The best restaurants in Buncombe County

Gemelli is blending Cerrato family recipes with a modern touch, serving fresh house-made pasta, slow-simmered sauces, and proper old-world wines, plus vegan and gluten-free options that don’t taste like a compromise. Treat yourself to dessert and call it research for a better week.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 3, 2026

All Souls Pizza keeps it Asheville with local, seasonal pies that hit the spot and a tight craft beer lineup. Grab a friend, sip something cold, and let a really good crust recalibrate your week.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 8, 2026

Rhubarb turns peak-season local ingredients into world-class dishes without the fuss.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 7, 2026

Laid-back chain offering chicken wings in a variety of flavors amid a sports-bar atmosphere.

ZAA Pizza is Asheville’s boldest late-night slice slinger, turning New York-style pies into giant 28-inch statements with big flavor and bigger energy. Perfect when you want fast-casual done right, a quick counter hang, and a slice so huge it counts as dinner and tomorrow’s story.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 12, 2026

Leo's House of Thirst is West Asheville’s cozy wine bar where a glass of something interesting pairs with charcuterie, tartines, and other light bites, plus legit pastas and sandwiches. Bonus points for zero-proof aperitifs like Ghia, a friendly crew, and golden-hour hangs that sneak into dinner.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 13, 2026

New American eatery for seasonal bites & homemade treats in restored 1920s digs with a full bar.

Whether it's a maki night, a steaming noodle soup situation, or simple teriyaki that hits just right, Miyako House keeps it humble and satisfying. Solid Japanese staples, no fuss, just the kind of dependable comfort you appreciate after a long Asheville day.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 17, 2026

Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

Local BBQ outpost serving smoked meats & sandwiches, plus comfort sides, in a low-key setting.

Wild Ginger Noodle Bar keeps it simple and satisfying with award-winning pho, legit banh mi, and broths that taste like someone actually stood over a pot all day. Fresh ingredients, fair prices, and a friendly, low-key vibe make it a clutch weeknight fix when you want warmth without fuss.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 16, 2026

Whether you're posting up at the sushi bar or grabbing takeout, Green Tea Sushi Japanese Restaurant keeps it simple with reliably fresh rolls, nigiri, and comforting Japanese plates. Delivery for those lazy nights, catering when you're hosting... it’s the neighborhood spot that quietly comes through.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 27, 2026

Compact, colorful kitchen cooking arepas & other casual Latin-American fare, with a take-out option.

Smoked meats with housemade sauces offered with local beer & cocktails in a homey setting.

Strada Italiano nails the cozy old world trattoria vibe with house-made pasta cooked to order and regional dishes spanning Northern and Southern Italy, using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients with no seed oils or GMOs.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 4, 2026

When your week needs low-lift fun, Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co nails the trifecta: award winning pies, house brews poured fresh, and a North Asheville dine-in theater with tables at your seat. Or hit their South Slope brewpub for beer from the brewdeck, a huge covered patio, and the occasional behind the scenes tour.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 5, 2026

Juicy Lucy's Burger Bar and Grill is a family-owned Asheville staple serving cheese-stuffed Juicy Lucys, rotating monthly specials, and game-day friendly drinks. They made Mountain Xpress’s Best of WNC 2024 winners list, and they cater or host your crew when you need an easy, tasty plan.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 9, 2026

Family owned since 2004, Stone Ridge Tavern keeps it classic with hand-cut ribeyes, fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs, sesame-encrusted Atlantic salmon, and made-from-scratch desserts. When you want a no-fuss, satisfying dinner that actually fills you up, this is your reliable midweek hero.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 10, 2026

Udon Sushi & Noodle blends Japanese finesse and Chinese flavors into a menu that solves the what are we eating debate, from fresh sushi and sashimi to inventive rolls, hibachi, teriyaki, and steaming stir-fried or soup noodles. It’s the reliable, tasty move when you crave variety without leaving town.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 19, 2026

Because some nights you want lo mein, honey wings, and a steak sub... Sunny Hot Subs & Wings nails that Chinese-American sweet spot with crispy wings, hot subs, juicy burgers, and saucy favorites like General Tso’s. Fresh, made to order, big on flavor, perfect for easy weeknight wins.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 22, 2026

From its rooftop perch over Asheville, Soprana Rooftop Cucina turns out brick-oven pizzas and seasonal plates with an Appalachia Meets Alps vibe, paired with craft cocktails and 240-degree Blue Ridge views.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 6, 2026

An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.

Local BBQ outpost serving smoked meats & sandwiches, plus comfort sides, in a low-key setting.

