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The Gamekeeper, Boone, NC
The Gamekeeper, Boone, NC
The Gamekeeper, Boone, NC
The Gamekeeper, Boone, NC
The Gamekeeper, Boone, NC

The Gamekeeper

4.9
4.9
3207 Reviews
$50 and over
American
Top Tags:
You haven't fully experienced the Blowing Rock, NC region until you've dined at The Gamekeeper. It's a true gourmet restaurant with an engaging blend of upscale elegance and mountain charm.


Famous for an evolving menu that blends the traditional with the exotic, The Gamekeeper features a selection of perfectly prepared game plus a range of continental and American entrees.

Acclaimed chef and owner Ken Gordon brings tremendous warmth and skill to the table treating you more as friends than guests. You'll experience a meal to remember that includes fine wines, decadent desserts, and a generous serving of personal attention. You'll leave happy and impressed with a desire to return soon!

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 11 times today

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Fine Dining
  • Price
    $50 and over
  • Cuisines
    American, Wild Game, Contemporary American
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Wed–Sun 5:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Phone number
    (828) 963-7400
  • Website
    http://www.gamekeeper-nc.com/
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Executive chef
    Tyler Smith
  • Private party facilities
    We have a private dining room that very comfortably seats 25 guests.
  • Private party contact
    Wendy Gordon: (828) 963-7400
  • Location
    3005 Shull's Mill Road, Boone, NC 28607
  • Neighborhood
    Boone
  • Cross street
    100 yards up Shulls Mill Rd from the entrance to Yonahlossee
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Vegan, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 3,207 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.9
4.9 based on recent ratings
  • 4.8Food
  • 4.9Service
  • 4.9Ambience
  • 4.5Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    Best Overall

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    Best Food

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    Best Service

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    Best Ambiance

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    Best Value

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    Romantic

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    Good for special occasions

  • Asheville / Western North Carolina

    American

3,207 Reviews

  1. JohnR

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 1 day ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 5
    What a great place to go. The atmosphere was excellent as was the food. Highly recommend the venison.

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  2. RosemaryG

    Exclusive

    2 reviews

    vip
    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 2
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 5
    Terrible terrible service! It is unfortunate bc we are year-round locals that live around the corner. We have eaten here for years and years. The service yesterday was the WORST ever. Had to ask for ice, bread, etc more than once because she forgot. Poured our wine one time and then I just took over because it was ridiculous. Very young girl. Not the usual high standard of service we have always received. It’s a shame because it was my birthday and we will have to think twice about going back. We tip on service and usually leave 30% because I was in the business. Not last night. Give that girl some more training because she was awful!!

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  3. JenniferT

    Coastal Georgia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Went for a b-day dinner and had a fantastic experience from the moment we drove up to the moment that the valet had our car waiting for us when we were finished. The decor was cozy and warm. The food was unique and delicious. Service was outstanding. We look forward to returning!

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  4. LeeB

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    It was our first time here and it was my wife’s birthday so I wanted to surprise her with reservations. It was a delicious meal of elk and bison and the restaurant is a beautiful place. We will be back for sure! Thank you for making her birthday special!

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  5. CrystalS

    Western NC

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    We love Gamekeeper. The Emu was a bit salty but other than that everything was superb!

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  6. jimw

    Raleigh

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Consistent food quality and flavor. The game meats are always delicious.

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  7. OpenTable Diner

    Charlotte

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    It’s always a pleasure. The food was excellent & staff was great!

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  8. KarenA

    Western NC

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    This was our first time at the Gamekeeper. Everyone, from the valet to the manager, Jonathan, to our server, Atticus, was so friendly and accommodating. The ambiance was rustic elegance and yet so charmingly comfortable. The food was divine. We can’t wait to go back.

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  9. CherylP

    Chicago

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 4
    This was our first time dining at Gamekeepers. The menu provided many appealing options. We followed the suggestions of our server, perfectly attentive and knowledgeable by the way, and started with the mixed grill. That dish included a sample of four different melt-in-your -mouth meats along with fries defining perfection. We followed that with the butternut squash soup which was way beyond good and hot. Our entree, Elk Leg with Mac n cheese, mushrooms and broccoli continued to impress. The food and service definitely exceeded expectations. The wood burning fireplace in the dining room contributed to the rustic mountain ambiance, but wood smoke is sometimes a problem for me so I would request a table in another area next time. But there will definitely be a next time!

