Best Restaurants in Asheville - Top 10 Culinary Delights
by B Kishwar | Updated Feb 28, 2024
Top 10 Best Restaurants in Asheville
1
The Bull and the Beggar
2
Asheville Proper
3
Little D's
4
Chai Pani Asheville
5
Regina's
6
Little Louie's
7
Cúrate
8
La Bodega
9
Sunny Point Café
10
Rabbit Hole Bakery
S.No
Best Restaurants
At Fresherslive you can enhance your knowledge, stay informed, feed your curiosity, stay updated, and unlock the insights that can transform your life with our Top 10 articles.
Best Restaurants in Asheville
Asheville, North Carolina, is renowned for its vibrant food scene nestled amidst the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Boasting a blend of Appalachian tradition and innovative culinary exploration, Asheville's dining landscape offers something for every palate. From cozy bistros to upscale steakhouses, and from eclectic international fare to farm-to-table delights, the city's best restaurants showcase a diverse array of flavors and experiences. Whether you're seeking local legends that have stood the test of time or eager to discover new favorites, Asheville's culinary offerings promise a delightful journey for food enthusiasts.
1. The Bull and the Beggar
Nestled along the French Broad River, The Bull and the Beggar stands out as a beloved bistro in Asheville's culinary landscape. Known for its locally sourced ingredients and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant offers a delightful fusion of Appalachian flavors with a modern twist. The menu showcases a diverse selection of dishes, from artisanal charcuterie boards to expertly crafted entrees featuring seasonal ingredients.
Guests can savor delectable meals while enjoying picturesque views of the river, creating a dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of Asheville's charm. With its commitment to quality and creativity, The Bull and the Beggar continues to be a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors alike, embodying the spirit of culinary innovation in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
2. Asheville Proper
Situated in the historic Grove Arcade, Asheville Proper is a sophisticated steakhouse that has quickly become a culinary landmark in the city. Helmed by husband-and-wife team Mindi and Owen McGlynn, the restaurant exudes elegance with its Art Deco-inspired decor and refined ambiance. Asheville Proper takes pride in sourcing premium cuts of meat from regional purveyors, ensuring each dish reflects the highest standards of quality and taste.
Whether indulging in a chef's tasting menu or savoring a signature steak paired with seasonal sides, diners are treated to an exceptional culinary journey that celebrates the rich flavors of Appalachia. With its impeccable service and dedication to culinary excellence, Asheville Proper offers a dining experience that is both timeless and unforgettable, inviting guests to indulge in the finest fare amidst the historic charm of downtown Asheville.
3. Little D's
Located in North Asheville, Little D's is a charming eatery that offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu inspired by seasonal flavors and local ingredients. As the latest venture from the team behind Asheville Proper, this restaurant delights patrons with its innovative small plates and shareable dishes. From delicately charred cauliflower adorned with fennel pesto to inventive twists on comfort classics, such as fried chicken and waffles, Little D's showcases a culinary approach that is both inventive and approachable.
With its warm hospitality and commitment to culinary craftsmanship, Little D's has quickly earned a reputation as a go-to destination for those seeking a taste of Asheville's thriving food scene. Whether enjoying a casual meal with friends or embarking on a culinary adventure, diners are sure to be captivated by the culinary delights awaiting them at Little D's.
4. Chai Pani Asheville
Chai Pani Asheville, founded in 2009 by Chef Meherwan Irani and his wife, Molly, has established itself as a beloved institution in Asheville's culinary landscape. Offering an innovative and playful take on Indian cuisine, Chai Pani has garnered widespread acclaim, including the prestigious James Beard Foundation's Outstanding Restaurant award in 2022.
The restaurant's colorful and vibrant space, adorned with murals and strung with lights, creates a festive atmosphere that complements its bold flavors and creative dishes. Signature offerings such as butter chicken, bhel puri, and Matchstick Okra Fries showcase the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and culinary excellence, earning it a dedicated following among locals and visitors alike.
5. Regina's
Regina's, located in West Asheville, emerges as a refreshing addition to the city's dining scene, offering a blend of modern flair and comfort classics. Founded as a breakfast and lunch spot, Regina's quickly gained popularity for its inventive yet approachable dishes, crafted with seasonal ingredients and culinary finesse.
From fried chicken and waffles to shrimp and grits, each dish at Regina's exudes warmth and flavor, inviting guests to savor the essence of Southern hospitality. The restaurant's stylish yet relaxed ambiance, coupled with its commitment to quality and creativity, has positioned Regina's as a go-to destination for locals seeking a memorable dining experience in Asheville's eclectic food landscape.
6. Little Louie's
Little Louie's, born from a weekend-only pop-up concept, has evolved into a bustling brick-and-mortar eatery that captivates diners with its hearty sandwiches and laid-back ambiance. Founded by chef Eliott Moss, formerly of Buxton Hall, Little Louie's has garnered a devoted following for its overstuffed sandwiches, including fan favorites like the Smashburgers and Eggplant Parm Hoagies.
Despite its humble beginnings, Little Louie's has quickly become a culinary destination, attracting food enthusiasts with its concise yet enticing menu and casual vibe. With its emphasis on quality ingredients and satisfying flavors, Little Louie's offers a welcoming space where patrons can indulge in comforting fare and enjoy the simple pleasures of good food and community.
7. Cúrate
Cúrate, helmed by Chef Katie Button, stands as a celebrated gem in Asheville's culinary landscape, renowned for its authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant ambiance. Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, this tapas bar invites guests to embark on a culinary journey through Spain with its expertly crafted small plates and traditional paellas. The menu reflects Chef Button's meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to showcasing the diverse flavors of Spanish cuisine.
