Where to eat and drink in Asheville – a definitive guide!
OKAY. This post has been a LONG time coming. Like – I’ve had it saved in my drafts for a year now. Oops.
Seriously though, if I had a dollar for every time I’ve received a message, text, or comment along the lines of “Hey Clara!! Me and ______ are coming to Asheville for a weekend trip and wanted to know the best places to eat and what to do!”, I could probably quit work. I’m not complaining though, because after receiving so many requests over the last two years, I’ve come to greatly appreciate just how fortunate I am to live in such a quirky little destination town and have really started to embrace it.
So, after about the 10th request, I decided to create and save a note on my phone that I could effortlessly copy and paste into each new message that streamed in. Efficient, but not very personal. I found that I couldn’t fully describe some of my favorite places as much as they deserved, so I decided to take it one step further by transferring the contents of that note into a full-fledged blog post for an even more efficient and comprehensive list.
Without further adieu, I present to you my definitive guide on “Where to Eat and Drink in Asheville”, along with additional links to more lists and recommendations that I think are useful. Most of the spots on the list are places that I’ve either personally visited, or places that I’ve heard rave reviews about that I hope to visit soon. I included additional comments and/or recommendations for some of my most favorite spots. As a whole, the food scene in Asheville is BOOMING right now, so expect edits/updates as things change and new spaces pop up! Seriously, new restaurants open weekly. It’s crazy.
Note: places denoted with * indicate my absolute favorite spots, and in parenthesis you’ll find the general area of town where each is located.
BRUNCH:
Biscuit Head* – Without a doubt one of the most popular breakfast/brunch places in Asheville, but with good reason. Even as a “local”, I will take pretty much everyone here. The coconut curry collards or the ever changing bacon of the day are my favorite sides, and I also LOVE the sweet potato chai butter from the jam + jelly bar. Yes, they have a whole jam + jelly bar full of over 20 different options, all made in-house! I usually opt for the half or full breakfast with scrambled eggs, a HUGE biscuit (they also have a gluten free biscuit that is just as good!), and 1 or 2 sides, but their specialty sandwiches are no joke! Be prepared to wait (potentially in the cold), but rest assured it’s worth it. The wait usually picks up around 9 on the weekends, so if you’re an early riser, the wait is minimal! I prefer the one on Haywood Road – better atmosphere, in my opinion! (West Asheville, Biltmore Ave, South Asheville)
Bimberibon* – YALL, this place is REVOLUTIONARY. I’ve had the chance to chat with the owner, and after hearing about the heart and passion behind why he opened this place, I have to restrain myself from going every day. While it isn’t heavily advertised, it’s actually a completely gluten-free facility, and they also refrain from using refined sugars and unhealthy oils. Just real, feel good food. There’s a heavy focus on vegetables and plants (as I feel it should be!), but even meat eaters can find something on the menu they’ll enjoy (like a grass fed lamb burger). The atmosphere is relaxed and personable, and the food is FRESH. I absolutely love the breakfast menu, but they also serve an amazing lunch and dinner menu! My breakfast and brunch pics are the Yam Hot Bowl and the Breakfast Sandwich. (West Asheville)
Sunny Point Cafe – I can’t believe that I had lived in Asheville for two years before finally making it to this place! You’ll hear locals and tourists alike rave about it, with good reason. Like Biscuit Head, there WILL be a wait (probably over an hour…). However, not only is the wait worth it, but they also offer coffee, beverages and live music while you wait! I’ve been for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner, and enjoyed every meal! My breakfast go-to is the Breakfast Salad, but if you’re in the mood for sweet, the Banana Pancakes are equally delicious! Just make sure you get a side of their bacon, because it is life-changing. (West Asheville)
Taco Billy* – My favorite tacos in Asheville, hands down. The tacos are packed with not only flavor, but FOOD, making them probably the best taco deal in town. My top picks: the Support Group (cumin sweet potatoes, pecan and black bean hummus, roasted pepitas, avocado, spinach, and coconut crema on a plantain tortilla) and the Lunch Lady (shredded chicken bathed in traditional Mexican mole, topped with pickled onions and queso fresco, served on a corn tortilla). They serve both breakfast tacos and regular tacos, but they’re only open until 3! (West Asheville)
Green Sage Cafe – When I think of Green Sage, some words that come to mind are fresh, local, and vegetable-heavy — ha! Seriously though, I always feel like the epitome of health after I walk out of here. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, and have super fresh juices and smoothies as well. 3 different locations. (Downtown, West Asheville, South Asheville)
Over Easy Cafe – located downtown with a quirky vibe in a small space (read as: there will be a wait), making it feel a little extra cozy and personal. Not usually my go-to because I don’t like fighting downtown parking, but if you’re in that neck of the woods it’s a great option! (Downtown)
Vortex Doughnuts – Okay disclaimer, I’m not usually a huge donut fan, but this place has converted me. They have seasonal flavors as well as the classics, along with some vegan options! And, you can’t have donuts without coffee, right?? They brew 1000 Faces, a company out of my college town, Athens, GA! (Downtown).
