Best of Avery 2026

· The Avery Journal-Times Presents ·

2026 Best of the Best

2

averyjournal.com

By Shannon DeRosas

2026 Best of Avery County

Best of Avery awards celebrate local business excellence

Society, while Brooke Miller of BCM Photography captured photos NEWLAND — On Tuesday, Aug. 11, The throughout the event. Mountain Avery Journal-Times and Mountain Times Vision Florists provided flowers for Publications hosted its annual Best of Avery the occasion. awards ceremony highlighting local businesses “This year’s Best of Avery Awards and their significant contributions to the county. represents the cream of the crop Hosted at Appalachian View Wedding Venue in when it comes to the very best in Newland, the evening boasted great food, great what Avery County has to offer,” Shell music and great company as the hardworking said of the event. “This event could people that make this area so special were not be possible without our sponsors, recognized. the incredible businesses and The eighth annual Best of Avery event, which organizations represented that are began in 2019, brought nearly 200 people the lifeblood of industry and service together for an evening centered around the both within and beyond the borders businesses and organizations that help make of our county and, of course, the Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Avery County a unique place to live and visit. people of our area who submitted Adams Multimedia Regional President Gene Fowler, Jr. addresses The masters of ceremonies were Avery ballots to express their support, the capacity audience at the opening of the Best of Avery Journal-Times Editor Jamie Shell and Mountain approval and appreciation for those ceremony as AJT Marketing Consultant Landon Reed (left) and Times Publications Marketing Consultant whom we are honoring.”

AJT Editor Jamie Shell (right) look on.

Landon Reed, who presented awards Among the businesses recognized Reed said the growing participation also recognizing businesses across a wide variety of during the evening were Kaye’s by the River and benefits businesses being recognized as the categories.

Stonewalls Restaurant, along with many other Best of Avery award becomes increasingly Throughout the evening, attendees had the local businesses that earned multiple awards in recognizable in the community. opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments their respective categories.

“It was really rewarding to see everything of local businesses while enjoying food catered Beyond the awards themselves, the evening come together and watch the winners be

by Stonewalls Restaurant, including prime rib, offered an opportunity for local business recognized in front of their fellow Best of Avery chicken, salmon and a variety of other dishes. owners and community members to spend peers,” Reed said.

Music for the evening was provided by time together. Attendees could be seen MTP Executive Editor Moss Brennan also Todd Wright and The High Country Jazz greeting one another, sharing conversations highlighted the community atmosphere created and celebrating by the event. “Best of Avery is always a joy to each other’s attend, as we see businesses come together accomplishments, to celebrate their achievements,” Brennan said. creating a strong sense “It’s always great seeing the various businesses of community throughout interacting with each other and having a good the venue. time.”

“The energy and The event was made possible through excitement around Best the support of sponsors A Flooring Outlet, of Avery this year was Inc., Complete Comfort Heating and Air, K&C on a completely different Tree Service, Life Care Center of Banner Elk, level,” Reed said. “The Stonewalls Restaurant, VPC Builders LLC, community really got Yellow Mountain Enterprises and Webb’s Lawn behind it, constantly Care. sharing their favorites As another Best of Avery celebration came on social media and to a close, the event served not only as a encouraging people to recognition of the county’s top businesses, vote, and that led to but also as a reminder of the people and Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography a much higher voter relationships that keep Avery County’s business Approximately 200 people enjoyed a catered meal from Stonewalls Restaurant turnout than we’ve ever prior to the announcing of awards during the Best of Avery ceremony on community thriving. seen before.”

August 11 at Appalachian View.

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

The High Country’s Premier Steak & Seafood Restaurant Best Dinner Restaurant 8 years in a row

Best Fine Dining Restaurant 8 years in a row Best Steakhouse 8 years in a row Best Seafood Restaurant 8 years in a row

The High County’s Premier Food Truck P Experience

The High Country’s Best Vacation Rentals

The High Country’s Best Space for Gatherings

Best Chicken Restaurant 5 years in a row

Voted Best Hotel/Motel 7 years running

Voted Best Banquet Facility 5 years running

Best Chicken Tenders 5years in a row Best Food Truck 2 years in a row

1-5 Bedrooms Available

Best Salad Bar 8 years in a row Best Restaurant Service 8 years in a row Best Caterer 8 years in a row Best Bar 828-898-5550

344 Shawneehaw Ave. South, Banner E stonewallsrestaurant.com

828-450-3279

Banner Elk, NC 28604 www.whattheclucktruck.net

828-260-3673

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com

828-260-3673

2025

64 Cornerstone Cir, Banner Elk cornerstonerentals.com

2025

3

4

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

And the Winners are....

