Take a bite out of the past in Belmont, where historic buildings, charming streets, and local flavor come together. Here, every meal tells a story, and you can experience the town’s history not just by walking its streets, but by sitting down at its tables.
When travelers to North Carolina are asked which activities interest them most, 65% say visiting historic sites.* That passion for the past is reflected in Belmont’s rich textile mill heritage and its dedication to preserving small-town character. From a former train depot to original municipal buildings, Belmont has thoughtfully woven its historic roots into a modern dining scene.
In downtown Belmont, the past truly meets your plate. These three restaurants invite you to savor great food while stepping into the stories that shaped the town.
STATION
Belmont’s railroad history has shaped the town for generations, beginning in 1871 when tracks first connected the area to Charlotte, Gastonia, and beyond. Less than 50 years later, in 1915, the Piedmont and Northern railway depot was built on Main Street, right where STATION welcomes visitors today.
Inside, history meets flavor with craft beers brewed in Carolina, specialty cocktails, and a menu of tacos, wings, quesadillas, street noodles, and more—all made with fresh ingredients you’ll want to return for again and again. Outside, the patio invites kids to play, pups to relax, and strangers to become friends around the community fire table.
Old Stone Steakhouse
Originally serving as the Belmont Police Department, the building on Main Street has stood for over 100 years. In 2007, it was converted into Old Stone Steakhouse, preserving its rustic charm and small-town character. Original police station lettering on the back wall, and historic photos throughout the space give a glimpse into Belmont’s past.
Enjoy a menu that balances upscale steak and seafood with casual favorites: wedge salads, savory burgers, and, of course, every steak complement you can imagine. Don’t miss their signature bacon-wrapped scallops with spiced Cheerwine BBQ sauce.
Just outside, the Cornerstone Patio Bar offers seasonal cocktails, casual fare like wings and sliders, and views of Stowe Park. As you sip your drink, notice the mural next to a barred door. This was the former catwalk entrance for prisoners walking from the jail to the courthouse. Now, behind that door, you’ll find the perfect spot for a nightcap after dinner.
The Jailhouse
Aptly named, The Jailhouse occupies the former Belmont jail and still carries the character and stories of its 1960s past. Iron bars, concrete-clad rooms, and walls lined with historic photos preserve the building’s unique history, letting you step back in time from the moment you walk in.
Upstairs, the main bar offers a personalized experience, letting you create a cocktail designed to match your taste, along with specialty whiskey drinks and a menu of share plates, flatbreads, burgers, and sandwiches. Downstairs, a speakeasy-inspired cigar lounge provides a separate space for patrons who want to relax with premium cigars. Don’t worry… With the help of their high-end filtration system, you can enjoy your drink upstairs without any smoke while still soaking in the historic atmosphere.
Whether you cozy up in a leather booth or sip at the stainless-steel bar, The Jailhouse lets you experience a unique slice of Belmont’s past while enjoying modern flavors and drinks. Entry is around the back of the Belmont Jail on Mill Street, just behind Old Stone Steakhouse.
Become Part of Belmont’s History
Belmont’s mill-town legacy lives on through thoughtful preservation, vibrant downtown streets, and easy access to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re strolling historic sites, enjoying a meal steeped in history, or simply soaking up the small-town charm, Belmont is the perfect weekend escape in the Carolinas. Come experience a history you can taste and treasure.
Explore Belmont’s History with a Walking Tour
*Source: Official North Carolina Travel Guide 2024 Reader Survey
