Over the years, Asheville has earned a strong reputation for its food and local brews, and it’s very much deserved. The culinary scene here is a beautiful blend of Southern heritage and a bit of global inspiration. You’ll love how our city celebrates local farmers while pushing the boundaries of what mountain food can be. From the smoky aroma of slow-cooked barbecue to the refined Spanish tapas, there is something for everyone. We believe that a great meal is more than just food; it is about the atmosphere and the memories made around the table. In this guide, we are sharing some of the best places to eat in Asheville to help you plan your next delicious adventure.

Famous Asheville Barbecue

Barbecue (BBQ) is a staple of Asheville’s culture, which is why we also make sure to put BBQ grills in our vacation rentals. Asheville barbecue ranges from traditional pits to creative modern smokehouses. We think these spots offer the best balance of smoke, sauce, and southern hospitality.

12 Bones Smokehouse

Located in the heart of the River Arts District (RAD), the 12 Bones Smokehouse has an industrial yet artistic feel just like the neighborhood it’s located in. It is a counter-service joint where the focus is entirely on flavorful BBQ and the local art on the walls. The Blueberry Chipotle Ribs are what we can say legendary. It balances sweet and spicy flavors perfectly.

While the meat is the star, the side dishes are just as impressive and full of flavor. Locals and visitors often rave about the corn pudding and the collard greens as the perfect companions to a tray of ribs. It is a wonderful, casual spot to grab a meal with friends after exploring the nearby galleries in RAD.

Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ

Found in the popular South Slope district, this spot brings a high-energy, Kansas City-style BBQ experience to the mountains. The atmosphere is sprawling and social, featuring a large, dog-friendly outdoor patio. It is a fantastic place to enjoy a craft beer alongside a massive plate of smoked meats.

We highly recommend trying the award-winning burnt ends or the “Bear Attack,” which is a hearty mountain of cornbread and mac and cheese topped with meat. The service is fast and friendly, making it an easy choice for a big group. It captures the fun, laid-back spirit that makes the South Slope such a popular destination for Asheville tourists.

Neighborhood Italian Favorites

There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of pasta after a day of mountain adventures. Asheville’s Italian scene offers everything from old-school “Sunday Gravy” to modern, handmade delicacies.

Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian

Vinnie’s is the ultimate old-school spot in Asheville. As you enter, you’ll notice the dimly lit lights and cozy atmosphere inviting you in. It is one of the most comforting places to eat in Asheville when you need to satisfy your cravings for Italian food. We love the Spaghetti with Sunday Gravy, which is a slow-cooked meat sauce that tastes as if it came straight from an Italian grandmother’s kitchen. The Chicken Parmigiana and the Twice-Baked Meat Lasagna are absolute crowd favorites that never disappoint. For dessert, their cannoli are among the best in terms of quality and flavor.

We suggest arriving a little early to grab a seat as it’s usually packed. They do not take reservations, so this is something to keep in mind whenever you plan on eating in this local favorite Italian restaurant.

Strada Italiano

Located right in the heart of downtown, Strada honors regional Italian specialties with a focus on pastas. The atmosphere is that of a cozy, Old World-style restaurant with intimate seating and warm service from its great staff. We appreciate their dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients like mountain mushrooms and truffles.

The Grilled Calamari and the rich Bolognese are standout dishes that guests often return for. For a special treat, you can head next door to their adjoining Social Lounge for a cocktail on the rooftop. It is a wonderful spot for a romantic dinner or a sophisticated night out with your friends.

Southern Farm-to-Table Comfort

We take our local labels seriously in Western North Carolina, sourcing ingredients from the many farms surrounding the city. These spots offer elevated versions of classic comfort food in a warm, welcoming environment.

Early Girl Eatery

This restaurant, located on Wall Street, is a true staple of the Asheville food scene. We appreciate that they source almost all their ingredients locally, from the flour to the seasonal produce. The Porky Breakfast Bowl is a fan favorite that guests order all day long because it is so hearty and filling. Another recommendation is the Bow to the King Biscuit French. The biscuits by themselves are good, but topping them off with cinnamon and syrup makes them all the better. The fried chicken served with it is also seasoned very well.

The vibe here can be a bit busy at times, but there are friendly faces everywhere. It captures the authentic, welcoming spirit of Asheville perfectly.