BEST FOOD & DRINK

ASIAN RESTAURANT

FINE DINING RESTAURANT

Stonewalls Restaurant

Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant

FOOD TRUCK

Tracy’s Huckleberry Bakery

FRENCH FRIES

Stonewalls Restaurant

GLUTEN FREE RESTAURANT

Carolina Barbeque

HAMBURGER

Bojangles

HOME COOKING RESTAURANT

Tartan Restaurant

HOT DOG

BAKERY BAR

BARBECUE RESTAURANT BISCUIT

BREAKFAST RESTAURANT BREWERY

Kettell Beerworks

What The Cluck Food Truck McDonald’s of Banner Elk Kaye’s By The River

Smashed Craft Burgers Tartan Restaurant Starving Squirrel

BRUNCH PLACE

Kaye’s By The River

BUFFET

Kaye’s By The River

CHICKEN RESTAURANT

What The Cluck Food Truck

CHICKEN TENDERS

What The Cluck Food Truck

COFFEE SHOP

Big Mike’s Coffee Shop

DELI

Williams Deli & Bakery

DINNER RESTAURANT

Stonewalls Restaurant

DONUTS

Diggy Donuts Food Truck

FAST FOOD RESTAURANT

Bojangles

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Tim Heschke, Maggie James and Scott Garland with Stonewalls Restaurant, which won Best Bar, Best Dinner Restaurant, Best Fine Dining Restaurant, Best Salad Bar, Best Seafood Restaurant, Best Steakhouse, Best Restaurant Service and Best Caterer. What the Cluck Food Truck, which won Best Chicken Restaurant, Best Chicken Tenders and Best Food Truck.

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

5

6

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

ICE CREAM/SLUSHIE SHOP

SUSHI RESTAURANT

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

TACO PLACE

LUNCH PLACE

VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

WINERY

PIZZA PLACE

WINGS

BE Scooped

Luna Thai & Sushi Restaurant

Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant Smokey’s Fillin’ Station Puerto Nuevo

Carolina Pizza Co.

SALAD BAR

Stonewalls Restaurant

Puerto Nuevo

Kaye’s By The River

Linville Falls Winery Town Tavern

BEST RETAIL

SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

ANTIQUE STORE

SOFT DRINK PLACE

APPLIANCE STORE

SPORTS BAR

ART GALLERY

STEAKHOUSE

ATV AND SXS SHOP

Stonewalls Restaurant Sips Soda Food Truck Town Tavern Stonewalls Restaurant

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Bailey Cerra and Abraham Cerra with Be Scooped, which won Best Ice Cream/Slushie Shop.

The Find Vintage Warehouse Three Nails Hardware The Art Cellar

Motorcycle Medic

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mike and Amy Ward with The Find Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Vintage Warehouse, which won Best Antique Store Pictured are Jimmy Hughes, Michelle Scott and Lanae Somes and Best Furniture Store. with Smokey’s Fillin’ Station, which won Best Lunch Place.

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

7

8

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

AUTO SUPPLY STORE

CAR WASH

BANK

CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

BEER & WINE STORE

COFFEE ROASTER

BUILDING SUPPLY STORE

CONVENIENCE STORE

CABINET COMPANY

DANCE STUDIO

CABLE TV SERVICE

DRUG STORE

CAMPGROUND

ELECTRONICS STORE

CAMPING SUPPLY & MILITARY SURPLUS STORE

EXERCISE FACILITY

CANNABIS SHOP

EYEWEAR STORE

O’Reilly Auto Parts

Banner Elk Car Wash

State Employees Credit Union

Christmas Corner Choose & Cut

Cruz Thru

Mountain Grounds

Three Nails Hardware

Cruz Thru

Banner’s Cabinets

Blue Ridge Performing Arts Academy

Spectrum

Premier Pharmacy

Mountain River Family Campground Pack Rats

Blue Flowers

Williams YMCA Western Carolina Eye Associates

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST MORTGAGE COMPANY IN AVERY COUNTY!

A Division of Bank of Tennessee | Member FDIC

877.725.5222 Mountaincommunitybank.com

Radio Shack Of Newland

NMLS# 463203

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

9

10 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

FARM SUPPLY STORE

HARDWARE STORE

FENCING COMPANY

HEATING & AIR COMPANY

Three Nails Hardware Three Nails Hardware

FLOORING STORE

A Flooring Outlet, Inc.

