Asheville, North Carolina, is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and thriving food scene, Asheville has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. When it comes to lunchtime, the options are endless, with a wide range of cuisines and dining styles to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to eat lunch in Asheville, from classic comfort food to international flavors and everything in between.
Classic Asheville Eats
Asheville is famous for its Southern comfort food, and there are plenty of places to get your fix. One of the most iconic spots is the Early Girl Eatery, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up creative twists on classic dishes like fried chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and burgers. Another local favorite is the White Duck Taco Shop, which offers a wide range of tacos, from traditional carnitas to more adventurous options like Korean BBQ pork and vegan black bean.
Other Classic Asheville Eats
- The Blackbird Restaurant: Known for its creative Southern cuisine and extensive wine list.
- The Nightbell: A popular spot for burgers and sandwiches, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
- The Early Bird: A cozy breakfast spot with a wide range of options, including omelets, pancakes, and waffles.
International Flavors
Asheville is also home to a diverse range of international cuisines, from Italian to Indian to Mexican. One of the most popular spots is the Buxton Hall Barbecue, which offers a unique blend of traditional Southern barbecue and international flavors. Another standout is the Asheville Pizza Company, which serves up wood-fired pizzas with toppings like prosciutto and arugula, as well as more adventurous options like fig and balsamic glaze.
Other International Flavors
- La Brioche: A French bakery and café with a wide range of pastries, sandwiches, and salads.
- Pho 99: A popular spot for Vietnamese cuisine, with options like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls.
- El Pueblo: A family-owned Mexican restaurant with a wide range of options, including tacos, enchiladas, and burritos.
Food Trucks and Markets
Asheville is also home to a thriving food truck scene, with a wide range of options from tacos to ice cream. One of the most popular spots is the Asheville City Market, which features a variety of food vendors, including the popular Asheville City Market BBQ. Another standout is the WNC Food Truck Association, which hosts regular food truck festivals throughout the year. (See Also: Where to Eat in Penn Quarter Dc? Best Bites and Brews)
Other Food Trucks and Markets
- The Asheville City Market BBQ: A popular spot for barbecue and other Southern favorites.
- The WNC Food Truck Association: A non-profit organization that hosts regular food truck festivals and events.
- The River Arts District Food Truck Park: A popular spot for food trucks and live music.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Asheville is also a great destination for vegetarians and vegans, with a wide range of options from vegan “cheese” to vegetarian comfort food. One of the most popular spots is the Plant, which offers a wide range of plant-based options, including burgers, salads, and bowls. Another standout is the Laughing Seed Cafe, which serves up creative vegetarian and vegan dishes like vegan “cheese” plates and quinoa bowls.
Other Vegetarian and Vegan Options
- The Nightbell: Offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including vegan “cheese” and gluten-free bread.
- The Blackbird Restaurant: Has a separate vegetarian menu, with options like roasted vegetable tart and quinoa salad.
- The Early Girl Eatery: Offers a variety of vegetarian options, including a vegetarian “meat” loaf and roasted vegetable soup.
Recap
Asheville is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget. From classic comfort food to international flavors and everything in between, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty burger, a creative vegetarian dish, or a unique international flavor, Asheville has got you covered.
FAQs
What is the best place to eat lunch in Asheville?
The best place to eat lunch in Asheville depends on your personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Some popular options include the Early Girl Eatery, the White Duck Taco Shop, and the Asheville Pizza Company.
What are some good vegetarian options in Asheville?
Asheville has a wide range of vegetarian options, including the Plant, the Laughing Seed Cafe, and the Nightbell. These restaurants offer a variety of plant-based options, from vegan “cheese” to quinoa bowls. (See Also: Where to Eat in Harbin? Best Local Food Spots)
What are some good food truck options in Asheville?
Asheville has a thriving food truck scene, with a wide range of options from tacos to ice cream. Some popular food trucks include the Asheville City Market BBQ, the WNC Food Truck Association, and the River Arts District Food Truck Park.
What are some good options for gluten-free and dairy-free diners in Asheville?
Asheville has a wide range of options for gluten-free and dairy-free diners, including the Nightbell, the Blackbird Restaurant, and the Early Girl Eatery. These restaurants offer a variety of gluten-free and dairy-free options, from burgers to salads.
(See Also: Where to Eat in Kaikoura? Best Kept Secrets)What are some good options for budget-friendly diners in Asheville?
Asheville has a wide range of budget-friendly options, including the Asheville City Market, the WNC Food Truck Association, and the River Arts District Food Truck Park. These options offer a variety of affordable options, from tacos to sandwiches.