Best Must-Try Restaurants in Asheville, NC
1. Jettie Rae's Oyster House
Jettie Rae's Oyster House in Asheville is a locally owned and operated restaurant that offers a variety of oysters. The owners were inspired by a shared seafood heritage from New Orleans to Maine. They created a menu that included half a dozen varieties of oysters plus a host of other dishes. Guests can also order cold beer and cocktails. Oysters are available from a seafood tower or in individual servings. You can also enjoy fresh juice and brownies. Aside from oysters, the restaurant also serves mussels and shrimp po'boys. In addition to the standard fare, the menu also includes daily specials.
2. Rosetta's Kitchen & The Buchi Bar
Having a vegetarian meal at a vegan restaurant can be intimidating. If you plan a trip to Asheville, NC, you may consider Rosetta's Kitchen & The Buchi Bar. This locally owned establishment serves plant-based soul food, which will not disappoint. In addition to delicious cuisine, Rosetta's has a great staff and atmosphere. In addition to the vegan offerings, the menu also features a wide array of vegetarian options. You can try a vegan nacho, tofu taquito, or chili cheese fries, and there is also a full bar. Not only is it an ideal destination for vegans, but meat lovers will also appreciate the menu.
3. Chai Pani
Chai Pani is a unique restaurant in Asheville, North Carolina, offering a diverse menu of Indian street food. Aside from the classic Indian dishes, the restaurant also offers a variety of vegan options. The restaurant also has a gluten-free menu. Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, Chai Pani is the perfect place for an Indian dinner. Featuring a colorful environment, the restaurant serves a wide range of traditional and innovative Indian street food. Chai Pani has become a staple of the city's culinary scene in the past few years. Its staff members are often referred to as "hipsters" and are known for being attentive to their customers.
4. Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse
Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse in Asheville, North Carolina, is a mashup of Asian ingredients and American BBQ techniques. The menu features sushi-grade fish, ribs, ramen, and more. It is open seven days a week and serves a weekend brunch. This place is perfect for an intimate dinner or a date night. Aside from its impressive bbq menu, Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse is known for its cocktail list and tasty snacks. They even have a walkup "grab and go" area. One of their most acclaimed items is the house's favorite soups; They also have an extensive sake selection.
5. Luella’s Bar-B-Que
Luella's Bar-B-Que is a North Carolina barbecue joint perennial favorite in western North Carolina. The ten-year-old restaurant has two locations, one in Asheville and the other in Biltmore Park. They offer standard barbecue entrees and a few vegan options. On Wednesdays, they offer wing nights. In addition to their signature smoked pork and beef brisket, they also have a selection of sides. For a meaty meal, try the Big Boy BBQ Platter, which includes half a pound of brisket, ribs, pulled chicken, and pork. It's served family style with a choice of three side dishes.
6. Posana Restaurant
Located on Historic Pack Square in Asheville, North Carolina, the Posana Restaurant has a casual yet elegant setting. It features contemporary American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. The menu is designed to be seasonal, and the restaurant has an impressive wine list. The restaurant is an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or brunch. Guests can enjoy outdoor dining with twinkling lights or a view of Pack Square Park. In addition to serving delicious food, the Posana Restaurant commits to sustainability. They source ingredients from local and regional purveyors and operate an urban garden in West Asheville.
7. Wicked Weed Brewpub
Wicked Weed Brewpub is a famous Asheville, NC restaurant and one of the city's best microbreweries. It was started in 2009 by Walt Dickinson and Luke Dickinson. The brewery has since expanded to four locations in the area. Wicked Weed's original brewpub is located on Biltmore Avenue. This brewpub offers craft beers, a full menu, and an outdoor patio. They also offer beer-pairing dinners every Tuesday. Guests can order a beer flight, which includes six 4-ounce pours. Guests can also purchase bottles of the brews.