Engle’s Road Side Restaurant

Burger fries and milkshakes for two people under 15 dollars. Great value, great food, great service.

Excellent food and friendly service. Hasn’t changed in decades, still a staple place to drop by every time I’m in the area. Holds a lot of sentimental memories, plus the quantity of food can’t be beat. Would rate a solid 5

This is the kind of local joint my Dad and I always seek out on a road trip. Roadside eateries are as All-​American as you can get, and you know a good one by the crowd as you drive by. This place is no exception. Was heading up through Tennessee on our way to Bristol when we happened to drive by this place. A corner Mom & Pop out in the country with the parking lot absolutely packed with locals. Why yes, that’s where we’re having dinner.
Pulled in to learn it was both a take-​out and dine-​in joint. Lots of people pulling in and walking up to the outside window to grab their take out orders. The fare here was classic American: fried fish or chicken, burgers, and some blue plates to boot.
Dad and I opted for the catfish, fries with «brown salt», and a side salad with rolls. The young ladies running the place were as nice as could be and the restaurant was super clean. Food came out quick as we watched locals coming in on a Friday night after ballgames or just out together for a bite.
The cornmeal batter on the fish was very unique and gave it a very nice crunch. Catfish was piping hot and not an ounce of grease. These are my kind of people! (I was born in Tennessee, after all). Fries were crunchy on the outside and nice and soft in the middle. Brown salt is a seasoned salt everyone around here loves. Gave it a nice little kick similar to a mild sweet chili powder. Yum! Everything was as fresh as the mountain air. Well worth the detour to eat with the locals.
If you’re staying in and around Erwin or just passing through, live like a local and give this place a go. You won’t be sorry you did!