Introduction
Imagine strolling through Asheville’s vibrant streets, the tantalizing scent of slow-cooked barbecue mingling with the crisp mountain air. This isn’t just any charming town; it’s a culinary haven, a place where traditional Southern hospitality meets innovative culinary artistry. Asheville, North Carolina, is more than just a beautiful mountain escape; it’s a destination where the flavors of the South come alive in a symphony of tastes and experiences. The city offers a delectable journey through the heart of Southern cuisine, blending time-honored recipes with the region’s abundant local ingredients.
Asheville delivers a Southern food experience unlike any other, blending timeless traditions with innovative culinary creativity. From perfectly fried chicken to mouthwatering barbecue and creative takes on Southern staples, we’ll guide you through Asheville’s best Southern eats, showcasing the restaurants and dishes that make this city a true Southern food paradise. Get ready to discover where to find the most authentic and unforgettable Southern culinary experiences in this captivating mountain town.
Defining Southern Food in Asheville
Southern food is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a tapestry woven with history, culture, and a deep connection to the land. At its core, Southern cuisine emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, slow cooking techniques, and a comforting, home-style approach. Staples like corn, beans, greens, pork, and rice form the foundation, while flavors are often enriched with smoked meats, flavorful broths, and a touch of sweetness. Family recipes, passed down through generations, are treasured, preserving the authentic tastes of the past. Think slow-cooked collard greens seasoned with smoked ham hocks, creamy grits swimming in butter, and golden-brown fried chicken that crunches with every bite.
Asheville, however, elevates these traditions with its unique culinary perspective. The city’s vibrant food scene embraces farm-to-table practices, highlighting the bounty of the surrounding Appalachian mountains. Chefs prioritize locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting local farmers. They also aren’t afraid to experiment, incorporating global influences and modern techniques into classic Southern dishes. This results in a dynamic blend of tradition and innovation, where you might find shrimp and grits infused with chorizo or collard greens braised in coconut milk.
The Appalachian influence is undeniable. Mountain ingredients like ramps, wild mushrooms, and foraged greens add a distinctive touch to Asheville’s Southern food. Preservation techniques like pickling, canning, and smoking are also deeply ingrained, reflecting the region’s resourceful history. From sorghum-glazed pork belly to pickled okra, Asheville’s Appalachian heritage shines through in its culinary offerings.
Top Southern Food Restaurants in Asheville
The true taste of Asheville can be found in its restaurants, each offering a unique interpretation of Southern cuisine. Here are a few destinations that shouldn’t be missed:
Buxton Hall Barbecue: A Smoked Meats Masterpiece
Located in the South Slope district, Buxton Hall Barbecue is a must-visit for any barbecue enthusiast. This popular spot, housed in a former roller rink, offers a relaxed atmosphere and a menu packed with mouthwatering smoked meats. Their whole hog barbecue, cooked low and slow over hickory wood, is the star of the show. The pork is tender, smoky, and bursting with flavor. The restaurant also features an array of Southern sides, including creamy mac and cheese, collard greens simmered with smoked ham hocks, and a refreshing slaw.
One dish you can’t miss is the Eastern North Carolina chopped barbecue sandwich. The smoky, vinegar-based sauce perfectly complements the tender pork, creating a flavor explosion. The mac and cheese is another standout, rich and creamy with a perfectly browned top. Prices are moderate, and the portions are generous. Buxton Hall Barbecue is consistently ranked among the best barbecue joints in the state, thanks to its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional smoking methods.
Tupelo Honey: Southern Comfort Elevated
Tupelo Honey is a beloved Asheville institution, known for its modern take on Southern comfort food. With multiple locations throughout the city, this restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that celebrates the flavors of the South. Their fried chicken is a must-try, perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and served with a side of honey-dusted biscuits.
The shrimp and grits is another standout dish, featuring creamy grits, succulent shrimp, and a flavorful tasso ham gravy. The prices are slightly higher than average, but the quality of the food and the overall experience are well worth it. Tupelo Honey is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a taste of Southern comfort with a modern twist.
12 Bones Smokehouse: A Local Barbecue Legend
Another gem, 12 Bones Smokehouse, offers a more laid-back and rustic barbecue experience. This popular spot is known for its flavorful ribs, smoked to perfection and slathered in a variety of delicious sauces. From the tangy blueberry chipotle to the sweet and spicy brown sugar, there’s a sauce to suit every taste.
