Southern Pines is known for its charming streets, towering pines, and warm community spirit. Nestled just northwest of downtown and accessible from the intersection of Central Drive and Morganton Road lies Hyland Hills, a leafy neighborhood with a vibrant—but sometimes under-the-radar—food scene. For locals and visitors alike, Hyland Hills surprises with a dynamic mix of standout restaurants, cozy cafés, creative bakeries, and inspiring food trucks, blending Southern tradition with fresh culinary energy. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best places to eat in Hyland Hills, from quick weekday bites to unforgettable special-occasion meals.
Eating Your Way Down Central Drive: The Neighborhood’s Culinary Spine
The heart of dining in Hyland Hills pulses along Central Drive and its neighboring streets, where you’ll find everything from rustic family diners to lively international spots.
- The Sly Fox Pub (795 SW Broad St, just south of Hyland Hills)
One of the area’s enduring favorites, The Sly Fox is a gastropub known for its warm, wood-accented interior and creative English-inspired fare. Their Scotch eggs, crisp fish and chips, and decadent sticky toffee pudding draw regulars from across Moore County. Price range: $10-$25 per entrée. Their rotating craft beer taps often feature Southern Pines’ own brews. Best for: casual dinners, lively Fridays, or a cozy corner on a chilly day.
- Casa Mexicana (1240 Central Dr)
Locals rave about the authentic flavors at Casa Mexicana, a festive, family-run cantina famous for generous portions and cheery, colorful décor. Crowd favorites include sizzling fajitas, chori-pollo, and their creamy horchata. Margaritas are a must! Price range: $10-$20. Best for: family nights and group gatherings.
- Clean Eatz Southern Pines (10564 US 15-501 Hwy, just east of Hyland Hills)
If you’re in the mood for healthy, hearty bowls and wraps, Clean Eatz is the go-to. Build-your-own options appeal to vegetarians and meal-preppers, and smoothies here win high marks for post workout fuel. Price range: $8-$15. Best for: mindful lunches and easy meal pickups.
Sweet Spots and Caffeine Corners
Whether you’re an early riser or need that late-afternoon pick-me-up, these Hyland Hills bakeries and cafés never disappoint.
- Sunrise Theater Café (250 NW Broad St, near Central Dr)
Tucked within the historic Sunrise Theater, this artsy café is a neighborhood favorite for locally roasted coffee, buttery scones, and decadent brownies. Cozy up with a cappuccino before catching a classic film or enjoy their shaded patio on mild days. Price range: $3-$10. Hidden gem: Their seasonal quiches and lemon-lavender cupcakes go fast.
- Thyme & Place Cafe (155 Hall Ave, a short stroll off Central Dr)
This petite bistro is a brunch lover’s dream, serving up fluffy omelets, towering pancakes, and artisan sandwiches. Their maple bacon scones are legendary, and the chai lattes are perfectly spiced. Price range: $5-$15. Perfect for: weekend catch-ups or solo coffee dates.
- The Bakehouse at Hyland Hills
Located just off Morganton Road, The Bakehouse is a true neighborhood treasure. Their croissants have devoted fans, and you can’t beat the chocolate chip cookies or rich coffee cake. Swing by for fresh breads on Saturday mornings (arrive early—they sell out!). Price range: $2-$7.
Don’t Miss the Food Trucks
The Hyland Hills food truck scene is low-key but mighty. Summer evenings often see a parade of local favorites posted outside the Hyland Hills Park or along Central Drive.
- Big Lee’s BBQ
Known for slow-cooked brisket and smoky pulled pork sandwiches, Big Lee’s is a staple at neighborhood block parties. Don’t overlook the mac-and-cheese and tangy slaw, either. Price range: $6-$12. Show up early or expect to wait—these folks attract a line!
- Tacos Adelitas
This cheerful, family-run taco truck is famous for al pastor and birria tacos, topped with house-made salsas. They’re usually found parked at the southeast end of Central Dr on Thursdays and Fridays. Price range: $3 per taco, $8 combo. Their agua frescas are especially refreshing after a round of golf nearby.
International Flavor: A World of Taste without Leaving the Neighborhood
Diversity is a huge part of what makes Hyland Hills’ food scene shine. From Mediterranean to Asian fusion, travelers and locals alike can eat globally without leaving Southern Pines.
- Bistro Roman (10785 US 15-501 S, just north of Hyland Hills)
This sleek modern bistro combines classic French technique with Southern ingredients. Must-try dish: the duck confit. Their rotating wine list regularly features hidden French gems. Price range: $18-$35 per entrée—ideal for special occasions or date nights.
- Pho House Southern Pines (210 Central Dr)
This cozy Vietnamese eatery delivers fragrant, steaming bowls of pho, crisp spring rolls, and sweet boba teas. The brisket pho is comfort in a bowl, and the prices—$9-$15—make this a top pick for budget-friendly, flavor-packed dinners.
Classic Southern Comforts & Local Traditions
Hyland Hills still honors its Sandhills roots with local diners and classic Southern joints that feel like stepping into your grandma's kitchen.
- Pinehurst Track Restaurant (200 Beulah Hill Rd S, a few minutes from Hyland Hills)
Legendary for early breakfast and hearty lunch plates—think fluffy biscuits, sausage gravy, and crisp hash browns. Their fried chicken and rotating “meat-and-three” lunches only add to the local lore. Price range: $7-$14.
- Mama’s Kitchen (1104 Central Dr)
Beloved by longtime residents, Mama’s keeps it real with scratch-made pies, fried green tomatoes, and daily blue-plate specials under $12. Regulars swear by the banana pudding.
Hidden Gems Worth the Extra Block
- The Greenhouse Salad Bar (1520 Central Dr, near the Central Dr/Morganton Rd hub)
An underrated spot for build-your-own salads, with more than 25 fresh toppings, house-made dressings, and a surprisingly great cup of chili. Price range: $7-$13.
- Ollie’s Bites and Brews (near Hyland Hills Park)
Laid-back and family-friendly, Ollie’s is known for local brews and gourmet sliders, plus trivia nights and food truck collabs outside. Their rotating menu keeps things interesting—try the pimento cheese burger when it pops up.
Final Bites and Takeaways
Whether you’re new to Hyland Hills or a long-time local, this neighborhood is a rising star on Southern Pines’ culinary map. It’s the kind of place where there’s always a new hidden gem to discover, old favorites to revisit, or a neighbor willing to recommend a pie, a pint, or a taco. Grab your appetite and let Hyland Hills surprise you—one delicious bite at a time.