A Spicy Perspective

Where to Eat in Asheville, NC

Visiting Asheville, North Carolina and need a Restaurant Recommendation? Let me help! We locals know all the hot spots in our little mountain town.

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Where To Eat In Asheville

I love where I live.

Yet what’s more, seemingly everyone I meet in business and travel loves where I live.

Over the last few years, as I’ve shared my hometown Asheville, North Carolina with you, I’ve started receiving emails… Lots of emails.

Many of you have asked, “When we head to Asheville next month, where should we stay? What should we do? What are your restaurant suggestions??”

Where to eat in Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville Travel Tips

So I’ve decided to share a 3 week series to offer you ALL my travel suggestions for Asheville, North Carolina, from a local’s standpoint. And of course, we’re starting with where to eat.

There is definitely something special about this funky little town in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s the weather, the greenery, the laid back atmosphere, the focus on the arts, the sense of nature pressing in on all sides, and let’s not forget the food scene.

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Farmers, artisan producers, chefs, and foodies flock here to live, fine tune their art, vacation, and of course eat. For a small town, Asheville has an absurd amount of high quality locally-owned restaurants.

There are numerous stories of sought-after chefs, that had work opportunities all over the country, yet chose to settle here.

It must be the mountain air. Or maybe the exceptional local produce.

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Must-Try Asheville Restaurants

Today I want to share our personal restaurant recommendations.

Am I telling you these are the best Asheville restaurants?

No, of course not. I would never say that…

I’m telling you, these are the places we frequent, and we have extremely good taste. *wink*

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Many of these categories overlap, so please click over to see hours and menus.

Our Favorite Asheville Restaurants

Dinner

Cucina 24 – Artful Italian fusion food. I suggest ordering something from every category of the menu. $$$

Curate’ Tapas Bar – Rustic Spanish Tapas with a Twist. Must try the eggplant and cured ham selection. $$$

Limones – Latina Inspired Cuisine and Amazing Cocktails. Order the Caliente Margarita… or the Pomegranate Margarita. We’ve been going here for 13 years and have never had a bad meal. Make a reservation! $$

En La Calle – Can’t get into Limones? Go next door to Limones’ slightly more casual sister restaurant. This is one of our favorite hang outs! $$

Rhubarb – One of my favorite new spots with southern-inspired favorites, reborn. Plus its right smack in the middle of down town. $$-$$$

Bouchon – French Bistro. Get the frites with aioli; they are fried in duck fat! $$

All Souls Pizza – Fresh and fabulous pizzas and so much more. I’m always surprised when we visit All Souls. $$

Wasabi – Fresh Sushi, Killer Squid Salad, $$.

Rezaz Mediterranean Cuisine – Mediterranean Fine Dining. Always exceptional. $$$

Jargon – A west Asheville gem with elegant and artful cuisine and fabulous cocktails! $$-$$$

The Standard – A Pizza Dive and proud of it. Lt. Dan’s favorite pizza in town. (2 locations) $$

Nine Mile – Caribbean Cuisine with Whole Grain and Grain Free Options. Love me some “Negril Nights” Pasta! (2 locations) $$

Storm Rum Bar & Bistro – Complex Cocktails and Southern Fusion Food. If they have the crispy pig ears on the menu, you’ve got to try them! $$

Plant – Asheville’s most talked about Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant. Just north of downtown. $$

Addissae – Asheville’s first real Ethiopian restaurant. Ethiopian family-style platters served with Injera sour dough crepes. $$

The Bull & Beggar – Creative uses of offal and seafood. If you happen in on a Monday, enjoy juicy dripping burger and fries when you buy a beverage. $$

Red Ginger Dimsum – Asheville’s only dimsum bar. Sit at the counter and order classic dumsum dishes like barbecue pork buns, crispy fried shrimp balls, and shanghai pork dumplings. $$

Copper Crown – Located in East Asheville, this casual neighborhood restaurant has quickly become one of our go-to spots. With inspired southern small plates and entrees, and gorgeous presentation, we never get tired of eating here. Check out the nightly cocktail specials. $-$$

Bar Taco – Great atmosphere. Fabulous cocktails. Killer Tacos! Sit outside by the fire and enjoy the best caipirinha in town. $-$$

Pizza Mind – My favorite new pizza joint in West Asheville. All the pizzas are amazing! Try the meatballs and arancini as appetizers. $-$$

Vivian – Dacadent French-American cuisine, beautifully presented. $$$

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Lunch

Chai Pani – Indian Street Food. Addictive. Different. Exceptional. Order the Bhel Puri and Kale Pakoras. $

Little Bee – Amazing Thai cuisine in a casual (dive) environment. What Little Bee lacks in ambiance, it makes up for in quality and flavor. The daily chalkboard menu brings in the masses, so be sure to show up early! $

White Duck Taco – Tacos with a Twist. Gotta try the Bangkok Shrimp Taco. (2 locations) $

Asheville Sandwich Company – A funky little sandwich shop in West Asheville, with amazing sandwiches and fries served right on top! $

Buxton Hall – Southern barbecue at its best, plus an award-winning fried chicken sandwich. Order all the sides and save room for dessert! $

Tod’s Tasties – Breakfast and Lunch Dive with Interesting Flavor Profiles. I love the Budha Bowl. $

Coxe Avenue Food Trucks – You never know what you’re going to get, but it’s always good, $$.

Stone Bowl – Korean favorites. Must try the Pa Jun Veggie Pancakes. $$

Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack – Crunchy saucy hot fried chicken… And I mean really hot. Start with Mild if you’re not sure, it’s still spicy. $

Farm Burger – Walking around downtown and need a Big Juicy Burger? This is the spot. Amazing flavor combinations and vegan and paleo options. $

Wild Ginger – A hole-in-the-wall favorite in south Asheville, serving up traditional Vietnamese Pho Soup. $

Okie Dokie Smokehouse – Good Ol’ Carolina BBQ, $. Just a little east of Asheville in Swannanoa. $

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Breakfast

Sunny Point Cafe – This is a true Asheville favorite with lines out the doors nearly every day. You cannot make a bad selection here. $

Hole – Best donut shop in the whole wide world as far as I’m concerned. Order your donut(s) then watch as they’re fried and glazed right in front of you. Must try the cinnamon sesame seed donut. $

The Corner Kitchen – Classic southern cooking in Biltmore Village. The Cream Cheese Scramble and Corned Beef Hash are divine! $

Over Easy – A funky little breakfast bar downtown with awesome juice blends. Two words: killer omelets. $

Taco Billy – Serving fabulous breakfast tacos, and at lunch slow cooked meat fillings and fresh-made toppings. $

Early Girl Eatery – The essence of Asheville AM. Anything smothered in tomato gravy is fine by me. $

Biscuit Head – A newer Asheville breakfast spot, with enormous flaky biscuits and a Jam and Butter Bar! (2 locations) $

Mayfels – Southern classics served in a fun environment. $

Bomba – A downtown corner coffee shop serving, quite possibly, the best Huevos Rancheros in the whole wide world. $

All Day Darling – A nighborhood cafe with attitude. I LOVE the buddah bowl!

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Pubs & Breweries (With Good Food)

Sierra Nevada Mills River Taproom – A little drive south of Asheville you’ll find Sierra Nevada’s newest brewery with a fabulous restaurant and tasting menu. Order a flight of brews, cannibal chips, and the soft pretzels with pimento beer cheese. $$

Hillman Beer – Our new favorite brewery lunch spot. Great beers, casual atmosphere, AMAZING sandwiches! Go with the pastrami or the smoked turkey salad! $

Wicked Weed – A local favorite with excellent eats and seasonal brews. Try the Lobster Burger (in season) Brussels Sprouts and the Freak Double IPA. $$

Bhramari Brewhouse – The tap room has a great atmosphere, with local favorite beers on tap, and in house small-batch brews. Make sure to try the burger! $$

Jack of the Wood – Great old world atmosphere and irish pub grub. Don’t miss the Green Man Porter and ESB. $$

Universal Joint – A relaxed outdoor space in West Asheville with great local brews. Must order the Sunset Dip. $$

The Wedge – Incredible beer and food trucks outside. Go on Monday or Saturday for El Kimchi food truck snacks. $

There are TONS of breweries in Asheville (Beer City USA) that don’t focus on food, but have ridiculously good brews. View more here.

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Snacks, Coffee Shops, After Dinner Drinks

MG Road – Great ambiance, plus exotic cocktails and bar snacks. The perfect place to go before dinner, after dinner, or for a light dinner! $

Top of the Monk – Unique cocktails and free snacks! Enjoy the deck overlooking downtown.