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  10. MichaelR

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 5
    My wife and I were very pleased with our experience at The Gamekeeper - the cozy interior, delicious food, and the friendly service all made for a great evening. We'll certainly be coming back the next time we're in town.

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  11. yawadrah

    Western NC

    52 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    52 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Another great experience! Atticus was an excellent and attentive server. The bolognese and hangar steak were fantastic. We also enjoyed the tartare. The sides that come along with the meals are always outstanding. It makes it tempting to try the veggie plate one day. Thank you, Gamekeeper!

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  12. OpenTable Diner

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    The entire staff were remarkably. Attention to detail was excellent. Food was presented beautifully and tasted amazing!

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  13. MeghanH

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 7 days ago

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Service staff was very knowledgeable and the food was excellent. Highly recommend. We drove through intense fog to dine here. It was worth it!

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  14. SvenW

    E. Tennessee

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on December 2, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Great food and service. Very nice place for a date night or other special occasion.

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  15. Idrathereatout

    Western NC

    4 reviews

    4.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on December 2, 2023

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 3
    4. Ambience 4
    This was our first so-so experience at the Gamekeeper. The servers/valets/hostess were all very nice, which we always enjoy. Our waitress seemed distracted, enough so that the table next to us (same waitress) was seated after us, ate similar food, yet was served well before us, and they finished & left after we had only just received our entrees! Also, my husband's mashed potatoes were cold, and they refused to only pour half a pint of his draft beer (we were willing to pay the entire price, but he was driving and does not like to waste food). My bison was flavored nicely but was chewy and difficult to cut through with my knife. His anteloaf was very dense, which might be the way some people like it, but he loves a different typeof meatloaf. Anyway, just little things that added up to a disappointing experience, which only mattered to us because The Gamekeeper is a high-priced restaurant in our area and we expected more from it. But we will go back and try again for our another special occasion, and hopefully it will be better then.

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  16. LibG

    Charlotte

    66 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    66 reviews

    Dined on December 2, 2023

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 3
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 3
    We love the Gamekeeper and know it is always expensive but this time was too much. I had the seafood pot which was 2 scollops, 2 crawfish and a few mussels for $46.

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  17. ChanceK

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on December 1, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Wonderful experience….as always. The venue is outstanding. The staff is very attentive. Super wine selection. Do not miss the bread pudding!

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  18. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    8 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined on November 29, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Tommy suggested and served a four course meal that was beyond words! Everything was absolutely delicious. We started with the Emu Adobo then had the Antelope Bolognese, followed by the Hanger Bison steak and finished off with the Bread Pudding. One of the best meals I’ve ever had. We will definitely be back and asking for Tommy.

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  19. OpenTable Diner

    Las Vegas

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Awesome experience. Great food, great service. Highly recommend.

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  20. ClaudiaB

    Raleigh

    6 reviews

    4.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on November 26, 2023

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 5
    The restaurant is beautiful. Food was good, but price value ratio off a little. Our server was too occupied with a large group and we felt slightly neglected. The bar crew on the other hand was very attentive and super friendly while we were waiting for our table.

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  21. JulieS

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    3.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 3
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 4
    Lovely setting. Food was ok. Large servings but honestly too much on the plate.

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  22. OpenTable Diner

    Philadelphia

    3 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on November 25, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Outstanding dinner and service. A little tricky pulling in given the size of our truck but amazing dinner!

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  23. CharlesF

    Miami

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Our server Summer was very pleasant efficient and the other servers work as a team.

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  24. CameronS

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 23, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Amazing food and service! Me and my girlfriend went for her birthday, and it was nothing short of amazing!

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  25. JayH

    Richmond

    11 reviews

    5.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on November 22, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Our experience at The Gamekeeper was wonderful. We were sat at a 2-top in the small bar area which was probably the quietest part of the restaurant (save for the outdoor igloos). We started with two well made craft cocktails that accompanied the Trout Belly appetizer. So succulent and well prepared and a beautiful match with the aioli accompaniment. We shared the entree of Elk Leg and again, cooked to perfection along with out-of-this-world Bleu Mac-n-Cheese and delicious vegetables. Finally, the Bourbon Bread Pudding topped it all off with finesse. Rebecca is an amazing, friendly, and attentive server. She guided us through the menu options with charm and decanted our personal special bottle of wine prior to the meal. The next time we are in the area, we will definitely return and probably ask to be sat in Rebecca's section.

