Hello fellow gastronomes! As the resident foodie and go-to restaurant recommender on the Greybeard team, it’s only fitting that I create a list of must-try meals in the Land of Sky. So many places could be highlighted, but I’m honing in on Asheville proper for this list. Below, you’ll find restaurants ranging from fine dining to “hole-in-the-wall” establishments with surprisingly mindblowing eats. I’ve even included the dishes that made time stand still and secured my and other team members’ love for these spots. So ready your appetite and pen to take note of these must-try meals:
Cúrate de Tapas
Specializing in savory Spanish tapas, chef Katie Button, Felix Meana, and family built Cúrate on its Spanish meaning (“heal yourself”), in the hopes that discovering new flavors would ignite joy that “cures the soul.” When visiting for the first time, opt for the Spanish Experience, a handpicked menu by Katie and Felix to guide you through the highlights. We also recommend adding on the wine pairing. Some of my favorites I discovered through this experience were the Rossejat (paella-style squid ink noodles), Pan con Tomate with manchego cheese and jamon iberico, and Espuma de Chocolat (chocolate mousse with candied hazelnuts and pedro ximenez cherry sorbet).
Chai Pani
Long before Chai Pani reached new heights of fame thanks to its James Beard “Outstanding Restaurant” award in 2022, I was a huge fan. Serving up bright (and highly addictive) Indian Street Food, this is my go-to date night spot, especially when the weather is cold and rainy. No matter the time of year, I start with the chai, a perfect blend of black tea, ginger, and cardamom before devouring the Matchstick Okra Fries topped with lime or the Kale Pakoras with green chutney and sweet yogurt.
For the main, I typically go for the Butter Chicken Thali with basmati rice, daal, raita, masala slaw, and papadums or the Tomato and Cheese Uttapam with sambar and coconut chutney. Pro tip: they have a Special-Diets Menu to accommodate gluten-free and vegan patrons, so don’t be afraid to ask!
Mother
This 3-in-one bakery, wine shop, and cafe on Asheville’s South Slope pays homage to the “mother” sourdough that as they describe it “is science in theory, art when in the hands of some, and love when shared with others.” A crowd favorite, it is quite busy on the weekends, and since a limited amount of rotating dishes are made, you have to get there early or risk missing out. When I visited for an early lunch, I had the French Omelette, and my friend (graced by the food gods) snagged their last Croque Madame which was out of this world. As we sipped espresso and chatted with the staff, we felt right at home. If opting for their supper (served from 4-9 PM), don’t skip out on the plate of their namesake.
Gypsy Queen Cuisine
Serving up Mediterranean & Lebanese Street Food, this place is the product of the Gypsy Queen herself, Suzy Phillips. A proud Lebanese woman, she shares her love of culture through food and has been cooking from a young age with her mother.
Operating as a deli, market, food truck, and catering company, it’s an Asheville staple beloved by locals. We recommend the Lebanese Fries or Fried Cauliflower (both tossed in toom and lemon tahini sauce) to start, and for the main, we love Suzy’s Sampler or Rice Bowl. Just be sure to save room for dessert because the Baklava shouldn’t be missed.
Copper Crown
Located in East Asheville, this neighborhood hub is close to several communities just a short drive from downtown and the Blue Ridge Parkway. With influences from New Orleans, Italy, and the American South, the menu is always evolving to stay interesting and fresh. For pasta lovers who don’t mind a little adventure, opt for the gnocchi with goat cheese, pomegranate, and butternut squash. For seafood lovers, opt for the pan-shaped scallops done in citrus, carrot apple butter, and brown butter vinaigrette. Among their Southern dishes, the Buffalo Green Tomatoes with a blue cheese-lime yogurt takes the top spot followed by the Springer Mountain Fried Chicken topped with red-eye gravy. If comfort food wore a crown, it would be copper.
Good Hot Fish
Opened in 2024 by renowned chef Ashleigh Shanti, this cozy and nostalgic counter-service fish fry spot on Buxton Ave delivers Southern seafood goodness. The inside (while adorably decorated) is quite small and only offers bar stool seating, so it’s a spot I recommend trying when flying solo or with 1 other person in tow. Start with the Hot Seafood Dip + Fried Saltines, and try the Trout Bologna & Cheese or Daily Fish Plate for your main. When I went, catfish was the fish du jour, breaded and fried to perfection. When picking a side, do not sleep on the stewed greens. The entire meal was delicious, but I was dreaming about those greens for days after my visit.
Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack
This local independent restaurant serves up “deliriously good fried chicken and Southern soul food” that is unrivaled. Their weekly specials include such themes as Tattoo Tuesday (show them your ink for 10% off), Teacher Tuesday (show them your ID for 10% off), Wings Wednesday, and Thirsty Thursday (hello $5.00 boozy slushies). With 8 spice levels ranging from Honey Mild to Extra Hot, you can create your very own Hot Ones episode irl. For starters, try the Fried Mac Poppers with Zippy Ranch or Hot Chicken Dip.