From iconic dishes like patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo to lesser-known delights such as marinated olives and pan con tomate, each offering at Cúrate embodies the essence of Spanish culinary tradition. The restaurant's stylish yet cozy interior, reminiscent of a bustling Spanish tavern, creates an inviting atmosphere ideal for sharing delectable dishes and savoring memorable dining experiences with friends and family.
8. La Bodega
La Bodega, a delightful addition to Asheville's dining scene, is the brainchild of Chef Katie Button and co-owner Felix Meana, offering a unique blend of Spanish flavors in a casual yet elegant setting. Situated adjacent to Cúrate, this multifaceted establishment serves as both a restaurant and a market, inviting guests to explore the rich culinary heritage of Spain through its diverse offerings.
From freshly baked pastries and artisanal bread to savory tapas and decadent desserts, La Bodega tantalizes the senses with its array of authentic Spanish delicacies. Whether indulging in a leisurely brunch, enjoying a leisurely lunch, or picking up gourmet provisions for a culinary adventure at home, guests are treated to a curated selection of flavors and ingredients sourced from Spain and beyond. With its warm hospitality and commitment to culinary excellence, La Bodega offers a taste of Spain right in the heart of Asheville, inviting guests to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the art of food and community.
9. Sunny Point Café
Sunny Point Café, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of West Asheville, has been a beloved fixture in the city's dining scene since its inception in 2003. Founded by April Moon Harper and Belinda Raab, this charming café exudes warmth and hospitality, drawing in locals and visitors alike with its delectable comfort food offerings. What sets Sunny Point Café apart is its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which are grown right on-site in the restaurant's own garden.
This dedication to sustainability not only enhances the flavors of their dishes but also reflects their ethos of supporting the community and minimizing their environmental footprint. Whether you're stopping by for breakfast or lunch, Sunny Point Café delights diners with its imaginative twists on classic Southern fare, such as huevos rancheros or pecan-crusted fried green tomatoes served with bacon and goat cheese. The breezy covered patio adds to the allure, providing a perfect setting to savor a leisurely meal while soaking in the laid-back Asheville atmosphere.
10. Rabbit Hole Bakery
Tucked behind its sister restaurant, Sunny Point Café, Rabbit Hole Bakery is a hidden gem offering a delightful array of baked goods and beverages. Despite its small size, this cozy bakery packs a punch with its tempting selection of cookies, hand pies, quick breads, and more. Whether you're in the mood for a sweet treat or a savory snack, Rabbit Hole Bakery has something to satisfy every craving.
It serves as the perfect stop for those waiting for a table at Sunny Point Café or for anyone simply seeking a quick pick-me-up during their Asheville adventures. Beyond its delectable offerings, Rabbit Hole Bakery also boasts a charming ambiance, with its intimate space exuding a cozy, inviting vibe. Guests can enjoy their treats indoors or opt to relax on the bakery's deck, which overlooks the lush garden surroundings, providing a serene retreat in the heart of West Asheville.
What Modes of Transportation Are Available To Reach These Restaurants?
Elaborate information on modes of transportation available to reach the best restaurants in Asheville can include:
Personal Vehicle: Many visitors to Asheville opt to travel by personal vehicle, especially if they're staying in the city or nearby areas. Asheville's restaurants are generally accessible by car, and the city provides ample parking options, including street parking, parking garages, and designated lots near popular dining areas like downtown.
Public Transportation: Asheville offers a public transit system operated by Asheville Redefines Transit (ART). The ART system includes bus routes that connect various parts of the city, making it convenient for residents and visitors to access different neighborhoods and attractions, including restaurants. Visitors can check ART's website or mobile app for route maps, schedules, and fare information.
Ridesharing Services: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Asheville, providing an alternative option for transportation. Visitors can use these ridesharing apps to request a ride to and from restaurants without worrying about parking or navigating unfamiliar streets. Ridesharing services can be particularly convenient for those staying in areas where parking may be limited.
Walking and Biking: Asheville's compact downtown area makes it conducive to walking and biking between restaurants. Many of the city's best dining establishments are clustered within walking distance of each other, especially in downtown Asheville. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a bike from one of the city's bike share programs to explore the culinary delights of Asheville on two wheels.
Taxis and Shuttles: Traditional taxi services and private shuttle companies also operate in Asheville, offering transportation services to visitors who prefer not to drive or use ridesharing apps. Taxis can be hailed from designated taxi stands or summoned via phone, while shuttle services may offer pre-scheduled routes or customized transportation for larger groups.
By considering these various transportation options, visitors to Asheville can easily access the city's diverse array of restaurants and culinary experiences, regardless of their preferred mode of travel.
Best Restaurants in Asheville - FAQs
Rabbit Hole Bakery is situated behind its sister restaurant, Sunny Point Café, in the vibrant neighborhood of West Asheville.
Rabbit Hole Bakery offers a delightful array of baked goods and beverages, including cookies, hand pies, quick breads, and more.
The bakery boasts a charming ambiance, with its intimate space exuding a cozy, inviting vibe. Guests can enjoy their treats indoors or relax on the bakery's deck, which overlooks the lush garden surroundings.
Rabbit Hole Bakery is perfect for those waiting for a table at Sunny Point Café or anyone seeking a quick pick-me-up during their Asheville adventures.
Despite its small size, Rabbit Hole Bakery packs a punch with its tempting selection of treats, making it a hidden gem for those looking for delicious baked goods in West Asheville.