Other Stops:
Early Girl Eatery (Downtown)
OWL Bakery (West Asheville)
Corner Kitchen (Biltmore Village)
Well Bred (Biltmore Village)
Liberty House Cafe (North Asheville)
LUNCH/CASUAL DINNER
Bimberibon* – we’ve already discussed my infatuation with this place for breakfast, but it also makes a great lunch stop, or casual dinner (no reservations needed, just walk in). You order at the counter then seat yourself and hang as long as you want. Menus rotate with the seasons, so you won’t always see the same thing on the menu. Bonus: they also have a bar menu with wine, beer, and fun cocktails, as well as desserts made in house (again, all gluten free!), and a grab and go case! They really do have it all!
Laughing Seed Cafe* – This place is vegetarian/vegan, but don’t knock it just yet – it’s a perfect downtown spot for a light and refreshing lunch! I frequent it, and I almost always get the Dragon Bowl (arugula, cauliflower “rice,” seasonal raw veggies, house made purple kraut and kimchi, avocado, and sunflower-beet pâté, topped with pumpkin and sunflower seeds). I love the outdoor seating during the summer and fall but I will warn you though, if you go in the warmer months, some of the waiters miiiiight not be wearing deodorant…. (Downtown)
Nine Mile* – Please go here, PLEASE!! Easily ranks in my top 4 places. Caribbean inspired cuisine that is packed with flavor – I’ve never gotten a dish I didn’t like. My favorite is the Mayfield Falls (grilled wild-caught mahi mahi topped with mango jicama mint salsa with sautéed bell peppers, & carrots in a creamy, dairy-free, ginger, coconut sauce. Tossed with linguine & spring onions or with basmati rice.) And bonus!! You can sub in zucchini noodles in place of the usual pasta!! I can stuff my face like i’m about to go into hibernation and still leave without feeling like I need to be wheeled out. I prefer the Haywood Road (West Asheville) location. (West Asheville, North Asheville)
Wicked Weed – I always, ALWAYS bring my friends here. The black bean burger with pimento cheese and pickled okra is my standard, but they always have awesome salad options, like below. It’s a good mix of locals and tourists, but a little heavier on the tourists. Indoor and outdoor seating, and complimentary pretzels are involved 🙂 (Downtown)
Salsa’s * – Definitely one of my top 4 picks. This little Jamaican-Caribbean spot might appear unsuspecting, but the dishes are packed with flavor and the portions are huge! A lot of times I’ll go and split a full meal with someone, or take half to-go for lunch the next day. I mean – LOOK AT THIS CAULDRON OF FOOD!!??? (Downtown)
Haywood Common: this place opened up in 2018, and I’m so happy to see it still going strong! It’s a farm to table place that serves lunch and dinner, along with brunch! The menu changes seasonally and includes small plates, salads, sandwiches, some bigger main entrees, and dessert! Great drink menu as well 😉 And connected to them on the backside is The Whale, which is a craft beer bar with some great outdoor patio seating. (West Asheville).
