Nestled along the rolling banks of Tellico Lake, Rarity Bay is known for its picturesque landscapes and welcoming community. But for those in the know, it’s also a quietly blossoming food scene with something delicious for every kind of eater. From lakefront bistros to neighborhood bakeries, the Rarity Bay area and its surroundings are packed with unique spots that promise not just a meal, but a memorable dining experience. Here’s your detailed guide to the best places to eat (and drink!) in and around Rarity Bay.
Lakeside Dining: Scenic Views and Exceptional Fare
For many locals and visitors, nothing beats a meal with a view of Tellico Lake. Along Rarity Bay Parkway, just inside the resort gates, you’ll find:
- The Bay Bistro
Located at 403 Rarity Bay Parkway, The Bay Bistro is the heart of Rarity Bay dining. Open to residents and guests, this stylish eatery offers New American cuisine with a Southern twist. Brunch here is legendary—think fluffy buttermilk pancakes, shrimp and grits, and locally sourced omelets. Dinner brings upgraded comfort food: pecan-crusted trout, juicy ribeye steaks, and seasonal vegetable plates. Prices range from $12 for lunch items to $32 for premium entrees. Its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere and lakeside patio make it a must for both date nights and special occasions.
- Lakeside Grill at Tellico Marina
Just a short ride down Highway 72, the Lakeside Grill offers unbeatable sunset views from its elevated dockside setting. While technically outside Rarity Bay, it’s a local favorite for fresh catfish, fried green tomatoes, and blackened mahi tacos. The fish and chips and homemade pies draw crowds, but regulars also praise the craft beer selection. Expect to spend $10–$25 per plate.
Café Culture: Energize Your Morning
Mornings in Rarity Bay start sweetly at local cafés:
- Village Perk Coffee & Bakery
Set on S. Rarity Bay Parkway near the intersection with Highway 72, Village Perk is a cozy neighborhood anchor. Locals linger over artisanal coffees, lavender lattes, and a rotating menu of house-baked muffins and croissants (don’t miss the seasonal fruit danish). Gluten-free pastry options and oat milk make it friendly for those with dietary needs, and prices are reasonable—about $5 for a pastry and $3–$5 for specialty drinks.
- Sunrise Blend Café
Down the road in Vonore, at the Hwy 411 and Hwy 72 junction, this family-run spot is famed for hearty Southern breakfasts (think sausage gravy biscuits and cinnamon rolls as big as your hand). Their breakfast burrito is the cure for any late-night indulgence, while lunch brings deli sandwiches and daily soups. Expect classic small-town hospitality and $8–$12 meals.
Around the Block: Hidden Gems Worth Discovering
Exploring just outside the gates brings culinary surprises you’ll want to become “your spot”:
- Main Street Eats Food Truck
Parked on weekends in the village plaza near Rarity Bay Drive, this local truck serves a menu that changes with the seasons—BBQ brisket tacos in summer, spicy chili bread bowls in winter. Owner/chef “Missy” sources many ingredients from farms around Maryville and Loudon County. Most dishes are $10 or less, and the menu caters to vegetarians with delicious sweet potato nachos and black bean burgers.
- Julia Belle’s Bakery
Tucked off the beaten path on Dolly Parton Parkway, this old-fashioned bakery is the definition of a hidden gem. Stop by for pecan sticky buns, five kinds of kolaches, and custom cakes that are famous among Rarity Bay families. Prices: $2–$6 per pastry. Longtime staffers love telling the story of how the bakery started as a home kitchen pop-up before expanding due to word-of-mouth raves.
Date Nights and Celebrations: Local Favorites
There’s no shortage of sophisticated yet approachable spots for anniversaries, birthdays, or just an indulgent night out:
- Clubhouse Grill at Rarity Bay
Reservation-only and located within the community clubhouse, the Grill offers prix-fixe dinners during summer months and themed dinner nights (Don’t miss Prime Rib Fridays!). Southern and classic continental cuisines share the menu, but desserts—like lemon chess pie—are the sleeper hit. Main courses run $20–$40, with wine pairings available. It’s popular with residents, so call ahead.
- Savannah’s at Tellico River
A 10-minute drive from Rarity Bay on McGhee Road, Savannah’s is an upscale Southern eatery specializing in local trout, crab cakes, and bourbon-glazed pork chops. The wine list is extensive and the staff are known for their pairing recommendations. Save room for the caramel bread pudding.
Food Traditions & Annual Events
In addition to dining out, Rarity Bay food lovers look forward to unique community culinary events:
- Annual Taste of Rarity Bay Festival
Held every fall on the Clubhouse lawn, this event showcases dishes from all the area’s best local restaurants, food trucks, and home cooks. There’s live music, regional wine tastings, and a pie-baking contest judged by local chefs.
- Farmers Market Gatherings
While Rarity Bay itself doesn’t host a regular farmers market, nearby Maryville and Loudon both do. Many home cooks in Rarity Bay stock up on produce, cheeses, and locally raised meats to create their own gourmet meals—often shared at neighbors’ potlucks.
Tips for Foodies: Making the Most of Rarity Bay’s Food Scene
- Skip weekends for peak dining hours at lakefront spots—try weekday evenings for quieter meals and the best sunset tables.
- Join local Facebook groups (“Rarity Bay Eats & Drinks”) to catch pop-up dinners, food truck locations, and home baker specials.
- Many local places offer discounts for Rarity Bay residents—ask before you pay!
The Rarity Bay Difference
What truly sets Rarity Bay’s food scene apart? It’s the blend of stunning lakeside settings, a community that welcomes new ideas (and flavors!), and thoughtful, locally sourced menus. Whether your taste runs to fresh donuts, creative home-cooked meals, or five-star dining with a view, there’s something for every craving.
For those hungry to explore, Rarity Bay offers more than a meal—it’s a place where food brings friends and neighbors closer, one delicious bite at a time.