Asheville Part III – Restaurants, Breweries and Wineries

Asheville is known for being a ‘foodie’ town and you probably already know that Asheville has a huge craft brewery community. So, understandably a lot of activities in the community focus around farm-to-table foods and craft beers.

There are many terrific restaurants and breweries in the Asheville area. In fact, there are so many that we can’t even come close to covering them all. So, we will concentrate on some of the most popular choices, as well as some of our more obscure favorites. But be assured there are many other fantastic establishments in the area!

Restaurants

• Downtown Asheville – All of the following restaurants are located in downtown Asheville, so you can easily walk to any of them from just about anywhere in the downtown area. This is but a small list of a few of our favorites. There are many more. We invite you, as you explore downtown Asheville, to try any of the other restaurants that may pique your interest. There’s really not a bad one in the bunch!

o Cúrate – Consistently one of the top-rated restaurants in Asheville, Cúrate serves authentic Spanish cuisine, Tapas style. Their menu offers a tremendous variety of options. Be sure to tell your server the types of food that you like and they will be happy to make some recommendations to match your tastes. Be a little adventurous and try something that you might not normally order. Make your reservations as early as possible though. Cúrate is quite popular and reservations fill up quickly.

o The Lobster Trap – If you are looking for fresh seafood, the Lobster Trap is the place to go. We think they have the best seafood in town, hands down. Their menu selection is almost entirely seafood, with the exception of a couple of steak entrees. All of their food is fantastic, but a few of our favorites are the Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms, Maple Bacon Scallops, Lobster Bisque, and our favorite entree, Cioppino. The Lobster Trap does not take reservations. Arrive early if you do not want to wait for a table.

o Bouchon – Known for their French comfort food, Bouchon has some truly delicious items on the menu. Start your dinner with an order of escargots and a lovely bottle of wine. If you are a mussel lover, make sure you make it there on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday, when they offer all-you-can-eat mussels. If mussels aren’t your thing, the Boeuf Bourguignon, Steak au Poivre and Chicken Cordon Bleu are all delicious. Whatever you do, be sure to try the pomme frites. They are amazing!  Bouchon does not take reservations and on busy nights there can be a wait. But L’Ecluse, their cozy wine bar, is upstairs and is a relaxing place to wait as your table is prepared.

o Mela Indian Restaurant – Looking for some traditional Indian cuisine? Then Mela Indian Restaurant is your destination. They have a wonderful selection of your favorite dishes along with some that are creative and interesting. We love the Tandoori, Tiki Masala and of course, incredible breads. Afterall, how do you eat Indian food without naan?

o Hemingway’s Cuba – You probably would never think of finding delicious Cuban food in Asheville. Located on the fourth floor of the Cambria Hotel, Hemingway’s Cuba not only has authentic Cuban food, but also a fantastic terrace overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. Growing up in Tampa and having a mother that is Cuban, we had a lot of Cuban food growing up. So, I can attest that the food is authentic. Hemingway’s also has some creative and delicious cocktails!

o Zambra – Specializing in Western Mediterranean cuisine, Zambra offers Tapas-style plates in a very unique, Moroccan grotto-type setting. They have a large bar area for walk-up seating, and a very nice dining area. It’s a great place for couples or even a small group. A good variety of menu items is available and everything is very tasty.

o Limones – Limones is an upscale Mexican restaurant, where traditional Mexican dishes are prepared in new and creative ways. The restaurant is not large, but its smaller size lends itself to a much more intimate setting. Try one of their specialty cocktails from their extensive Margarita Bar.

o Chestnut – If you are looking for that farm-to-table experience, then try Chestnut. They pride themselves in their unique and innovative menu, that actually changes each month. But typically, you will find beef, poultry, seafood and vegetarian options, so there is always something for everyone. Chestnut also offers lunch and brunch on both Saturday and Sunday.

o Storm Rhum Bar and Bistro – Unique in several ways, the Storm Rhum Bar is a smaller restaurant on the south side of downtown. From their smaller menu, which still has a good variety of classic dishes, to the outstanding selection of rums, we think you will find this restaurant a hidden gem. On Monday night they have a great burger special. Get a burger, fries and draft beer for $10. While many restaurants stop serving around 10 PM, Storm Rhum Bar serves a limited menu until 2 AM.

o Jerusalem Garden Café – Serving Asheville for over twenty years, Jerusalem Garden Café offers authentic and delicious Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. The great food, interesting décor and live music, with belly-dancing on Friday nights, make this restaurant an exceptionally fun experience!

o Thai Orchid – Thai food is one of our favorites, and the Thai Orchid does not disappoint. They have all of the traditional Thai dishes that you would expect. The food is excellent, as is the service. Try our favorites, Chicken Pad Thai and Cashew Chicken. Thai Orchid is a fairly small restaurant. So, stop by early to avoid a wait.

o Pack’s Tavern – Interested in a more laid-back experience? Then Pack’s Tavern is the place for you. This restaurant has an incredibly diverse menu where everyone will find a favorite. It’s a wonderful choice for families or larger parties. They also have a huge selection of local craft beers. If you are exploring downtown, don’t miss this restaurant for lunch or dinner.

