Don and Kim Cason
At The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant, a peaceful respite tucked in Hickory Nut Gorge awaits you. Withstanding the test of time, The Esmeralda will celebrate its 125-year anniversary in 2017. “Our ultimate goal is to satisfy the guest,” says Kim Cason, co-owner with husband Don. Together, they have more than two decades of experience in the hospitality management industry. They fell in love with the area and its history and purchased the property in 2014. From corporate retreats to a couple’s getaway, The Esmeralda caters to everyone.
Dining at the restaurant is available to the public. Chef Polo Alonso, who joined the team in January, says he incorporates a southern flair with his western background. Ask about reserving The Chef’s Table for a special wine pairing dinner for up to eight.
After a fire burned The Esmeralda to the ground in 1997, the community came together and helped with the rebuilding and, in the process, recaptured its historic character. (The hardwood gym floor Patrick Swayze danced on in Dirty Dancing was donated for the foyer.) Available to guests are 14 rooms in the main inn plus four private cabins for larger groups.
Dinner reservations are recommended. Lunch resumes April 1. The Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant is located at 910 Main Street in Chimney Rock, near Lake Lure. For more information, visit theesmeralda.com or call 828.625.2999 or 888.897.2999.
