By Kelly McMurtry

Editor’s Note: Due to Hurricane Helene, some spots mentioned in this article may be closed or damaged. Please consider donating to recovery efforts—a list of organizations can be found here.

Ah, Asheville—a city where you can’t throw a stone without hitting a farm-to-table restaurant or a craft brewery. But with so many options, how do you know which places are actually worth your time and not just an excuse to Instagram your meal? Allow me, a seasoned Asheville eater, to guide you through six of the best spots in town.

The 12 Best Restaurants in Asheville

1. Cúrate

Let's start with the crown jewel of Asheville’s food scene, Cúrate. I’ll admit, I first walked in expecting a tapas bar to serve me tiny portions that would require a post-dinner snack. But Cúrate’s plates are like magic tricks—somehow small yet immensely satisfying. Order the jamón ibérico, and don’t be surprised if you catch yourself whispering “wow” after each bite. The place might be a bit fancy for some, but it's worth loosening the belt a notch.

2. Leo’s House of Thirst

The name Leo’s House of Thirst may sound cheeky, but there’s more to this place than the title suggests. Sure, they have an impressive selection of natural wines, but the real star is the ever-changing small plates menu. The wine might be the draw, but the food will keep you there longer than expected, unless, of course, you’re the type to ask for something “fruity”—then maybe just stick to the basics.

3. Golden Hour

In true Asheville fashion, Golden Hour blends art and food with a casual flair that only seems effortless. Located in the River Arts District, this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant focuses on fresh, simple dishes—but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s basic. It’s the kind of place where the food is understated, but the flavor punches above its weight. And, naturally, it’s an ideal spot to people-watch while pretending to work on your novel.

4. Chai Pani

Chai Pani, the spot where Indian street food meets Southern hospitality. Picture this: crispy kale pakoras that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about kale. The lamb burgers are a revelation, and if you leave without trying the matchstick okra fries, you’ll be haunted by your missed opportunity. Trust me, Chai Pani is the kind of place where your taste buds throw a party and you’ll be the last to leave.

5. All Souls Pizza

At All Souls, their wood-fired pizzas have a thin, chewy crust that makes you wonder why anyone bothers with deep-dish. The toppings are a rotating cast of seasonal, local ingredients that change often enough to keep things interesting. And if pizza isn't enough, the salads are farm-fresh, and the polenta is the stuff of dreams. You’ll leave here planning your next visit.

6. Eldr

If you haven’t stumbled upon Edlr yet, it’s probably because it’s a little hard to find—like a speakeasy crossed with a culinary laboratory. Downtown Asheville is home to this experimental gem, where the menu changes faster than you can say “farm-to-table,” and the dishes defy any easy description. You’ll get local ingredients, but prepared in ways that will make you question everything you thought you knew about food.

7. The Admiral

There’s a reason The Admiral is considered a West Asheville legend. When you pull up, you might think you’re in the wrong place—it’s unassuming, maybe a little too low-key for such a hot spot. But trust me, this is where magic happens. The menu rotates often, so you never quite know what you’re going to get, but it’s always a blend of the unexpected, with dishes that feel both familiar and adventurous at the same time.

8. Limones

Limones is one of those places that you’ll hear about over and over from anyone who’s been to Asheville more than once. Known for its blend of Mexican cuisine with a French influence, this downtown staple delivers on both flavor and charm. Whether it’s brunch or dinner, you’re going to walk away feeling like you’ve discovered a secret—even though the secret’s been out for a while now.

9. Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack

Feeling brave? Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack is where you go when you want your food to fight back a little. Their fried chicken ranges from “mild” to “Mount St. Hellfire,” and yes, that’s the technical term. Go for the hot—it's spicy enough to break a sweat but not so intense that you’ll need a fire extinguisher.

10. White Duck Taco Shop

Now, for something completely different, head over to White Duck Taco Shop. This place is the opposite of pretentious—just tacos, beer, and good vibes. The Bangkok shrimp taco is a must-try, though you'll likely end up ordering three or four others because, well, variety is the spice of life, right? Fair warning: you might find yourself defending Asheville’s taco scene to any doubters back home.

11. Nine Mile

For those who prefer their spice with a side of reggae, Nine Mile is the place. This Caribbean-inspired joint is a little slice of island life in the mountains. Get the Jah Love—it's got just enough heat to remind you that life is good, but not so much that you’ll be questioning your choices.

12. The S&W Market

The historic S&W food hall is like a culinary theme park where local chefs set up shop and do their thing. Whether you’re in the mood for a slice of pizza or some oysters, it’s all here under one very stylish roof. Plus, there’s a bar upstairs where you can sip a cocktail and look down on your fellow diners with just a hint of smug satisfaction.

The Complete Guide to Asheville