For the main, I usually opt for the Rocky’s Royale sandwich or 3 Tenders with green beans and mashed potatoes and gravy. I hope you’re ready to get lost in the (hot) sauce. If you end up choosing a spice beyond your toleration, cool down with their banana pudding or Coca-Cola cake with ice cream for dessert.
Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian
“Welcome to Vinnie’s!” is the shouted greeting you’ll always receive when walking into this dinner-only spot with 2 locations (Merrimon and South). As a proud member of the Goombah Rewards Club, this is a spot I frequent and often find myself daydrooling about. From the Arancini with smoky tomato sauce to the Penne al Funghi with its wild mushrooms and shallot sherry cream sauce to the out-of-this-world Tiramisu that I never leave without no matter how full (I mean that’s the purpose of to-go containers, right?), the food and service deliver excellence every time without skipping a beat. Their weekly specials include ½ Price Bottles of Wine on Mondays, Lobster Ravioli on Tuesdays, House-Made Gnocchi on Wednesdays, Chef’s Pasta Special on Thursdays, and $6 Martinis on Fridays.
Keep in mind that it gets busy. Unless you arrive before or at the opening, you should expect a wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on your party size. While you wait, grab a drink at the bar to pass the time. If you are visiting in December, look out for the golden envelope that can be redeemed anytime during January (gifts include free dinner, 20% off, free dessert, and more)!
Nine Mile
This Caribbean-inspired (and veggie-friendly) restaurant has 3 locations in Asheville (Montford, Haywood, and South). Opened in 2008, its “laid-back vibes and fresh flavors” have landed it on Best of WNC time and time again. While you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, the Cool Runnings will always have my heart. Mushrooms, bell peppers, and roasted tomatoes swim in a sea of smokey gouda chipotle queso served with rice, black beans, and jalapeno + pineapple salsa. This comes with a fresh salad in which I usually ask for a vat of their sesame garlic tahini so I can dip the natty bread, a traditional French baguette with garlic and herbs made with a natural pre-ferment to give it a rich flavor. For pescetarians, you can substitute the chicken for fresh tilapia, tuna, salmon, or Mahi Mahi.
Plant
While nearly every restaurant in Asheville is accommodating to vegans and vegetarians, this creative eatery with indoor and outdoor seating is dedicated to all-vegan cuisine made from scratch using thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Plant serves up 90% organic, mostly locally sourced, mostly gluten-free, and completely vegan dishes–no animal products to be found. For those who are vegetarian (or even those who are not), I’m here to assure you that you will enjoy this curated menu just as much as the vegans. To start, try their “cheese” plate for a surprising (and ultimately divine) taste of vegan cheese and accouterments. Although their menu changes based on produce availability and the like, our favorite staple dish is the Crispy Mushroom Mole, and we suggest saving room for their unmatched Matcha Creme Brulee.
RosaBees
You’ll be drawn into this Polynesian paradise before even stepping inside. With colorful pops of bright pink and blue in the mural outside and the decor inside, you’ll be transported to a tropical wonderland at this restaurant where “savory Hawaiian meets sweet Asheville.” To start, try the Lumpia Spring Rolls, Galbi (Wagyu Beef Short Ribs), or Okonomiyaki Cabbage Pancakes.
Unbelievably fresh and perfectly portioned, we love their classic Poke Bowl with coconut sticky rice, watermelon radish, fresh mango salsa, wonton chips, and tempura avocado for the main course. It’s truly as beautiful as it is flavorful. Also, you simply cannot skip dessert here. Their dessert menu has everything from a Cake Flight to Pineapple Butter Mochi to Ube Haupia Pie– all of which deserve a try!
Vivian
Home to the James Beard nominated “Best Chef in the Southeast,” Josiah McGaughey, this cozy restaurant in the heart of the River Arts District serves up Modern European and American cuisine packed full of “big flavors and bountiful regional ingredients” to create an unforgettable dining experience. To start, try the Nordic Deviled Eggs before moving onto the epic Steak Dinner with a cast iron seared 16 oz ribeye smothered in Vivian’s famous steak sauce or the Trout Almondine with sunburst trout, capers, and buttery almond sauce. For dessert, try the scrumptious Apple Pie with burnt orange caramel and fig miso ice cream.
Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse
Created by friends who were inspired by the comfort of Japanese soul food and a passion for American BBQ, this smokehouse is located across the street from the Orange Peel music venue and offers a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, a large central bar, and a dog-friendly patio. You might notice the name spells “haiku” backward, which is certainly a reflection of this unique spot’s approach to cuisine–“structure and balance turned upside down.” For ramen and hot pot lovers, this place has several slurp-worthy options including a Pork Belly Tonkotsu and a Duck Dumpling Hot Pot.
