into its role as a mountain retreat, the early years brought both challenges and opportunities. The transition from a clandestine moonshine operation to a legitimate business was not without its hurdles. John Greer had to navigate the complexities of running a hospitality establishment while gradually distancing himself from his former illicit activities.

During this period, the inn began to establish its reputation as a unique destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors were drawn not only by the comfortable accommodations but also by the breathtaking views and the warm hospitality that became synonymous with the Skyline name. The lingering aura of its moonshine past added an element of intrigue, enticing guests with whispers of secret caverns and mountain lore.

The Next Generation

As time passed, the torch of the Skyline Village Inn was passed to the next generation. John Greer’s son, Hubert, stepped into a leadership role, bringing with him a blend of respect for tradition and an eye towards the future. Initially, Hubert continued some of the family’s bootlegging activities, maintaining a connection to the inn’s roots while exploring new avenues for growth.

However, the winds of change were blowing, and Hubert recognized the need to fully legitimize the business. In a significant move during the 1990s, he obtained a license to sell beer, marking a definitive shift away from the inn’s moonshine heritage. This transition was more than just a legal formality; it represented a new era for the Skyline Village Inn, one that would pave the way for its evolution into a respected dining and lodging destination.

A Modern Transformation

The dawn of the new millennium brought fresh energy to the Skyline Village Inn. In 2004, Mike and Lynn Thrift acquired the property, ushering in an era of extensive renovations and modernization. Their vision was clear: to preserve the inn’s rich history and charm while elevating it to meet the expectations of contemporary travelers and diners.

The Thrifts embarked on a comprehensive renovation project that touched every aspect of the inn. Modern plumbing systems were installed, ensuring comfort and efficiency. A new roof was added to protect the structure for years to come. Perhaps most significantly, a water purification system was implemented, addressing one of the key challenges of mountain hospitality. These improvements laid the groundwork for the inn’s transformation into a modern retreat that could compete with the best in the region.

The Skyline Restaurant & Bar Today

Today, the Skyline Restaurant & Bar stands as the crown jewel of the Skyline Village Inn, offering a dining experience that rivals any in the region. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, it has become a destination for both locals and tourists seeking exceptional cuisine in a setting steeped in history. The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in its consistently high ratings on platforms like Tripadvisor, where diners rave about the food, service, and ambiance.

The menu at the Skyline Restaurant & Bar reflects a perfect blend of mountain tradition and contemporary culinary trends. Local ingredients are showcased in innovative dishes that pay homage to the region’s flavors while appealing to modern palates. The full bar, a far cry from the days of illicit moonshine, now offers a carefully curated selection of wines, craft beers, and cocktails that complement the dining experience. Each meal served is not just sustenance, but a continuation of the story that began with John Greer’s audacious dream decades ago.

More Than Just a Restaurant

The Skyline Restaurant & Bar and the Skyline Village Inn represent more than just a place to eat and stay; they are integral parts of Spruce Pine’s cultural fabric. The transformation from a moonshine operation to a respected dining establishment mirrors the broader evolution of the region, from a rugged frontier to a vibrant tourist destination.

For locals, the Skyline is a source of pride, a place that embodies the resilience and creativity of mountain people. For visitors, it offers a unique glimpse into the area’s rich history, all while providing modern comforts and exceptional cuisine. The addition of attractions like gem mining and a wine and beer shop has further cemented its status as a must-visit destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway. In every aspect of its operation, from the carefully preserved architecture to the locally-inspired menu, the Skyline Restaurant & Bar continues to honor its past while embracing the future.

The journey of the Skyline Restaurant & Bar from its moonshine beginnings to its current status as a fine dining establishment is more than just a tale of business evolution. It’s a story that encapsulates the spirit of the Blue Ridge Mountains – resilient, innovative, and deeply rooted in tradition. As visitors savor their meals and take in the breathtaking mountain views, they’re not just experiencing a restaurant; they’re participating in a living legacy that spans generations.

The Skyline stands as a testament to the enduring power of vision, hard work, and the ability to adapt to changing times while never forgetting where you came from. In every bite and every stay, the spirit of John Greer and the countless others who contributed to this remarkable transformation lives on. So why not make your next dining adventure a journey through time? Visit the Skyline Restaurant & Bar and taste the flavors of history, innovation, and mountain hospitality all in one unforgettable meal. And for those looking to extend their Blue Ridge Mountain experience, consider a stay at Spacious Skies Bear Den Campground and Cabins, where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty that inspired John Greer’s vision all those years ago.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Skyline Restaurant & Bar?
A: The Skyline Restaurant & Bar is a dining place located in the Skyline Village Inn in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, known for its rich history and delicious food.

Q: How did the Skyline Village Inn start?
A: The inn started from John Greer’s moonshine operation in the 1930s, which he used to fund the construction of the inn.

Q: What unique materials were used to build the inn?
A: John Greer traded moonshine for East Tennessee marble and used abandoned railroad tracks for steel to build the inn.

Q: Who operates the Skyline Restaurant & Bar now?
A: Mike and Lynn Thrift own and operate the Skyline Restaurant & Bar, having bought the property in 2004.

Q: What kind of food does the Skyline Restaurant offer?
A: The restaurant offers a mix of local mountain flavors and modern dishes using local ingredients.

Q: What can visitors enjoy besides dining at the Skyline Village Inn?
A: Visitors can enjoy gem mining and visit the wine and beer shop at the inn.

Q: Why is the Skyline Restaurant & Bar special to the community?
A: It is a symbol of resilience and creativity, reflecting the history and spirit of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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