Pennycup Cafe – Best coffee shop for serious coffee drinkers. Pennycup coffee is small-batch roasted in Asheville, and used in many of our favorite restaurants. $

5 Walnut Wine Bar – An airy wine bar with live music most evenings. Try the Smoked Trout Dip. $

Capella on 9 – The biggest rooftop bar in all of Asheville. Enjoy 360 degree views from the top of the AC Hotel. The food and cocktails are pretty spectacular as well! $-$$

High Five Coffee Bar – Just north of Downtown, this coffee shop is a favorite with the locals. Must have the Cuban Coffee. (2 locations) $

The Gourmet Chip Shop – Fresh made gourmet potato chips with big flavor. Try the Napa and Italiano chips. $

Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar – Cozy environment, nestled in all the books, great wines, coffee drinks and simple snacks. $

Sovereign Remedies – Craft cocktails and inspired bar snacks. Open until 2 am. $

Appalachian Vintner – Just north of Biltmore Village, a wine shop with great events, and a small corking fee! Plus you can bring in your own food.

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

Dessert

Enoteca – The cafe/bar side of Rezaz restaurant has an amazing pastry case and gelato selection. Look for the chocolate dome. $

Well-Bred Bakery – This quaint little bakery serves up the most amazing chocolate cake around. You can’t go wrong with any of the cakes. (In Biltmore Village and Weaverville.) $

Sunshine Sammies – Freshly baked cookies and homemade ice cream sandwiches, made to order. The snickerdoodles are ridiculous! $

French Broad Chocolate Lounge – Chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate. A local favorite for splurging and chatting. Make sure to try the homemade gelato and sea salt caramels. $

Chocolate Fetish – If I were a truffle, I’d want to be a Chocolate Fetish truffle, preferably the “Velvet Sin” or “Ancient Pleasures.” $-$$.

Posana Cafe – A completely gluten free restaurant with daring desserts. These treats look like art and taste like heaven. $$

The Hop – Crazy ice cream flavor combinations… That work! The Hop offers a fun atmosphere and great coffee. $

Ultimate Ice Cream – Tucked away in East Asheville, this ice cream shop is know best among true ice cream connoisseurs. Striking flavors that will keep you coming back for more. $

Baked – A south Asheville staple for decandet southern pies. You can order a pie flight! $

Where to Eat in Asheville, North Carolina ASpicyPerspective.com #travel #traveltips #asheville #avl

So… When are you coming?

If you have a favorite Asheville restaurant that I didn’t mention, please tell us about it below!

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490 comments on “Where to Eat in Asheville, NC”

  1. Papa’s and Beer. Excellent food! I stopped for lunch while passing thru and stopped again on my way back for dinner because it was so delicious!
    I had their lunch taco salad and for dinner I had their pork carnitas platter. The salsa bar is extraordinary! Their spicy, refried beans with chips is a nice spin, too!

  2. I am a devout home cook and looking for some foodie shops/products that I should get while in Asheville, I think spicewalla is based out of Asheville and famous pottery place too…. (Something) Forks, maybe?

  3. I am foodie. love to eat vegetarian food. I’ve been so interested in visiting Asheville, hope to get a chance.

  4. I would add Vortex Doughnuts to Dessert! Felt like that was missing and Vinnies which has hands down the best pasta in Asheville!

  5. So excited I stumbled on your site! My boyfriend and I are headed to Asheville for a Valentine’s weekend away, and after having been there a few times, we’re always up for trying every restaurant and brewery we can find. Thanks for the recommendations!

  6. I am looking for a very special restaurant that serves Steak Diane, cooked tableside by the Maitre D. Does Asheville or any other town around offer this?

    • Hi Tom,

      I have been to most of the restaurants in the area, and I can’t think of any that do this. Sorry! If I were you, I would call the Biltmore Estate and ask if any of their restaurants do this.

  7. Based on this recommendation, we went to Hillman Beer for lunch during a weekend in Asheville.  We tried the beer flight and Reuben sandwich with curry soup as a side.  Our service was speculator, or food was incredibly tasty and savory and we had a great time!  Thank you-

  8. I can’t wait to try them! Thanks for the list!

  9. Thank you for this list! Been to a lot of these wonderful spots, but some are new to me. Still in mourning over last two disappointing visits to The Admiral which used to be stellar. Also love Simple Cafe & Juice Bar’s breakfast sandwich of grilled mortadella , fried egg, havarti, harrissa mayo on an English muffin.

  10. Went to the Copper Crown for dinner, it was fabulous. Started with Buffalo Fried Green Tomatoes, then to Fried Chicken with Waffles, Mussels in Pineapple Curry and delicious version of Berry Shortcake. This is a true find. If you are in Asheville, you should try it out. Very good prices too:)

  11. Been to FIG twice …amazing burger and the pasta dishes will leave you thinking you’ve just been to Italy ….small place but worth finding it.

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  13. These places look tremendous!

  14. My son and I, after touring the Biltmore Estate, had a late lunch/early supper a few weeks ago at the Estate’s “The Stable Café” – FABULOUS! My son had one of their steaks w/garlic mashed potatoes and I had the ham and cheese sandwich with sweet potato salad. For dessert, he ordered their chocolate cake and I chose the bread pudding. They source locally … and the coffee/espresso was outstanding as well. We were heartily impressed – give it a try!!

  15. We are coming next week.

  16. My husband and I just visited Asheville last week and tried mountain madre and it was absolutely amazing! I believe it’s a fairly new restaurant but  definitely a spot to check out! 

  17. How did you miss Mela?  Can’t stay away from this place.  Best Indian cuisine anywhere.  Can’t wait to get back.  Ate there 3 times last visit to Asheville.

  18. Zambra is by far my favorite restaurant in Asheville! BEST tapas in town! I always tell my friends to go there and everyone has thanked me afterward. 

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  20. greatlist – i’d like to second someone’s suggestion of mamacita’s for quick, cheap and FAT. great stuff. and the sloppy jai at chai pani – i’d eat that stuff off the ground. just excellent! very cool post – wish i’d found it sooner. asheville’s always been home – always cool to see people love it as much as i do!

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  23. Thanks for a great list!  Even though I live here, it can be crazy trying to keep up with all the fabulous  eateries. 
    Please add Filo to your list – and if you’ve not tried them, you’re missing a special place. Their pastries are the real thing, and their evening drinks and plates are first-rate, although it’s a small menu.  A great, quiet spot in east AVL.  The owner is Greek, and classically trained. Check it out. 

  24. I notice that you left off ALL the fabulous Korean restaurants – in fact MOST of the so-called restaurant guides do that.  I wonder why???  The Korea House is amazing and has the table grillers just like restaurants in Seoul.  Stone Bowl has gotten lots of rav review and Koriana is my top fav restaurant period, due to ease of parking, friendly atmosphere, great food, & SOJU….

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  28. What an insanely long and delicious list. I went to Asheville once and wish I could go back for more food (I live in Amsterdam now). I travel for food and mainly post about where to eat while traveling. I’m so glad I found your blog post ’cause it fits perfectly in with the theme of my blog.  Shared it on my twitter and facebook page :) Thanks!

  29. nice places to enjoy the art of kitchen, some of them are romantic

  30. Thank you for this great list! I have been going to Asheville for 20 years. I have gotten into the habit of asking the locals where I should eat….I haven’t been given a bad suggestion! Some of my favorites are on here and there are quite a few my husband and I are going to try!

  31. We were in Asheville on Monday. Wish I had your list then. Will be back in November and can’t wait to try out a few of your suggestions!
    Thanks for sharing!

  32. Hey Sommer!

    How about a Mela shoutout!  Going strong as an Asheville landmark for 10 years!

    Would love some love!

    If you haven’t tried us, come on in for lunch or dinner on us!

    Thanks!
    Julie 

  33. I’m just surprised that The Hop didn’t make the list for dessert. It’s a great list though.

  34. Hi! 

    My friend and I just started an Asheville Food Blog and cannot wait to go to every single one of the restaurants/breweries you mentioned above! Great recommendations (as we’ve already been to most)….Asheville has so much to offer and we are super excited to start sharing it with more people.

    Awesome read, thanks!

    C&M

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  36. The Local Joint is amazing!

  37. Ahhh!!! I can’t wait to read this post from start to finish!!! 

  38. Our 22 yo son recently moved to Asheville! I hope he stays there and raises a family. :) We live in VA, only 3 hour drive. We LOVE visiting him but are always overwhelmed w/restaurant choices! This list & the ensuing comments really helped. We are going down to see him tomorro with our other son who lives in NY! How lucky can we get??? Now if we had a daughter with a place at the beach… :)

  39. Any recommendations for a bachelorette party dinner spot?

  40. The best place to eat in Asheville is The Moose Cafe. Their breakfast is amazing with a “grandmas house” feel and an amazing view of the mountains in one room. Can’t believe it wasn’t on this list! It’s cute and the food is absolutely delicious. Where we live, we pass through Asheville every time we go on vacation and we always wake up extra early to eat at the moose cafe. And they put your drinks in mason jars, what more can I say?

  41. We love Asheville! We are planning to go for a long weekend to celebrate our anniversary, so the package would be perfect!

  42. I didn’t realize you were in Asheville. I just left there and I ate at a few of these places. But I didn’t see this until I got home. Great food town. Were you at the Asheville Wine and Food Festival?

