When it comes to planning a trip to Asheville, NC, one of the most exciting aspects is exploring the city’s vibrant food scene. With its unique blend of Southern charm, artistic flair, and outdoor enthusiasm, Asheville has become a haven for foodies and casual diners alike. From farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries, and from traditional Southern comfort food to innovative fusion cuisine, Asheville’s culinary landscape is as diverse as it is delicious.
Get ultimate traveler plannerDiscover the Best Eats in Asheville, NC
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, finding the perfect spot to grab a bite can be overwhelming, especially with so many options to choose from. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the best places to eat in Asheville, NC. From popular breakfast spots to romantic dinner destinations, and from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of this vibrant city.
What to Expect
In this guide, we’ll cover a range of topics, including:
- The top-rated restaurants in Asheville, covering a variety of cuisines and dining styles
- Hidden gems and local favorites that are off the beaten path
- Breakfast, brunch, and coffee spots to start your day off right
- Food trucks, markets, and specialty shops for a quick bite or snack
- Tips and recommendations for dining on a budget, with kids, or for special occasions
So, whether you’re a food enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a great meal, this guide is your ultimate resource for where to eat in Asheville, NC. So, let’s dive in and explore the flavors of this incredible city!
Where to Eat in Asheville, NC: A Foodie’s Paradise
Asheville, North Carolina, is a city that is renowned for its vibrant arts and cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and a thriving food culture that showcases the best of Southern cuisine. From farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries, Asheville is a foodie’s paradise that offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat in Asheville, NC, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to the city’s culinary landscape.
Breakfast Spots
Starting your day off right is essential, and Asheville has plenty of breakfast spots that will satisfy your morning cravings. Here are some of the top breakfast spots in Asheville:
- The Early Girl Eatery: This farm-to-table breakfast spot serves up creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Try their famous shrimp and grits or their seasonal vegetable omelette.
- Biscuit Head: This popular breakfast spot is known for its creative biscuit sandwiches and gravy. Try their “Cathead Biscuit” with scrambled eggs, cheese, and gravy.
- The Blackbird Restaurant: This upscale breakfast spot serves up Southern-inspired dishes with a twist. Try their shrimp and grits or their breakfast burrito.
Brunch Spots
Brunch is a popular meal in Asheville, and there are plenty of restaurants that offer a range of options. Here are some of the top brunch spots in Asheville:
- The White Duck Taco Shop: This Asian-fusion taco shop serves up creative brunch dishes like kimchi fried rice and breakfast tacos.
- The Nightbell: This cocktail bar and restaurant serves up creative brunch dishes like eggs benedict and quiche.
- The Blackbird Restaurant: This upscale restaurant serves up a weekend brunch menu that features dishes like shrimp and grits and breakfast strata.
Lunch Spots
Asheville has a range of lunch spots that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some of the top lunch spots in Asheville: (See Also: Where To Eat In Bath Maine)
- Buxton Hall Barbecue: This barbecue joint serves up delicious meats and sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
- The Lobster Trap: This seafood restaurant serves up fresh seafood dishes like lobster rolls and fish tacos.
- The Plant: This vegan and gluten-free cafe serves up creative dishes like vegan “cheese” burgers and quinoa bowls.
Dinner Spots
Asheville has a thriving dinner scene that features a range of cuisines and dining experiences. Here are some of the top dinner spots in Asheville:
- The Blackbird Restaurant: This upscale restaurant serves up creative Southern-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes.
- The Nightbell: This cocktail bar and restaurant serves up creative small plates and entrees like burgers and seafood dishes.
- Bistro 1896: This French-inspired bistro serves up classic dishes like escargot and duck confit.
Food Trucks
Asheville has a thriving food truck scene that offers a range of cuisines and dining experiences. Here are some of the top food trucks in Asheville:
- Gypsy Queen: This food truck serves up creative Middle Eastern-inspired dishes like falafel and shawarma.
- Fatty’s Food Truck: This food truck serves up creative burgers and sandwiches like the “Fatty Melt” with caramelized onions and blue cheese.
- The Lobster Trap: This seafood food truck serves up fresh seafood dishes like lobster rolls and fish tacos.
Artisanal Bakeries
Asheville is home to a range of artisanal bakeries that offer a range of sweet and savory treats. Here are some of the top bakeries in Asheville:
- The City Bakery: This bakery serves up a range of sweet and savory treats like croissants, bread, and quiches.
- The Rhu Bakery: This bakery serves up creative pastries and desserts like croissants and cakes.
- The West End Bakery: This bakery serves up a range of sweet and savory treats like bread, pastries, and sandwiches.
