Where to Eat: Asheville Dining and Drinks
Asheville's eclectic food scene has been making headlines for years — even named by Yelp! as one of their Best Food Destinations in America, 2020 — find out which spots are worth the hype below. At Asheville Threads we've taken the liberty of doing some of the heavy lifting of which restaurants are worth a reservation during your time in the city. Much like the city's craft breweries are consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation and flavor, Asheville's burgeoning culinary talent is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Bull & Beggar
Don’t let the industrial interior fool you, The Bull & Beggar offers plenty of substance AND style. In addition to their rotating menu of French-inspired, Asheville-grown hors d’euvres and entrées, The Bull & Beggar offers a burger-centric menu on Mondays and a full bar. This restaurant is only open Thursday through Monday and takes reservations, so be sure to make a reservation in advance of your weekend trip.
The Bull & Beggar | (828) 575-9443
The Admiral
The Admiral is a chill dinner spot located on Haywood Road that offers eclectic dishes and drinks for you to enjoy. With everything from Vietnamese Hot and Sour Soup to Farro Verde, the menu is diverse, and changes based on what ingredients are in season. The cocktail options also range from classic to avant-garde, so whether you are looking for some familiarity or for an adventure, the Admiral has you covered.
The Admiral | (828) 252-2541
Jettie Rae's Oyster House
Looking to chow down on some seafood while you are in Asheville? Look no further than Jettie Rae’s. This hip seafood restaurant’s menu offers your essential seafood options as well as a variety of cocktails, oyster shooters, and an extensive wine menu to help wash everything down.
Jettie Rae's | (828) 505-4499
Leo's House of Thirst
Leo’s House of Thirst on Haywood is known for its extensive and diverse wine selection. If you desire, you can pair your wine with the selection of appetizers that this west side spot offers, or if you are feeling a little hungrier, you can try a classic dish such as grilled cheese, or something a little more complex, such as the orecchiette pasta plate.
Leo's House of Thirst | (828) 505-8017
Bargello
Located in the Kimpton Hotel Arras, Bargello is a locally-owned Mediterranean-inspired restaurant. Open from breakfast until dinner seven days a week, Bargello offers a traditional breakfast menu featuring avocado toast and omelets, and more as the day goes on. Stand outs on the lunch and dinner menu include pizzas topped with plenty of roasted vegetables and their house-made pastas. Even if you only have time for a drink, Bargello’s seasonal cocktails are must try.
Bargello | (828) 772-5564
Chai Pani
Specializing in Indian Street Food, Chai Pani offers a variety of traditional Indian cuisine. This downtown spot has been praised by New York Magazine, calling it “a star in downtown’s dining scene”. In addition to dine-in services, Chai Pani offers to-go family packages, as well as Curry To-Go, so you can enjoy food on site or in your home.
Chai Pani | (828) 254-4003
Cúrate
This Biltmore Avenue restaurant is “a celebration of authentic Spanish cuisine”, and the menu sure is reflective of that. Drawing from the tapas culture of Spain, Cúrate has crafted a menu incorporating a mix of multiple Spanish dishes that will be sure to give you an authentic Spanish culinary experience. Also be sure to try out the sparkling sangria and craft cocktails to wash your meal down.
Cúrate | (828) 239-2946
Rhubarb
This downtown Asheville gem offers a contemporary take on Appalachian cuisine, with its menu featuring appetizers and entrees such as Pimento Cheese Hushpuppies, Heritage Pork Meatballs, Roasted Acorn Squash, and much more. Rhubarb focuses on using local ingredients, so every dish comes with a little local flavor. In addition to the locally sourced menu, Rhubarb’s “R-Bar” offers a variety of cocktails, draft beer, and wine for you to enjoy.
Rhubarb | (828) 785-1503