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  44. Iam planning a small destination wedding this fall. Having only the internet to plan a wedding – kinda tough. Finding your web-page was AWESOME!! Got great ideas for Friday Night Dinner & Breakfast. I was trying to find a nice place with music (aka piano bar) for dinner following the wedding Saturday Night. We are staying near Lake Lure. We don’t know the area at all. I been to Asheville once 9 years ago for a day trip. Any ideas would be GREAT! Thanks for the advice.

  45. Unless i missed it it you missed the little tiny joint with the big BBQ !! Moe’s or Joe’s somethin like that! My husband and I spent several nights at Biltmore and we ate lunch the first day we were there and then went back twice more! They’re ribs are the best!

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  47. Packs Tavern! It has a delicious pimento cheeseburger!!!!

  48. Thank you for your very helpful guide to restaurants in Ashville. It lists just the kind of food my husband and I like to eat. So it was our only source when my husband and I were in Ashville for a couple of days two weeks ago. We had two lunches at Curate in their deli which is very fun and the food interesting, healthy and tasty. Good bread too! We stopped there again on our way out of town to try one of their Turkish bagels and coffee. We also enjoyed a dinner at Nine Mile which has a fun atmosphere and good food. We also had a good breakfast at Tod’s Tasties. Such sweet guys! And the food is very good.

  49. My husband and I tried “The Bull and Beggar” last week and were blown away. Great food and atmosphere by, I believe, the same folks that brought us “The Admiral”. It’s kind of hidden with not a lot of signage, down to the right of “The Wedge” brewery. Try it if you haven’t; I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

  50. Thanks for including us (Nine Mile) on your list! <3

  51. They never show up for me. Thanks. Guess it wasn’t me.

  52. Who won??

  53. I have never been to Asheville. Or North Carolina. But how could I *not* want to visit after reading this post?

  54. I love this town and would love to win!

  55. Would love, love, love to GO! My publisher is there!!!

  56. Mountains! Culture! What’s not to love?

  57. I’d love to win this. My husband and I love mountains . It really is true what they say about mountain air :) refreshing. We almost chose Ashville as our honeymoon destination 3 yrs ago. We’ve never experienced the Carolina’s and would love to see those Blue ridge beauties .

  58. I have not visited Asheville but if and when I do I would take your advice and try out Curate’ Tapas Bar mostly because my mom is from Spain and it would be like being in my mom’s kitchen. :)

  59. This would be a fabulous getaway for my sister and I. She lives in Memphis & I live in San Diego. I love the foodie aspect of this trip too!

    I’m already an email subscriber but I was having difficulty on my phone- hope the entry was recorded!

  60. I visited once for a girls’ weekend 10 years ago and would love to go back with my husband to tour the Biltmore and check out the food scene.

  61. Asheville seems so great! What a cute place to visit & eat, eat, eat!

  62. would love to tour the Biltmore!

  63. I haven’t visited since the 1980s, it looks like lots has changed. Would love to visit again & photograph the mountains.

  64. I haven’t spent time in Asheville in a long time, and I haven’t been to the Biltmore House since the mid-70s. I would love an opportunity to spend some time there!

  65. Asheville never fails to enchant! Fall is so special there…highly recommend!

  66. Love NC and have been hearing great things about asheville and this post just confirms it. Would love to make this my Fall vacation!

  67. Gorgeous town and a great place to relax! Thanks for the giveaway opportunity!

  68. The mountains are calling and I must go! I dream of going to Asheville again, especially in the Fall but would go even during a blizzard if I had a chance! Pick me! Pick me!

  69. I absolutely love Asheville! I would love a trip to my home away from home :D

  70. I’ve only been once and I would love to get to go again! I love Chocolate Fetish, my husband even got me the sampler for our anniversary, it was four boxes of chocolates!

  71. I absolutely LOVE Asheville. We’re actually heading up for a visit this Thursday and I’m go glad you’ve given such great restaurant recommendations! We’ve tried a few of these places, but so many are brand new to us, so I’m excited for some new, amazing food! Thanks Sommer!

  72. I have never been there, but always wanted to.

  73. me & my main squeeze need a vacay, just ourselves:) we are dreaming of asheville and their brews and amazing food!

  74. I so love Asheville in the fall and winter—I lived in Mars Hill for 7 years—I miss that special Asheville atmosphere every day!1

  75. Would love a visit and experience the atmosphere of Asheville!

  76. I loved this post! My fiancee and I are getting married this November and thought Asheville would be the perfect getaway from Ohio for a budget honeymoon. If we’re able to make the trip, we will definitely be using your suggestions!

  77. Asheville is on my bucket list!

  78. I live in Brevard, Asheville is The big city! It would be awesome for my husband and me to get a night out on one of our favorite places!!

  79. I love Asheville!

  80. I am in love with NC already, but now I really want to visit!! Please count me in!! xo

  81. Can’t wait to visit next month! Our favorite area to vacation.

  82. I love the Tupelo Honey Cafe!

  83. I love Asheville! My daughter went to college at Warren Wilson a few years ago and I used to visit about twice a year. Haven’t been back in nearly 3 years and miss it so much. I would love to go back and enjoy it during the fall season!!

  84. We love ASheville and one day we will move there. Have to say our favorite place of all to dine is Carmels…#2 for us is Modesto. Asheville offers so many choices…all are excellent.

    Keep up the good work Asheville!!! <3

  85. love ashville! one of my favorite places in the south (and one of the few i would really like to retire in)! haven’t been able to visit for years and would love to go back. 2 nights isn’t enough though, so i’m sure after travelling from colorado, i would extend my stay for at least a week (and also get the chance to see some family a few hours away from there).

  86. Tupelo has the best biscuits!

  87. Bouchon is my favorite!

  88. Would love to experience Asheville in the fall!

  89. Asheville is where I am meant to be. I am most comfortable in this beautiful piece of America. One day, my dear husband and I will move there to live out our lives. Until then, regular visits are such a soul soothing balm!

  90. I missed my annual trek to Asheville this year – must have another chance!

  91. Laurey’s Catering and Gourmet is one of my favorite places to get a delicious lunch or grab dinner to go – it took a local to introduce me to this fresh, flavorful home-cooking-with-a-healthy-twist spot. You must try the sweet potatoes.

  92. I’d love to visit Asheville for the food, the beer, the fresh air, the mountains, and the scenery. Oh, and because our good friend Edna lives there too!

  93. Would love to come back. Love Asheville!!

  94. We’ve been to Asheville twice and are looking forward to a third visit in the spring. Beautiful, artsy, great shopping, plenty of vegetarian friendly restaurants, always something to do no matter what you’re in the mood for. Can’t wait to return!

  95. Asheville is amazing year ’round!

  96. I love visiting Asheville, especially in Autumn. The jewel box of colorful leaves is my favorite birthday present!

  97. So that I can visit the zoo

  98. Asheville looks beautiful! I would love to come for a visit!

  99. I’d love to visit because since moving to coastal NC a little over a year ago I keep hearing how beautiful Asheville is. I love the mountains are and really want to get over there and experience it myself.

  100. I would love to win this trip because Asheville is one of my favorite mountain towns.

  101. Love the Fish Taco @ White Duck Taco!

  102. My wife and I love the city of Asheville. We haven’t been in several years but I think we’re long overdue. I can taste the Early Girl Eatery Burger now. Yum!

  103. Been to Asheville once on business and didn’t get to see the town. Would love to go back with my husband and enjoy all the town has to offer.

  104. I’ve never been to Asheville. Please help gets us out of DC! We’re working hard& not getting paid w/the lovely shutdown. It’s time for a break!

  105. I would like to go to try out all the wonderful food!

  106. I would love to win this to send my parents on vacation!

  107. I want to visit Ashville for the food! Sounds delicious!!!!

  108. Can’t wait to visit!!!!!!!

  109. After this fun blog post I can’t wait to visit just to sample all the amazing food!

  110. I’d love to win and surprise my husband with a beautiful trip to Asheville!! Everything about it sounds beautiful!!

  111. I’m a native Ashevillian and this list is pretty spot on. For all of you who want to visit, please come! You won’t find a more beautiful or welcoming place anywhere on earth.

  112. My husband and I are planning a trip later this month to celebrate October. I can’t wait to see Asheville in the fall!

  113. I would love to visit Ashville to explore some delicious eats as well as the Biltmore mansion.

  114. We love Asheville! Thanks for the list, we’ve been to several of those places and will definitely try some more next time we are in town.

  115. this would be a perfect first anniversary trip!

  116. Looking forward to my October visit to Asheville!

  117. Asheville sounds like a great foodie town and I’ve never been! Would love to visit!

  118. We will be visiting for a day in three weeks, but I’m already looking forward to planning another, longer trip!!

  119. Because it looks beautiful

  120. I’d love to come to Asheville!

  121. I would love to visit because it looks incredibly beautiful , dog friendly , and peaceful! I would love a vaca to try out my new camera ! Havent been out of town in years!!

  122. I have been to Asheville before and absolutely LOVED it! My parents live about an hour away and I would love to take my husband there to visit. Also, Asheville has such a fun food scene with great restaurants and now I need to try some of these on your list!

