Gastonia’s comfort scene is Piedmont to the core—smoky barbecue, meat-and-three staples, and Southern breakfasts that feel like Saturday morning every day.
These favorites bring the warmth.
Rankin Lake BBQ
A local go-to for hickory-smoked goodness, Rankin Lake BBQ serves chopped and sliced pork with a tangy, vinegar-kissed sauce that screams North Carolina.
The hushpuppies are golden and addicting, the slaw is crisp, and plates come with hearty sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and green beans.
Banana pudding finishes the story the right way.
Tony’s Ice Cream
An old-school icon since the 1940s, Tony’s is comfort distilled: griddled burgers with crisp edges, hot dogs with chili and slaw, and club sandwiches stacked tall—then the main event, hand-dipped ice cream in nostalgic flavors.
Milkshakes, sundaes, and banana splits make this a must-stop for dessert-as-dinner nights.
Floyd & Blackie’s Bakery & Café
A cozy café for breakfast and lunch, Floyd & Blackie’s leans into thick-cut French toast, biscuits with sausage gravy, and quiches with buttery crusts.
The bakery case is full of scones, cupcakes, and cookies that disappear quickly.
For lunch, soups and grilled cheeses hit the comfort sweet spot, especially on a rainy day.
Hillbilly’s BBQ & Steaks
Casual, hearty, and generous, Hillbilly’s serves pulled pork, ribs, and chopped chicken with classic sides and sweet tea on repeat.
The hushpuppies arrive hot, the mac is creamy, and the baked potatoes are loaded to the brim.
It’s the quintessential family dinner spot where the check won’t scare you and everyone leaves full.
Webb Custom Kitchen
Set in a restored historic theater, Webb brings a more polished comfort vibe—think meatloaf with silky gravy, shrimp and grits, and a burger that’s thick, juicy, and stacked.
Share deviled eggs and pimento cheese to start; finish with a decadent bread pudding. It’s date-night cozy without losing the warm Southern feel.
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