2024 restaurant openings expand Burke’s dining scene, more on the horizon

Burke County’s dining scene flourished in 2024 with an array of exciting new restaurant openings that brought variety to the local culinary landscape. The Paper was at the forefront, covering the openings and celebrating the growth of Burke’s culinary community.

From Toner’s Irish Pub, which offers a slice of Dublin charm in downtown Morganton, to Waterbean Coffee, a sophisticated café with luxurious vibes, the year showcased the county's growing appetite for diverse dining experiences. Other notable additions included Glen Alpine Station, a European-style café, and Ono Poke Bowl, delivering healthy, customizable bowls in a relaxed Hawaiian-themed setting. Nyna’s House in Drexel brought upscale Southern dining with a heartfelt tribute to family, while Ice Cream Sammies sweetened the scene with indulgent desserts.

2025 promises to elevate the local dining scene even further with several highly anticipated openings on the horizon. The Madness will bring a unique dining concept to downtown Morganton, while Chipotle is set to offer its popular fast-casual fare at the former KFC location on Burkemont Avenue. Olive Garden, a major addition, is poised to build a new restaurant at the former Fatz Café spot — pending approvals — adding Italian-American flavors to the mix.

With these upcoming ventures, Burke County is set to make the foodies of Morganton even happier, promising another year of culinary excitement.

TONER'S IRISH PUB

Officially opening its doors on June 14 at 306 S. Green St., Toner’s is the labor of love of Jim and Iris Toner, who meticulously designed the space to bring the charm and spirit of Dublin’s original Toner’s Pub to life. From its iconic bright red and black facade to the authentic bar, stools, and decor, every detail echoes the character of the original establishment. Traditional Irish music enhances the atmosphere, creating an immersive experience for patrons.

The pub has quickly become a local favorite, offering a menu brimming with delicious options such as Reuben sandwiches, wings, burgers, fish and chips, and artfully crafted charcuterie boards. Toner’s also boasts an extensive drink selection, featuring a variety of beers, wines, and Irish-inspired cocktails like “Cameron’s Kick,” “Emerald Isle,” and “Irish Manhattan.” By blending rich Irish traditions with a welcoming local vibe, Toner’s Irish Pub has firmly established itself as a special addition to the Morganton dining and social scene.

WATERBEAN COFFEE

This year, Burke County welcomed Waterbean Coffee in Morganton on June 6. The new café quickly became a popular gathering spot for residents and visitors, offering a luxurious ambiance complete with white marble floors, suede chairs, and even a baby grand piano. The opening day saw an enthusiastic response, with cars lining up at the drive-thru and patrons filling the chic interior. Founded by Tony and Annie Vo, Waterbean Coffee brought its reputation for high-quality, USDA-certified organic coffee to its 15th location, enhancing Morganton’s dining options with a blend of sophistication and community charm.

Waterbean Coffee offers more than just exceptional coffee—it has something for everyone. The menu features a variety of beverages, including smoothies, matcha, and unique creations like the Cold Foam Snickerdoodle and Paradise Ice Latte. Guests can also enjoy a selection of freshly baked pastries and hearty food options, from avocado toast to customizable breakfast items. With its own roasters and a commitment to freshness and quality, Waterbean Coffee has set a new standard for cafés in Burke County, becoming a favorite destination for coffee enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

GLEN ALPINE STATION

A new European-style café, Glen Alpine Station, has invigorated the dining scene in Glen Alpine this year. Located at the corner of Linville and Catawba streets, the café serves breakfast, brunch, and offers live jazz in a welcoming, community-focused setting. Inspired by the popular Sage Biscuit Café in Florida, owner Jose Moreta has replicated its menu, featuring dishes like the Sage Biscuit Platter, Sage Biscuits and Gravy, and Sage Biscuit Skillet. Local favorites include chicken pot pie, stuffed French toast, benedicts, and omelets, which have been met with enthusiasm by Burke residents.

Moreta is currently working to obtain an ABC permit to introduce beer, wine, and cocktails to the café’s offerings. Once approved, patrons can enjoy mimosas and Bloody Marys alongside their meals. Additionally, plans are underway to open an upstairs bar in the afternoons, further enhancing Glen Alpine Station’s role as a gathering spot in the community.

DUNKIN' DONUTS

Dunkin’ Donuts expanded its presence in Morganton with the opening of a second location at 909 N. Green St. The new store began serving customers on Thursday, June 6, and operates daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. This addition was marked by the signature orange and pink logo. It joined the existing Dunkin’ Donuts, located at 1248 Burkemont Ave., offering locals another convenient spot to enjoy coffee and pastries.

Franchise owner Dennis Harvey oversees the new location which caters to the growing demand for Dunkin's offerings in Morganton. This expansion highlighted the brand’s commitment to providing accessible options for customers in the area.

ONO POKE BOWL

Ono Poke Bowl has made a flavorful splash in Morganton’s dining scene with its highly anticipated opening at 313 N. Green St. After a surprise soft launch, the eatery officially welcomed patrons on Thursday, May 16. Owner Brooke Hudgins, embarking on her journey as a culinary entrepreneur, saw an impressive turnout with 140 poke bowls sold by Friday afternoon on opening day. Known for its fresh and customizable offerings, Ono Poke Bowl serves traditional diced raw fish bowls alongside options like salmon, shrimp, cooked chicken, and tofu, catering to vegan and gluten-free diets. With its diverse menu, the restaurant has quickly become a hit for those seeking a healthy, sushi-inspired meal in a bowl.

The atmosphere at Ono Poke Bowl exudes a laid-back island vibe, featuring turquoise walls, Hawaiian-themed décor, and surfboards that set the tropical tone. The restaurant’s design includes both indoor seating with metal tables and stools as well as outdoor tables for an al fresco dining experience. A rendering of the iconic Hawaiian shaka hand sign welcomes guests, reinforcing the “hang loose” spirit. Fully staffed and buzzing with activity, Ono Poke Bowl is poised to be a vibrant new spot in Morganton’s culinary landscape.

ICE CREAM SAMMIES

Ice Cream Sammies, located at130 N. Sterling St, has added to the dessert scene. Owned by Viva la Vintage’s Rodney Vaughn, the location opened Dec. 18 and features Blue Bell Ice Cream cookie sandwiches, milkshakes, flavored lattes, and coffee.

NYNA'S HOUSE

Nyna’s House has opened its doors at 116 S. Main St., offering an upscale Southern dining experience with a creative twist. Owned by Chef Rubin Ricky Booker, the restaurant is a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Katie Ann Booker, reflecting her inspiring legacy. Chef Booker delivers a diverse menu featuring Southern favorites, seafood, BBQ, burgers, and more, all served in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere accompanied by the soothing sounds of smooth jazz. Alcohol-free and community-focused, Nyna’s House is more than a restaurant—it’s a celebration of family, love, and exceptional food.