We've been traveling to the NC mountains for more than a decade and we just discovered this amazing, beautiful and delicious restaurant, only a 20 minute drive from Flat Rock. We started with uniquely crafted cocktails at the bar, prepared by the sweetest and most skilled mixologist - Coco! According to my husband, she made the best Old Fashioned he has ever had, and given how many he's had, that's saying a lot! Then we had dinner in the main dining room, surrounded by mountain vista views and beautiful decor. My pasta dish was amazing and the pork chop was perfectly cooked and juicy. Put Restaurant 17 at the top of your list!
Overview
Restaurant 17, located at 10 Rd of Vines in Travelers Rest, SC, offers an unforgettable dining experience that perfectly combines southern charm with contemporary culinary excellence. Nestled in the heart of a picturesque region, this diner invites guests to indulge in a variety of delicious dishes, all prepared with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're stopping by for a casual meal with friends or celebrating a special occasion, the atmosphere at Restaurant 17 provides the ideal backdrop for any dining experience.
Walking into Restaurant 17, the first thing you notice is the inviting ambiance. The interior blends modern design with cozy, rustic touches that give it a relaxed yet upscale feel. With warm lighting and spacious seating, it's the kind of place where you can comfortably enjoy a meal without feeling rushed. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to offer recommendations from the menu or suggest a drink pairing to enhance your meal. The balance of comfort and elegance here is just right.
The menu at Restaurant 17 is a perfect reflection of its commitment to quality. With a range of offerings that include everything from fresh seafood to perfectly cooked steaks, there’s something to satisfy every craving. One of the standout dishes is the pan-seared trout, which comes with a crispy skin and tender flesh that practically melts in your mouth. It’s paired with seasonal vegetables that are crisp and flavorful, offering the perfect balance of taste and texture. For those craving a heartier option, the braised short ribs are an absolute must-try. Tender and rich, these ribs fall apart with the slightest touch, making for a comforting and satisfying dish.
But it’s not just about the main courses. The appetizers at Restaurant 17 also shine, with the roasted beet salad being a fan favorite. The combination of sweet, earthy beets with tangy goat cheese and toasted pecans creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, the fried green tomatoes are a local specialty and offer a crispy, zesty start to any meal.
Desserts here are also not to be overlooked. The bourbon pecan pie, with its rich, gooey filling and perfectly flaky crust, is a southern classic that never disappoints. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s the kind of sweet finish that leaves you wanting more. Additionally, the chocolate lava cake provides a decadent, molten center that’s sure to satisfy even the most intense chocolate cravings.
What sets Restaurant 17 apart from other local dining spots is its dedication to community and sustainability. The restaurant works closely with local farmers and purveyors to ensure that each dish uses the freshest ingredients available. This commitment to quality is evident in every bite, whether it’s the homemade bread or the locally sourced meats and vegetables that make up their seasonal offerings.
If you're planning to visit Restaurant 17, it’s a good idea to make a reservation, especially during peak hours or on weekends. The restaurant is quite popular, and for good reason-its exceptional food, friendly service, and cozy yet stylish atmosphere make it a destination that both locals and travelers rave about. Reviews consistently highlight the restaurant’s consistency in delivering high-quality meals and providing an enjoyable dining experience every time.
Located just a short drive from the heart of Travelers Rest, Restaurant 17 is also conveniently situated near a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails and scenic vistas, making it the perfect stop for a post-adventure meal. Whether you’ve spent the day exploring the great outdoors or are simply out for a leisurely meal, Restaurant 17 offers a place where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy a fantastic meal.
Overall, Restaurant 17 is a gem in Travelers Rest, SC, offering an exceptional dining experience that is both refined and welcoming. The combination of outstanding food, excellent service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a must-visit spot in the area. Whether you're in the mood for a light bite or a full-course meal, this restaurant is sure to impress.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fireplace ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine list ✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Happy-hour drinks ✓ Happy-hour food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Organic dishes ✓ Private dining room ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Cosy ✓ Quiet ✓ Romantic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Brunch reservations recommended ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ On-site parking ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 424 reviews
Visiting this place to celebrate something special seems to be a classic move for many, and I quickly understood why. I came here for the first time to celebrate my birthday, and it truly felt magical. We were seated outside on a crisp fall evening, enjoying the fresh air while being welcomed by a courteous staff. The spot they gave us was perfect. To start, we had the Buttermilk Ricotta Dip, which was solid, followed by the Octopus: well cooked and rich in flavor. For entrées, my spouse chose the Duck Breast. It was tasty, juicy, and perfectly cooked, but the black rice that came with it was bland and lacking in flavor. My choice, the Steak Gremolata, was outstanding: juicy, tender, and paired with beautifully seasoned vegetables. Every bite worked. Since it was a birthday celebration, the staff brought out a complimentary Tiramisu. It was a kind gesture, but unfortunately, the egg yolk flavor overpowered the chocolate and coffee notes. Service was friendly at every interaction, though it was sometimes difficult to get our server’s attention. They seemed stretched thin, which didn’t quite match the level of the cuisine. That said, I imagine this was an exception rather than the norm. Overall, I’d absolutely return. The flavors were strong, and the ambiance made for a beautiful evening.
Jules was our server and did a great job. She was very nice and hospitable. We each got a complimentary glass of sparkling wine for our anniversary. My wife enjoyed a Pineapple Express cocktail. The bamboo straw was cute. We started with the ricotta dip as an appetizer. It was so good! I got the striped bass and my wife enjoyed the NY strip…phenomenal! I cleared my plate. I enjoyed the shrimp and grits for breakfast the next morning. That was equally amazing! We’ll have to come back.
Went for brunch. Beautiful views. I’d like to stay at the hotel sometime. Burger was excellent. The American breakfast was pretty basic, nothing special. Drink was good. I’d come back and try dinner sometime.
This place is fantastic! On a scenic property outside the city, but worth the trip. We say outside overlooking the property, which was a great ambiance. Tables are spaced far apart for a sense of privacy. The cocktail was a bourbon,vanilla, cocoa concoction that was one of the best cocktails I’ve had in my life. Heavy pour. To start - octopus and risotto were delicious. Decent servings. Mains of ducks and venison were perfectly executed. The serving of venison was shocking large for a fine dining plate. Not only quality but also quantity! Overall, one of the best meals I’ve had in recent memory. Id say given that statement, quite affordable at around $200 for my wife and I. The only knock I can give it- took an annoyingly long time for service to take our drink order to the point i nearly went inside to ask on my own. After that, service was great. Will write that off as a fluke. Restaurant 17 is a winner!
Absolutely loved my experience at Restaurant 17! I had the New York Strip and it was cooked to perfection. The atmosphere was fantastic—peaceful, elegant, and with stunning views of the mountains. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a great meal. The service was flawless from start to finish. Highly recommend!
Amazing food and experience. The atmosphere and views were phenomenal. The portions were large, and the plates were filling but not overpowering. The fresh ingredients were wonderful. The buttermilk ricotta dip was awesome!!
Very nice restaurant in the mountains!! Amazing staff, they make all feel welcome. Food was amazing, we had the ribeye and the octopus. Drinks are fresh and yummy!