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  26. BrentS

    Western NC

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    A hidden gem in NC Highlands.Gamekeeper is unique exquisite great place for variety off dishes from game,beef to fish.The mixed grill app is a must.Enjoyed every visit for over a decade and highly recommend for anniversary and birthdays for a little something special. Brent S

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  27. ShereeB

    Washington DC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    We had talked about this place for years. Glad we went for our anniversary.

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  28. Delanita

    Charleston

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Everything was wonderful. Looking forward to visiting again.

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  29. Deacs

    Greensboro

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Amazing food, setting, and service. Highly recommend going.

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  30. Cody

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 19, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    One of the best meals I've had in a very long time. I booked reservations about 2 months in advance as I've been wanting to go here for about 10 years and could never find a reservation when I was up on vacation, and it lived up to every expectation I could have of it. Not sure who is in the kitchen but they have a true chef back there; every single thing on the plate could be eaten together and work perfectly.

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  31. MaryAnn

    Charlotte

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Dining at the Gamekeeper never disappoints! Food is consistently cooked perfectly and served with style and professionalism. The decor was very festive with warm light creating a pleasing ambiance. We appreciated that my husband's birthday was celebrated with a little placard on the table and the famous bread pudding for dessert!! We'll be back....and one of these times, I hope we get to sit near the fireplace!!

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  32. PamC

    Atlanta Metro

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Such a unique experience!!! We really enjoyed our meal and the service was outstanding!

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  33. AndyH

    Western NC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 17, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Awesome experience! Disneyworld pricing but - like Disneyworld - an experience you won't soon forget. Worth the splurge. This was a fabulous night! Food was great. Service was world class. The venue is in a house Ive always loved. Don't miss this.

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  34. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 13, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    It was our first visit back since our 2006 wedding reception. Everything was truly amazing. The staff was great!! Food fantastic!!! Everyone should add this to your must do list!

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  35. TrishJ

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    1. Overall 4
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 4
    4. Ambience 5
    Rebecca was excellent and very attentive as was everyone who helped with our needs.

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  36. OpenTable Diner

    Western NC

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Been to The Gamekeeper many times and it never disappoints. Best restaurant in northwestern NC and one of the best restaurants anywhere. We have to go every time we're in the area and easily our favorite.

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  37. Dale

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 12, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    It is such a rare, wonderful experience when the food and the experience create a positive and memorable meal. The food at Gameskeeper met/exceeded all expectations and the staff fully exceeded expectations. Thank you Michael and staff. Highly recommend you treat yourself to a dining experince.

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  38. OpenTable Diner

    Tampa

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    We had reservations a few weeks ago and had to cancel last minute and management was very understanding. I was so glad we were able to snag another reservation so quickly. Everything we had was amazing! Definitely will be back.

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  39. KathyC

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on November 11, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    My husband and I tried to think of a better restaurant that we have been to during our 48 years of marriage. We have come to the conclusion that there is none finer than The Gamekeeper.

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  40. BobLikesToEat

    Tampa

    6 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on November 10, 2023

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Just love it, even if just an old fashion on the porch.

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Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers

  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Distancing maintained in common areas
    • Extra space between tables

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Staff is vaccinated

FAQs

The Gamekeeper is rated 4.9 stars by 3207 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 11 times today
Google Map for The Gamekeeper

3005 Shull's Mill Road, Boone, NC 28607

Additional information

  • Cross street
    100 yards up Shulls Mill Rd from the entrance to Yonahlossee
  • Neighborhood
    Boone
  • Hours of operation
    Dinner Wed–Sun 5:00 pm–9:30 pm
  • Price
    $50 and over
  • Cuisines
    American, Wild Game, Contemporary American
  • Dining style
    Fine Dining
  • Dress code
    Business Casual
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Tyler Smith
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Vegan, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Website
    http://www.gamekeeper-nc.com/
  • Phone number
    (828) 963-7400
  • Private party facilities
    We have a private dining room that very comfortably seats 25 guests.
  • Private party contact
    Wendy Gordon: (828) 963-7400
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