Rosetta’s Kitchen & Buchi Bar – this place is a kombucha bar & vegan food restaurant. I get a flight of locally-brewed kombucha (Yes, a flight of kombucha!!) every time I go, and the Tempeh Reuben was surprisingly very good (I subbed in avocado). (Downtown)
Milk & Honey: a gem nestled in South Asheville, with a menu abundant in fresh, local organic produce and pasture raised, free range animal protein. I always get the Market Green Salad, but they also have great sandwiches, toasts, juices, smoothies and teas. Only open 9-4, so it’s best for breakfast or lunch! (South Asheville)
Buxton Hall BBQ – voted 9th best new restaurant in America by Bon Appetit, I’ve been two or three times and have enjoyed it every time. I’m not too picky when it comes to BBQ (mustard vs vinegar based?? I have no clue), but this was some of the best BBQ I’ve ever had, and the sides are just as noteworthy as the BBQ. Crispy brussels, tangy and spicy collards, and even a kale/apple/avocado salad! Not to mention the atmosphere – it almost has this cool industrial, warehouse feel. Will likely be a wait, but you can put your name down and grab a beer at Catawba right beside it while you wait 🙂 (Downtown)
12 Bones: Word on the street is that Obama’s have been here. Well, I’VE also been here, and I love it! They’ve got some odd hours of operation (it’s best to check their website), but they just opened a prime new location in the River Arts District that’s attached the Wedge Brewery! I love their BBQ just as much as Buxton Hall’s, but the atmosphere at 12 Bones is a bit more relaxed and casual, making it a perfect midday pitstop. (River Arts District, South Asheville)
Bonfire BBQ – I’d argue their BBQ is just as good, but the atmosphere and setting are a little more tailored to the locals. (West Asheville)
Rankin Vault: This is a little spot in downtown that has been voted the best burger in Asheville! What’s on this “best burger”? Local grass fed Hickory Nut Gap ground beef, bacon, white cheddar, red onion, arugula and spicy mayo. While I personally haven’t ordered it yet, I do enjoy their Basic Burger! Love that it’s served with arugula and red onion; I usually get it with a side of the arugula salad, or their tots…because, who doesn’t love tots??? (Downtown)
Blue Dream Curry House – I loved this place for a good ol’ authentic curry dish! Great price, great flavor. Not super big on the atmosphere, but you win some, you lose some. (Downtown)
Pizzamind – This is a relatively new pizza place in West Asheville. I’m not one to crave pizza (I know, am I human?), but every time I pass it during my runs, I’m tempted to detour and grab a pizza for the jog home. It always smells amazing, and the pizza truly is great (and they’ve got gluten-free crust!). Bonus: they open up two huge garage windows in warmer weather months! (West Asheville)
White Duck Taco Shop – Tacos! White Duck has nailed down some great flavor combinations. My favorites are the fish, duck, and jerk chicken tacos. I prefer the River Arts District location to the one downtown. (West Asheville, South Asheville, Downtown)
WALK – WALK is a pretty cool spot in West Asheville for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Not a place I visit often, but I love the open garage doors in warmer months. This reminds me more of a local, neighborhood restaurant. (West Asheville)
Cantina – This was one of the first places that I went to when I moved to the area. Located in Biltmore Village, we sat on the patio and had a fun time watching people walk by between shopping and dinner. I love the grilled romaine salad! (Biltmore Village)
Zia Taqueria: I like this place for a casual dinner spot, located right by The Whale and The Golden Pineapple in West Asheville. Good selection of tacos with great flavor, served on corn tortillas. Indoor and outdoor seating, and you can either sit down and be served, or order at the bar and seat yourself! (West Asheville)
Taco Temple – Okay now this is such a cute little restaurant situated just a bit above downtown with both patio and indoor seating. I’ve had a few of the tacos and the salad, and loved both! (North Asheville)
Gan Shan West: my first experience with authentic ramen, and it didn’t disappoint! For those that are gluten free, they DO have a gluten free rice noodle option! Super quirky spot with funky wallpaper and décor. You order at the counter and have them bring your food to you. (West Asheville).
FANCIER DINNER SPOTS:
Limones**** – If you know you’ll be making a trip to Asheville, go ahead and book a reservation to Limones, months in advance. Thank me later. However, even if you don’t manage to get reservations, you can walk in and sit at the bar (and be served food!) if seats are open! I’ve had success a handful of times with this method 🙂 I just went here for the first time a little over a month ago (when this initial post was published in 2017!), and it was one of the dreamiest meals and experiences I’ve had since moving here. My friend and I shared the lobster nachos (below) as an appetizer before we both got some of the most flavorful enchiladas. I also love that everything was so colorful! Not to mention you get a complimentary truffle at the end of the meal. (Downtown)
Posana – certified completely gluten-free, locally sourced, and AMAZING food. I’ve only been once, and I’m itching to go back soon. They’ve also got what looks like a stacked brunch menu — and, judging by what my coworker says, it’s amazing! (Downtown)
En La Calle – creative and flavorful tapas bar with one of the coolest vibes in Asheville. En La Calle is located right beside Limones, so if you can’t seem to get in there, try here! They are actually owned by the same people 🙂 I always fear I’m going to drop serious bucks at a tapas bar, but walked away with a very reasonable check at the end of the night! My first experience with Mexican street corn was not a let down! (Downtown)
Hemingway’s Cuba: Hemingway’s is a casual rooftop bar and restaurant located on top of Cambria Hotel in downtown. The owner is actually from Havana, so the menu gives a nod to authentic Cuban cuisine. I’ve only eaten there once, but enjoyed the food and would definitely go back to try more. Would make for a great date night or happy hour spot to catch the sunset! (Downtown)