Rhubarb

Do you need a place to eat that’s more upscale to celebrate a momentous occasion? Rhubarb may just be the restaurant you’re looking for. Located on Pack Square, this restaurant has mastered using seasonal harvests for a high-end dining experience. The atmosphere is rustic yet very polished. Don’t be overwhelmed if you’re unsure of what to order. The staff here are well-versed and charming, making you feel at ease as you go through the menu. The Wood-fired Whole Fish and the Goat Cheese Burrata are frequently cited as top choices by both locals and tourists.

Kindly note that the menu changes often to reflect what is currently in season. However, you’ll love how they can piece together each ingredient and create unique and delicious dishes. It is a fantastic place to experience high-end cuisine in the heart of downtown.

More International Flavors

Downtown Asheville is a hub for international flavors and social dining. These restaurants focus on shared plates, allowing you to experience a wide variety of flavors in a single sitting.

Cúrate Bar De Tapas

This restaurant is set inside a beautifully restored 1920s bus station, and the atmosphere is chic and fun. We love the open kitchen concept where you can watch the chefs prepare authentic plates with incredible precision. The Jamón Ibérico is widely considered the star of the menu, but the entire experience feels like a trip to Spain.

The menu is designed for sharing, making it a great choice for groups who want to try a little bit of everything. From the crispy eggplant to the traditional seafood paella, the quality of ingredients is always top-tier. Because this is one of the most sought-after places to eat in Asheville, be sure to book your table early.

Chai Pani

This award-winning restaurant offers incredible Indian street food packed full of flavor. As soon as you enter this gem, you’ll already feel its authenticity with the restaurant’s bright and colorful themed decor. The “Sloppy Jai” is a unique take on a classic, featuring spiced minced lamb on a toasted bun.

We frequently order the Matchstick Okra Fries, which are sliced thin and fried to a perfect crunch. Of course, going into an Indian restaurant, a must-try is their incredible Butter Chicken Thali with Naan bread. This is the kind of place where every bite of the dishes on their menu offers a new and exciting flavor profile.

Vegetarian and Vegan Favorites

Asheville is highly inclusive when it comes to dietary preferences, offering some of the best plant-based dining in the country. These restaurants focus on flavor and creativity, proving that meat-free meals can be the star of the show.

Plant

This restaurant, located near downtown Asheville, proves that plant-based dining can be just as sophisticated and satisfying as any traditional steakhouse. The setting is modern and intimate, with an entirely vegan menu that is often gluten-free. The Beet Ravioli is a stunning dish that is as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. We also recommend the Peppercorn-Crusted Seitan or the cheese plate made with cultured nuts. Don’t be afraid to bring your meat-lover friends or family here. Even those who usually eat meat are consistently impressed by the depth of flavor in each dish on their menu. 

Rosetta’s Kitchen

This charming downtown restaurant has been a local favorite since 2002, serving up what we like to call “vegan soul food.” The atmosphere is eclectic and welcoming, often featuring local art and a very relaxed vibe. It is the kind of place where you feel like a local the moment you walk through the door.

The Smoky Soda Jerk Tempeh and the mountain-style cornbread are legendary items on the menu. Our personal favorite is the Organic Tofu & Avocado Sandwich with walnut sauce, served on their flavorful sourdough bread. We also love the Buchi Bar downstairs, where you can grab a local kombucha on tap. It remains one of Asheville’s most reliable places to eat for anyone seeking wholesome, hearty vegan food.

Stay Near Your New Favorite Restaurants Today!

After trying out the incredible variety of places to eat in Asheville, you will want a comfortable place to rest and recharge. We provide beautiful vacation rentals in Asheville that serve as your perfect home base in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Our homes offer fully equipped kitchens and inviting dining rooms, giving you the flexibility to enjoy takeaways from your newly discovered favorite restaurant. You can even cook your own dishes inspired by the local cuisine. Book your Asheville getaway with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need reservations for restaurants in Asheville? 

Not every restaurant needs or allows reservations, but we highly recommend booking ahead for popular spots like Cúrate Bar de Tapas or Rhubarb, especially on weekends.

Are there gluten-free options available at most spots? 

Most Asheville restaurants are very accommodating, with plenty of gluten-free choices on almost every menu. Some restaurants offer the option to customize dishes to accommodate gluten-free diets.

Do restaurants in Asheville stay open late? 

Many restaurants close by 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, so we recommend checking hours before heading out.

Is there a specific “Asheville dish” I should try? 

While not exclusive to Asheville, Southern favorites like cornbread, liver mush, beans, collard greens, and pulled pork dishes are a must-try in most restaurants you’ll visit here in Asheville