Saying Goodbye to an Icon: The Red Onion Cafe's 46-Year Run in Boone Ends

Boone --  For generations, The Red Onion Cafe was more than just a restaurant in Boone; it was a feeling. A comforting constant nestled right across from Appalachian State University, its familiar facade welcomed hungry students, chatting professors, and local families alike for 46 years.

But the kitchen has gone quiet, and the doors are now closed. The Red Onion served its final customers on Monday, May 19, 2025, after announcing the difficult news just a few days prior on Friday, May 16th.

Stepping into The Red Onion often felt like coming home. The air always seemed to hum with friendly energy, a blend of lively conversation and the delicious smells of their diverse menu. From that legendary Artichoke Dip that was a must-order appetizer, to satisfying burgers, comforting soups, fresh salads, and their famous "Horace Cookie" – a blond brownie that was pure joy – the food was as much a part of the experience as the place itself. It was the kind of spot where quick lunches turned into longer chats and where countless memories were made over shared meals.

Being so close to ASU, The Red Onion became an unofficial extension of the campus. It was the backdrop for first dates, study breaks fueled by coffee and comfort food, and celebratory dinners after big games. It was woven into the rhythm of student life, a reliable presence through changing semesters and graduating classes.

In their farewell message, the folks behind The Red Onion spoke simply of a "difficult decision" after so many years. They poured out gratitude for the nearly five decades of support from the community, their dedicated staff, and every single person who walked through their doors. They acknowledged that while the physical place is closing, the memories created there will certainly linger.

News of the closure has rippled through Boone, sparking a wave of nostalgia online and in conversations around town. People are sharing their personal stories – first jobs, favorite booths, and the dishes they'll miss most. It's clear that The Red Onion was deeply embedded in the heart of this mountain town, and its absence will be felt by many. It wasn't just a business; it was a piece of Boone's story.

WNCTimes

Image: WNCTimes