Curate – I’m a sucker for good decor and interior design, and this spot has it – along with great food! Tapas inspired, you’ll want to order multiples and share with the table. This is an Asheville hot spot, so reservations will likely be needed, far in advance! The menu is definitely a little more “out there” than some might imagine, so if you’re a picky eater, this might not be the best spot for ya. (Downtown)
Zambra: great place for farm to table tapas. I’ve been two times and had about 4 or 5 things on the menu and loved it all! Apparently deemed Asheville’s “Most Romantic Dinner”, but I went with my 2 coworkers, so….. (Downtown)
The Market Kitchen – truffle fries. Just do it. They also have half-price wine on Wednesday! (Downtown)
Rhubarb (Downtown)
Storm (Downtown)
DESSERT:
Sunshine Sammies: if you’re in the mood for a handmade ice cream sandwich, this is your stop! They’ve got a great range of ice cream flavors, and 9 different cookie flavors to choose from. Gluten free, dairy free and vegan options are available!! Choose from sammies like the funky monkey (caramelized banana ice cream between chocolate cookies spread with peanut butter OMG) or the s’mores (marshmallow ice cream between graham cracker cookies with hot fudge), OR you can create your own mashup! They’ve also got sundaes and waffle tacos. (Downtown)
The Hop: a local ice cream shop with dairy free, vegan, and traditional ice cream with classic and creative flavors. They even do things like espresso floats, and regularly have fun events like ice cream taco night or doughnuts and ice cream night. My go-to flavor is the vegan salted caramel! (West Asheville)
French Broad Chocolate Lounge: if you go at night on a weekend after 8 or 9 PM, expect to wait in line. I’ve had ice cream and the drinking chocolate, but it’s a great place to go for a post-dinner coffee (if you’re into that) with some chocolate. I expected it to be a little more intimate, but when it’s so packed on the weekends, it feels more like a bar (minus the bar tar and loud music…) (Downtown)
BREWERIES:
Let me give a disclaimer for this category – I’m not a huge/knowledgeable beer fanatic. I either go for the company I’m with, or the atmosphere. I’m not going to touch on the types of beers they offer, because quite honestly I know next to nothing about them. Each brewery has its own personality and quirks that draw people to it. Explore and find which is your favorite! If you are gluten free or don’t enjoy wine, most breweries have cider on tap or in a can!
Burial – a more intimate, smaller-scale brewery located on the South Slope, but one that I feel is quickly gaining traction and attention. Mainly outdoor seating, so if it’s chilly, bring a coat! (Downtown)
Bhramari Brewhouse – they brew their own kombucha – ask them to make a Moscow Mule with it and prepare to be amazed. Also have beer, cocktails and wine. Great patio/outdoor area, but I’m actually partial to their indoor decor. (Downtown)
Green Man – both the older, smaller, much more local location, and the bigger “Mansion” located right beside it; both on the South Slope. I prefer the Mansion, which is more tourist-heavy. (Downtown)
Urban Orchard Cider Co: actually a CIDERY! Great for those that are gluten free or need a little break from the heavy craft beers that this town is saturated with. There’s a location in West Asheville along with one in the South Slope downtown. Personally one of my favs 🙂 (West Asheville, Downtown)
Twin Leaf – board games, life-size jenga, foosball, and a few other tabletop games make this a fun group outing; located on the South Slope. (Downtown)
Funkatorium & Wicked Weed – I’ve already touched on Wicked Weed for the food, but the beer is great too, if you’re into that (they also do mixed drinks and wine). Wicked Weed is always my go-to, and I love the downstairs patio. They’ve even got space heaters for chilly months. Funkatorium is their sister brewery that focuses solely on sour beers – it’s located more on the South Slope, while Wicked is right by the Orange Peel. (Downtown)
Catawba – I honestly love their location, I don’t know why (they’re on the South Slope as well). It’s a big open indoor area, and one of the only places that will have football games playing (if I remember correctly). Located right by Buxton Hall BBQ, so if you get a little hungry, you’re right by one of the best restaurants in town! They’ve also got a spot with outdoor seating. (Downtown)
Banks Ave – a fun get-together place complete with corn hole, darts and pool. More of a “bar” feel. (Downtown)
Wedge – located in the River Arts District. Not a whole lot of seating, but it’s located right by the French Broad River for a fun vibe. They recently opened a second location just a hop, skip and a jump down the road, which is nestled right beside 12 Bones BBQ! (West Asheville/RAD)
New Belgium – located right on the French Broad, with great indoor and outdoor seating – they’ve got a pretty large grassy area where people can hang out. And, since it’s located right on the river, it provides great entertainment watching people float. Super family friendly, food trucks are always parked outside, and live music is frequently on the calendar! (West Asheville/RAD)
Sierra Nevada – otherwise referred to as “the Biltmore of breweries”, it. is. HUGE. Awesome food, awesome atmosphere, and well…I guess awesome beer? Again, not a huge beer fan. BUT, there’s a garden, mini amphitheater, fire pit, and relaxing patio. It’s a little out of the way in South Asheville, but you could easily make it worth the extra drive by making a whole day/afternoon out of it. (South Asheville)
Ben’s Tune Up – great outdoor eating area, often with live music and turns into more of a “bar” at night. (Downtown)
*And, because I know I’ll get asked, there are a handful of “bars” in Asheville, but they all kinda remind me of that token sketchy bar you had in your college town that you would never step foot in with a ten foot pole. My top recommendations are Ben’s Tune Up, Banks Avenue Bar, and Tiger Mountain…in that order. But honestly, don’t waste your time — Asheville has SO much more to offer than cheap well drinks and loud rap music….in my opinion.
