What if the best comfort food in North Carolina was hiding next to a gas station? In the heart of Linville, Smokey’s Fillin’ Station is serving up nostalgia and mouthwatering fare that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more. This hidden gem, tucked away beside a Citgo station, has quickly become a must-visit spot for those seeking a taste of small-town charm and big flavors.
Key Takeaways
– Smokey’s Fillin’ Station is a cozy cafe located next to a Citgo in Linville, known for its large bologna sandwiches and Italian Club Subs.
– The cafe is named after a rescue puppy, Smokey, and was founded by local residents Jimmy Hughes and Michelle Scott.
– Smokey’s offers a nostalgic diner atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
– The menu is filled with comfort foods, like cheeseburgers and jalapeño pimento cheese sandwiches, and also offers vegetarian options like veggie flatbread pizza.
– The cafe is open from Tuesday to Saturday, offering lunch with plans to start serving dinner in spring 2024.
– Smokey’s provides catering services for various events, custom-tailoring menus to fit different needs.
– The cafe has received praise for its great food, fair prices, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, becoming a beloved spot in Linville.
The Story Behind the Name
Every great restaurant has a story, and Smokey’s Fillin’ Station is no exception. The cafe’s owners, Jimmy Hughes and Michelle Scott, named their eatery after an unexpected source. Smokey, a rescue puppy, became the cafe’s namesake, giving it a warm and caring feel from the start.
The Hughes family has deep roots in Linville. They have connections to other local spots like the Tartan Restaurant and Pixie Inn. This rich history makes Smokey’s feel like a true part of the community. It’s not just another place to eat by the road, but a local treasure with a story to tell.
A Step Back in Time: The Ambiance
When you walk into Smokey’s Fillin’ Station, you feel like you’ve gone back in time. The cafe looks and feels like an old-fashioned soda shop. It has a diner atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and welcoming. Customers love the cozy vibe, which is perfect for families and friends to enjoy a tasty meal together.
The family-friendly feel is strong at Smokey’s. Locals and tourists alike feel at home among the old-time decor and friendly staff. It’s the kind of place where people chat easily over coffee, and laughter mixes with the sounds of eating. The vintage look and warm welcome make every visit special, reminiscent of the hospitality you might find at nearby attractions like Spacious Skies Bear Den, a popular camping destination in Spruce Pine.
Comfort Food with a Twist: The Menu
The heart of Smokey’s appeal is its menu. It offers comfort foods with unique twists that keep people coming back. The stars of the show are their bologna sandwiches and Italian Club Subs. These sandwiches have become local legends. They’re not just ordinary sandwiches – they’re made with care and piled high with good ingredients that make them really special.
But the good food doesn’t stop there. Yelp reviews rave about the cheeseburgers, saying they’re juicy and cooked just right. For those who like a bit of spice, the jalapeño pimento cheese sandwich offers a tasty kick that’s hard to resist. Every dish is made to satisfy and surprise.
A Variety of Options
While sandwiches might be the main attraction, Smokey’s Fillin’ Station has something for everyone. From hearty soups to fresh salads and creative flatbread pizzas, the menu has a lot to offer. Even vegetarians can find something to enjoy, like the veggie flatbread pizza that many people love.
One thing that many people talk about is how much food you get at Smokey’s. No one leaves hungry, and many people take leftovers home for another meal. The pickle chips that come with many dishes have become a favorite side. They add a tangy crunch that makes the meal even better.
A Day at Smokey’s
Wondering what it’s like to visit Smokey’s Fillin’ Station? The cafe is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or a quick bite between errands. They’re closed on Sundays and Mondays, which makes people even more excited for them to open each week.
When you visit, friendly staff greet you warmly. Then comes the hard part – choosing what to eat from the tempting menu. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, the atmosphere makes you want to relax and enjoy your meal. There’s no rush, just good food and good company.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans
As Smokey’s Fillin’ Station gets more popular, the owners are planning for the future. They have exciting news for fans of the cafe – they plan to start serving dinner in spring 2024. This new menu will build on the comfort food that people love during the day, but with new twists for evening meals.
People in the community are excited about the dinner menu. Many can’t wait to see how Jimmy and Michelle will make their lunch success work for dinner too. Everyone hopes the cozy, welcoming feel of Smokey’s will stay the same, even with the new offerings.
Beyond the Cafe: Catering Services
Smokey’s Fillin’ Station doesn’t just serve food in the cafe. They also offer catering for private events. This means even more people can enjoy their tasty creations. The catering service has become popular for local gatherings, business meetings, and family parties.
The catering menu can be changed to fit what each event needs. If you’re interested in having Smokey’s cater your event, you can contact them directly. They’ll work with you to make sure the food is perfect for your special occasion, just like in the cafe.
Community Impact and Reception
Since it opened, Smokey’s Fillin’ Station has made a big impact on Linville. The cafe has quickly become a local favorite. People praise it for its tasty food, fair prices, and warm atmosphere. It’s common to see both locals and tourists enjoying meals together, all drawn in by the promise of great food and friendly service.
Local news has noticed how popular Smokey’s is. The Avery Journal wrote about Smokey’s, talking about how it adds to Linville’s charm. This recognition has helped make Smokey’s a must-visit place for anyone in the area.
Smokey’s Fillin’ Station is more than just a place to eat. It shows how good food, friendly service, and community spirit can create something special. From its humble start inspired by a rescue puppy to its current status as a beloved local eatery, Smokey’s has found a special place in the hearts of Linville residents and visitors alike.
In a world where chain restaurants are everywhere, Smokey’s Fillin’ Station stands out as something real and community-focused. It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s a reminder of how good food, warm welcome, and small-town charm can bring people together. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, a visit to Smokey’s promises not just a meal, but an experience you’ll remember long after you’ve finished eating. And for those looking to extend their stay in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, consider visiting Spacious Skies Bear Den in nearby Spruce Pine for a complete mountain getaway experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What kind of food does Smokey’s Fillin’ Station serve?
A: Smokey’s Fillin’ Station serves bologna sandwiches, Italian Club Subs, cheeseburgers, jalapeño pimento cheese sandwiches, hearty soups, fresh salads, and creative flatbread pizzas.
Q: What makes Smokey’s Fillin’ Station special?
A: Smokey’s Fillin’ Station is special because of its nostalgic diner atmosphere, friendly service, large portions, and its unique menu items like the bologna sandwiches and Italian Club Subs.
Q: What are the opening hours of Smokey’s Fillin’ Station?
A: Smokey’s Fillin’ Station is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Q: Can Smokey’s Fillin’ Station cater events?
A: Yes, Smokey’s Fillin’ Station offers catering services for private events, such as local gatherings, business meetings, and family parties.
Q: Is Smokey’s Fillin’ Station expanding its menu?
A: Yes, Smokey’s Fillin’ Station plans to start serving dinner in spring 2024, with new menu options for evening meals.