The baby back ribs are a must-try, tender and smoky with a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The sides are equally impressive, including the jalapeno cheese grits and the smoky baked beans. Prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is casual and welcoming. 12 Bones Smokehouse is a local favorite, offering a taste of authentic Southern barbecue in a no-frills setting. This is the spot to go for a truly local Asheville experience.
Plant: Elevated Vegan Southern Cuisine
For those seeking a plant-based Southern experience, Plant is a true culinary revelation. This innovative restaurant reimagines Southern classics using locally sourced, organic ingredients. Their menu features creative dishes like seitan “chicken” and waffles, black-eyed pea cakes with cashew cream, and collard greens braised in coconut milk.
Even meat-eaters will be impressed by the flavor and creativity of Plant’s vegan cuisine. The atmosphere is intimate and elegant, and the service is impeccable. While prices are on the higher end, the quality of the food and the unique dining experience make it a worthwhile splurge. Plant demonstrates that Southern food can be both delicious and sustainable, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences.
HomeGrown: A Farm-to-Table Delight
Embracing the spirit of sustainable dining, HomeGrown takes pride in its commitment to sourcing ingredients directly from local farms. The result is a menu that bursts with fresh, seasonal flavors. They offer updated versions of classic Southern fare in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Their fried chicken sandwich, featuring buttermilk-marinated chicken and house-made pickles, is a local favorite. The sides, such as the roasted sweet potatoes and the creamy potato salad, are equally delicious. HomeGrown’s dedication to local ingredients ensures a vibrant and flavorful dining experience.
Southern Dishes You Can’t Miss
Beyond these stellar restaurants, there are specific Southern dishes that every visitor to Asheville should experience:
Fried Green Tomatoes
These tart, breaded slices of unripe tomatoes are a Southern delicacy. Find them as an appetizer at many restaurants, served with a creamy remoulade sauce. Their crispy exterior and tangy interior offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Shrimp and Grits
This iconic Southern dish is a staple in Asheville. Look for variations featuring creamy grits, succulent shrimp, and a flavorful gravy made with tasso ham, andouille sausage, or even chorizo. The key is to find a version where the grits are perfectly smooth and creamy, and the shrimp are cooked to perfection.
Biscuits and Gravy
No Southern breakfast is complete without biscuits and gravy. The best versions feature homemade, buttermilk biscuits that are light and fluffy, topped with a rich and savory sausage gravy. The combination is a comforting and satisfying way to start the day.
Collard Greens
These leafy greens are a Southern staple, traditionally simmered with smoked ham hocks for hours until tender and flavorful. Variations include adding vinegar, pepper flakes, or even a touch of sweetness. Find them as a side dish at most Southern restaurants in Asheville.
Pimento Cheese
This creamy, cheesy spread is a Southern obsession. Find it as an appetizer, a sandwich filling, or even a burger topping. Made with cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, pimentos, and spices, pimento cheese is a versatile and delicious Southern treat.
Beyond the Plate: The Southern Food Experience
The Southern food experience in Asheville extends beyond just the food itself. It’s about the warmth of Southern hospitality, the welcoming atmosphere of the restaurants, and the sense of community that pervades the city. Many restaurants feature live music, showcasing local musicians and adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Supporting local farmers and producers is also an integral part of the Southern food experience in Asheville. Many restaurants prioritize locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting the local economy. This commitment to sustainability and community adds another layer of depth to the city’s culinary scene.
Tips for Exploring Asheville’s Southern Food Scene
Planning your culinary adventure in Asheville? Here are a few helpful tips:
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular restaurants during peak season. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid long waits.
Asheville is a remarkably accommodating city when it comes to dietary needs. It’s incredibly easy to locate restaurants offering vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes.
The best time to visit is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, Asheville is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charm.
Getting around Asheville is easy, whether you’re walking, biking, or driving. The city is relatively compact, and there are plenty of parking options available. Public transportation is also an option.
Conclusion
Asheville delivers a uniquely satisfying Southern food experience, blending timeless traditions with innovative culinary creativity. From smoky barbecue to creamy grits and crispy fried chicken, the city offers a taste of Southern hospitality and unforgettable flavors. The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, combined with the creativity of Asheville’s chefs, results in a dynamic and delicious culinary scene.
So, pack your appetite and get ready to savor the authentic flavors of the South in Asheville! Whether you’re a seasoned Southern food aficionado or a curious newcomer, Asheville’s vibrant culinary scene promises a taste of Southern hospitality and unforgettable flavors. Embrace the warmth of the city, the richness of its flavors, and the spirit of Southern cooking. Asheville’s table is waiting.