FLORAL SHOP

Three Nails Hardware

Complete Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. HOME DÉCOR STORE

The Eclectic Nest & Closet

Callista Flower Co.

HOTEL/MOTEL

The Find Vintage Warehouse

INTERNET COMPANY

Christmas Tree Hill Garden Center

JEWELRY STORE

Three Nails Hardware

LAW FIRM

Dainty Darling Boutique

LAWN & GARDEN STORE

FURNITURE STORE GARDEN SHOP

GENERAL STORE GIFT SHOP

GROCERY STORE

Food Lion

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Debbie Matheson and Colin Pitts with A Flooring Outlet, Inc., which won Best Flooring Store.

The Inn at Shady Lawn Spectrum

Mountain Jewelers McNair Law Firm

Christmas Tree Hill Garden Center

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Grant Carnett and Michael and Kim Johnson with Complete Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc., which won Best Heating & Air Company.

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

11

Celebrating Our Best of Avery Winners!

Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens Yellow Mountain Enterprises, Avery County Group Home, and Yellow Mountain Treasure Box Avery County Group Home 2026

2026

BEST Assisted Living Yellow Mountain Treasure Box BEST

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

2026

Yellow Mountain Enterprises 2026

BEST

2026

DALE TRIVETTE PUBLIC SERVANT

2026

Yellow Mountain Treasure Box BEST PLACE TO WORK

Yellow Mountain Enterprises BEST

CIVIC/ COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION

Yellow Mountain Thrift Store 2026

BEST

PLACE TO FIND A BARGAIN

Yellow Mountain Thrift Store BEST SECONDHAND STORE

The mission of the Avery Association for Exceptional Citizens is to provide vocational, educational, residential, support services, and social opportunities to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Avery County. We are proud of our amazing staff, volunteers, and community who make this recognition possible. Thank you, Avery County, for your continued support!

12 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

LAWN MOWER DEALER

OUTFITTERS STORE

LUMBER STORE

PAINT STORE

MARTIAL ARTS STUDIO

PAVING COMPANY

MATTRESS STORE

PET SUPPLY STORE

MEDICAL PRACTICE

PHARMACY

Mountaineer Equipment

QXO

Blue Ridge Martial Arts Blackberry Creek Mattress

Baker Center for Primary Care, UNC Health Appalachian MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

Mo’s Boots

Three Nails Hardware Mike Nelson Paving & Grading Co. My Best Friend’s Barkery Premier Pharmacy

PICKLEBALL COURT

The Pineola

The Eclectic Nest & Closet

POWER EQUIPMENT DEALER

Spectrum

PRODUCE SHOP

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home

PROPANE COMPANY

MOBILE PHONE COMPANY MONUMENT COMPANY

NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT

Highlanders Grill And Tavern

Avery Rent-All Pixie Produce

Blue Ridge Propane

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

Trust in our care.

With us, your loved one will get the attention and compassion they deserve.

Outpatient Therapy • Short-Term Inpatient Therapy • Long-Term Care

CAL L TO SCH ED A TO ULE UR. 155821

BRONZE

828.898.5136

185 Norwood Hollow Rd. • Banner Elk, NC 28604 • LifeCareCenterOf BannerElk.com

13

14 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

RENTAL STORE

SKI SHOP

SECONDHAND STORE

SKI SLOPE

SKI RENTAL PLACE

SPA

Charmed Settings & Co Yellow Mountain Thrift Store Ski Country Sports

Ski Country Sports Beech Mountain Resort The Spa at Eseeola

TELEPHONE COMPANY

Carolina West Wireless

TIRE STORE

Cranberry Tire & Battery

TOURIST ATTRACTION

Grandfather Mountain

TV DEALER

Radio Shack Of Newland

USED CAR DEALER

Beams Auto Sales

WEDDING VENUE

Appalachian View

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chance Watson and Danny Ray Cole and Pam Watson with Charmed Settings & Co, which won Best Rental Store and Best Rental Agency.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Pam Watson, Scott Watson, Jada Clawson, Rhiannon Manis, Casey Rayfield, Charlene Gragg and Roger Gragg with Appalachian View, which won Best Wedding Venue and Best Banquet Facility.

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

15

16 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

Dainty Darling Boutique

YOGA INSTRUCTION

Yoga828

PLACE TO FIND A BARGAIN

Yellow Mountain Thrift Store

ACCOUNTANT

BEST SERVICES

State Employees Credit Union — Cade Johnson

ASSISTED LIVING

Avery County Group Home

ATTORNEY

Appalachian Law Center — Thomas McMurray

AUTO BODY SHOP

Carlos & Son

AUTO INSURANCE COMPANY

Avery County Farm Bureau

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Kelli Pittman with Dainty Darling Boutique, which won Best Gift Shop and Best Women’s Clothing Store.