• Biltmore Village – Just outside the entrance to the Biltmore Estate, you will find Biltmore Village. Originally created to provide housing and other needs for the workers at Biltmore in the late 1800’s, the area was designated a National Historic Landmark in the 1970’s. Many of the houses and structures, including All Souls Church, are from that period.

o Corner Kitchen – Located in a house built around 1895, the Corner Kitchen serves what we consider to be upscale ‘comfort food’. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner and brunch on the weekend. They can get very busy, so a reservation is recommended.

o The Cantina – You will find all of your favorite traditional Mexican dishes at The Cantina. This is a good place for both lunch or dinner and can accommodate large parties. Their bar includes over 50 tequilas, with specials every night, including Margarita Monday and Tequila Tuesday. (Tuesday kids eat free.) When the weather is good, they have a great outdoor space in which to enjoy your dinner or margarita.

o Red Stag Grill – Located in the Grand Bohemian Hotel, the Red Stag Grill presents itself as delivering ‘European Comfort Food’. We think that is a good description. With the elegant lodge-style décor, this restaurant is slightly more upscale. However, they do have some great daily lunch specials. The Elk Chop is delicious and is one of our favorites.

• West Asheville and River Arts District

o The Admiral – Don’t judge a book by its cover. From the outside, The Admiral looks like a block cube, with no windows and very little parking. But once inside, you will find in a cozy, intimate restaurant. Seating is limited, so reservations are a must. Keep in mind that they do not take reservations for parties larger than four. Once you are served your appetizer and dinner, you will see why this restaurant is consistently rated one of the top restaurants in Asheville.

o Isis Music Hall – Converted from a 1937-era movie theatre, Isis Music Hall is both a music hall and a restaurant. Live music is offered in both their cozy, upstairs lounge and on the stage of their larger music hall. While you can certainly just go there for dinner, we would encourage you to take in one of their live music shows. There is a big variety in the music genres presented at Isis, but you can check out their online schedule for upcoming shows.

o The Bull and Beggar – Located just off the French Broad River in the River Arts District, The Bull and Beggar is a local hot spot. Their appetizer list is extensive, as is their versatile menu. They even have a Raw Bar! And Burger Mondays are fantastic. Get a double cheeseburger with fries for only $10.

o 12 Bones Smokehouse – This is one of the best BBQ restaurants we have ever visited. 12 Bones Smokehouse is a very popular destination, but they are only open Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 4 PM. The line might be long, but it moves quickly. You can also call ahead for take-out orders.

• Biltmore Park – Located south of Asheville just off of I-26, Biltmore Park is a newer shopping area with lots of shops, restaurants and movie theater. Be sure that you do not confuse this area with Biltmore Village, which is just outside the Biltmore entrance.

o 131 Main – 131 Main is a very nice restaurant with upscale American cuisine. Some top picks include the smoked salmon appetizer, Danish baby back ribs, crab cakes and the pork chop. There is also a large bar area and nice outside seating when the weather is nice.

o Hickory Tavern – If you are looking for more of a ‘sports bar’ atmosphere that is family friendly, we highly recommend Hickory Tavern. They have all the typical pub food you would expect, plus much more. Our favorite menu item is the charred chicken wings. They are simply the best wings we have ever had. Match that up with their extensive craft brew selection, and you have a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

• North Asheville

o Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian – Featuring authentic Italian food, you will find all of your favorites at Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian Restaurant. From a good selection of appetizers and entrees, everyone will find something they like, even the kids. And they offer nightly specials, including half-off bottles of wine on Mondays. Vinnie’s is a very popular local spot and they do not take reservations. So, get there early or you might have a long wait. Vinnie’s is located just north of downtown Asheville.

o Nine Mile – Specializing in Caribbean Cuisine, Nine Mile is a good pick for something a little different. Even their entree names sound exciting, like ‘Ambush in the Night’ or ‘Jamaican Me Thirsty’. There are three locations, but our favorite is the original spot in Montford, which is just north of downtown Asheville.