  123. Oh I so love Asheville its my dream to live there!!!

  124. Just starting looking into Asheville as a place to move to! Never been there – but maybe this is a sign! Love your posts – thank you for the wonderful info! (And giveaway!)

  125. I’ve yet to experience Ashville, but it sounds awesome! I love food, so I know i’ll be in heaven.

  126. I love visiting Asheville because it reminds me of home…Eugene OR.

  127. This article is great! My fiancé and I are planning to run away and get married in Asheville. We want to have a tour de food honeymoon, so this is a great resource. Thank you!

  128. I LOVE Asheville – one of my best friends lives in Charlotte and introduced me to its awesomeness!

  129. We so love Asheville because of the beauty, and we would really love exploring all these eateries!

  130. I’ve wanted to go to Asheville for years!

  131. I love Asheville and can’t wait to go again. I wish I had this list 2 weeks ago when my husband and I were there! We ate at Farmburger and it was fab. This list gives me another excuse to visit again soon :)

  132. I so love Asheville. We used to come all the time when we had a vacation home over near Waynesville, NC, but alas, haven’t been back in a while. This would be a wonderful opportunity to come back to a place I used to call my home away from home. Thanks for this opportunity.

  133. I want to visit Asheville to enjoy all the wonderful food, fun shopping and beautiful scenery!

  134. Can’t keep up with all the great choices to just live life in Asheville whenever we visit. Can’t wait to come back this fall.

  135. Wnc nature cente is great!

  136. We drove through the area on our way back from checking out a place where we thought we were going to retire. It was a bust…but when we drove through Asheville and then the Great Smokey Mountains, we found our retirement home-to-be. We want to go ack several times at different times at different times of the year to get a real feel of our future home :)

  137. Asheville- the coolest place in the USA…..

  138. I’m heading to Asheville this weekend. Great timing that I found this post! On my last trip I had a fab meal at the Laughing Seed Cafe!

  139. I would love to visit Asheville to feel the pulse of the Blue Ridge Mountains, but also to experience the up and coming energy of all the goings-on of the city! Asheville is a beautiful and interesting place! A perfect place to de-stress.

  140. Asheville is a wonderful place to visit. My daughter was married in Asheville at Pack Square 13 years ago. I think she and her husband are the only couple to get married there. Would love to visit again and try out some of the new restaurants!

  141. This is a fantastic list of the many restaurants in Asheville–can’t wait to try some of them!

  142. Curate is an incredible restaurant. I desperately want to eat there again. It’s been a year since I visited Asheville – too long!!

  143. I love Asheville – hope to move there someday. Any chance I get to go there is one step closer to moving!!

  144. Love visiting Asheville!

  145. I love finding out about new places! Thanks!

  146. Asheville is
    Y favorite place to visit! Thank you for sharing these fun places to eat!

  147. Asheville is my favorite place! Thank you for sharing these great places to
    Eat!

  148. We have been to Asheville before and it Is beautiful. There is so much to see and do there we would love to come back and do some more exploring. Can’t wait to go back and enjoy some of the eateries you have recommended in this blog!

  149. I love Asheville! It is our home away from home! And with us expecting 90 degrees here in Tampa tomorrow – October 1! – I am longing for a taste of fall! I thought I knew a lot of good places to eat but you just added a bunch to my list!

  150. My husband and I try and get to Asheville twice a year, but cannot go this fall due to him going overseas for work. I have never been to Asheville in the winter and I think we would love it. Curate is our number one date restaurant anywhere.

  151. My husband and I are big beer drinkers and have such amazing things about Asheville. Hoping to make a trip for our 1 year wedding anniversary this October!

  152. I have always wanted to visit here! All of these places sound amazing!

  153. I go to school at UNC-Asheville and I love it here! I just hope sometime my parents can come visit for longer than a few hours so we can really explore this unique and beautiful city.

  154. My boyfriend and I love everything about Asheville: the food, the scene, the shopping, and especially the scenery. I took him last year (it was my 3rd visit) and we are in love with its whole vibe, Asheville comes up at least once a week in conversation since. We would love to have a chance to explore some more!

  155. Just spent a great weekend there and dying to go back!

  156. Travel just a little east of Asheville to Black Mountain and experience Mayberry with wonderful culinary twists!

  157. I love to travel, specially to new places. Getting to know new people and new food,mmmm.

  158. I’d love to visit Asheville; I’ve never been. My husband has been there on business and loved it. He said it was my kind of place and would like to take me, however, he joked that then I might never leave. I would love to find out!

  159. Have always heard many wonderful things about Asheville, but have never made it there. Looks like a lovely place to spend some time, or maybe even reitre to!

  160. DIscovered the blog via Twitter and I am glad that I did! What an extensive list of places to try, and I had not thought about visiting Asheville before, but now I am giving it some thought! :)

  161. I’ve been to Asheville once, for a wedding weekend. I loved it and would love to go back and get to do things on my own time.

  162. We are planning a trip from Florida to Pennsylvania with a stop in Asheville. We only have a limited time and with all of the wonderful cities in North Carolina we chose Asheville because of the vibrancy of your community. I have been asking questions on Twitter about what to do and where to eat and people from Asheville have been so friendly and helpful that we knew we would have to visit. Winning this would help us extend out our stay in Asheville….thanks for the chance to win!

  163. I have never visited Asheville before but I would love a visit to see the gorgeous scenery and eat at all of the amazing restaurants!

  164. My husband & I went to Asheville in October, 2010 & took our dog. It is a great dog friendly city. We would love to go back & try your recommendations!

  165. I’d love to have a time away with my husband of 42 years and Asheville, North Carolina sounds like a beautiful place to explore with him, even for a weekend! We’d enjoy every minute!!

  166. Oh Asheville, it’s been so long. I also absolutely love The Admiral and Nine Mile, though they are a bit farther out from DT.

  167. I was completely unfamiliar with Asheville until reading your lovely commentary and viewing the pictures. Now I’d love to go since it seems like a beautiful place I would really enjoy.

  168. I’d love to go to Asheville because it looks so beautiful and I love visiting new places.

  169. Counting the days until we go to Asheville! Trying all new restaurants this trip. At least, that’s our plan! Not sure if we can pass Tupelo Honey’s and not stop! Thanks.

  170. I have heard so many great things about Asheville! I would love to visit. I’ve been told several times that it is not only beautiful but also one of the most dog-friendly places!

  171. I visited Asheville with my family as a child several times. I really enjoyed our summers there. I would love to see what has changed in the years since then.

  172. I’ve heard it’s a beautiful place, & it’s on my bucket list! :)

  173. I live in Apex, NC and have lived here for the last 12 years. I still haven’t gotten back to Asheville since my husband and I started to date and we came to visit his grandmother 19 years ago. I would love to go back, and bring our two sons as well!

  174. We would love to get back to Asheville again!

  175. Asheville for a weekend, you betcha! I would so love to getaway and experience Asheville, your pictures and suggestions were great.

  176. I love Asheville and would love to visit again!

  177. Been so long since I’ve been to Asheville it’s great to get some updated recommendations.

  178. I think your restaurant descriptions have won me over, and it is a new southern town to explore! I’m from Atlanta, so it is an easy drive too!

  179. All of the restaurants sound amazing!!

  180. I would love to revisit Asheville now that we have a little one to enjoy it with!

  181. Ready for a wonderful fall trip to Asheville!!

  182. I have never been, but would love the opportunity to try it out!

  183. I went to Asheville many years ago,but my husband has not been. I woud love to explore with him!

  184. I have heard so many wonderful things about Ashville. I would love to go and experience it for myself!

  185. My husband and I have never taken a real vacation together!

  186. Our family loves the uniqueness of Asheville. There is something fun and excited every time we are able to come visit!

  187. My husband and I would love to go and visit it would make such a great and romantic getaway.

  188. I would love to visit Asheville! I live in NC and I’ve never been but its on my husband and my’s wish list of places to go!

  189. This looks like a fun place to visit with my hubby, would love to getaway with him.

  190. I live 30 min. north of Asheville, NC and eat at these establishments frequently! Yummy stuff folks!!!!

  191. I’ve had many friends from all over the United States tell me that I MUST got to Asheville. Some mentioning that it is where I am meant to live. :-)

  192. We can’t wait to visit Asheville for so many reasons:
    One – home of ASP, which never fails for yummy recipes and neat stories!
    Two – SOOO many good eateries!
    Three – home of FlyLady, my cleaning and organization savior!
    Four – georgeous scenery, I hear!
    Five – Biltmore wine!
    Six – cool art scene!
    Seven – Montford Historic District Architecture (we swoon over historic homes)!

  193. 48 years ago we spent our wedding night in Asheville. It’s our “Special Place”.

  194. Lived in WNC until sophomore year of high school. Loved Asheville back then, would love to visit it now. Currently in Portland Oregon. I think I was attracted to Portland because of Asheville!