48 2026

Thank you to our supporters!

24-Hour Emergency Phone Number 828-964-2611 Dolbier Disaster Restoration, Oriental Rugs, Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning 9218 NC Hwy 105 S | Banner Elk (Foscoe), NC 28604

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

Thank you for voting us the Best Florist in Avery County!

Mountain Visions Florist

1361 Sugar Mountain Dr #1, Newland, NC 28657

(828) 733-3486

www.bannerelkflowers.com

17

18 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

AUTO REPAIR SHOP

Banner Elk Exxon

BAIL BONDSMAN

We Spring Bail Bonds — Sabrina Stout

BANQUET FACILITY

Appalachian View

BARBER

Model Barber Shop — Steve Burleson

BARBERSHOP

Model Barber Shop

BARTENDER

Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant — Laura Fritz BEAUTY SALON

Classic Cuts

BED & BREAKFAST

Perry House

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Nicole Simmons, Craig Simmons and Laura Fritz of Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant, which won Best Italian Restaurant; Fritz won Best Bartender and Best Waitress.

L

Thank You for Voting us Best Lawn & Garden Shop!

We’re grateful for your continued support and can’t wait to help your garden grow for years to come.

We have a large wide selection of:

• Hardy flowering trees and shrubs • Seeds and Bulbs • Quality Bedding Plants • Fertilizers • Bulk or Bagged Mulch

Christmas Tree Hill Garden Center

1881 Millers Gap Hwy • Newland, NC 828.733.4814

Thank you for voting us the #1 Campground in Avery County!

Avery County’s Oldest Realty Firm Main Street- Newland, NC (828) 733-2151 • (828) 733-5222 Linville Office • Linville, NC (828) 733-5770 Mike Lacey - Amy Vaughan - Ally Long

Thank You for Voting us BEST of the BEST Real Estate Agency in Avery County For more listings see our website: www.LaceyRealtyNC.com, or contact us at amyv65@yahoo.com or allyblong@gmail.com Mike Lacey: 733-5044 • Amy Vaughan: 828-385-1155 • Ally Long 828-260-6369

8555 S US Hwy 19E, Newland, NC 28657

(828) 765-4810 www.mtnriverwnc.com

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

19

CARPET CLEANING SERVICE

Dolbier Floor Care & Restoration

CATERER

Stonewalls Restaurant — Scott Garland

CHIMNEY SERVICE

Ember Keepers

CHIROPRACTOR

Northwest Chiropractic — Dr. Kelly McLaurin CONTRACTOR

VPC Builders LLC

COSMETOLOGIST

Classic Cuts — Lindsay Carver

CUSTOM HOME BUILDING COMPANY

VPC Builders LLC

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Jeremy Maynard and Rick Pictured are April Mitchell and Candice Maynard with Ember Keepers, which won Harmon with The Children’s Castle, which Best Chimney Service. won Best Day Care Center.

DAY CARE CENTER

The Children’s Castle

49th Annual

Wiggle on to get your tickets!

Woolly Worm Festival Worm Races | Cash Prizes | Crafts | Food | Live Entertainment

Downtown Banner Elk, NC October 17 & 18 Saturday’s Winning Worm Wins $1,000

Saturday 9 am - 5 pm

Sunday

9 am - 4 pm Sunday’s Winning Worm Wins $500

Avery County’s Best of the Best Thank you to the Avery Journal Times and everyone who voted The Woolly Worm Festival as the best festival in Avery County.

Pictured: Britt Mason, Avery County Chamber of Commerce, Frances Magruder, Kiwanis, and Claudia Dowsett, Avery County Chamber of Commerce

woollywormfestivalnc

www.woollyworm.com

Please

NO PETS

20 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m DENTIST

Dr. Jonathan Lindsey, DDS

ELECTRICIAN

Linville River Electric — Joel Stoeltzing

EMT

Avery County Fire Service — Jesse Downing

2026 Best of Avery County FUNERAL DIRECTOR

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home — Garrick Smith FUNERAL HOME

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home

GLASS/SHOWER/MIRROR INSTALLER

FAMILY DOCTOR

J.A.C.K.S. Glass Inc.

