5 Best New Restaurants in High Point that Locals Keep Coming Back For

High Point, long known mainly for furniture markets, has gradually been building a more interesting food scene.

Between revitalized downtown areas and new development, you’ll now find creative Southern‑leaning kitchens, modern bars, and polished neighborhood spots.

These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are a great intro.

1. 98 Asian Bistro

98 Asian Bistro brings a sleek, modern take on pan‑Asian cuisine to High Point.

The space is contemporary and comfortable, with moody lighting and a bar that makes it feel just upscale enough for date night.

The menu pulls from Thai, Vietnamese, and broader Southeast Asian flavors: curries, stir‑fries, noodle dishes, and fresh rolls, often with an emphasis on bright herbs and balanced sauces.

Expect favorites like pad Thai, basil stir‑fried dishes, and crispy appetizers, along with a decent cocktail and wine selection.

2. Blue Rock Pizza & Tap

Blue Rock is a casual, lively pizza and craft beer spot that leans into its role as a neighborhood hangout. Exposed brick, TVs, and a long tap list make it great for groups and game nights.

Pizzas range from classic to creative, with specialty pies featuring things like buffalo chicken, loaded veggies, or meat‑lover configurations. There are also wings, salads, and sandwiches.

The beer list highlights regional craft breweries, and the atmosphere is very family‑friendly.

3. Sweet Old Bill’s

Sweet Old Bill’s is a barbecue and smokehouse restaurant with a rustic‑modern interior—wood, metal, and a big bar area. It bridges the gap between old‑school BBQ joint and modern gastropub.

You’ll find smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and chicken, plus sandwiches and plates with classic sides like mac and cheese, beans, and slaw.

There’s usually a decent tap selection, and the vibe works equally well for a casual lunch or laid‑back dinner with friends.

4. Magnolia Blue

Magnolia Blue leans into contemporary Southern and Lowcountry‑inspired cooking in a warm, stylish dining room downtown. Think exposed brick, big windows, and a slightly upscale but still approachable feel.

The menu might feature shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, braised short ribs, crab cakes, and seasonal vegetable sides.

Cocktails often highlight bourbon and Southern flavors—peach, mint, citrus—making it a natural pick for a relaxed but “nice” night out.

5. Brown Truck Brewery (with Food Pop‑Ups)

While technically a brewery first, Brown Truck has helped energize High Point’s social and food scene by hosting rotating food trucks and pop‑ups. The taproom is cozy and industrial‑chic, with a patio that fills up when the weather’s good.

Beer styles rotate—IPAs, saisons, lagers, and seasonal specialties—and the visiting food vendors cover everything from tacos and burgers to barbecue and global street food. Check the schedule, and you can easily build a great casual dinner and drinks night here.