  195. I love the Laughing Seed Cafe. Great vegetarian. And Chai Pani – mmmmm!

  196. i want to win b/c we JUST moved here and are still discovering …

  197. I Love the mountainous view!!

  198. My husband and I plan our vacations around food & restaurants … and a vacay to Asheville to enjoy all of the delicious eats this city has to offer? Awesome!

  199. Always a stop on our way to NC State Football!

  200. What a beautiful delicious place. Fingers, legs, arms and eyes crossed!

  201. I have never been Asheville and would love to visit. I also love to try different foods and restaurants. I am a true Foodie at heart! :)

    Sherry Westerman

  202. I would love to visit Asheville. However I would really love to win this for my sister and her husband. They really deserve a vacation.
    Thanks for the opportunity

  203. I love Ashville – so much going on and great restaurant. Would love to try some of your suggestions next time I am up there.

  204. I LOVE Asheville and would love to visit it again!

  205. Sounds like a lovely place to visit.

  206. I have always heard how beautiful Ashville, N C was I would love to see for myself!!

  207. I have always heard how beautiful Ashville, NC was hoping I get to see for myself!!

  208. Planning a trip!!!!!

  209. headed there Oct 17-22 and looking for tons of stuff to do!

  210. I’ve been to Asheville only once and visited Tupelo Honey and Chocolate Fetish. Both were fabulous!

  211. I visited last summer and everywhere we ate was wonderful buttttt…wish i had this list then. Oh well, guess I have to go back.

  212. I have never been to Ashville but would love to travel there. I have heard great things about the place.

  213. I have only visited Asheville once, but loved it! Of all those places, we only tried to Gourmet Chip spot; best snack ever! I’d love to revisit! (Found your site via another blog I read–I plan to add it to my daily viewing!)

  214. I would like to visit there to try all the food in the Asheville restaurants you mentioned!

  215. I live here but a staycation is always fun and a great way to discover your town. Good fun is a #1 for me when traveling.

  216. Oooo…I have always wanted to see the Biltmore!

  217. I had a destination wedding in Asheville and this list is SPOT ON. I so wish it had been published before our wedding – this literally is the perfect guide for anyone’s first time visit to Asheville.

    FYI: We did our rehearsal dinner at the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar with snacks. It was phenomenal, their staff is amazing, and they are MUCH more than just books and wine. It’s a perfect social gathering venue!

  218. I wish I had seen this a week ago when we were up in Asheville for the BRR! I’ll definitely save your list of tasty eats for future trips. :)

  219. Thank you sooo much! Going there in October and can’t wait to eat at all those places! Really looking forward to limones!!!!!

  220. I’ve never been there but would love to go!

  221. I LOVE/ADORE Asheville! This would be wonderful!!

  222. the hubs and recently had to cancel a vacation that i was super excited about due to financial issues. :-/ winning this would make me feel a tiny bit better about not being on a sunny beach ;)

  223. No Tupelo Honey Cafe a a lunch option? Their vegetarian options are phenomenal! Regardless, there are many places on this list I already love and many I’ve been eyeing!

  224. Oh, I have always wanted to visit Asheville – it just looks beautiful!!

  225. I’ve been wanting to go to Asheville for a very long time. My wife and I constantly hear about it from other friends and family who have been, and it sounds like the perfect place for a wonderful weekend away!

  226. We love Asheville! My husband and I went for our honeymoon nearly 7 years ago and we’ve been finding reasons to go back every year since. You definitely hit on my favorite places to eat – specifically the Chocolate Lounge and White Duck Taco. I seriously have dreams about those amazing tacos!

  227. I would love to try some of these delicious sounding restaurants!!!

  228. Several years ago, i met my best friend at our half way point for a girls weekend in Asheville. She lives in Ohio and I’m in Georgia. We only see each other every few years. That trip was one of the best vacations I have been on! Ever. We both loved Asheville! I can’t wait to go back to visit and to see my BFF :)

  229. I have always wanted to visit the Biltmore Estate!

  230. Would love to go! 35th wedding anniversary coming up!!

  231. There are so many reasons on why to visit Asheville.
    There is just something magical in the air. The local food scene. A good friend that has an amazing blog. Street musicians. The surrounding mountains. My favorite spa. The Biltmore. My girls love the town. Great memories from living in NC.

  232. I absolutely love Asheville! A great mountain town and you are right… such a foodie town too! I never leave without having breakfast at Early Girl. A staple!
    Can’t wait to try some of your other favorites too! :) Thanks!

    • Asheville has become my husband’s and I favorite getaway to relax, away from home & kid responsibilities.
      So beautiful in the mountains with just enough mix of urban!.

  233. It’s one of my favorite places to visit. :)

  234. I’d love to discover the food! This would be awesome to win since hubby and I are planning our trips for the winter and Asheville would be awesome to include!

  235. Visit Asheville? Yes, please!

  236. I used to live in Charlotte, NC but never really spent a day/weekend in Asheville.

  237. I would love to visit the charming town of Asheville and dine at all the spots you recommend! What a great weekend trip giveaway.

  238. I would LOVE to spend a weekend in Asheville! My husband and I are self proclaimed foodies and try to find little out of the way gems while visiting new cities. Asheville has been on our ‘bucket list’ for a while.

  239. Wow, Sommer, what a great giveaway. You’ve got some great restaurants in your “little mountain town”.

  240. Also, Filo is a great coffee shop in Asheville. They serve all kinds of drinks, homemade desserts, and sandwiches. It has such a great atmosphere, and I go and sit there for hours.

  241. Ultimate Ice Cream is excellent! Their ice cream is hand crafted and the flavors are DEFINITELY unique! It’s always a fun surprise to see what they are serving.

  242. I love Asheville! I think you named all my faves.

  243. My husband and I visited Biltmore and loved it! Now my son lives in Charlotte, NC and I would love to be able for him to visit and fall in love with Biltmore like we did. What a great prize!

  244. Great site, hope I win so I can go to some of these places!!

  245. My son and daughter in law have been bragging for years about Asheville. As much as my husband and I travel in North Georgia mountains – we have never ventured to Asheville. We would love to visit – it could become our possible go-to place in the mountains…

  246. Sounds awesome!

  247. Will be in AVL in a few weeks checking out some of these places!

  248. As an adoptee into the land of 10,000 lakes and home of the Juicy Lucy burger, I have to try out anywhere named Juicy Lucy!

  249. Sadly I have no recommendations to add, because I have never been to Asheville or even North Carolina….

  250. We are coming in October to see the leaves. We love Asheville!

  251. I have been hearing how great Asheville is for years now. Absolutely need to get there as part of my bucket list.

  252. We love Asheville! Such a beautiful place

  253. Would love to eat my way through Asheville!!

  254. I’d like to visit because it is driving distance from Atlanta. I’m an email subscriber with aleksa91 hotmail com

  255. I want to visit the arts and crafts scene.

  256. I’ve been to Asheville once on a very short trip. Would love to come back and explore.

  257. Looks like a whole lot more than I get at my hometown! sounds like a wonderful town to visit and to live in.

  258. I lasted visited Ashville in my college days and would love to come back with my husband to show him it’s beauty and charrm!

  259. Asheville looks gorgeous, color me intrigued!

  260. My family loves Ashville! We have not been in a few years because of the expense. I would love to go back!

  261. My hubby and I love to travel and are always trying to think of new and exciting places to visit – we usually just try to squeeze in a day trip in our Northeast NJ area, but I would love to see the ‘purple mountains majesty’ of North Carolina!!

  262. Who wouldn’t want to visit Asheville after reading this post? Hubby loves to visit breweries-and with good food even better!

  263. We love the Carolina’s and visit as often as possible.

  264. This is a great list! Thanks for sharing!

  265. I LOVE Asheville – Mela is my favorite place to eat (even though it didn’t make your list)

  266. I’d love to use this to get my family down here!

  267. we went to seven sows recently and it was delicious! and the admiral was left off the dinner list, surprisingly. it never disappoints!

  268. I’d like to go because you make it sound so nice!

  269. I really appreciate all of the suggestions. I recently moved to Knoxville and have been wanting to visit Asheville so badly. Trying to plan a trip is a bit overwhelming with all of the great looking choices.

  270. I’ve been wanting to spend a weekend in Asheville for ages! Thanks for the all the great suggestions. The Thirsty Monk is definitely on my list!

  271. SO many more places to try during the next visit!
    Traditional Fall trip to Asheville will be even more amazing..

  272. Looks amazing!

  273. The perfect place to retire–especially, since my husband is a chef! Looking forward to a “foodie future”!

  274. i love that there is so much to do for the entire family!

  275. I absolutely love Asheville! I have family near Charlotte and Asheville is one of my favorite day trips but I haven’t explored nearly enough of the food scene. Thanks for this list! I can’t wait to go back now and check them all out!

    Next time I visit I’ll definitely come hungry ;)

  276. Wish I was closer, it calls to my heart!

  277. I have only visited Asheville once, and it was to see Bilmore Estates and that was years and years ago. My husband works so hard and I know this would be a nice relaxing trip for him to enjoy (and me, too!)

  278. I have always always ALWAYS wanted to go to Asheville! I just know I will fall in love with it as soon as I get there and I may never ever leave! (sorry, family + friends!)

