Madison's Restaurant & Wine Garden, Franklin

Celebrated table

Madison's Restaurant & Wine Garden

Farm-fresh ingredients and curated wines define the dining experience at this mountain destination.

The story

Madison's Restaurant & Wine Garden, Highlands | Regional Mountain Cuisine

Kitchen Philosophy and Ingredients

Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden in Highlands anchors its Blue Ridge cuisine in the rhythms of the surrounding mountains. Old Edwards’ private gardens function as a living pantry, supplying the kitchen with seasonal herbs and edible flowers. The culinary team draws directly from local growers to shape every plate. Fresh produce moves quickly from soil to table, allowing simple techniques to highlight natural flavors. Diners tracking regional cooking will notice how ingredients arrive at their absolute peak.

Spaces and Ambiance

Guests typically gather in the upstairs Hummingbird Lounge, where a drawing room layout pairs comfortable seating with weekend live music. The adjacent patio extends the experience outdoors, featuring shaded tables beneath market umbrellas near a quiet waterfall. Even during cooler months, the rooftop terrace offers open-air seating that catches evening breezes and downtown skyline views. Every corner balances quiet comfort with the casual energy of a mountain resort.

Drinks and Occasions

A Wine Spectator Award of Excellence recognition underscores the establishment’s commitment to pairing meals with well-curated selections. Craft cocktails flow alongside the daily lunch and dinner service, which shifts toward shareable plates as the evening progresses. Larger celebrations move to the richly appointed Wine Room or the spacious Parlor, both designed for intimate gatherings away from the main floor. The wine list remains a steady anchor throughout every visit.

Recognition

Awards & accolades

2008
Wine Spectator
Best of Award of Excellence
Best of Award of Excellence

Ambience

A glimpse inside

Details

At a glance

Wine Spectator 2008 — Best of Award of Excellence
Services Cocktails, Dinner, Farm To Table, Live Music, Lunch, Private Parties

History

On the record

Location

Find us

445 Main St., Highlands, North Carolina
Franklin, United States of America
8287872525
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Map showing Madison's Restaurant & Wine Garden