The Purple Onion

4.8

372 Reviews

$30 and under

American

Make a booking

2 people

16 Dec 2024

19:00

Booked 14 times today

Experiences are available.

Neighbourhood gem
Charming
Great for live music

**To purchase tickets, reserve one of our experiences, please see the options listed below.** Established in 1998 by Susan and her husband Stoney Lamar, The Purple Onion was conceived as a 'third place' in Saluda, a neutral spot for friends and family to enjoy great food, engaging conversation, and live music. This vision flourished with a dedicated staff and supportive community. In 2020 the legacy was passed to Chambli Stuber and Emily Lamar, who continue to honor its tradition and role in the community, celebrating over two decades of service. Situated in historic Saluda, The Purple Onion boasts outdoor dining and live music on Thursday and Saturday nights. The Purple Onion features a variety of ethnically inspired dishes with an emphasis on the Mediterranean’s simple and healthy cuisine. We offer a selection of pizzas, pastas, seafood, vegetarian and meat dishes. Specialties include locally sourced trout and organic produce, along with antibiotic and hormone-free meats and poultry.

Order delivery or takeout

Dining areas

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Price
$30 and under
Cuisines
American
Hours of Operation
Mon, Thu–Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Mon 5:00 pm–8:00 pm Thu–Sat 5:00 pm–8:30 pm
Phone number
(828) 749-1179
Website
http://www.purpleonionsaluda.com/
Payment Options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress

Location
16 Main St, Saluda, NC 28773-7700
Area
Flat Rock
Parking details
Street Parking
Additional
Dog Friendly, Gluten-free Options, Vegan

Gift card

Send gift cards instantly by email or print to present in person.

Send a gift card

Experiences

Cowboy Judy Christmas Extravaganza
US$16.00 per person
Prepaid
15 Dec 2024 only
A return performance quickly becoming a tradition at the Purple Onion, this energetic group of ladies is an event you don’t want to miss. Cowboy Judy always brings the show to, well, every show they perform. Couple their infectious stage presence, melodic songs, and penchant for grooving tunes you can’t sit still to? Exhilarating. Throw in some holiday cheer and festive motifs? Pure Magic. Female fronted super group, Cowboy Judy (formally Sweet Claudette,) is the bringing together of worlds, in the best of ways. Singing an upbeat hybrid of country and motown, you would be hard pressed to find another group as gifted with their harmonies and charisma as you have here.
West End String Band
US$10.00 per person
Prepaid
21 Dec 2024 only
Dedicated to playing and performing traditional bluegrass music and old country songs with modern appeal, the West End String Band has been walking the perfect balance between nostalgia and a thumping good time. Don’t let the name fool you. The West End String Band is refreshing and invigorating, while holding true to the roots that formed this unique tradition of music. Formed back in 2008, the West End String Band blends the gritty and energetic vocals of lead Charlie McDaniel with harmonies from Kathy McDaniel and the driving banjo of Jim Rollins. Rounded out with the rich baritone and unique mandolin of Matt Purinton, this group is weaving together americana, bluegrass, and country in the best of ways.
Michael Reno Harrell
US$10.00 per person
Prepaid
26 Dec 2024 only
Michael Reno Harrell is an award winning songwriter, as well as a veteran storyteller and entertainer, and he’s from the South. One could compare Michael's performances to his granddaddy's pocket knife: well worn and familiar feeling, but razor sharp, and with a point. His original songs and stories have been described as “Appalachian grit and wit” but, as his writing shows, Michael’s awareness is much broader than the bounds of his boyhood home or even the Southern Experience. Between the approachable, feel-good nature of his music, and vivid story-telling that leaves you smiling, Michael creates an auditory experience that has to be witnessed in person.

Popular dishes

Ciabatta BaguetteUS$5.00
garlic herb dipping mix, extra virgin olive oil
Soup of the DayUS$5.00
Smoked Trout with Tzatziki BoardUS$12.00
capers, lemon, pickled onion, cucumber, seeded cracker
Aged Gouda and Local HoneyUS$13.00
6 month aged beemster, today's chutney, almonds, artisan crackers
Bowl of Marinated OlivesUS$8.00
mediterranean blend of pitted mixed olives
Baked Goat Cheese & Wild MushroomsUS$15.00
blend of exotic and domestic mushrooms, rosemary goat cheese, puff pastry, artisan crackers; baked to order, allow 15 minutes
Southern Caviar**US$9.00
ny white and sharp cheddar blended with pickle brine pimento cheese, sweety drop peppers, pickles, mustard, crostini
Hummus and PitaUS$7.00
garbanzo bean hummus, cucumber, tomato, toasted pita

