Taco Larry
Ordered brisket and chicken, baked potato and collard greens. The chicken was great, the brisket was very fatty but after I told the waitress they brought some more that was perfect. The potato was cooked well and the greens were good. They sat us at a table that was really pretty dark and we had to use our cellphone flashlights to see the menu and once or twice during eating. The waitress tried to get us a lamp but said they were all in use upstairs. Overall, its got a good atmosphere but I think I’ll just stick with the chicken next time. The area is good, lots to walk around and do after dinner but be patient trying to find a parking spot, took us about 15 min.
… moreH B
We live in the Banner Elk area and had been enjoying breakfast at Bella’s for several years before it recently closed. We heard that Bella’s had essentially moved its breakfast service into the Bayou, which is now offering breakfast.
Unfortunately, it’s not the same experience. The food and service didn’t match what we had come to expect, and the prices were noticeably higher than what Bella’s charged.
It also feels a bit strange having breakfast in a space that was operating as a bar just eight hours earlier. There’s probably a reason you don’t see many bars serving breakfast, and the atmosphere reflects that.
If breakfast seating were eventually moved into the newer portion of the restaurant, I think that could make a meaningful difference to the overall experience.
That said, we genuinely love the Bayou for lunch and dinner. It’s a great spot for lunch, dinner and drinks, and the bartenders and servers do an excellent job in the evenings—especially considering how busy it gets. The staff clearly works hard and delivers strong service during those hours.
… moreRachel Pourciaux
The gator bites and chicken was the only good thing.The collard were spicy ,the brisket was dry and the gumbo was thick and tasted burnt.Was not worth $75.00. I have to say the waitress was good.
… moreKiersten Eaddy
The atmosphere was extremely uncomfortable, as the restaurant was freezing throughout our visit. Service was poor and lacked basic communication. Our waiter only came to take our order and then did not return until our food arrived nearly 50 minutes later. Despite a 20% gratuity already being included in the bill, she did not offer to-go boxes, did not return our change, and made no effort to check on us. A nearby table that arrived at the same time—and even ordered after us—received their food, finished, and left before ours was ever delivered.
When the food finally arrived, it was equally disappointing. The bacon cheddar fries were cold, and the cheese had already hardened by the time they reached the table. The cheeseburger was bland and flavorless, and the bun was so soggy that it fell apart and was difficult to eat.
Overall, the combination of an uncomfortably cold environment, inattentive service, and poorly prepared food made this an experience I would not recommend.
… moreNick Laino
Hostess was extremely rude. Open tables everywhere and they said over an hour wait. Is this a place of business or what. Why even be open if you arent willing to serve. WOULDNT EAT HERE IF IT WAS FREE
… moreCindy Fox
I hate to write this review but the food was really bad. My husband and I have been going there for years. I was there last week and not sure what has happened to the food. My fried oysters were nothing but mushy cornmeal and the red beans and rice were dry and not favorable. Perhaps they changed chefs. I hope they return to the way it used to be
… moreBill
We ordered the brisket sandwich because they were out of ribs, and a chicken sandwich. The chicken was a terrible cut full of fat and pink on the inside. The fries were soggy that came with that sandwich. The brisket was possibly the worst I’ve ever had. Dry with no flavor and not even enough sauce to make up for it. The only thing good was the fried okra and the service. We wish we overpaid for spaghetti next door now.
… moreMark Herrmann
We ordered the blackened chicken sandwich expecting a breast. It was a thigh (I think) and absolutely terrible. The toughest piece of chicken I’ve ever had in my life. They also charged an extra 3% to run a credit card. The food was bland and tasteless. Save your money and dine elsewhere trust me.
… morechelsea smith
We didn’t dine here but we were heading home after vacationing at Beech Mountain when our daughter got car sick and vomited all over herself and her car seat. We pulled over at Bayou Smoke house and popped in to ask to borrow a hose to wash everything off. A gentleman who worked there made sure that we were taken care of and provided us with hot soapy water and rags to clean our daughter and car seat up without hesitation. Very friendly and accommodating. We’ll definitely be stopping in for a meal and a drink next time we’re in town.
… more