Asheville, NC Local Flavor Overview
A friendly, community-oriented restaurant community—with great food to boot.
In This Article
Breakfast/Lunch
Founded in 2013, Biscuit Head (“Put Some South in Your Mouth”) already has two locations (with a third scheduled to open in 2016), a testament to the popularity of BH’s biscuits, as well as an appreciation of the ownership’s commitment to using local produce and products to the greatest extent possible. Green Sage Cafe (three locations) is another inspired choice, revered for its healthy dishes, emphasis on sustainability and its unique shakes and smoothies.
Italian
Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian describes itself as “old-school” Italian food (think Brooklyn, the Bronx and Boston’s North End). All the so-called classics are on the menu, including chicken parmesan, veal marsala and linguini and clams. If you’re looking for a family-friendly pizzeria, Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria offers sourdough pizzas as well as an assortment of delectable sandwiches and wraps along with more than 40 beers on tap.
Asheville, NC Culture
Mexican/World-American
Mamacita’s Mexican Grill – located downtown on Biltmore Avenue next to the Wicked Weed Brewery – is popular for its reasonably-priced, made-from-scratch Mexican food. Meanwhile, the menu at the White Duck Taco Shop changes frequently, but the crispy chicken BLT, buffalo chicken and lamb gyro tacos are all delightful options on the current incarnation.
Vegetarian-Friendly, Not
Nine Mile (two locations) serves up vegetarian-friendly, Caribbean-style pasta and rice dishes, many with quirky names like Jamaican Me Thirsty. If you’re in the mood to create your own burger, Burgerworx offers the opportunity to select your patty, bun and cheese, “and finish it all off with as many of our 30-plus toppings as you like.”
Culture, Events and Activities in Asheville, NC
Coffee, Tea & Dessert
Last but not least, French Broad Chocolates is a must-visit if you consider yourself a chocolate enthusiast. Hang out in FBC’s chocolate lounge, where you can enjoy artisanal chocolates and pastries, along with local beers or tea and coffee from like-minded establishments – namely Dobrá Tea and Counter Culture Coffee. Hour-long tours of FBC’s Factory & Tasting Room take place on Saturdays at 11 a.m. The cost for the tour is $10, and reservations are highly recommended.