Eating Out in Asheville, NC: The Best Restaurants & Diners

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Cúrate guarantees a culinary trip to the world of tapas. The Spanish–hearted kitchen serves an innovative and delectable selection of tapas that is appreciated by many. The venue, aiming to recreate Spain’s culture, ambience and tastes to the fullest possible level, has become a destination restaurant when it comes to Mediterranean dining in the city. Located in a historical building from 1929, formerly a bus station, Cúrate’s current design was created by local artists. The name derives from the expression ‘cure yourself’, and indeed, the excellent food on offer might just be a cure for all ills.

Serving since 1979, The Market Place is an iconic venue in the heart of downtown Asheville. Praised by locals and tourists, the restaurant features eclectic European-American farm-to-table cuisine. A warm and laid-back atmosphere welcomes everyone in this gem, where the ambitious chef, William Dissen, uses seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms that fall within a 100 mile radius. Sit at any of the homey tables or at the stone bar, listen to the gentle live music and let the staff take care of the rest.

In the heart of Asheville just at the corner of the Fine Arts Theater, this restaurant is a must-visit for all cultured Asheville foodies. Praised equally by visitors and official gourmands, Limones consistently stands for quality, freshness and creativity. A perfect spot for Mexican enthusiasts, chef Hugo Ramirez adds a special French twist to his traditional Mexican recipes, thus placing an exciting combination of flavours on each plate. The casual, rustic interior allows guests to enjoy high quality dining in comfort.

Located in the Tudor-inspired Grand Bohemian Hotel, dining at Red Stag Grill is like taking a journey back in time to Bohemia in the 19th century. Surrounded by the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, the venue is naturally gorgeous on the outside; however, the rustic hunting resort designed with an eye to low-key chic makes the atmosphere indoors just as elevated. Red Stag features European–American comfort food made from the freshest local ingredients. To enjoy the setting to the fullest, don’t miss the characterful bar area, where local musicians entertain while guests enjoy one of the house’s crafted cocktails. The martini comes highly recommended.

Sunset Terrace is set in the marvellous 100-year-old Omni Grove Park Resort and offers unbeatable views over Asheville and the Appalachian mountains. The restaurant is an open-air terrace venue that was primarily designed around the magnificent views; however, guests shouldn’t underestimate the kitchen, which features steak, chops, and seafood specialties in excellent guises. Sunset Terrace also boasts for an exceptional wine list that has earned the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence multiple times. Prepare to dress in accordance with the weather and enjoy a rather upscale dining experience, attentively escorted by the well-trained staff.

Tupelo Honey Café is a long-standing Asheville favourite serving healthy Southern fare. Supporting over 25 local farms, at Tupelo ingredients come fresh, local and by season. The menu features a great variety of traditional dishes, such as fried chicken, sweet potato or catfish; however, chef Brian Sonoskus’s masterful hands make sure that a creative Tupelo-twist is given to all menu items. Even gluten-free diners will feel in heaven thanks to the special menu dedicated to them. If your Southern experience beats all expectations, ask for the Tupelo Honey Café Cookbook, which offers a gastronomic tour of the region. An award-winning restaurant with two great locations in Asheville, this is an excellent choice for a Sunday brunch or a casual dinner out.