Entrees

Painted Hills Farm Ribeye* **US$0.00
red wine steak glace, mashed roots, seasonal vegetable; Au Chevre and grilled onion - add $6
- MPUS$0.00
Sunburst Mountain TroutUS$29.00
roasted anson mills grit cake, wilted greens, brown butter pecan meunière sauce
Buttermilk Brined Bone-In Pork ChopUS$30.00
salt and vinegar smashed potatoes, brussels sprouts, mustard dill cream
The Po Smash Burger* **US$16.00
half pound burger with two 4 oz beef patties topped, with ny sharp white cheddar, lettuce, tomato, pickled purple onion, toasted brioche bun, tortilla chips and house pickle
Joyce Farms Roasted Airline ChickenUS$27.00
stuffed with roasted garlic burro, broccoli, linguini pasta, white wine "alfredo" parmesan cream
Broccoli PastaUS$16.00
Scottish SalmonUS$0.00
Explore our chef's daily dish, inspired by global, flavors and paired with seasonal vegetables. Your server will tell you about today's unique creation
- MPUS$0.00
Our Daily BraiseUS$0.00
slow-cooked and full of depth, today's braise highlights the tenderness in hearty proteins, boldness in vibrant sauces, and the comforting flavors that come with it
- MPUS$0.00

Pizza

8" Gluten Free Crusts (cauliflower) add $3

ClassicoUS$10.00
uncured pepperoni, italian sausage, mushrooms, onion, bell pepper, parmesan, mozzarella, tomato sauce
- 7"US$10.00
- 12"US$19.00
MediterraneanUS$9.00
spinach, feta, banana pepper, olives, fresh tomato, pickled purple onion, mozzarella, parmesan
- 7"US$9.00
- 12"US$17.00
Wild Mushroom & ArugulaUS$10.00
sautéed shiitake, portobello, & seasonal mushrooms, chevre, mozzarella, arugula, parmesan, balsamic vinaigrette
- 7"US$10.00
- 12"US$19.00
Wild VeganUS$9.00
our roasted wild mushroom blend over garbanzo bean hummus base, topped with arugula, balsamic vinaigrette
- 7"US$9.00
Chicken CaesarUS$10.00
lemon chicken, mozzarella, parmesan, baked; caesar dressed lettuce, parmesan & fresh tomatoes
- 7"US$10.00
- 12"US$19.00
PepperoniUS$8.50
mozzarella & parm on tomato sauce, uncured pepperoni
- 7"US$8.50
- 12"US$15.50
CheeseUS$7.00
mozzarella & parm on choice of tomato sauce or EVOO & garlic
- 7"US$7.00
- 12"US$12.00

Pizza Toppings

Pizza Toppings #1US$0.75
mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, black olives, jalapeños, garlic, spinach, pineapple, fresh tomato, cheddar, banana peppers, pickled purple onions, mozzarella, parmesan
- 7"US$0.75
- 12"US$1.75
Pizza Toppings #2US$1.50
kalamata olives, uncured pepperoni, italian sausage, feta
- 7"US$1.50
- 12"US$3.50
Pizza Toppings #3US$2.00
chicken, chèvre, wild mushroom
- 7"US$2.00
- 12"US$4.50

Beverages

Coke, Diet Coke, SpriteUS$2.00
Root Beer & Ginger AleUS$2.50
Iced TeaUS$2.50
Mexican CokeUS$3.00
IzzeUS$2.50
MilkUS$2.00
San Pellegrino Sparkling WaterUS$2.50
Fresh Squeezed LemonadeUS$2.50
Juice BoxUS$1.00

Signature Cocktails

$13

Smoky Mountain
maker's mark whiskey bourbon, blackberry, lemon
S&L Margarita
el jimador reposado, patron citronge' chili honey, lime

House Cocktails

House Cocktails
please see our cocktail list for complete libation offerings

Wine Flights

Wine FlightsUS$12.00
- Three by the Glass WinesUS$12.00
- Five by the Glass WinesUS$19.00

Whites

Cava, Proa, Brut [SP] NVUS$8.00
Riesling, Twisted River, Mosel [GER] 2021US$9.00
Pinot Grigio, Stemmari, Sicily, [IT] 2021US$9.00
Sauvignon Blanc, La Galope, Gascogne [FR] 2021US$9.00
Chardonnay, Bourgogne Blanc, Vignerons de Buxy [FR] 2021US$11.00
Chardonnay, Harken, Tri County [CA] 2018US$10.00