Pizza Mind nails that sweet spot between classic and quirky, with signature combos and a build-your-own setup that lets your inner topping maximalist roam free, plus hearty sandwiches if someone in the crew isn't feeling saucy. It’s an easy, reliably good move for weeknights and watch-parties.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 20, 2026

HomeGrown keeps things Asheville in the best way, serving locally sourced, updated American plates in an artsy but unpretentious setting, plus a patio for when the weather plays nice. It’s the kind of spot you hit on repeat for honest flavors, quick service that feels neighborly, and zero fuss.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 31, 2026

Jargon keeps things interesting with an ever-changing lineup of modern American plates, creative desserts, and cocktails that invite a second look, all built around seasonal ingredients from local growers.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 11, 2026

Relaxed eatery specializing in hibachi fare, sushi and other Japanese dishes.

Cúrate Bar de Tapas nails the lively, share-everything spirit of Spain with Cinco Jotas jamón ibérico, patatas bravas that disappear fast, and vermutería sips to match.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 16, 2026

Open since 1963, Little Pigs BBQ is Asheville’s oldest family-owned restaurant, serving straight-up barbecue and chicken locals keep coming back for. Add it to your week for comfort food that hits just right and a warm, inviting vibe that feels like home.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 23, 2026

Craving an old-Asheville vibe with beebop and burgers? Thunder Burgerz Grill nails it with chargrilled cheeseburgers, jumbo wings, tenders, pizzas, and a legit ice cream and milkshake bar. Swing by this week to catch a Premier League match, or order online and keep dinner easy.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 17, 2026

Relaxed bar known for craft cocktails & burgers, with a patio & seating in a renovated vault.

Westville Pub / All Sevens Brewing is the kind of spot you fall back on when cooking feels optional, with locally sourced comfort food, vegetarian-friendly picks, and 27 taps pouring the region’s craft beers. The kitchen runs late, the vibes stay friendly, and the bar covers beer, cocktails, wine, plus NA options.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 24, 2026

When you crave real-deal smoked meats with housemade sauces, local beer and cocktails, Luella’s Bar-B-Que keeps it homey and happy. Dine in, takeout, delivery, or book their legit catering... their "Taste the Love" vibe and leave-with-a-smile guarantee are the kicker.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 25, 2026

Standard Pizza Co. slings slices, calzones, and quirky specialties like the Cuban with banana, ricotta, jalapeño, and bacon. Easygoing vibe with shuffleboard and ping-pong, so you can argue toppings between turns, then settle it with a Margherita, Greek, or White.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 26, 2026

Quench! Wine Bistro delivers a thoughtful, ever-changing menu alongside cheese, provisions, and an exceptional wine list, plus a full retail shop so you can bring home favorites. Intimate vibes and quality dining without the downtown drive… basically your new midweek go-to.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 14, 2026

Relaxed eatery featuring oven-fired pizzas, housemade pastas, cocktails and a roof lounge.

The Refinery is turning out Blueberry Ricotta Fritters with lemon cardamom curd, a Croque Madame Benedict, and seasonal omelets, plus solid espresso and mimosas. Local touches like City Bakery bread keep it Asheville, and plates that actually fill you up make it a smart reset this week.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 28, 2026

Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas.

Laid-back barbecue stop featuring chicken, brisket, and pork, plus plates, nachos and burgers.

A selection of Greek & Italian dishes, with lunch, dinner & Sunday brunch menus plus a full bar.

Japanese-owned, Heiwa Shokudo keeps things calm and unfussy with seasonal flavors, fresh local ingredients, and time-honored technique. Sushi and plenty of vegan and gluten-free options (hello, Sweetie Pie roll and Spicy Garlic Tofu) make it a dependable, genuinely Asheville spot for easy dinners.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 2, 2026

At Rocky's Hot Chicken Shack, Nashville-style hot chicken gets the Asheville treatment, fried to order from naturally raised birds and built from plain to extra hot. If you’re skipping the heat, there’s still rotisserie and grilled chicken, scratch-made sides, pot pies, waffles, and weekly specials worth stalking.

Easygoing chain serving Alabama-style pulled pork & other meats smoked in-house.

Small-chain smokehouse serving sandwiches, platters & BBQ by the pound in a casual setting.

If your group can never agree, Asheville Sushi & Hibachi keeps the peace with reliable hibachi comfort and fresh rolls in a laid-back, modern space. Easy online ordering for pick-up means dinner's sorted when traffic tests your patience.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 11, 2026

Master BBQ AVL brings over 80 years of family recipes from Manila to the Asheville area, serving the real-deal Filipino comfort food with lightning-fast service and fresh ingredients. Find the food truck at Zillicoah Beer Company, or book catering with a week’s notice when you need crowd-pleasing, soul-warming eats.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 2, 2026

Zambra keeps weeknights interesting with locally sourced Iberian small plates, carefully selected Spanish wines, and that amber-lit, celebratory vibe that makes lingering inevitable. Grab a friend, order a parade of tapas, and let Asheville’s Original Tapas Kitchen remind you why sharing really is caring.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 29, 2026

Whether you’re craving Brooklyn-meets-Bronx vibes without leaving town, The Original Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian delivers with chicken Marsala, lobster ravioli, and a proper Sunday gravy that tastes like nonna’s slow pot. Big portions, clinking martinis, and a warm, rowdy room...

