About This Spot

Rufus' Restaurant welcomes you like a treasured neighborhood discovery—an unassuming American eatery where the quiet hum of conversation and the comforting aroma of home-style cooking set the tone from the moment you step inside. Nestled on Main Street in the small town of Goldston, this is a place where time slows down just enough for a genuine pause, and every visit feels like reconnecting with a familiar gathering spot.

The atmosphere is warm and steady, with a pace that invites you to linger over a meal without rush. The friendly staff contribute to a sense of heartfelt hospitality that hints at years of community stories shared over plates of classic Southern fare. It’s the kind of spot where locals drop by for the morning egg biscuit that’s soft enough to melt in your mouth, or come back hungry for the Rufus Burger—rich, juicy, and layered with familiar flavors that feel both indulgent and uncomplicated.

There’s a thoughtful simplicity to the menu that reflects the rhythm of country cooking. From crispy hushpuppies and tender chicken plates to flavorful sides like creamy mac and cheese and a slaw that manages to strike just the right balance between crunchy and tangy, each dish feels like a small celebration of local soul. And while the setting is straightforward, the care in every dish reveals an attention to detail that turns everyday ingredients into memorable moments.

What truly sets Rufus' apart is the unspoken connection between kitchen, staff, and guests—a gentle reminder that food serves as a bridge to community and comfort. Whether you’re sitting down for a casual lunch or grabbing breakfast to-go on the way to an adventure, the experience here roots you in a slower, kinder way of sharing a meal.

What’s Available Here

  • IconTakeaway
  • IconDine-in
  • IconDelivery
  • IconFast service
  • IconGreat coffee
  • IconGreat tea selection
  • IconServes local specialty
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconSolo dining
  • IconWheelchair-accessible car park
  • IconWheelchair-accessible entrance
  • IconWheelchair-accessible seating
  • IconWheelchair-accessible toilet
  • IconCoffee
  • IconComfort food
  • IconQuick bite
  • IconSmall plates
  • IconBreakfast
  • IconLunch
  • IconDinner
  • IconDessert
  • IconSeating
  • IconTable service
  • IconToilet
  • IconCasual
  • IconCosy
  • IconGroups
  • IconTourists
  • IconAccepts reservations
  • IconDebit cards
  • IconGood for kids
  • IconHigh chairs
  • IconKids' menu
  • IconFree of charge street parking
  • IconFree parking lot
  • IconParking

Location & Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Wednesday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Thursday 06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Friday 06:00 AM - 08:00 PM
Saturday 06:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Sunday Closed

Guest Reviews

Kelly Umstead 10 Jan 2026

We stopped here on our way to the Zooland Campground. A great little place. No fills, but very friendly staff and the food was delicious. If you like slaw you must get some here, so yummy! If we are in the area again we will definitely go back!

Amykate * 01 Jan 2026

Country Cooking, Hometown, Good Food! We had the omelet with hashbrowns and toast. Good country food! Staff was friendly! Well worth the trip. Goldston is a small small town but man the food was good! Gonna have to go back and try the Famous Rufus burger!

Daniel Dias 27 Nov 2025

Nice small dinner. Great service, nice atmosphere, and good food. It serves normal Southern grill food: hamburgers, hotdogs, NC barbecue, etc.

Ashley Mullins 19 Nov 2025

Whom ever the cook was that made my burger omg you did it today that was THE BEST BURGER I’ve ever had fully loaded and beyond juicy you guys rock thank you !!!!!!

Yasmin Cervantes 04 Nov 2025

Came here for takeout breakfast and I was so impressed! The egg biscuit was so soft and the hash browns were so good. What was even more impressive was the customer service and care! I can tell there is so much history and love in this diner.

torie quismundo 19 Oct 2025

What an awesome hometown experience! We drove through this town and decided to stop for lunch. The employees were so sweet. It was NOT fancy but it was fun. I gotta say the restroom did give me a laugh. It said it was clean and it was ish? We got the cheeseburger fries and a drink. For two people the lunch was less than $20.

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