FIREFIGHTER

HOME BUILDING COMPANY

Elk River Medical, UNC Health Appalachian — GOLF COURSE David P. Kimmel, MD Sugar Mountain Golf Course Crossnore Volunteer Fire Dept. — Jesse Downing FLORIST

VPC Builders LLC

HOME RESTORATION SERVICE

VPC Builders LLC

Mountain Visions Florist — Lori Benfield

HOME SECURITY SERVICE

Waightstill’s Restaurant And Tavern — Kayla Wilcox

HOSPICE CARE

FOOD SERVICE WORKER

Mountain Heritage Systems Technologies

Amorem

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Janet Dale, Barbara Clawson and Angela Rodriguez with Bojangles, Pictured are Jackie and Mike Nelson and Emily Ollis with Big Mike’s Coffee Shop, which won Best Biscuit and Best Fast Food Restaurant. which won Best Coffee Shop.

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

21

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Marc Young and Lorah Young with Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Blackberry Creek Mattress, which won Best Pictured are Susan Jones and Pat Fisher with Blue Pictured are Lee and Becky Buchanan with Smashed Mattress Store.

Ridge Propane, which won Best Propane Company.

Craft Burgers, which won Best Hamburger.

Providing Propane Providing Propane S Service ervice tto o tthe he High High C Country ountry S Since ince 1 1992 992

Thank y Thank you ou ffor or v voting oting u us s the the B Best est Propane Propane Company Company in in Avery Avery County!

County!

(828) 733-3603

blueridgepropanenc@gmail.com

Open Mon - Fri: 7:30 - 4:00 14 Turbyfill Rd, Newland, NC 28657

22 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chad Hagie, Kari Hagie, Hannah Hagie and TJ Hurley with Bullfrog Landscaping, Inc, which won Best Snow Removal Service.

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Marley Miller with Callista Flower Co., which won Best Floral Shop.

COLD BEVERAGES TOBACCO PRODUCE

SNACKS BEER & WINE LOTTERY

NOW SERVING

Thank you for voting us best beEr and wine store and best convenience store.

Come and Drive Thru!

350 Pineola St, Newland, NC 28657

(828) 742-1541

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chad and Leah Duncan with Carolina Pizza Co., which won Best Pizza Place.

averyjournal.com

23

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Johnny Pile and Colby Baker with Beech Pictured are Missy and Joe Vance with Christmas Mountain Resort, which won Best Resort and Best Tree Hill Garden Center, which won Best Garden Ski Slope.

Shop and Best Lawn & Garden Store.

PROUDLY SERVING THE HIGH COUNTRY SINCE 2014

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST HOSPICE!

Our professional care team has provided quality hospice and palliative care to Ashe, Avery and Watauga counties since 2014—originally as Caldwell Hospice Serving the High Country and, since 2021, as AMOREM. We are s ll your local, non-profit hospice and palliative provider— more resources and a new name, but still right at home in the High Country.

828.754.0101 l 1.844.4AMOREM—TOLL-FREE WWW.AMOREMSUPPORT.ORG

AMOREM is excited to bring the first hospice patient care unit to the High Country in Fall 2026!

YOUR LOCAL, NON-PROFIT HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE MEDICINE PROVIDER

24 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m HOSPITAL

Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital

INSULATION SALES & SERVICE

Stines Insulation

INSURANCE AGENCY

2026 Best of Avery County MEDICAL DOCTOR

Elk River Medical, UNC Health Appalachian — David P. Kimmel, MD MORTGAGE COMPANY

Mountain Community Bank

Fortner Insurance Agency

NAIL SALON

Fortner Insurance Agency — Angela Thorpe

NAIL TECH

Edward Jones — Richard A Honeycutt, AAMS®

NURSE

Mountain Jewelers

Behavioral Health, UNC Health Appalachian — Ella T. Markland, FNP-C, PMHNP

INSURANCE AGENT INVESTMENT FIRM

JEWELER

LANDSCAPING SERVICE

Webb’s Lawn Care

MAILING/SHIPPING STORE

Pittman Trucking

Blossom Nail Spa Nails By Mattie — Mattie Cantrell Forbes

Avery County Health Department — Jessica Long

NURSE PRACTITIONER

NURSING HOME

Life Care Of Banner Elk

OIL CHANGE SHOP

MASSAGE THERAPIST

Hunter’s Auto Service

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Annette Ploszaj and Nolan Hughes with Cruz Thru, which won Best Beer & Wine Store and Best Convenience Store.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Angela Thorpe of Fortner Insurance Agency, which won Best Insurance Agency; Thorpe won Best Insurance Agent.

