Basil’s is an Italian restaurant in Boone that was inspired by another pasta restaurant in Charlotte, NC. The owner, Patrick Sullivan, would go to a neighborhood place as a child and constantly see people making the food inside. It wasn’t produced by factory machinery but crafted with love on the premises. There was a lot of pride on every plate, and it would be a game-changer for Sullivan in his professional life. He ultimately decided that he wanted to make food of his own and share it with his neighbors.
By the time Patrick Sullivan went to college at Appalachian State in Boone, NC, he was working for Stick Boy Bread Company. At Stick Boy, he noticed the same dedication to quality there as there was at the original pasta place in Charlotte. He figured that a city like Boone, who clearly cared about eating homemade pastries and bread, would love a pasta place too. At first, he offered homemade pasta, but then quickly expanded that to sandwiches, craft beer, and fine wine.
Once he had everything settled and a client base all his own, an opportunity presented itself in the form of additional space. When the place next to his restaurant suddenly emptied out, he mentioned it to a couple of his friends. His conversation was little more than a casual update, but it would turn into the Boonshine Brewing Company. In 2015, the trio poured their first pint of Booneshine IPA and its popularity was near instantaneous. In fact, the location had to be upgraded to a roomier place to account for the demand.
When you’re at Basil’s, we recommend the following:
Meatball Sub
The meatball sub at Basil’s enhances the original version with homemade pork and beef meatballs on a baguette, topped with basil peston, provolone, marinara, and capicola. The additional flavors of the pork and the pesto set off every bite for a memorable meal.
Pesto Chicken Linguine
Strands of pasta, light cream sauce, basil pesto, and perfectly cooked chicken breast are the all-stars of this dish. While it may not contain many ingredients, the quality of each one is enough to take this meal over the top.
Bruschetta
The toasty baguette, basil pesto, fresh mozzarella, and tomato are all topped with a balsamic glaze that sets off the freshness with a tangy zip. This appetizer has a way of getting everyone ready for the main event, particularly when it’s enjoyed with a glass of wine.
Breakfast Sandwich
Basil’s might be known for its homemade pasta, but they also serve a mean brunch on Sundays. This dish is ham or bacon with an egg, avocado, provolone cheese, balsamic vinaigrette, and arugula between two halves of an English muffin. It’s just enough Italian flavor to make for a real eye-opener in the morning, and it comes with a side of home fries for extra sustenance.
Goat Cheese Mac
The goat cheese cream sauce of this dish might be on the rich side, but the asparagus and sundried tomatoes are there to even it out. The pasta of the day paired with the tart flavors of the goat cheese is an adult take on this childhood favorite dish that you won’t soon forget.
This place is beloved by locals, but tourists in Boone are just as impressed by the fresh ingredients and the quality of every dish. It’s a testament to Sullivan’s dream and his commitment to recreating a childhood experience in Charlotte.
Insider Tips:
-There are specials on wine, beer, and cocktails on every day of the week, so take advantage when you’re there.
-There used to be a brewery called Booneshine next door to Basil’s, but it had to be moved to a larger place.
-The restaurant has different menus for lunch and dinner. Basil’s also offers a special Sunday brunch menu.
-There are pinball machines for anyone who fancies a game!