If you're looking for a taste of southern hospitality in Asheville, look no further than Tupelo Honey. This popular restaurant offers a modern twist on classic southern dishes, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Start your meal off with their famous shoo mercy sweet potato pancakes, topped with peach butter and spiced pecans, and you'll understand why this spot is a local favorite.Tupelo Honey
This barbecue joint is a must-visit for any meat lover in Asheville. Buxton Hall Barbecue serves up traditional North Carolina-style barbecue with a focus on whole-hog cooking. Their menu features a variety of smoked meats, from pulled pork to brisket, all served with classic southern sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Be sure to save room for their banana pudding, a sweet and creamy southern staple.Buxton Hall Barbecue
For a taste of modern southern cuisine, head to Early Girl Eatery. This cozy restaurant is known for their made-from-scratch, farm-to-table dishes, featuring ingredients from local farms. Their menu changes seasonally, but you can always expect dishes like buttermilk fried chicken and shrimp and grits, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.Early Girl Eatery
The Admiral is a hidden gem in Asheville, known for its unpretentious atmosphere and creative dishes. This former gas station turned restaurant offers a global fusion menu with southern influences. Don't miss their pan-fried chicken, a southern classic with an Asian twist, and their smoked pork belly served with kimchi fried rice.The Admiral
Experience the flavors of Spain at Cúrate, a tapas restaurant in downtown Asheville. This award-winning spot is owned by James Beard Award-winning chef Katie Button, and offers a modern take on traditional Spanish cuisine. Don't miss their chorizo a la sidra, a dish of spicy sausage cooked in cider, and their pimientos de piquillo rellenos, stuffed roasted peppers filled with creamy goat cheese.Cúrate
For a casual and delicious meal, head to White Duck Taco Shop. This funky taco joint offers a variety of unique and flavorful taco combinations, including southern-inspired options like BBQ duck confit and blackened catfish. They also have vegetarian and vegan options, making it a great spot for groups with different dietary preferences.White Duck Taco Shop
Chestnut is a top choice for a romantic and upscale dining experience in Asheville. This restaurant offers a seasonal menu with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. Their dishes are a blend of southern and global influences, with options like grilled North Carolina trout and braised lamb shank. Be sure to save room for their crème brûlée, a decadent and classic dessert.Chestnut
Craving Mexican food? Head to Limones for a taste of upscale Mexican cuisine in a beautiful setting. This restaurant offers a seasonal and locally sourced menu, with options like crispy pork belly tacos and seafood paella. Don't forget to try one of their handcrafted margaritas, made with fresh-squeezed juices and top-shelf tequilas.Limones
The Market Place is another great option for a farm-to-table dining experience in Asheville. This restaurant focuses on contemporary American cuisine, with a menu that changes daily based on the freshest seasonal ingredients. Their dishes are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, making it a great spot for a special occasion.The Market Place
Last but definitely not least, Rhubarb is a must-visit for any foodie in Asheville. This restaurant prides itself on using locally grown and foraged ingredients to create innovative and delicious dishes. Their menu changes often, but you can always expect to find southern classics with a twist, like fried chicken liver pâté and grilled pork chop with peach salsa. Be sure to save room for their seasonal fruit cobbler, a perfect ending to any meal.Rhubarb