Special Dietary Options
Asheville is a city that caters to a range of dietary preferences and restrictions. Here are some of the top spots for special dietary options:
- The Plant: This vegan and gluten-free cafe serves up creative dishes like vegan “cheese” burgers and quinoa bowls.
- Rosetta’s Kitchen: This vegan and gluten-free cafe serves up creative dishes like vegan mac and cheese and quinoa bowls.
- The Nightbell: This cocktail bar and restaurant offers a range of gluten-free and vegan options like burgers and salads.
Food Tours
Asheville is a city that is best explored through its food scene. Here are some of the top food tours in Asheville:
- Asheville Food Tours: This food tour takes you on a culinary journey through the city’s top restaurants and eateries.
- Taste of Asheville Food Tours: This food tour takes you on a culinary journey through the city’s top restaurants and eateries, with a focus on local ingredients and cuisine.
: This food tour takes you on a culinary journey through the city’s top restaurants and eateries, with a focus on comedy and entertainment.
Farmer’s Markets
Asheville is a city that is committed to supporting local farmers and artisans. Here are some of the top farmer’s markets in Asheville: (See Also: Where To Eat In Eden Prairie)
- Asheville City Market: This farmer’s market takes place every Saturday morning and features a range of local produce, meats, and artisanal goods.
- River Arts District Farmer’s Market: This farmer’s market takes place every Wednesday evening and features a range of local produce, meats, and artisanal goods.
: This farmer’s market takes place every Tuesday evening and features a range of local produce, meats, and artisanal goods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Asheville, NC, is a foodie’s paradise that offers a range of culinary experiences and dining options. From farm-to-table restaurants to artisanal bakeries, Asheville has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a romantic dinner, Asheville’s food scene has got you covered.
In this article, we’ve explored the best places to eat in Asheville, NC, and provided you with a comprehensive guide to the city’s culinary landscape. From breakfast spots to dinner spots, food trucks to artisanal bakeries, we’ve covered it all. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, we hope this guide has inspired you to explore the culinary delights of Asheville.
So, the next time you’re in Asheville, be sure to check out some of the top restaurants, cafes, and eateries that we’ve mentioned in this article. And don’t forget to explore the city’s thriving food truck scene, artisanal bakeries, and farmer’s markets. With its vibrant food culture and commitment to local ingredients, Asheville is a city that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Recap:
- Asheville, NC, is a foodie’s paradise that offers a range of culinary experiences and dining options.
- The city has a range of breakfast spots, brunch spots, lunch spots, and dinner spots that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Asheville is home to a thriving food truck scene, artisanal bakeries, and farmer’s markets that offer a range of local ingredients and artisanal goods.
- The city has a range of special dietary options, including vegan and gluten-free cafes and restaurants.
- Asheville is a city that is committed to supporting local farmers and artisans, with a range of farmer’s markets and food tours that showcase the city’s culinary delights.
By following this guide, you’ll be able to explore the culinary delights of Asheville and experience the city’s vibrant food culture for yourself. So, bon appetit, and happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions: Where to Eat in Asheville, NC
What are the most popular restaurants in Asheville?
Asheville is known for its vibrant food scene, and some of the most popular restaurants include The Early Girl Eatery, Buxton Hall Barbecue, and The Nightbell. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from Southern comfort food to barbecue and craft cocktails.
Are there any good vegan or vegetarian options in Asheville?
Yes, Asheville has a thriving vegan and vegetarian community, and there are many excellent options to choose from. Some popular spots include Plant, Rosetta’s Kitchen, and Laughing Seed Cafe. These restaurants offer a variety of plant-based dishes that are both delicious and sustainable. (See Also: Where To Eat In Mallow)
What are some good breakfast spots in Asheville?
Asheville has plenty of great breakfast spots to start your day off right. Some popular options include The Sunny Point Cafe, The Blackbird Restaurant, and The Biscuit Head. These restaurants offer a range of breakfast dishes, from sweet treats to savory omelets and biscuits.
Are there any romantic restaurants in Asheville?
If you’re looking for a romantic dinner in Asheville, there are several excellent options to choose from. Some popular spots include The Blackbird Restaurant, The Nightbell, and Bistro by Il Falorni. These restaurants offer intimate atmospheres, exceptional service, and exquisite cuisine that’s sure to impress.
What are some good restaurants near the Biltmore Estate?
If you’re visiting the Biltmore Estate, there are several great restaurants nearby that are worth trying. Some popular options include The Bistro, Cedric’s Tavern, and The Cantina at Biltmore Village. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines and atmospheres, from casual to upscale, and are all within walking distance of the estate.