• Weaverville – Located only 10-minutes north of Asheville is the small town of Weaverville. Weaverville is very close to our home and is our favorite place for a quick dinner or local craft beer. The short main street has everything from a refined Italian restaurant to a soda fountain in the local drugstore. If you get the chance while visiting, take a stroll down Main Street and check out the little shops and restaurants.

o Blue Mountain Pizza – Advertised as ‘The Coolest Little Pizza Joint on the Planet’, it’s way more than just pizza. Blue Mountain Pizza offers a good selection of pasta dishes, their own craft beers, and they even make their own ice cream. The restaurant is not very big, so you might have to wait on the porch on busy nights.

o Twisted Laurel – There are three different locations in the Asheville area, but Twisted Laurel Weaverville is our favorite. They have a large selection of appetizers and entrées, including some Greek dishes. We love the Greek Platter. But we always seem to start off our meal with the Firecracker Shrimp appetizer and a craft beer.

o Stoney Knob Café – The first thing you will notice about the Stoney Knob Café is that the parking lot is always full, no matter the time of day. But it is hard to describe what the Stoney Knob Café is like, both in terms of décor and the menu. The décor within this restaurant is beyond eclectic and we think you will find it entertaining. Their menu is described as ‘Cuisine from Near and Far’, and it certainly is that. You will find a very broad selection of entrees, and it is all incredible. Located just south of Weaverville, this is a unique restaurant you won’t want to miss.

o Well Bred Bakery and Cafe – Not just a bakery, Well Bred has delicious breakfast and lunch sandwiches, salads, as well as some wonderful coffees. But a lot of people stop by after dinner for dessert. From their huge cookies to the delicious coconut cake, you really can’t go wrong. If you are feeling really hungry, then go for the Giant Mountain Éclair.

Breweries – Known as Beer City USA, Asheville has over 50 breweries in the area. While there is no way for us to cover them all, so we want to highlight the top breweries and as well as some of the smaller ones that are our personal favorites.

• Sierra Nevada – Not just a brewery, but a destination, the Sierra Nevada Brewery is an amazing place. There are many options for things to do. Take a brewery tour (requires an online reservation), visit their tap room and enjoy their huge selection of craft brews or have a meal in their excellent restaurant. You may have spotted some of their beers in local stores, but they have a large number of beers only sold at the brewery. Located just south of the Asheville airport and on the French Broad River, they are in a convenient location. Coming up in Part Four of Asheville, we will take a look at Sierra Nevada’s numerous other activities that make this brewery such a big attraction.

• New Belgium – Located in the River Arts District on the French Broad River, New Belgium is a terrific place to spend some time. The brewery tours are a lot of fun, so be sure to sign up for one.  Don’t miss the slide that you will encounter during the tour. Its not just for kids! Their tap room is called the Liquid Center and the beer variety is exceptional. They also have an outside deck overlooking the river and other outdoor activities when the weather is good.

• Downtown – In downtown Asheville you can easily walk from brewery to brewery. Many are literally next door to one another! So, pace yourself, enjoy each place, and sample some unique brews. For those that want a memorable experience, take a Pubcycle Tour. Up to 15 people power a cycle contraption to different breweries. You can even bring your beer or wine back onboard. Don’t worry though, the Pubcyle is actually driven by an abstaining tour guide!

o Asheville Brewing Company – Our favorite brewery in downtown is the Asheville Brewing Company. They have both a nice indoor and outdoor seating area, very good pub food and a large selection of beers. In addition, they even show movies. Check out the schedule on their web site.

o The Funkatorium – Are you in to the new sour beer trend? Then The Funkatorium is for you. This brewery is owned by Wicked Weed Brewing and is dedicated to sour beers. The Funkatorium has huge indoor and outdoor spaces for socializing. But don’t worry if you are not into sours, they do have a few ‘non sour’ beers to sample.

o Catawba Brewing – Another fun brewery in downtown is Catawba Brewing. Consistently producing some very good and unique beers, stop in for a neat setting and friendly people.

o Wicked Weed Brewing – This is a must stop when touring breweries in downtown. Wicked Weed Brewing has the best outside seating area and a large menu. As an IPA lover, I can attest that they have some of the best, including Pernicious, Appalachia and Astronomical. Give them a try, I’ll bet they will make your list as favorite beers.

o Bhramari Brewing Company – Not quite as well-known as some of the other craft breweries in downtown, Bhramari Brewing Company has some fantastic beers. They also have a nice outdoor seating area and a favorite menu item, the Bharmari Burger!

o Green Man Brewery – Green Man Brewery offers some really sensational beers. Some favorites are the ESB and IPA. I love these so much that I rarely get to try any of the others. But the list of great beers here is long, so stop by and sample one.

• West Asheville and River Arts District

o Archetype Brewery – The West Asheville location is home of the original Archetype Brewery, although they also have a downtown location. They serve Belgian style beers and seem to strive for more experimental and funky beers. This spot is a great place to hang out on the west side of town. If you are in the area, don’t miss it.

o Wedge Brewing Company – With two locations in the River Arts District, the Wedge Brewing Company is a unique brewery located in this eclectic area. Each location has its own vibe, so give both spots a try.