Dream Weaver Massage by Susie — Susie Lewis

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

25

FREE NEWSLETTER Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chef Kristion Maxie, Kaye and Don Reinhofer, Chef Amanda Paramore with Kaye’s by the River, which won Best Buffet, Best Brunch Place, Best Gluten Free Restaurant and Best Vegetarian Restaurant.

Local news, straight to your inbox The best of the High Country’s hometown papers, delivered free. One quick read keeps you current on the stories that shape Watauga, Ashe and Avery counties.

In every issue Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Lynn Kilpatrick, Kaitlin Bowman, Mary Barnes, Rachel Buchanan, Penny Buasch and Kelly Arnett with Life Care of Banner Elk, which won Best Nursing Home.

✓ Top local headlines

✓ Breaking news alerts

✓ High school sports

✓ Community events

✓ Obituaries and public notices

Scan to sign up for free Takes less than a minute

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Joel and Lorena Stoeltzing, Melita Russell, Cierra and Carter Bumgarner, and Rebecca and Matt Oliver of Linville River Electric, Joel won Best Electrician.

Or sign up online at averyjournal.com/newsletters FREE TO READ. ALWAYS LOCAL. SIGN UP TODAY.

26 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mike Lacey and Amy Vaughan (not pictured is Ally Long) with Lacey Realty, which won Best Real Estate Agency.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mike and Jackie Nelson and Emily Hollis with Mike Nelson Paving & Grading Co., which won Best Paving Company.

Banner a er Elk l Cha Chamber e off Commerce om er 4th th off July J y Parade P a e Thank you for voting i us Best Parade in Avery County!

107 Estatoa Avenue • Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-0061 • premierpharmacyinc.com

See you next Independence Day in Banner Elk!

Thank You Customers for voting us

Best of the Best in Avery County 2026

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

Congratulations to all of the Best of the Best winners!

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Suzanne and Jared Garland with Mountain River Family Campground, which won Best Campground.

BEST OF THE BEST. AGAIN. Because of you.

❤

But the award we’re most proud of is having a community that continues to show up for us, cheer us on, and make Kaye’s By The River part of your lives.

Breakfast & Lunch 8am - 2pm Mon - Tues - Thur - Fri - Sat

Dinner 5pm - 9pm Thur - Fri - Sat

Sunday Brunch 9am - 2pm

Kaye’s By The River | 503 Pineola Street | Newland, NC 28657 828-737-0314 | www.kayesbytheriver.com

Best Medical Practice: Baker Center for Primary Care Best Hospital: Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital Best Surgeon: Thomas Haizlip Jr., MD Best Family Doctor: David P. Kimmel, MD Best Medical Doctor: David P. Kimmel, MD Best Nurse Practitioner: Ella T. Markland, FNP-C, PMHNP

unchealthappalachian.org

27

28 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m OPTOMETRIST/OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Western Carolina Eye Associates

PAINTER

Mark Lecka

PHARMACIST

2026 Best of Avery County PSYCHOLOGIST

UNC Health Appalachian Behavioral Health — Ella Markland REAL ESTATE AGENCY

Lacey Realty

Premier Pharmacy — Shayna Cole

REAL ESTATE AGENT

Mountain Hugger Gallery — Joe Nitti

RENTAL AGENCY

Day Watson Physical Therapy — Day Watson

RESORT

Day Watson Physical Therapy

RESTAURANT SERVICE

Blue Ridge Ear, Nose, and Throat — Taylor Phillips

SMALL ENGINE REPAIR

Plumbfast — Chris Autry

SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE

Banner Elk Police Dept. — Logan Blair

STONE FABRICATOR

PHOTOGRAPHER

PHYSICAL THERAPIST

PHYSICAL THERAPY CLINIC PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT PLUMBER

POLICE OFFICER

Realty One Group Results — Cary Dominguez Charmed Settings & Co Beech Mountain Ski Resort Stonewalls Restaurant Hunter’s Auto Service Bullfrog Landscaping, Inc Classic Stone Works, Inc.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Cary Dominguez, with her husband, Pictured are Derrick Bond and Dale Ellis with Dolbier Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Samuel, of Realty One Group Results, who won Best Floor Care & Restoration, which won Best Carpet Pictured are Brittany and Trisha Gragg with Pixie Real Estate Agent.

Cleaning Service.

Produce, which won Best Produce Shop.