  279. We love LAB, Lexington Avenue Brewery, for great food and wonderful local
    brew on tap!

  280. never been there, and it would be a wonderful getaway with my husband. He just got out of the military and jumped right in to college.

  281. We visited Asheville for the first time last year and fell in love with the area. We only were able to spend a couple of days and would love to come back to see and do more!

  282. I would love to win a getaway like this! i am a part time student and a full time worker and it gets really rough sometimes! i don’t ever have the means to go on vacation anywhere at anytime so this would be such a wonderful fun experience for me!

  283. I just went to Biltmore Estates for the first time and before we left I had to take the time to drive thru downtown Asheville. I did run across the Gourmet Chip Co and enjoyed the Italiano chips. I would love to win so I can visit other great places or do some adventure walking in Asheville! Thanks for the chance!

  284. Visited Asheville last month. Amazing stay at the Renaissance Hotel. Be sure to not miss the amazing experience of the Drum Circle Friday night if you visit. It brought back visions of Woodstock in the 60’s and was a total blast to attend. Great city with wonderful food.at the Lab restaurant!!

  285. I want to visit the Asheville food scene again!!! Yes, I do live here, but with a toddler and a baby on the way there is so much I have missed out on! I am ready to eat my way through the city!!!!

  286. This is our favorite vacation spot. My husband and I love Early Girl Eatery, Jerusalem Gardens Café and Tupelo Honey. Asheville is a town unlike any other we have visited. Absolutely love it.

  287. I would love to have a vacation to Asheville vacation with my wonderful man. We don’t live far from there yet he has never gotten to visit. Such a shame, right?! Almost intolerable and must be remedied soon! It would be great to have an excuse to go! :)

  288. So much food to eat, so many trails to hike…I love Asheville!

  289. Oh my gosh! My boyfriend and I will be checking out Why? at the Grey Eagle this coming weekend- I think your restaurant guide just may become our new Asheville food and drink spot bible! This couldn’t be timed any better- and it helps that I wouldn’t be sad to win another trip to Asheville! :)

  290. I would love to come back to Asheville for a job interview! I am applying like mad and hope to get a call back soon. It would make it so much more fun to have treats to enjoy during that time! I love Asheville so much I am ready to make it my home as soon as possible! <3

  291. We’ve been to Asheville and have recently talked about a return trip. Thanks for the
    foodie info. We’ll be sure to visit one or two or three when we are back in town.

  292. Every so often my husband and I like to experience Asheville as tourists. It makes us appreciate the great restaurants, architecture, the mountains, and all the interesting attractions. Asheville is a very special place. We love that we can get so much quality vegan food at so many restaurants. You can’t do that in most towns.

  293. Can’t wait to get back to Asheville and try some of these places. They all sound amazing!

  294. Asheville is the most beautiful place to be this time of year, so peaceful with such extraordinary views that surround you. I love being there,only problem is I don’t get to visit there enough.

  295. I love Asheville!

  296. I would love to visit and try all these restaurants.

  297. I’d love to visit Asheville!

  298. I love Asheville, and now with this restaurant list I want to come back and try a few more!

  299. Would love to go as I have never been

  300. We visited Asheville a couple of years ago. One of the places we ate that I can’t recommend enough is The Lobster Trap, located downtown. Everything we had was delicious.

  301. We try to get to Asheville as often as we can. 5 years ago our family moved from a very eclectic neighborhood in Chicago to Charlotte. Asheville reminds us very much of our old neighborhood with its great restaurants, bars and cafes. The urban feel of Asheville is very appealing to us.
    A few weeks ago, I took our 3 children to climp Chimney Rock. And I just could not pass up Asheville since we were so near. We had great fun in the splash park and ended with pizza at Mellow Mushroom, driving home with a beautiful sunset in our backs.
    Asheville’s location is just perfect. Close enough for us to take a day trip and situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains with plenty of opportunities to hike and discover nature. We can’t wait to come back soon!

  302. Asheville is the most clean, peaceful, and beautiful cities I’ve ever been to. It is so much fun and the residents are so friendly too. Any chance I get I go for a visit.

  303. I never get tired of visiting Asheville. There is so much to do and every visit holds a new, different, and amazing experience!

  304. I am a native North Carolinian and have visited the Asheville area many, many times. Why, because I love everything about it! Each trip there is an exciting adventure, and because there are so many amazing places to eat you get to try new places during each visit. I’m so looking forward to at least one trip there this fall! Can’t wait!

  305. WOW!!! great suggestions and descriptions…I’ve be coming to Asheville regularly for about 2 years now and I’ve been to many of your choices. Now I’ll have ideas for my next trip (Oct6-17) to try. I only wish I could print out the list by itself so I could check off each place as I try them.
    Can’t wait for your lists of things to do

  306. I used to live in Asheville and have kept in contact with many friends there. It would mean a lot for me to be able to return to Asheville for a couple days and re-cultivate old friendships and refresh my favorite memories of Asheville! Farmers Market! Arboretum! Botanical Gardens! Malaprops! Screen Door! And many more places I’d love to go see again! This is a wonderful website with lots of helpful information about so many of the fabulous restaurants I’d love to try out! Thank you!

  307. Would love to share Asheville with my true love

  308. I LOVE ASHEVILLE!!!
    I LOVE the people! I am from North Dakota
    originally and have missed the friendly environment & people that I
    grew up with. When I go to Asheville I feel like I am back home with
    the warm reception I get from everyone I see and deal with in Asheville.
    I LOVE the food & drinks, all the options I have, the freshness of the food, and
    of course how delicious everything is to eat & drink!
    I LOVE the shopping in Asheville! So much to choose from!!
    I LOVE the support of the arts in Asheville and I LOVE seeing all varieties of arts
    abounding in Asheville!
    I LOVE the scenery and nature surrounding Asheville and the support local
    citizens give to the environment around them!
    I could go on and on about everything I LOVE about Asheville and the surrounding
    area!! Oh how I would LOVE to move to Asheville! One day…one day!! ^_^

  309. My husband and I love to eat at Pho R Us in south Asheville. It’s a Vietnamese noodle shop with delicious flavors. Almost addictive.

  310. Everything looks delicious.

  311. I can agree with all your choices except one. Juicy Lucy has great add-ons to their burgers. It is just too bad that the burger meat itself is so flavorless. Many other better burger choices abound.
    Also, you should try Karen Donatelli for pastries/desserts. An absolutely wonderful selection that changes constantly throughout the day as new fresh choices are prepared.

  312. We eat a plant strong diet for our health and the health of the planet – and love Laughing Seed. It is a fabulous vegetarian restaurant with a most interesting eclectic menu.

  313. We absolutely adore Asheville. So much so that we want to move there one day. The food and beer scenes are two big reasons why. My husband was recently forced to retire and winning this trip would be a great conciliation prize.

  314. My friends Linda Hynson and Ray Jones moved to Asheville years ago to raise their family and get out of the California craziness. They have flourished. I miss seeing Linda. I’ve never been to Asheville, and couldn’t afford to come without help.

  315. Asheville is such an amazing place, filled with amazing things to do and people to meet. It’s definitely a foody heaven.

  316. Even though I’m a native North Carolian, I’ve only been to Asheville once last April even though I have dreamed about moving there for ages! I stayed 3 nights and absolutely loved what I saw even though I left feeling like it was just a teaser because there was so much I wanted to do, eat and visit but simply ran out of time! Even this list of places, some I didn’t know about, has me yearning to go back soon. When I visited last Spring, I immediately felt I was home. I wasn’t overwhelmed like I get in bigger cities I’ve visited. I want to explore and experience more, more, more. Pick me, pick me!

  317. Asheville is one of my favorite places to visit! I only wish it were closer to me. So many vegetarian-friendly restaurants and cool shops. Something decadent at French Broad Chocolate Lounge is always on the itinerary. I still mourn Ophelia’s.

  318. I would love to go to Asheville again. My fiancee and I were there in May for two days and loved it. Unfortunately, two days was not enough time to enjoy all the sights and restaurants that Asheville has to offer!

  319. This local could use the pampering that only a contest could afford.

  320. Asheville is one of the most magical places I’ve been to, and as a vegan, it’s an oasis in a desert of deep-fried meat. Everyone I’ve met in Asheville is just happier than most people and nicer too. The culture is amazing, there is always something fun to do, and it’s always pulsing with life. It’s so refreshing to go to Asheville and just exist there for a little while.

  321. Asheville is one of my favorite places! I love the fact that you can find good food, good fun and good libation on every corner. Plus, with a short drive in any direction you can find outdoor fun and adventure!

  322. I love Asheville. Especially the food! Great list.

  323. Was shocked not to find Tupelo Honey on this list!

  324. I’m so excited to add some of these to our list for our annual pilgrimage!

  325. My boyfriend and I had our best weekend ever in Asheville earlier this year! I’m looking into doing a family medicine there after we both finish school. Since we’re in a distance relationship, we always treasure our time together, especially in such a cool and beautiful place as Asheville!