• Weaverville – In the restaurant section we talked about our nearby small town of Weaverville, so now we want to touch on our local breweries too.

o Eluvium Brewing Company – We love the small local breweries. They just have such a great hometown feel, and Eluvium Brewing Company makes you feel that way. Producing high quality, high flavor session beers, they have a good assortment of beers on tap. They also have a nice outdoor covered seating area to relax. Stop by there and be sure to say hello to Randy Travis, their little dog!

o Zebulon Artisan Ales – A very small brewery, Zebulon Artisan Ales is only open to the public on Friday and Saturday from 1 PM to 6 PM. They do mostly small pours of their unique beers, which concentrate on historical, forgotten and mythological beer styles. So, stop by and try some historic beers.

• Others

o Highland Brewing Company – The first brewery in Asheville, Highland Brewing Company is located just east of downtown. With a large tap room and outdoor area with a stage, there is lots of room to relax and enjoy their beer. Their outstanding beers, including two of my favorite IPAs (AVL IPA and Daycation IPA), will satisfy everyone. Give them a try. And by the way, if you are visiting during the holidays, the most sought-after beer in the area is the perennial holiday favorite, Cold Mountain. During the holidays it is frequently on tap at local restaurants. So, if you get a chance to try it, please do!

o Pisgah Brewing Company – Located east of Asheville in Black Mountain, Pisgah Brewing Company is another very popular local brewery. Their go-to beer is Pisgah Pale Ale, but they have a large selection of unique beers. If you stop by, try their Brut IPA.

o Mad Co. Brew House – The first Brew House in Madison County (hence the name Mad Co), Mad Co Brew House is in the small town of Marshall. The drive is quite scenic and will take you only about 25 minutes from Asheville. Marshall is an old town, located right on the French Broad River. So, take advantage of the laid-back spot, sit out on their deck overlooking the river and enjoy a refreshing beer.

Wineries

• Biltmore Wineries – We will cover all aspects of the Biltmore Estate in Part Four of our series on Asheville, but for now we’ll just discuss the Biltmore Winery. From their first experimental vineyards in 1971, the Biltmore Winery has come a long way. Grape varieties are grown in North Carolina for several of the wines that are produced at the winery, but there is not sufficient acreage or variety of terrain to produce all of their vintages. So, Biltmore also sources grapes from California. To maintain quality, Biltmore staff travels to California to harvest and oversee the production of the wine. Today, Biltmore wines are known for their consistency and excellence. Located in Antler Village on the Biltmore estate, the winery has a large tasting room where you can sample many of the wines. They also have a premium wine bar where fine wines, full glasses and light bites are also available. You can easily spend several hours perusing the wine shop and the rest of Antler Village. Do note that you will need a ticket to get on Biltmore grounds.

• Hendersonville – The remaining three wineries are all located in the Hendersonville area, so you can easily spend an afternoon on your own wine tour of these 3 wineries.

o Point Lookout Vineyards – Located on Point Lookout Mountain about 10 miles east of Hendersonville, Point Lookout Vineyards has the most incredible views! Enjoy wine tasting from their large covered patio and outside deck. For a relatively new winery, they have some very tasty wines.

o Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards – The first vineyard and winery in Henderson County, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards is a small family-owned winery. They offer tastings of both wines and cider in their lovely indoor and outdoor spaces. They also have some of the friendliest staff around. Located only 5 minutes from Exit 49-A on I-26 in Hendersonville, this winery is very easy to find.

o Burntshirt Vineyards – Burntshirt Vineyards is also located only 5 minutes off I-26 at exit 49-A. This vineyard is a favorite spot for a glass of wine in Hendersonville Their beautiful garden-like outside seating area makes a wonderful spot to enjoy one of their excellent wines. They also have free tours and offer ‘wine flight‘ tastings.

We hope you will visit some of these fantastic restaurants, breweries and wineries. Once you have, we think you will agree with the food and beverage accolades attributed to Asheville.

If you missed our first two articles on Asheville, you can easily get to them from here:

Asheville – “Land of the Sky”, provides an overview of the Asheville area, along with a list of accommodations to meet different needs.

Asheville Part II – Hiking, reviews many of our favorite hiking trails in the area. We cover all types of hikes from easy to strenuous and for just about any level of ability. If you try some of these hikes, we think you will find the surrounding area beautiful and inspiring.

Part four, and the final installment of our series, Asheville Part IV – Attractions, Museums, Festivals and More!, reviews other activities and attractions in the Asheville area, including the famous Biltmore Estate.

We hope to see you in Asheville soon!