6 Underrated Places To Get Fried Green Tomatoes In North Carolina
There’s something magical about biting into the perfect fried green tomato – that crispy cornmeal crust giving way to the tangy, firm center.
While this Southern delicacy appears on menus across North Carolina, not all versions are created equal.
I’ve spent years hunting down the best plates in the state, often bypassing the tourist traps for hidden gems where grandma’s recipes still reign supreme.
Here are underrated spots where the fried green tomatoes will make your taste buds dance a little jig of joy.
1. Granny’s Country Kitchen (Carolina Beach)
My first bite at Granny’s transported me straight back to my childhood summers at my grandmother’s farm. The kitchen staff here slices their tomatoes thick enough to maintain that wonderful firmness in the center while achieving the perfect golden-brown exterior.
Located just blocks from the Carolina Beach boardwalk, this unassuming diner serves their fried green tomatoes with a dollop of pimento cheese that slowly melts into warm, savory puddles. I’ve tried recreating this dish at home six times – still can’t nail it!
The secret, as the owner once whispered to me, is in their 70-year-old cast iron skillet that hasn’t been washed with soap since the Korean War. Sometimes the best seasoning is history itself.
2. Geer Street Garden (Durham)
Housed in an old gas station, Geer Street Garden might fool you with its hipster vibe, but don’t be mistaken – these folks know their Southern classics. Their fried green tomatoes arrive stacked like poker chips, each layer separated by thin slices of local goat cheese and drizzled with honey.
“We pick our tomatoes when they’re just whispering about turning red,” the chef told me last summer while I was practically licking the plate clean. The tomatoes come from farms within a 30-mile radius, ensuring that farm-to-table freshness you can actually taste.
What really sets their version apart is the cornmeal mix that includes crushed pecans for an extra dimension of flavor and crunch. Absolutely worth the drive to Durham, even if you live in Asheville like I do!
3. Tupelo Honey Cafe (Various NC Locations)
“Lord have mercy!” Those were the exact words that escaped my lips when I first sampled Tupelo Honey’s famous fried green tomatoes. While they have several locations across the state now, each kitchen maintains the same exacting standards for this signature appetizer.
The tomatoes are soaked in buttermilk before being dredged in a spicy cornmeal mixture that packs just enough heat to make things interesting without overwhelming the tomato’s natural tanginess. They’re served alongside basil-goat cheese grits that complement the dish perfectly.
My server mentioned they go through over 300 pounds of green tomatoes weekly at their Asheville location alone! For a chain restaurant, they’ve somehow maintained that small-batch quality that makes you feel like you’re eating at a family reunion potluck.
4. Haberdish (Charlotte)
Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood has become a foodie paradise, and Haberdish stands out as a southern kitchen with modern flair. Their fried green tomatoes arrive looking like little edible art pieces, garnished with watermelon radish, micro herbs, and dots of smoked paprika aioli.
The chef uses a unique method where the tomatoes are first quickly blanched before frying, which somehow intensifies their flavor while maintaining that characteristic firmness. I watched in awe as my dining companion who “hates tomatoes” devoured three slices before I could even grab my fork!
What really makes these memorable is the cornmeal coating mixed with rice flour for extra crispiness that somehow stays crunchy even as the dish cools. Paired with their house-made pickle plate, it’s a starter that often becomes my main course.
5. Scratch Kitchen & Taproom (Apex)
Nestled in the heart of Apex, Scratch Kitchen & Taproom offers a delightful take on Southern comfort food. Their fried green tomatoes are a must-try, served crispy on the outside and tender inside.
With a cozy atmosphere and a passion for local ingredients, this spot captures the essence of Carolina hospitality. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these tomatoes provide a taste of home-cooked warmth.
Did you know? This charming eatery is also known for its craft beers, making it a perfect spot for food and drink enthusiasts alike.
6. Southern Roots (Near King, NC)
Nestled near the small town of King, Southern Roots offers a cozy and charming atmosphere ideal for enjoying traditional Southern dishes. Their fried green tomatoes are a standout, fried to perfection with a crunchy, flavorful batter that complements the tangy tomatoes. Each bite offers a taste of home-cooked goodness, making it a must-try.
The rustic decor and friendly service enhance the dining experience, providing a warm and inviting vibe. Locals and travelers alike appreciate the authenticity and quality of this hidden gem. It’s a gastronomic delight waiting to be discovered.
A visit to Southern Roots promises not just a meal but a memorable culinary experience.