  326. Love this town and the folks are so nice and helpful. Use to go every summer until I was not able to travel for a while, but I am ready, after 3 years, to go again and enjoy the sites and shops, eateries.

  327. I need a vacation!

  328. The new OysterHouse Brewing Company has marvelous brew and food!

  329. Love this city a little more every time I’m there. Would love a chance to explore it even further.

  330. I adore Asheville. I lived there for a couple of years and dream of the day I can return.

  331. Love Asheville any time of year. Although our main reason to visit the area is to see our daughter, the food and mountains are also huge factors. Heaven is having a meal out with your daughter in one of the fabulous Asheville restaurants while looking out a window at the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains!

  332. I live just across the mountain in TN. Asheville is our go-to destination for a great time. Thanks for the list, I can’t wait to try them!

  333. Great list. I’ll be using it often.

  334. Love Asheville! Love food! Love fall! We’re coming in a few weeks and this would be fantastic! Thanks for the list of recommendations!

  335. It’s been a couple of years but on recommendation of a local we tried Louella’s BBQ and loved it. Great BBQ and sides.

  336. My husband always comes to visit on his motorcycle. I would like to get a chance to go too.

  337. Love Asheville’s food scene! Posana is one of our favorites.

  338. Don’t forget – The Laughing Seed and FIG! Visit Asheville a few times a year, and never miss these two, as well as Plant and Corner Kitchen.

  339. We ate at Zambra for my husband’s birthday last year. One of the best meals we have had. Pricey, but definitely worth it for a special occasion. Also try Sezarac for some cool cocktails.

  340. We were there on our first trip to Asheville for Thanksgiving last year and had a wonderful time! We’d love to repeat the adventure.

  341. I love Asheville!! I fell in love as soon as I got off the plane and I can’t wait to get back!!

  342. My best friend and her husband and me and my hubby had the great fortune of visiting Asheville in June of 2011. In all seriousness, my life changed those 4 days! I fell in love! I have never been somewhere that encompasses so many wonderful options! We have a blessed life in California, but it’s California! We need to come back and rejuvenate ourselves!

  343. I love love love Asheville! The Laughing Seed is one of my favorite places and downtown always has a great vibe! Thanks for the wonderful post! Namaste

  344. this is an amazing giveaway! would love to visit a few of these restaurants.

  345. One of my favorite cities to visit!

  346. i can’t wait to visit Asheville again. I love the restaurants and the shopping.

  347. Asheville is my home away from home. When I leave, I leave a little piece of my <3

  348. Curate in Asheville is a must…..amazing fresh, flavorful authentic Spanish tapas-make a reservation!

  349. I lived in Asheville for over 20 yrs. and LOVED it……I moved to South FL. to be near my family and grand children but miss Asheville’s beautiful mountains and friendly town very much and would love to return…..

  350. Would absolutely love to win! What a great couple birthday get-away this would be!!!

  351. It’s “fast food” but we adore Veg Heads. And Rocky’s is where we send EVERYONE!

  352. We head to Asheville in 3 more weeks! Its been 8 years since I last visited…waaayyy to long!! I can’t wait. :)

  353. Asheville is ever changing which is why i love visiting. No two visits are the same. My friend and I visit at least 4 to 5 times a year, if only for the day. We always find a new place to visit and a great restaurant.

  354. My daughter from Hawaii is visiting soon and I would love her to experience all that Asheville has to offer!

  355. My wife and I visit Asheville on a regular basis and we always are looking for new and exciting places to eat…Thank you for you info…We will be trying most of these, if we haven’t already…..

  356. Last time that I was in Asheville for the craft festival I ate at the Early Girl and enjoyed it very much. There are so many good restaurants in Asheville and so little time to try them all.. This sounds like a wonderful week-end that you are giving away and I hope I am the lucky one!

  357. Would love to try out some of the places!! Hope we win!!

  358. I love Asheville and want to take my husband there! Such great food and people!!

  359. LOVE all of the ones you suggested and Tupelo Honey and laughing Seed. Always good to go the ones you have “not” eaten at. Anticipation and the element of surprise is a wonderful thing!!

  360. I would love to win this – there is nothing better than going to the mountains in the fall. Heaven!

  361. Only one place I Wouldn’t eat and that’s wherever obumba ate. I wouldn’t even walk on their floors.!

  362. Love Asheville. Might have to move back there

  363. I’m born & raised Asheville & although I realize the city is ever changing, there are a zillion places not mentioned that I love. Tupelo Honey, Barleys, Laughing Seed, Asaka

  364. I graduated from Appalachian State University. The mountains in North Caroline hold a special place in my heart. There is a sense of feeling at home when I’m in this area. My husband and I will be celebrating our 1-year anniversary on Oct. 13th and plan to visit Asheville. He has never been. This would be such a nice treat to show him the beautiful NC city!

  365. We love the natural beauty of the area, the people, the great beers (Golem @ The Wedge) and delicious food (Laughing Seed to name one).

  366. I’ve lived in Asheville for almost a year now and we share several favorite places! But there is a lot on your list that I still need to try! Bookmarking your page! Thanks!

  367. We have enjoyed eating at Mela’s many times. They have delicious flavorful and fresh Indian food.

  368. I didn’t see FIG or TABLE!!! Or did I just miss them on the list b/c they have got to be on it somewhere.

  369. My husband & I have been to asheville 2x for weekend getaway and love the area. We ate &I Tupelo Honey and highly recommend

  370. Asheville…where every day is a vacation!

  371. I LOVE Asheville! Can’t wait to move there at the end of the year!

  372. I have been to Asheville several times. It’s a wonderful meeting place for us and our daughter and her family. Now we are aware of some new places to try. Thank you.

  373. I love Asheville!

  374. I’m surprised at no mention of tupelo honey….

  375. Thanks for the list! Will use it for my next trip to Asheville.

  376. I am looking forward to visiting and moving to this wonderful city!
    All the restaurants looks amazing.

  377. Asheville is somewhere I have always wanted to go. I think it is exactly the place I would love to go next., Good activities and exercise options, good food, and good drinks!

  378. Thanks for the article! I would love to come to Asheville this fall to check out your recommendations!

  379. Oh wow this totally makes me want to plan a trip to Asheville if I don’t win.

  380. I LOVE Asheville. I used to visit three or four times a year when I lived in DC and Atlanta. When I moved to the San Francisco Bay area, I wasn’t homesick for the east at all, except for Asheville. When my husband, a native California boy, and I moved back east last fall, our first week-end getaway was to Asheville. Especially with him being a chef, we are in LOVE with this city and still figuring a way to get to live there full time one of these days. From the opulance and decadence of the Grove Park Inn and Biltmore Estate to the hipness of the drum circle in the city square, to the great hiking, kayaking, cycling, etc. in the surrounding countryside we are in 100% on the Asheville life!

  381. I’ve never been to Asheville, but ever since reading Gail Godwin’s novels, I’ve wanted to visit. And the pictures of the city are awesome!

  382. Asheville is one of my favorite cities. I never feel like I have enough time there, and am always looking for an excuse to go back.

  383. My husband and I honeymooned in Asheville many years ago… Would love to go again

  384. WONDERFUl Post, Sommer & great pics ♥ I want to be a tourist in my own town LOL

    I love Mela Asheville, lovely Indian food & their Tandoori chicken is wonderful & their Mango sooji for dessert
    70 N Lexington ave.

    and we just ate at Creperie Bouchon, newly remodeled & the Citron lemon crepe with summer berries, & Cream was AMAZING ♥ 62 N Lexington ave. Their coffee was wonderful too XO

  385. I love Asheville! I can’t wait to get back…

  386. Grew up In NC, and I’ve been to Asheville many, many times…great place! Can’t get enough of it. Hoping to go back soon. A year is to long in between visits!

  387. I love Asheville…love the mountains, cooler weather, and all the fun shops. Thanks for chance to win.

  388. I LOVE Salsa’s. The molcajetes are amazing. Salsa sampler always fun.
    http://www.salsas-asheville.com/

  389. i love exploring new places!

  390. I want to visit because of all the amazing restaurants and the town looks beautiful!

  391. I’m literally in the middle of a post just like this for LA! It’s so fun to see your town through your eyes :)

  392. I love visiting Asheville, because it is only an hour or so away from where I live in Greenville,SC, and such a nice drive, closer to the mountains and all around a beautiful city!!

  393. Would absolutely love any and all opportunities to go to Asheville. Love that the town thrives on local everything!

  394. I just got back from visiting Chapel Hill and heard all about Asheville! I would love to see this beautiful city and try all the wonderful restaurants. My two favorite things about traveling to new places are the people and the food!

  395. I lived in Asheville for a short time and absolutely fell in love with it. The mountains in the fall are absolutely majestic, would love to visit and fall in love all over! :0)

  396. We were only in Asheville for a day this June but we loved it. Had lunch at the Bier Garden. Great beer & great food. Need to go back because we didn’t even scratch the surface when it comes to food.

