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 six unique places to eat while in the city, including the best Indian restaurant in Asheville!
Eat well. Be well.
Curate
Katie Button’s flagship restaurant and James Beard Foundation winner, Curate 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.
Chai Pani
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. Chai Pani has moved to Banks Avenue in South Slope. Open for lunch and dinner (with a closing in the middle), this spot is a must-try when in Asheville.
Early Girl Eatery
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.
White Duck Taco
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.
Vortex Doughnuts
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.
Good Hot Fish
Created by James Beard Award finalist and Top Chef contestant Ashleigh Shanti, Good Hot Fish opened as a fast-casual food joint in South Slope. Paying homage to chef's fish-frying family, the restaurant also celebrates Black Appalachian culture, community, and cuisine. Try the Trout Bologna and Cheese sandwich or the Good Hot Fish sandwich. Limited seating and currently only open from 11:30 to 7 pm.
These restaurants are just a few examples of the diverse culinary offerings in Asheville, making it a great destination for food lovers. Looking for more from Asheville, NC? Check out my post on the most unique activities in Asheville for your next trip!
Searching for other restaurant guides? Here are the Top 5 (Secret) Restaurants in Destin, FL or the Top 5 Must-Try Eats in Nashville, TN!
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