COCKTAILS:
Sante Wine Bar and Tap Room: I love that its situated on the back side of downtown, outside of the hustle and bustle. They’ve got both patio and indoor seating. I split a flight of wine with a friend, and it was perfect! And it’s Asheville, so you know they also have beer. (Downtown)
5 Walnut Wine Bar – I like to go here when I want to get away from all the beer and just have a glass of wine. And, I’m a sucker for anywhere with garage windows. Oftentimes they’ve got some really talented artists with live music, and attached is a meat + cheese kitchen! (Downtown)
Sovereign Remedies – another great stop for a slightly sophisticated, upscale bar menu. (Downtown)
The Montford – this is the rooftop bar of the Hyatt hotel, but it has a GREAT view of the mountains, especially at sunset. It will 110% be packed, so get there well in advance of the sunset, order an appetizer, and just enjoy it! Definitely a tourist spot, but with a view like that….I don’t even care. (Downtown)
The Golden Pineapple: a new spot that opened in 2019, located in West Asheville in the same strip as Haywood Common. This place offers a modern spot for craft cocktails, beer and wine. Grab a seat at the bar, a table, or at a counter at the window overlooking Haywood. (West Asheville).
FOOD TRUCKS:
El Kimchi
Melt Your Heart
Gypsy Queen Cuisine
COFFEE/TEA SHOPS:
Odd’s Cafe – probably my favorite, but it might be because it’s closest in vicinity to me. They’ve got everything from plain black coffee, to cold brew, matcha, and even specialty drinks like a honey and lavender latte. They also have a fresh line up of pastries and baked goods. Indoor seating, back patio seating, and two great garage doors they have opened up when weather is nice. (West Asheville)
Summit Coffee: such a cool spot, located in the RAD, right beside 12 Bones BBQ and the Wedge! Great coffee and atmosphere which community tables as well as tables for 1 or 2. Sit at the bar, or outside as well! (River Arts District/West Asheville)
Ultra Coffee Bar: a clean-cut, bright and minimalist coffee shop nestled in the River Arts District. My go-to is the nitro cold brew! They also have some snacks and breakfast/lunch sandwiches on the menu as well. (River Arts District/West Asheville)
Flora: a beautiful, dreamy flower shop that also doubles as a COFFEE shop!! Grab yourself a cup of coffee and fresh baked treat (from local bakery the RHU) as you wander around and admire the florals and decor in this space. (West Asheville)
Summit Coffee
High Five (Downtown)
OWL Bakery (West Asheville)
Dobra Tea (West Asheville, Downtown)
Trade and Lore (Downtown)
ADDITIONAL LISTS:
Beer, Biscuits, and Burgers: How to Eat and Drink Your Way Through Asheville, NC via bon appetit
49 BEST PLACES TO EAT IN ASHEVILLE NC – A FOOD BUCKET LIST via Local Adventurer
ASHEVILLE CITY GUIDE: 10 BEST DINNER DATE NIGHT SPOTS via Mary Frances Flowers
ASHEVILLE CITY GUIDE: BEST PLACES TO DRINK A CUP OF JOE via Mary Frances Flowers
ASHEVILLE CITY GUIDE: WHERE TO EAT LUNCH via Mary Frances Flowers
ASHEVILLE CITY GUIDE: WHERE TO BRUNCH via Mary Frances Flowers
There you have it, my definitive guide on where to eat and drink in Asheville! Again, with such a changing atmosphere around food here, I’ll be sure to keep coming back to edit and update this list with any changes! 🙂