  397. Asheville sounds like the perfect combination of good taste, sophistication, with small town rustic living– sounds like you have a little of both, plus the most gorgeous natural environment that surrounds you. I’d absolutely love to spend a weekend!

  398. Well you’ve made this place sound wonderful and my wife and I could use a small getaway!

  399. Looks like Asheville is a melting pot of mouthwatering restaurants! I’ve always wanted to visit!

  400. I’ve never had an opportunity to vacation in the South and you make Asheville sound like a great place to be. Having so many fine eating places in one place is awesome. Thanks for telling us about them.

  401. I’ve never been even though I live in Williamsburg, VA, but the food alone makes me want to visit! Such an awesome giveaway!

  402. I love Asheville. Our kids live in Asheville and Waynesville so we always enjoy the opportunity to visit. We’re in hot Florida so it’s a nice change.

  403. Holy smokes you weren’t kidding!!! Now if only there were more hours in the day so we could eat at ALL of these places! ;)

  404. These all look amazing! I’ve been visiting Asheville for years and always enjoy getting a locals’ view of the best spots to eat. Thanks for the heads up on all the deliciousness!

  405. The restaurant scene looks amazing-can’t wait till I can get there to try some out!!!

  406. I’d love to revisit the zoo there and of course try some amazing restaurants!

  407. I would very much love to explore Ashville. I have heard so many wonderful things about it and the restaurants sound wonderful

  408. We love Asheville! The Fall colors, weather, surrounding areas, shopping, farmers markets and the Food! Can’t wait to try some of your suggestions. Thanks. Will be there in a couple of weeks!

  409. WHAT AN AWESOME PLACE YOU LIVE IN!!! I’d like to visit to eat , relax, and um, maybe meet you! ;) xo

  410. What a fantastic getaway!!!! Best city ever. The food is good, and the people… the people are even better!!!

  411. I’ve only heard wonderful and great things about Asheville! I’d love to visit the east coast (never been). The part that got me though was Beer City USA!

  412. You hit up pretty much every place I love in Asheville–White Duck Tacos being somewhere I still dream of. Their fish taco is the bomb!

    If I win, I’d love the Biltmore aspect of the giveaway. I grew up going to western NC (family in Brevard) but I’ve never actually visited the Biltmore. Would love to go at Christmas time!

  413. I NEED to do this for my home city!! What a great resource.

  414. Oh wow, I need to go there and try all the food!

  415. This is so helpful. Great tips, Sommer!

  416. best post, ever!! I want to come to Asheville but I needed a guide so this is perfect!! I hear it’s the best foodie city!

  417. I want to visit Asheville just so i can try all the eateries you recommended.

  418. Never been to NC but i hear it’s beautiful!

  419. Love your blog and love you sharing your beautiful town with us!! I have never been to Asheville or North Carolina but would love to visit this beautiful place!

  420. I was just thinking last night about how I would love to visit Biltmore! :)

  421. I’ve been wanting to visit this area for quite a while now. The first thing I research before going on a trip is all the great food the area has to offer, but you’ve already done that! Thanks for this awesome list, Sommer! Perfect.

  422. Born there and return about twice a year, would be nice to stay in the city.

  423. I didn’t realize you lived so close! We are visiting Asheville next week and staying at the Haywood Park Hotel. I hope we picked a good one?! Thanks for the restaurant recommendations – just in time :)

  424. I have heard so much about it and seeing your post, its a culinary paradise-that’s what I look for when I travel!

  425. Such a great place to visit!

  426. I want to go b/c I’ve never been! I love visiting new places and your post has me drooling at my computer.

  427. The fooood. We just went in June for the first time for our anniversary and we loved it :)

  428. because it looks like so much fun!

  429. I’d love to visit Asheville because it has been on our getaway list for so long!!

  430. I would LOOOOVE this. I’m from the Raleigh area originally and now live in Boston, so I miss my southern home. We honeymooned at Bitlmore, so it would be awesome to go back. :)

  431. Now I’m hungry! Looks like you have an amazing place to call home, Sommer. I’d love to visit Asheville!

  432. I keep hearing more and more about Asheville. The more I hear the more I want my husband and I to plan a trip here. This sounds like the ultimate foodie vacation!

  433. Asheville is one of my most favorite places! Love the natural beauty, the food, the beer and all the quirkiness! You have given me many new places to check out on my next visit.

  434. I haven’t been to NC since college. I’d love to experience it as an adult and w/my husband. It’ll be a nice getaway for us. I’m particularly interested in the food scene.

  435. Starting the 13th is Biltmore Village Restaurant week!! Red Stag here I come lol!!!

  436. I’ve only been to Asheville a couple of times but each time, its during the Fall! I love the ride there from AL to NC! I would love to go and bring my mom along to enjoy some wonderful Asheville Atmosphere!

  437. I’ve only gone for very short trips for weddings and have never really had the chance to explore.

  438. I want to come visit you!

  439. I just forwarded this to my little brother and sister-in-law who are flying there this minute!! What an incredible compilation!

  440. What a fun getaway this would be!

  441. I used to live in Asheville and would love to see how it has changed. I don’t recognize any of the eateries you suggest, but would like to try therm! If you think they are wonderful, I know I would, too. My husband and son have never been to Asheville, so this would be an amazing trip for us. It would be so much fun to show them all the wonderful things Asheville has to offer.

  442. I need to come visit you just so I can eat!

  443. It’s the only place that beats out my beloved Michigan for Best Craft Brew Scene. I *must* check itout in person :)

  444. Ron & I just passed our 43rd anniversary. We live just over the mountains in Tennessee… A trip to Ashville would B a wonderful way to celebrate!!!

  445. Cool giveaway Sommer! Looks like some amazing places to eat, now I’m hungry :) xoxo

  446. I have always wanted to visit Asheville!

  447. I’ve never been to Asheville before and would love a chance to explore such a lovely city! And do lots of eating of course ;)

  448. I’ve heard it is a great city for food and art and has all the laidback hip, quirkyness I like in a place!

  449. Asheville is a favorite getaway spot of mine and I’d love to surprise my parents with this getaway so that they can experience why this place is so unique and wonderful too!

  450. I’ve never been before!

  451. The food! I must try the food!

  452. Great Article!!! I loved all of your suggestions. You should head over to Weaverville and try Glass Onion, Blue Mountain Pizza, Well Bred Bakery and The Creperie ! Main Street in Weaverville is charming and 20 minutes from Asheville.

    • Carole, We love Well Bred (it’s listed above) and I keep hearing about the Glass Onion. Adding it to my list of places to try!

      • I am an Asheville native but live in Tampa. My how things have changed since I grew up there. We live in the Reems Creek area part of the time and love to see so many new places in Weaverville. Glass Onion is great and the owners create some wonderful dishes. The Creperie serves clean delicious food, you would love both spots.

  453. My birthday is right around the corner and the chance to get away would be a great gift. Unfortunately I currently live at home with my parents and recently my sister moved in with her hubby and baby until they find a home nearby. It’s a tad crowded and hectic so between my work life and home life I’m exhausted. A vacation to Asheville seems just like the right thing to escape for a weekend and see the beautiful city and all it has to offer. If not, thanks for the suggestions, I hope to make it up one day!

  454. Asheville sounds like the perfect spot for a weekend get away – I’ve heard such great things, I need to try it myself!

  455. It looks like such a beautiful place to visit and all of the food sounds amazing!

  456. Fantastic suggestions! and so many we haven’t yet tried! Thanks for the tips for our next date night! ;)

  457. I’ve always wanted to visit, and this would give us a semi-plan when we go!

  458. I have always wanted to visit this part of NC. It looks so yummy the way you describe it.

  459. I love Asheville and would love to take my daughter to experience the Biltmore and the great cuisine!

  460. We recently went to Curate for dinner at Sommer’s suggestion and it was fabulous! Amazing menu, a waiter who knew the ins and outs of every dish, a relaxed pace for dinner even though the place was jammed on a Thursday night. Excellent place for dinner and we can’t wait to go back!

  461. I’d love to visit the Gourmet Chip Company…. I need to try those kettle chips with lavender honey, blue cheese crumbles and black sea salt. They just sound like crazy goodness!!

  462. Wow – what a great give-away! Can’t wait to see who the lucky winner is!

  463. Definitely go to Tupelo Honey’s for breakfast!

  464. I’ve been so interested in visiting Asheville lately! I hope I get the chance to try out some of your wonderful recommendations.

  465. Can’t wait to try some of these places on my next stop in Asheville. Thanks for all the great recommendations!

  466. I’ve never been to Asheville, but it sure looks like a beautiful place to visit!

  467. Love Ashville! Have eaten at Tupelo Honeys for breakfast which was great!!

  468. Love love love Asheville but often working too much to be able to sufficiently explore. Beautiful mountains, fresh air, bustling old/new town, and obviously the very exceptional food bloggers who have such a wonderful perspective! Winning the give-away would give me a great chance to visit and just soak in Asheville so much more. Thanks Sommer.

  469. Great post! Perfect suggestions :-) YUM! Let’s go to some of them soon.
    For lunch I’d add Mamacitas!