The Cardinal Menu (Update 2025)
The Cardinal, located in Boone, NC, is a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. This American restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes, with their Wagyu burger receiving high praise from customers. The menu features options for everyone, including vegan and vegetarian choices. The ambiance is laid-back and comfortable, with outdoor seating available for a great dining experience. The staff are attentive and friendly, adding to the overall enjoyable atmosphere. Reviewers have raved about the flavorful burgers, well-cooked dishes, and unique salads like the pickled vegetable salad. Overall, The Cardinal offers a memorable dining experience with great food, excellent service, and a welcoming environment for all patrons.
APPETIZERS
BISBEE ROLL
Spicy Slow Braised Chicken, with Salsa Verde and Queso Fresco ()
TEMPEH TENDERS
House Marinated and Breaded Tempeh (BBQ, Buffalo, or Cardinal Style)
HOT DAMN HAM DIP
Watauga County Country Ham, Cream Cheese, Onion, Garlic, Toasted Pecans, Fried Saltines
CAROLINA SPREAD PLATE
Choice of House-Made Pimento Cheese or Hummus, Tomato Jam, House Pickles, Pork Rinds, Fried Saltines, Stick Boy Baguette
PILE OF FRIES
w/ Chipotle Ranch
PILE OF SWEET POTATO TOTS
w/ Honey Mustard
PILE OF JALAPENO CHEDDAR HUSHPUPPIES
w/ Chipotle Ranch
COBB SALAD
Local Greens, Bacon, Chicken, Tomato, Onion, Avocado, Egg, Bleu Cheese Crumbles
PICKLED VEGGIE SALAD
Local Greens, Rotational House Pickles, Craisins, Citrus, Beet Chips, Toasted Pecans, Herbs, Choice of Chevre or Bleu Cheese Crumbles
KALE CAESAR SALAD
Local Kale, Sourdough Croutons, Fried Capers, Parmesan, Caesar Dressing (Contains Fish)
HOUSE SALAD
Local Greens, Tomato, Cucumber, Onion, Carrots, Croutons, Cheddar
SALADS
SIDES
POTATO SALAD
CUCUMBER & ONIONS
SWEET POTATO TOTS
FRIED OKRA
FRIES
HOUSE-MADE CHIPS
JALAPENO CHEDDAR HUSHPUPPIES
SLAW
WILDCAT SLAW
BLACK EYED PEA SALAD
SMALL HOUSE SALAD
GRILLED CHEESE
GRILLED PEANUT BUTTER & HONEY
CARDINAL NUGGETS
HOT DOG
(Plain or "Rad Dog" Style)
HAND DIPPED CORN DOG
VEGGIE DOG
KIDS AT HEART
MAINS
FARM BURGER
Shipley Farms Grass-Fed Beef, Bleu Cheese Crumbles, Local Greens, Grilled Onions, Tomato, Herbed Mayo
TURKEY BURGER
Ground Turkey with Garlic and Parsley, Local Greens, Tomato Jam, Beet Chips, Goat Cheese
WILD GAME BURGER
Rotational Game and Fixings, Ask Your Server
THE GRINGO
Bison, Ashe County Cheddar, Avocado Spread, Red Onion, Salsa Verde
WAGYU PATTY MELT
NC Wagyu Beef, Grilled Onions and Mushrooms, Remoulade, American Cheese
/ BURGER
Amaroo Hills Emu, Ramblin Poppy Chorizo, Queso, Grilled Jalapeno & Onion, Greens, Tomato, Cilantro Sour Cream
CHICKEN SANDWICH
Duke's, Lettuce, Tomato, Pickles
VEGGIE BURGER
Rotational Veggie Patty and Fixings, Ask Your Server
BEET BURGER
Original: Vegenaise, Local Greens, Tomato, Onion
TEMPEH TENDER SANDWICH
Buffalo, BBQ, or Cardinal style Tempeh Tenders, Vegenaise, Lettuce, Tomato, Onion