This edition of Excited about Eating takes us to Boone, NC and to The Red Onion Café located practically in the shadow of Appalachian State University. This local eating establishment boasts that “An evening at Red Onion Café promises to be an experience to remember!” and they were correct, even though we visited at lunch.

I can’t wait until the temperature warms up so we can enjoy this awesome patio!

Dora here. It’s winter and the planter boxes are empty, but picture this patio with the lights on and colorful flowers lining the ledge. Wouldn’t that just whisper, “Come sit down. Relax. Eat. Enjoy.” I can’t wait until the temperature warms up so we can do just that. During a Sunday lunch, the inside was jammed with regular patrons, and I can see why. With their extensive menu, everyone can surely find something. 

For my lunch, I chose the Baja Fish Tacos, two soft shell tacos with blackened Tilapia, grilled pineapple, spicy cilantro slaw and topped with a creamy sriracha sauce. So with a restaurant named Red Onion, you know I have to try their fried onion rings. Dipped lightly in a homemade batter and fried to a perfect golden brown, they were outstanding! I like onion rings that, when you bite into them, you don’t end up with the entire sloppy onion ring in your mouth while holding the batter in your hand. The tacos were equally great with just a little heat from the slaw and sauce. Excellent choice!

Baja Fish Tacos, excellent choice!

Dora here. The Chicken Fajita Wrap was ginormous and loaded with chicken, lettuce and tomato. Cheesy good, but it was missing some heat. I would’ve liked a kick of flavor to give it more depth. 🙂 

Chicken Fajita Wrap: Ginormous and loaded with chicken, lettuce and tomato. Cheesy good, but I would’ve liked a kick of heat. 🙂

Onion rings: Thick batter or thin? And where’s your favorite place to get them?

We rate this restaurant 4 forks out or 5 for a family friendly restaurant serving great food.