From the Asheville newsletter, September 7, 2026

Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse is that rare local spot where Japanese soul food vibes with Southern BBQ, built for sharing and cravings.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 21, 2026

Smoked meats and bubbling mac 'n' cheese skillets are the move at Daddy Mac's Down Home Dive, a Downtown Asheville hangout pairing big flavors with cocktails and craft beer. Expect rustic-chic vibes, entertainment on the calendar, and a menu steeped in family tradition... plus pickle juice.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 19, 2026

Japanese dishes & sushi with stylish presentations, plus a sake list, served in cozy quarters.

Skip the stale popcorn routine and let Movie Bistro - Asheville feed your flick with hand-stretched pies (try The Buzz with Mike’s Hot Honey), wings and tenders, and burgers your way, including a SW Black Bean Patty. Sharables like fried pickle spears and lemongrass chicken potstickers seal the deal.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 28, 2026

An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.

Pho Real Vietnamese Restaurant North Asheville keeps it classic and flexible, so you can build bowls your way. Think steaming phở with beef or vegetable broth, bánh mì and curry, plus those splurge-y specials like slow-braised beef ribs or shrimp and lobster, all dialed to your protein mood.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 10, 2026

Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian South brings those Brooklyn, Bronx, North End vibes to Asheville with lasagna, chicken parm, and shaken martinis in a warm, family vibe. It’s a go-to for locals, often voted Asheville’s best Italian and pasta, so plan for leftovers and happy tastebuds.

Classic & creative pizza toppings & an array of self-serve beers on tap in an easygoing setting.

Table Asheville does the small, seasonal New American thing the way locals like it, with a daily changing menu that nods to the Southeast and ingredients from longtime farm partners. Add the intimate, polished room and two-time James Beard nominee Jacob Sessoms at the helm, and dinner suddenly feels like an occasion.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 18, 2026

Creekside Taphouse is Haw Creek’s go-to for crispy wings, juicy burgers, and pizza made with as much local goodness as possible. With over 20 craft brews on draft leaning local, it’s the easy choice when you want a low-key dinner this week.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 14, 2026

Biscuit Head is the local move for massive biscuits piled with all sorts of toppings and pairings, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or everything in between. Dine in or grab takeout, and when the group chat gets hungry, their online catering saves the day.

Farm-to-table American cuisine, craft cocktails & a robust wine list in an upscale-casual setting.

When you want breakfast, lunch, or that glorious in-between, Biscuit Head piles massive biscuits with all sorts of toppings and pairings, dine-in or to-go. They even do online catering if you’re planning a brunch-y hang with the crew, Asheville-style.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 5, 2026

Set in a Victorian cottage with a patio, this upscale venue serves New American fare & craft drinks.

For a reliable, modern Italian fix that feels like a treat but not a production, Modesto keeps it seasonal and satisfying. Settle into the garden patio, choose from a European wine list or cocktails, then finish with something sweet off their dolce menu.

From the Asheville newsletter, September 3, 2026

Burgerworx keeps it simple in the Grove Arcade, turning out crisp-edged smash burgers, hand-cut fries, and thick house-made shakes that hit the spot without fuss. When you want a quick, satisfying bite before errands or after work, this is the reliable, no-frills win locals keep on speed dial.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 3, 2026

When dinner needs to be easy and excellent this week, Baby Bull is the classic counter-service burger shop from The Bull and Beggar team turning out juicy cheeseburgers, crispy sides, and sweet treats at ridiculous speeds. Grab a crushable, affordable bev and call it a weeknight win.

From the Asheville newsletter, August 15, 2026

Family-owned stop for American comfort food from AM to PM, with a covered patio.

When the sushi craving hits but someone at home is team hibachi, Zen Sushi covers both with rolls, sashimi, and hibachi bento boxes. Casual and modern with dine-in or takeout, outdoor seating, plus beer and wine, it’s an easy weeknight move for Asheville locals.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 12, 2026

Palmar Latin Kitchen is Chef Carlos Torres’ South American dinner spot with shareable plates, bright ceviches, and seasonal WNC ingredients that actually show up on the plate. When you want a weeknight upgrade that isn’t fussy, this is the move.

From the Asheville newsletter, October 18, 2026