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County SURGEON

Tate Clinic, UNC Health Appalachian — Thomas Haizlip Jr., MD TAX SERVICE

Taylors Taxes

TAXI COMPANY

High Country Black Car Service

TREE SERVICE

CHURCH

BEST MISCELLANEOUS

Henson Creek Baptist Church

CHURCH LEADER

Henson Creek Baptist Church — Kegan Hoilman CIVIC/COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION

Yellow Mountain Enterprises

K & C Tree Service

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY

Pittman Trucking

FESTIVAL

Avery Animal Hospital — Dr. Brent Jewell

LOCAL SPORTS COACH

Bella’s Italian Neighborhood Restaurant — Laura Fritz

MANUFACTURER

TRUCKING/HAULING COMPANY VETERINARIAN WAITRESS

Mayland Community College Woolly Worm Festival Avery Middle School — Ricky Carver Dewoolfson Down

MUSIC VENUE

Old Hampton Store

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST IN AVERY COUNTY.

29

30 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

MUSICAL GROUP

RETAIL STORE EMPLOYEE

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

SCHOOL

Boone & Church

Yellow Mountain Enterprises PARADE

Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce — 4th of July PLACE TO WORK

Yellow Mountain Enterprises PUBLIC SERVANT

Yellow Mountain Enterprises — Dale Trivette

Quick Shop — Paul

Banner Elk Elementary

SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

Avery Middle School — Neva Winters TEACHER

Avery Middle School — Chantae Hoilman TOWN

Banner Elk

TOWN MANAGER

Banner Elk — Rick Owen Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Mary Jo Brubaker and Sara Brewer with the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, whose 4th of July event won Best Parade.

Proudly Voted Best of the Best!

Best Town Best Town Best Town Best Town Manager Manager — — Rick Rick Owen Owen Best Police Best Police Officer Officer — — Logan Logan Blair Blair

Thank you, Thank you, Avery Avery County, County, for for recognizing recognizing our our town town

and community and community leaders. leaders. We We are are honored honored to to serve serve you! you!

Banner Elk, Banner Elk, NC NC

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Garrick Smith, Debbie Gragg, Sheri Cornett and Melissa Baird of Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home, which won Best Monument Company and Best Funeral Home; Smith won Best Funeral Director.

averyjournal.com

31

Thank You, Avery County For the past 25 years you have trusted us with something that matters: your sleep.

That means everything to us and we don't take that lightly. Come see us. We would love to help you get a better nights sleep.

Curious why we've been the High Country's #1 choice for all these years? blackberrycreekmattress.com/whychooseus

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Jennifer Nix, Katrina Hicks and Shayna Cole of Premier Pharmacy, which won Best Drug Store and Best Pharmacy; Cole won Best Pharmacist.

32 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Lori Benfield of Mountain Visions Florist, Pictured are Erika Siegel with My Best Friend’s Pictured is April Gilbert with Mountain Community who won Best Florist.

Barkery, which won Best Pet Supply Store.

Bank, which won Best Mortgage Company.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Thomas, Luke, Susan and Sharon Pittman with Pittman Trucking, which won Best Trucking/ Hauling Company and Best Mailing/Shipping Store.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Jessica Long of the Avery County Health Department, who won Best Nurse.

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Michael Dellinger and Easton Short with Stines Insulation, which won Best Insulation Sales & Service.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Carol Smith and Tommy Smith with Amorem, which won Best Hospice Care.

averyjournal.com

33

34 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Morgan McKay, Mason McKay, Hailee Seifried and James Russ with Pictured are Jacquie and John Balhouse with The Eclectic Nest & Closet, which The Art Cellar, which won Best Art Gallery. won Best Home Décor Store and Best Men’s Clothing Store.

Thank you for voting us the

Charmed Settings & Co

Best Produce Shop

Luxury Event Rentals | Weddings | Celebrations

in Avery County!

From dreamy tablescapes to statement décor, we handpick every piece so your event feels uniquely you.

Serving the High Country & beyond

3979 Mitchell Ave, Linville, NC 28646

(828) 640-6999

You dream it. We style it.

828.260.7969 charmedsettingsandco@gmail.com charmedsettingsandco.com

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

35

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Suzzannah Gittner with The Inn at Shady Lawn, which won Best Pictured are Tracy and Christopher Hutcheson with Tracy’s Huckleberry Bakery, Hotel/Motel. which won Best Bakery.

THANK YOU, AVERY COUNTY! for voting us BEST CHIMNEY SERVICE

EMBER KEEPERS CHIMNEY & FIREPLACE “Crafting peace of mind, one chimney at a time” Licensed & Insured Chimney Water Proofing • Chimney Caps and Chases Video Inspection • Masonry Repairs • Wood Stove Sales Office: 877-934-7668 callemberkeepers.com email: office@callemberkeepers.com

36 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Heidi Powell, Julia Perry and Sierra Whitehead with Baker Center for Primary Care, UNC Health Appalachian, which won Best Medical Practice.

