The oldest continuously serving bar in North Carolina sits inside Bistro Roca, in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Antlers Bar opened its doors in 1932 serving spirits to appreciative folks ever since — which is interesting, as the prohibition of the manufacture and sale of liquors in the state was in effect from 1909 to 1935. Along the way renovations have come, keeping an eclectic balance of the rustic with the modern. And when you visit, the impressive portraits of local pets spanning 15 years will surely entertain you. You might even see one you know. Let’s see why Antlers Bar is still alive and well in this scenic Blue Ridge Parkway resort town.
It is possible that this 1889 photo of Table Bluff Hotel and Saloon, in Table Bluff, California, might have inspired the antler motif.
Courtesy, Sonoma County Library, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons We will never know if it passed before the original purveyors’ eyes.
But 43 years later, in 1932, Antlers Bar opened its doors.
Bistro Roca/Facebook
Inviting other animals to the table.
Bistro Roca/Facebook
A place where you can buy your friend an aged shot of Tennesee whiskey — just because.
Bistro Roca/Facebook
If you are feeling a little posh, this glittery Sparkle Pony might do the trick.
Bistro Roca/Facebook This uptown brew is Sauza Hornitos, Cointreau, St. Germain, cranberry, lime, and edible glitter — what??
But don’t discount the options on tap or in chilled bottles.
Bistro Roca/Facebook
Try the wood-fired Roca topped with fresh, local prosciutto, caramelized onions, Manchego, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Bistro Roca/Facebook Have it with a side Caesar salad.
Sit down among the hounds in this long-standing, cozy space.
Bistro Roca/Facebook
Antlers Bar is located inside Bistro Roca, from where the exceptional cuisine comes.
Bistro Roca/Facebook
But there is really no reason to leave the bar.
Bistro Roca/Facebook Even the desserts look better here.
Are you ready to order a drink at this longtime icon in Blowing Rock? If you go, please let us know about your experience in the comments below. And while you are there, see the oldest roadside attraction in North Carolina.
Courtesy, Sonoma County Library, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
We will never know if it passed before the original purveyors’ eyes.
Bistro Roca/Facebook
This uptown brew is Sauza Hornitos, Cointreau, St. Germain, cranberry, lime, and edible glitter — what??
Have it with a side Caesar salad.
Even the desserts look better here.
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Address: Bistro Roca, 143 Wonderland Trail, Blowing Rock, NC 28605, USA
