Dooley’s Tavern and Grill

For one of the most welcoming downtown stops in Wilkesboro, NC, Dooley’s Tavern and Grill is a real local favorite. Set in the historic heart of Wilkes County, this casual tavern and grill combines classic American comfort food with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The name itself is a nod to the area’s most famous folk legend — Tom Dooley, the haunting figure at the center of one of America’s most beloved folk ballads — giving the tavern a quietly distinctive sense of place. Click on the pictures below to get a feel for the tavern before you go — or to relive the visit after.

A Downtown Wilkesboro Favorite

Dooley’s Tavern and Grill is the kind of spot that captures the casual, neighborly feel of downtown Wilkesboro at its best. The atmosphere is laid-back and unpretentious, the service is warm, and the kitchen turns out a satisfying menu of comfort classics. The tavern draws a steady mix of locals who treat it as a regular hangout, downtown visitors stopping in for a bite, and race fans on their way to or from events at the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway.

When the weather cooperates, outdoor seating is available — a nice option for enjoying the downtown atmosphere over a slow meal.

A Menu Built on Classics

The menu at Dooley’s centers on classic American tavern fare — Philly cheesesteaks, slow-roasted roast beef sandwiches, crispy wings, and custom burgers among the most popular options. A few signature items stand out: the house-made pimento cheese dip is a favorite among locals, and the New York-style cheesecake has earned a loyal following of its own. Gluten-free options are available across much of the menu, making Dooley’s a welcoming option for visitors with dietary restrictions.

Good to Know

Menu: Classic American tavern fare — cheesesteaks, sandwiches, wings, and burgers, plus house-made pimento cheese dip and New York-style cheesecake
Dietary options: Gluten-free choices available across much of the menu
Outdoor seating available in good weather
Best for: Locals, downtown visitors, race fans on their way to or from North Wilkesboro Speedway
Atmosphere: Casual, laid-back, family-friendly
Name origin: A nod to the local Tom Dooley folk legend
Pair with: A visit to TwoBoros Brewery Pizzeria elsewhere in downtown, or a day at the nearby W. Kerr Scott Reservoir
Located in downtown Wilkesboro, NC

A Wilkesboro Highlight

Dooley’s Tavern and Grill is the kind of place that anchors a downtown — a warm, casual spot where locals and visitors alike can settle in for a real meal and a real sense of community. The food is satisfying, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the small details — from the Tom Dooley name tribute to the welcoming outdoor seating — give the tavern a distinct sense of place. Whether you’re stopping in after a downtown stroll, fueling up before exploring the broader Wilkes County outdoors, or settling in for a casual evening with friends, Dooley’s is one of the most reliably enjoyable stops you can make in Wilkesboro.