If you’re hungry in Zebulon, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more surprising and satisfying food scene than that of Highland Crossing. This friendly neighborhood, just minutes from downtown Zebulon and nestled around the hub of Pearces Road and Green Pace Road, punches well above its weight in culinary charm. Locals and visitors alike delight in both big-name favorites and unassuming hidden gems that make dining here an adventure. From smokey southern barbecue to morning pastries, Highland Crossing is proof that amazing food can flourish in the heart of small-town North Carolina.
Southern Comfort and Finger-Licking BBQ
- Bubba’s Smokehouse Grill (Pearces Rd & Green Pace Rd)
If you’re after authentic North Carolina barbecue, Bubba’s Smokehouse Grill is the undeniable anchor of Highland Crossing’s dining scene. Family-owned and operated, this down-home spot fills the block with the irresistible aroma of hickory smoke. House specialties include pulled pork sandwiches overflowing with tangy house-made slaw and slow-cooked ribs that practically fall off the bone. Don’t skip their house BBQ sauces—especially the spicy sweet Carolina gold that locals bottle up to take home. Prices are modest, most entrées between $9 and $14, and the portions are generous, making this a popular dinner destination for families.
- Miss Hattie’s Southern Kitchen
Hidden in plain sight just off Green Pace Road, Miss Hattie’s brings soul food classics into Highland Crossing’s culinary fold. Expect fried chicken that snaps under your fork, creamy macaroni and cheese, and collard greens seasoned just right. Miss Hattie herself often greets guests and her banana pudding, made fresh daily, is legendary across Zebulon. It’s comfort food with hospitality to match, where a hearty meal rarely sets you back more than $12.
Café Culture: Cozy Corners and Local Lattes
- The Highland Bean (Corner of Highland Crossing Dr & Pearces Rd)
No neighborhood is complete without a welcoming spot for coffee lovers. The Highland Bean is a café that doubles as a social hub—think mismatched mugs, vintage décor, and the warm scent of house-roasted beans. Aside from classic espresso drinks, there’s a small menu of breakfast sandwiches (the bacon gouda biscuit is a local fave) and rotating seasonal pastries. Their outdoor patio is perfect for a slow Saturday morning, with most drinks under $5 and bakery treats rarely over $4.
- Sweet Pea Bakery
Just a few blocks from Highland Crossing Dr., Sweet Pea Bakery is the go-to for scratch-baked cakes, flaky croissants, and fresh sourdough. The bakery’s peach hand pies, a nod to Zebulon’s agricultural roots, sell out by noon most days—so get there early! They also offer gluten-free and vegan options, making it a safe haven for those with dietary preferences. Don’t miss their Saturday morning cinnamon rolls—a neighborhood tradition.
International Flavors: Global Tastes Close to Home
- Casa del Sabor Food Truck
Parked at the intersection of Pearces Rd and Highland Crossing Dr. most weekends, Casa del Sabor brings the zest of Latin street food right to Highland Crossing. Tacos come loaded with everything from carne asada to grilled shrimp—don’t forget the roasted tomatillo salsa. Offerings like elote (Mexican street corn) and churros make this a perfect pick for anyone craving bold flavors at wallet-friendly prices (most menu items $3–$8).
- Dragon Wok Express
Craving takeout? Locals rave about Dragon Wok Express, tucked away in the Highland Crossing Marketplace. Their General Tso’s chicken hits all the sweet, spicy, and crispy notes, while steamed dumplings fly off the menu. Beyond Chinese staples, they offer Thai-inspired curries and classic noodle dishes. Fast service, affordable lunch specials (around $8–$10), and friendly staff make this a reliable weeknight option.
Sweet Treats & Dessert Destinations
- Nana’s Creamery
Perfect for cooling off on NC’s warm afternoons, Nana’s Creamery scoops out homemade ice cream at the edge of the neighborhood. Try the seasonal blackberry cobbler ice cream or the decadent salted caramel. If you’re in for a nostalgic treat, the banana splits here are a crowd-pleaser (and big enough to share). Cup or cone, prices hover around $4–$6.
- Doughbird Donuts
You haven’t experienced Highland Crossing in the morning until you’ve grabbed a box from Doughbird Donuts. The menu ranges from simple glazed to creative spins like maple-bacon or blueberry-lavender. Opening early and often selling out by 10 a.m., it’s a sweet reward for early risers exploring the area.
Hidden Gems and Traditions
- The Porch at Harper’s
Blink and you’ll miss it! Tucked behind a hardware store near the neighborhood entrance, The Porch at Harper’s is a one-of-a-kind gathering spot serving up daily lunch plates and locally sourced sandwiches. Their Friday “Fish Fry” is a weekly tradition, bringing in a steady stream of locals for crispy catfish, hush puppies, and fresh-cut fries.
- Saturday Farmers’ Market (Seasonal, Pearces Rd Pavilion)
While not a restaurant, the Highland Crossing Farmers’ Market is a local food tradition. Every Saturday morning during the summer, vendors line the Pearces Rd Pavilion offering everything from artisanal cheeses to fresh honey and baked breads. Food trucks often set up, and sampling your way from stand to stand is a delicious way to experience the neighborhood’s homegrown talent.
Why Highland Crossing’s Food Scene Shines
What makes Highland Crossing the go-to in Zebulon for foodies is its unique blend of southern roots, international curiosity, and neighborly vibe. Here, restaurants aren’t just places to eat—they’re part of the community fabric. Whether you’re chasing down a food truck for tacos, sipping a slow coffee at the Highland Bean, or chatting with Miss Hattie over dessert, you’ll find that Highland Crossing’s eateries offer more than just great meals: they serve up a sense of place.
Hungry yet? The best way to explore this neighborhood’s food scene is to stroll down Pearces Road, take a seat wherever beckons, and taste all the flavors Highland Crossing has to offer. Bon appétit, Zebulon!