- jlentz24
5 Best Eats in Asheville
Updated: Apr 1
Asheville, North Carolina is home to craft breweries, great hiking and the Biltmore Estate, but above all, some tasty eateries.
This hipster city is a perfect locale for foodies, adventurers and families alike. Serene mountain hikes and an energetic nightlife combine with wonderfully inventive restaurants, local bites and flavorful dishes. Check out these five unique places to eat while in Asheville!
Eat well. Be well.
A James Beard Award winner in 2022 for Outstanding Restaurant, this tasty Indian street food in downtown Asheville (and now also in Atlanta) offers innovative, flavorful bites. Chef Meherwan Irani brings the tastes of Bombay to North Carolina with a line out the door on the regular. Be sure to try the Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri and the Sloppy Jai. Open for lunch and dinner, this spot is a must-try when in Asheville.
Katie Button’s flagship restaurant and recent James Beard Foundation winner offers tapas-style Spanish cuisine in an intimate setting. The wonderfully curated wine list is a welcome addition to any dish. Go with a group to be able to try many small plates, including the Berenjenas con Miel, Croquetas de Pollo and Secreto Iberico. Reservations are strongly recommended. Closed on Mondays.
For more than 20 years, Early Girl Eatery has been using local, organic, seasonal ingredients to create flavorful dishes. Serving breakfast all day, they have three locations in Asheville (and one in Charlotte). I love their Spinach & Mashed Potato Cakes with a Megamosa or pot of hot tea. No reservations, so walk in and join the line. Fresh coffee served while you wait.
An ever-revolving menu of ala carte tacos, including a Korean Beef Bulgogi and Tikka Masala Chicken, White Duck Taco Shop has multiple locations (including one in Nashville). In addition to cold beers and margaritas, they also offer shareable sides and desserts. The outside patio is dog friendly with close proximity to Wedge and New Belgium breweries, making it a great stop for lunch on a weekend bar crawl.
South Slope’s Vortex serves organic, non-GMO vegan, cake and yeast doughnuts, with 1000 Faces Coffee. They offer unique flavors on daily special, such as the sweet potato curry with green curry coconut and lime. The apple fritter is also mouthwatering! Come early and be prepared to kill at least two donuts! Open 7 am to 2 pm and closed Mondays.
Have you been to Asheville? What's your favorite place to visit? Comment below
Check out the Top 5 (Secret) Restaurants in Destin, FL or the Top 5 Must-Try Eats in Nashville, TN!