Charles A. Cannon, Jr. Memorial Hospital also won Best Hospital. Ella T. Markland, FNP-C, PMHNP of UNC Health Appalachian Behavioral Health, won Best Nurse Practitioner and Best Psychologist. David P. Kimmel, MD of Elk River Medical, UNC Health Appalachian,won Best Family Doctor and Best Medical Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Doctor. Thomas Haizlip Jr., MD of Tate Clinic, UNC Health Appalachian, won Best Pictured are Shelby Taylor, Nena Carpenter and Keturah Weaver with Taylors Surgeon.

Taxes, which won Best Tax Service.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Chaz James, Zachary and Emily Constantinidis, Tyler Blalock, Nick and Callie London with VPC Builders LLC, which won Best Home Building Company, Best Home Restoration Service, Best Contractor and Best Custom Home Building Company

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

37

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Nathan Webb and Melody Webb, Maria Roberts, Tatum, Mason, Tonia and Joshua with Webb’s Lawn Care, which won Best Landscaping Service.

THANK YOU, AVERY COUNTY Voted Best Realtor Cary Dominguez is honored by your support and grateful for the trust of clients throughout Avery County.

Cary Dominguez

Realty ONE Group Results | Banner Elk

828-789-9282 cary@rogbannerelk.com

38 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Frances Magruder (Kiwanis), Britt Mason (Chamber) and Claudia Dowsett (Chamber) with the Woolly Worm Festival, which won Best Festival.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured is Kayla and Chris Wilcox of Waightstill’s Restaurant and Tavern. Kayla won Best Food Service Worker.

Thank you for voting us best of the best in Avery County

THANK YOU For Voting Us

Best Investment Firm B in Avery County!

3618 Mitchell Avenue Linville, NC 28646

Fast. Friendly. Always here when you need us.

QUIK SHOP Quik Shop – Newland 713 Pineola Street • Newland, NC 28657 (828) 733-0294

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

39

40 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Pictured are Dale Trivette, Madison Cummings, Jean Buchanan, Justin Turbyfill, Bill Jean McGuire, Heather Swicegood, Rena Hensley and Renee Ingram with Yellow Mountain Enterprises, which won Best Civic/Community Organization, Best Non-Profit Organization, Best Place to Work and Best Public Servant. Yellow Mountain Thrift Store also won Best Place to Find a Bargain and Best Secondhand Store. Also, Avery County Group Home, which won Best Assisted Living.

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Jamie Shell A buffet-style menu greeted winners at dinner Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography A prime rib carving station was part of the food during the Best of Avery ceremony at Appalachian A delicious salad awaited guests at their seats to begin offerings at the 2026 Best of Avery awards View. their meal. ceremony.

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

41

Thank You Avery County for voting us the

Best Trucking Company

Newland, NC • 828-733-2169

42 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Appalachian View was filled to near capacity for the 2026 Best of Avery awards Award winners were greeted at the door of Appalachian View by members of the celebration on August 11.

Mountain Times Publications sales team.

Thank you for voting us Best Power Equipment Dealer

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

Equipment • Rentals • Sales •Service 828-898-6301 •www.averyrentall.com

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

POWERING AVERY COUNTY’S BEST VOTED BEST ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

THANK YOU FOR TRUSTING US TO KEEP THE LIGHTS ON!

LINVILLE RIVER ELECTRIC, INC.

780 Cranberry Street (PO Box 934), Newland, NC 28657 | (828) 260-7467

43

44 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Adams Multimedia Regional President Gene Fowler Jr. greets Jessica Long of Becky Buchanan and Mike Lacey share conversation over dinner at the 2026 Avery County Health Department to this year’s Best of Avery awards ceremony.

Best of Avery awards event.

2026 Best of Avery County

averyjournal.com

45

46 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County

Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Photo by Brooke Miller/BCM Photography Mountain Visions Florist provided beautiful flowered centerpieces for tables, Todd Wright and High Country Jazz Society brought the music to match the adding color and class to the guest experience. mood at the Best of Avery celebration.

Thank you for 40 years!

Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 10:00 - 6:00 Newland, NC (828)733-0186

averyjournal.com

2026 Best of Avery County

Voted 1 #

TASTE WHY!

47

48 a v e r y j o u r n a l . c o m

2026 Best of Avery County