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| - In all honesty, Hilltop's a diamond-in-the-rough, gem-in-the-middle-of-nowhere, oasis-in-the-restaurant-desert-that-is-the-Monroe/Wingate-border sort of restaurant. Not only are its exterior façade, interior décor, and waitstaff surprisingly pleasing [and dare I say random for a place so far removed from Indian Trail and Matthews], Hilltop substantiates itself with quality Southern cuisine, a bustling-yet-kicked-back atmosphere, and overall service that exemplifies Southern hospitality. Monroe/Wingate residents ought be grateful for this eatery nestled right in their backyard.
A pharmacy school student at Wingate University myself, I've now frequented Hilltop for all of breakfast, lunch and dinner, well as any alcohol wants/needs. Ordering from their menu (and a hefty one at that!) is always available, but it's worth noting that an EXCELLENT spread is offered with their breakfast buffet and then later with their lunch/dinner one. And as if Hilltop's prices weren't already a steal, daily specials are highlighted both as you walk in and atop your menu. Whatever you decide, it's rare to leave disappointed -- food taste and quality are excellent and portion sizes more than enough.
Accommodations include 5 different main dining areas -- 1 of which can be partitioned off accordingly, another which is an upstairs balcony, and yet another that includes stools at their open-faced kitchen -- a large bar, and even a side patio. Moreover, a private meeting room is available upon reservation. Past the bar and down a staircase is situated yet another hangout area, nicely separated from the bulk of the restaurant.
FYI... (1) there's free WiFi -- it's just extremely unreliable especially during peak rushes; (2) inform the host/hostess if TV seating is preferred; (3) despite opposing reviews, the level of care and attentiveness shown to my party by Hilltop's staff/management has ALWAYS exceeded expectations; (4) take advantage of their VERY wallet-friendly deals for breakfast/lunch -- feel free to ask your server what the kitchen can whip up for you; (5) give the weekend seafood buffet a go; (6) abundant private parking; (7) ideal for students -- discounts with ID, free + unlimited coffee refills, large bar w/ continuous sports coverage, catering services, etc.
Rating specifics (i.e. 1-5, low-high)...
- Overall recommendation = 4.75
- Food taste and quality = 4.75
- Portion size = 5
- Price = 4.5
- Atmosphere = 5+
- General service = 4.25
- Waitstaff = 4.75
- Location = 5
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