Chimney Rock, North Carolina, is a tiny mountain village with a big story — and one of its longtime favorites, Riverwatch Grill, is now welcoming visitors again after a long road to recovery.
A Visit to Riverwatch Grill in Chimney Rock, NC — A Celebration of Flavor & Resilience
Located where the Broad River winds through picturesque Hickory Nut Gorge, Chimney Rock has been a beloved destination for decades. The village takes its name from the dramatic Chimney Rock granite outcrop — a natural landmark first attracting settlers and later adventure seekers and nature lovers. The Chimney Rock State Park itself dates back to the late 19th century and was formally established in 2007 under its current name.
But in late September 2024, Hurricane Helene struck western North Carolina with unprecedented force. Thousands of acres of forest, infrastructure, homes, and businesses were devastated by torrential flooding and landslides. In Chimney Rock Village, over half of the businesses were destroyed or severely damaged as floodwaters from the Broad River inundated Main Street.
For a community so dependent on tourism and outdoor recreation, the storm’s impact was historic. The Chimney Rock State Park, a major draw with its iconic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, had its entrance bridge washed away and was closed for nine months while repairs were completed.
🍽️ Riverwatch Grill — Back and Better in 2025
One of the first businesses to rise again after the storm was Riverwatch Grill — a restaurant long cherished by locals and visitors alike. Established in 1998, Riverwatch quickly became a staple of the Chimney Rock dining scene, known for its hearty burgers, local brews, scenic patio overlooking the river, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
After Hurricane Helene wiped out large portions of the town and forced extended closures, the reopening of Riverwatch Grill in 2025 felt like a milestone of recovery — a sign that Chimney Rock was healing and ready to share its hospitality once more.
We recently made the drive out to Chimney Rock and were thrilled to grab a couple of burgers and brews while soaking in the local revival spirit. The restaurant offers indoor seating, bar service, and a back patio that normally overlooks the river — though river access remains under repair as the broader recovery continues.
Whether you’re stopping by after a hike in Chimney Rock State Park (yes, the elevator is running, and reservations are required for peak attractions) or exploring the gorge and surrounding lakes, Riverwatch Grill makes a perfect stop for lunch, dinner, or celebrating a resilient and revitalized community.
🌲 A Community Rebuilding and Thriving
Thanks to ongoing recovery work, infrastructure repairs, and the return of key attractions like Chimney Rock State Park, Chimney Rock is slowly but surely regaining its rhythm. Roads, parks, and local businesses are reopening, and visitors are increasingly making the journey back to this scenic corner of Western North Carolina.
If you’re looking to support a community that embodies Appalachian strength and spirit, consider a day trip or weekend getaway to Chimney Rock. Experience scenic hiking, the reopened park elevator ride, and the welcoming tables at places like Riverwatch Grill — a local favorite that’s now part of the area’s inspiring story of comeback and renewal.
📍 Riverwatch Grill — Chimney Rock, NC
Explore Chimney Rock & State Park: great views, outdoor adventure, and local eats await.
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