Asheville, nestled in the scenic mountains of western North Carolina, is famed for its eclectic food culture, blending Southern comfort classics with global influences.
The local culinary landscape has blossomed, showcasing talented chefs dedicated to sourcing from nearby farms, artisan producers, and foragers.
From vegan delights to savory tapas and upscale comfort food, Asheville offers something special for every palate.
Good Hot Fish
Chef Ashleigh Shanti’s vibrant eatery in the trendy South Slope neighborhood reimagines classic Southern fish camp dishes with creativity.
Fried catfish sandwiches served casually yet stylishly on plastic Frisbees are beloved, as are sides like Sea Island red peas and rich mac and cheese.
Copper Crown
Located quietly in East Asheville, Copper Crown combines Southern roots with Italian and New Orleans twists.
Chef Adam Bannasch crafts dishes such as Buffalo green tomatoes and exceptional burgers, complemented by seasonal entrées showcasing local meats and seafood.
Sunny Point Café
Sunny Point Café remains an iconic breakfast destination in West Asheville, known for all-day brunch favorites like carrot hotcakes, shrimp and grits, and stuffed French toast, often featuring produce from its own garden.
Taqueria Muñoz
A hidden culinary gem, Taqueria Muñoz has earned loyal fans for authentic Mexican cuisine served generously and affordably.
With mouthwatering sopes, tortas, and tacos featuring everything from pork pastor to huitlacoche, it’s a favorite among locals.
OWL Bakery
Old World Levain Bakery (OWL) distinguishes itself with artisanal European pastries and naturally leavened breads.
Crowds gather daily for crispy croissants, cardamom buns, and intricately crafted tarts paired with exceptional coffee and tea selections.
Posana
In the heart of downtown Asheville, Posana impresses diners with its entirely gluten-free yet luxurious menu.
Chef Peter Pollay delivers elegant dishes like wine-braised short ribs, housemade pastas, and fresh local salads, supported by a renowned wine and cocktail selection.
Plant
Consistently celebrated among America’s best vegan restaurants, Plant offers imaginative dishes like raw lasagna, creative vegan cheese boards, and signature dairy-free ice creams, skillfully prepared by chef Jason Sellers.
12 Bones Smokehouse
This Asheville BBQ staple, popular with locals and visiting dignitaries alike, serves smoky ribs slathered in flavors like blueberry-chipotle, alongside hearty sides such as corn pudding and jalapeno cheese grits.
Leo’s House of Thirst
Known for its thoughtfully curated wines and delectable small plates, Leo’s House of Thirst provides the perfect casual dining experience. Chef Austin Inselmann’s homemade pastas and standout appetizers like smoked-honey deviled eggs keep diners returning.
Rosetta’s Kitchen & Buchi Bar
Rosetta’s Kitchen has long delighted Asheville with approachable vegan soul food, including legendary peanut butter tofu and satisfying Buddha bowls. Their Buchi Bar features house-crafted kombucha and cocktails, enhancing the laid-back dining experience.
Cúrate
A jewel of Asheville’s culinary scene since 2011, chef Katie Button’s acclaimed Cúrate showcases Spanish tapas in a charming downtown atmosphere. Classic dishes include Galician-style octopus and jamón Iberico, perfectly paired with Spanish wines and vermouth.
The Bull and Beggar
The River Arts District’s acclaimed restaurant, The Bull and Beggar, serves refined yet hearty European-inspired dishes like escargot, cote du boeuf, and onion soup gratinée, in an atmospheric location near the French Broad River.
The Admiral
A West Asheville dining icon, The Admiral offers memorable meals with inventive dishes and a lively, eclectic atmosphere. Highlights include carefully curated charcuterie plates, creative entrees, and an inviting ambiance ideal for special evenings.
Jargon
Jargon captivates with inventive American cuisine complemented by artful cocktails in a charmingly eclectic space. Favorite dishes include pumpkin coconut soup and roasted entrées, enhanced by artistic presentations and a warm, engaging atmosphere.
Chai Pani
After winning a prestigious James Beard Award, Chai Pani has relocated to larger quarters, expanding its vibrant menu inspired by Indian street fare. Classics like kale pakoras sit comfortably alongside exciting new additions such as crispy sabudana vada tots, all served amid an exuberantly colorful atmosphere.
The Market Place
Chef William Dissen’s The Market Place remains a central figure in Asheville’s farm-to-table culture, celebrating decades of serving seasonal ingredients in dishes ranging from house pickles to Carolina seafood, alongside classic cocktails infused with local ingredients.
As Asheville continues to evolve following recent challenges, diners should verify the hours and availability of each restaurant ahead of time.
Discover the world.
© All rights reserved.