Rosé

Barbara, Day Owl Rosé [CA] 2020US$9.00

Reds

Pinot Noir, Campet Ste. Marie, Limoux [FR] 2021US$10.00
Sangiovese, Grignano, Chianti Rufina [IT] 2021US$12.00
Malbec Barbera Tempranillo Cab, Wente "Diablo" Red Blend [CA] 2021US$10.00
Zinfandel, Peirano Heritage Estate, Lodi [CA] 2019US$10.00
Cabernet Sauvignon, Newton Skyside, Napa Valley [CA] 2019US$10.00

Bottled Beer

Miller Light, Michelob Ultra, Bud LightUS$4.00
Corona, Stella Artois, Rotating Hard SeltzerUS$5.00
Rotating Gluten Free Beer or Craft NA BeerUS$5.50

On Tap

Rotating Craft Beers & CidersUS$0.00
- MPUS$0.00
Flight of Three Beers on TapUS$8.00

What 372 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8

4.8 based on recent ratings

4.8Food
4.7Service
4.8Ambience
4.7Value

Noise • Moderate

Diners' Choice Awards

Asheville / Western North Carolina
Best Value
Asheville / Western North Carolina
Healthy
Asheville / Western North Carolina
Hot spot
Asheville / Western North Carolina
Neighbourhood gem
Asheville / Western North Carolina
Great for outdoor dining
Asheville / Western North Carolina
Lively
Asheville / Western North Carolina
American
Flat Rock / Hendersonville
Most Booked

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

The Purple Onion in Saluda, NC, is a true "gem" with "amazing farm to table food" and an "eclectic and delicious" menu catering to all dietary needs. Guests rave about the "wonderful music venue," "exceptional service," and "incredible ambience." Whether enjoying the patio or live music, it's a must-visit!

372 Reviews

L
Laura
Atlanta Metro
29 reviews
vip
5.0
29 reviews
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Amazing crab appetizer! Delicious salmon special and Caesar salad. Just a great night with all the holiday festivities.
Is this helpful?
C
Christin
Charlotte
3 reviews
vip
5.0
3 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great service and ambiance. The food was fresh and the flavors had a lot of depth. The pork chop was phenomenal! And we recommend trying several desserts, if you save room for something sweet.
Is this helpful?
E
Elizabeth
Western NC
17 reviews
5.0
17 reviews
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Excellent as always. The Moroccan spiced salmon was so delicious.
Is this helpful?
T
Tom
Western NC
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on 7 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Our recent Saturday night dinner at the Purple Onion was another outstanding reminder why this space is our favorite! My friend and I shared the bolognese and the salmon special, a great bottle of wine, and fought over a blackberry crumble topped with fresh ice cream. My foodie friend declared that the "salmon is the best I've ever tasted!" The two clinchers on why we love The PO: We were greeted by my friend Chambli Stuber at the front door whose welcome smile made all the difference. Even with a great meal, we were moved by the energy of Underhill Rose - a talented group from AVL whose bright lyrics and blend of tunes made us want to forget where we parked. We chatted up singers Eleanor Underhill before the gig, and Molly Rose Reed afterwards, and found both to be enchanting and clearly professional musicians. They were backed by newbie drummer Mike and upright bassist Gary, both of whom guaranteed all the songs went of without a hitch in tempo. Clearly an exceptional evening at the PO! And - "So Saluda!"
Is this helpful?
J
Jon
Nashville
4 reviews
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on 6 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Good whiskey, delicious pizza, great music from Newfound Gap!
Is this helpful?
C
Chuck
Pittsburgh
12 reviews
5.0
12 reviews
Dined on 1 December 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Wonderful experience, food and music. The server was excellent and all in all this is one of the best restaurants in WNC
Is this helpful?
R
Richard
Western NC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 28 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Food was great, service even better. One pizza was good, just not quite what we wanted. They took it off the bill without us even asking. Will be back.
Is this helpful?
M
Mike
Charleston
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on 17 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We ate there and enjoyed a concert. Food was great and we had a great time
Is this helpful?
D
Dirk
Charlotte
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on 15 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
I had business partners visiting from out of town, and we had a great experience. Thank you!
Is this helpful?
a
ashley
Western NC
22 reviews
vip
5.0
22 reviews
Dined on 15 November 2024
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
Always wonderful. I had the braised pork special followed by my favorite crème brûlée
Is this helpful?

FAQs

The Purple Onion offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (828) 749-1179.

The Purple Onion is rated 4.8 stars by 372 OpenTable diners.