If you’re in the mood for Japanese-inspired drinks, their extensive sake and Janapese whiskey menus are sure to impress. When I first visited, I opted for their prix fixe menu option (with drink pairings) and was in awe of the variety and exceptional execution. The timing of everything was perfect, and even the simplest dishes (looking at you Shishito Peppers and Beech Mushroom Tempura) left me floored at just how mouthwatering they could be. We opted for the beef (as opposed to the seafood route), and once I tasted the Wagyu with Shiso Chimichurri, my mind was blown, and my love was secured.
Bull & Beggar + Baby Bull
Serving up high-end New American fare, The Bull & Beggar is situated in a stylish bi-level venue by the railroad track in the River Arts District. The perfect spot for a special occasion, the food and service are truly exceptional. I recommend starting with the Pain Tunisien (sesame bread, charred onion butter, and chutney), Wild Mushroom Crostini, or the Onion Soup Gratinee before moving on to a steak for the main. Whether you opt for the Steak Au Poivre or the 34-oz Bone-in Ribeye dry-aged for a month, you will marvel at the flavor. When I visited, it was a celebratory birthday dinner, and the waiter brought complimentary dessert and wine for us to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, try their sister restaurant, Baby Bull, also in the River Arts District. Serving up delicious burgers, hoagies, and more, on Mondays, you can get a Burger & Fries along with a drink of your choice for $15.99, or upcharge your drink choice to a Lambrusco for $18.99.
Limones Restaurant
Home to Chef Hugo Martinez, this downtown restaurant close to the Fine Arts Theater serves up Californian & Mexican cuisine along with creative cocktails that will delight and astonish you (margarita lovers will be especially thrilled with 12 flavor combinations to choose from). To start, try the superb Lobster Nachos, Street Corn, or Three Cheese Chile Relleno. For your main, try the Seared Sea Scallops or Negra Modelo Brisket Enchiladas before ending your culinary journey with the Tres Leches Cake with peaches and pecans. Incredibly cozy, the vibe and friendly service just make the experience even more amazing.
Honorable Mentions:
The Marketplace- A fixture in downtown Asheville since 1979, this restaurant, recently nominated and named a semifinalist for “Outstanding Restaurant” in the 2024 James Beard Awards, specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. The Executive Chef & Owner, William Dissen, has been named one of the “Most Sustainable Chefs” in America for his menu that is equally healthy, locally sourced, and delicious. He even appeared in an episode of Gordon Ramsey’s: Uncharted, where he won an Appalachian cuisine cookoff against the British mogul. When visiting this Asheville staple, try the Brussels Sprouts Bravas, Pei Mussels, or Charcuterie Board to start and the Hand Cut Pappardelle with red wine braised lamb shank and oyster mushrooms for your main.
Rhubarb- Home to award-winning chef, John Fleer, this restaurant in downtown Asheville offers contemporary Appalachian cuisine. Fleer has said he believes “in the power of the table, the value of passing food, and of sharing stories and listening” which can be felt in his menu. When visiting, try the Celery Root Schnitzel or Baked Ricotta Gnocchi + Rabbit Ragout.
Red Ginger Dimsum & Tapas- This trendy spot in the heart of downtown serves up modern dim sum, Chinese small plates, and Asian-inspired wine and cocktails. A go-to spot for group celebrations (birthdays, graduations, and girls' night out), there is indoor and outdoor seating along with an open kitchen that makes you feel part of the excitement and action.
While it’s fun trying new things and picking different small plates to try, I highly recommend the Sauteed String Beans with spicy garlic sauce, Scallion Pancakes, Shanghai Style Pork Dumplings, Beef Yakitori, Sticky Rice with Chicken, Fancy Salmon Roll, and classics like the Pot Stickers and Crispy Spring Rolls.
12 Bones Smokehouse- This BBQ joint has 2 locations (River and South), but I prefer their original location on Foundy Street in the RAD. Serving up Southern, slow-smoked barbecue and made-from-scratch sides, it’s a popular (but somewhat tricky spot) to try since it’s only open for lunch Monday-Friday from 11 AM-5 PM–though they might close up earlier if they sell out. If you go, we recommend trying their famous Blueberry Chipotle Ribs or Sliced Brisket along with the “Damn Good Corn Pudding” and Buttered Green Beans, though you really can’t go wrong with any of their sides.
Sand Hill Kitchen- Located inside a BP gas station “where West Asheville meets Candler,” this local “hole-in-the-wall” diner has two award-winning menu items (the LOVE Cheeseburger and the Fried Chicken Sandwich), but my personal favorites are their Breakfast Burrito and Reuben. And the best part about this regional gem? There is a drive-thru window for easy pick-up, making it the perfect place to grab a bite on your way to explore a nearby town or en route to a hike.
Food is much more than just nutrients to help fuel us. Food brings people together, celebrates culture, and even changes our brain chemistry. Food feeds our physical and metaphysical appetites and gives us a zeal for life (can you tell a foodie is writing this?) We hope these recommendations inspire you to try something new, take time to really taste your food, and savor your dining experiences with the ones you love!
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