Asheville is known as Foodtopia, home to a community of culinary collaborators crafting an experience to nurture your soul. In shaking off our winter layers, now is the time to celebrate spring with a meal al fresco. In a town full of restaurant choices, here are some favorites options for outdoor dining in Asheville, NC.
Why You Should Go to Tall Johns
Undoubtedly, a favorite spot for an outdoor dinner happens to be two blocks from our bed & breakfast, Pinecrest. Tall Johns is now open in the location which formally housed Chiesa. Opened in 2022, Chef/Owner Trevor Payne previously worked in Portland, OR but has returned to his family roots in Asheville. The menu is small but well curated with a nod to European-American classics found in neighborhood taverns. Items are simultaneously ordered from the al a carte menu and delivered as prepared by the kitchen.
We highly recommend the Parker House rolls, Caesar salad, roast half-chicken or the burger & fries. The business guarantees their employees a living wage as well as benefits so it’s reflected in their price point. And with such a small space, they are walk-in only; no reservations.
The space is remodeled with a two bars, one which houses the kitchen bar. It’s a delight to be seated there and watch all the action as 4 people navigate a tiny space as they craft delicious dishes. Unless the weather is great, then sit on the outdoor patio!
All the good stuff at Tall John’s!
Rain or Shine
Choose one of these restaurants with covered patios lest rain ruin dinner. We highly recommend reservations, particularly on weekends.
Rhubarb serves seasonal, regional American fare sourced from nearby farms and dairies. Before moving to Asheville, Chef John Fleer put Blackberry Farm in Walland, TN on the map. Moreover, John is a five-time James Beard nominee. We recommend the house-made Burrata appetizer. If you happen to be here on a Tuesday, we highly recommend Tuesday Table.
Do not judge a book by its cover. Copper Crown’s location is an unassuming strip mall. They serve some of our favorite farm-to-table dishes in Asheville. We are fond of the “smaller plates” menu section. Unquestionably, our order starts with Crispy Brussels Sprouts. When in doubt, order the double-patty Lo-Fi Burger and fries!
Tupelo Honey Cafe began in 2000 in the heart of downtown Asheville. Make reservations early for one of two covered patios. Indulge in Southern fare inspired by the foods of the Carolina mountains. The extensive menu offers appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrees, and more. Breakfast for dinner, anyone?
With two outdoor seating areas, Pack’s Tavern is another favorite. If you have not made plans, then the tavern is a great option since they do not accept reservations. The extensive menu is loaded with pub favorites. Order from the wood-fired menu, particularly the pizza or subs. What’s more, Pack’s Tavern hosted our daughter’s wedding reception so we hold them dear in our memories.
Best People Watching Restaurants
If you need lunch, then go to Bomba. First, order at the counter off their Latin-inspired menu. Second, seat yourself at one of the outdoor café tables then watch the people walking by. With a totally new menu in 2021, it’s full of breakfast and lunch entrees. Life is short. Drink champagne.
Love the salads and plantains!
Asheville is nicknamed “The Paris of the South.” Given that, go to Sovereign Remedies to experience a sidewalk café. Local season products highlight the everchanging menus. The cocktail menu never disappoints plus they have a full complement of wine and beer. If you can not decide, then order the Local Charcuterie & Cheese Plate. Divine perfection.
Views, Views, and More Views
Choose The Montford Rooftop Bar for stunningly beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Let the elevator whisk you to the eighth floor, one hour before sunset. Order a signature cocktail, perhaps the Montford Mule. If beer suits your taste, imbibe with a local pint from Highland Brewing. While waiting for the sun to dip below the horizon, satisfy your appetite with eats such as House Tater Tots with Ivy Creek Farms beet ketchup. Do not be frightened by a few clouds or deceived when the sun sets. The best color bursts from the clouds about one-half hour later. Just enough time to order one of three flatbreads; we’re partial to the pepperoni. Walk ins only.
While The Montford is rustic, Cappella on 9 is uptown chic. With not one but two rooftop decks, stunning mountain views can be seen in every direction. Combat the wind with layers or cozy up on the couches by the firepit. Eat from the tapas-style menu such as Patatas Bravas with smoked tomato jam. Drinks run from cocktails on tap to the Ole #4 made with Capella’s Private Selection Maker’s Mark. Who is thirsty?
Where to Find Suds
Drink like a local at Burial Beer Co. on the South Slope. This is a chill place to hang with friends at a picnic table outside. The tap list evolves weekly, each brew’s name tells a story. If the taproom is open, so is the kitchen in a permanent food truck. Do not expect the usual bar food as the menu leans heavily on seasonal produce and local products. Never fear, there is a burger and fries, in case. Forestry Camp is the second location of Burial, located near Biltmore Village. Camp began in the early 1900s as housing for the Civilian Conservation Corp. Now restored, choose from fine dining on the rooftop deck or counter-service at the picnic area which is first come, first served.
Wedge Brewing Company is named after the shape of the warehouse at Wedge Studios. Upstairs is home to artists with the rear downstairs, Wedge at Wedge Studios, housing the brewery. Beer meets art at this location in the River Arts District. Rotating food trucks serve up hearty fare. Wedge at Foundation is their second location which happens to be neighbors with 12 Bones Smokehouse. This iconic BBQ joint is best known for serving President Barack Obama on the campaign trail in 2008. However, 12 Bones is only open weekdays for carryout from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm but that is still plenty of time to order some ribs. Then go next door for a beer to wash them down.
Grapes (aka Wine)
Last but not least, drink your grapes, fermented, at Bottle Riot. Also located in Wedge Studios, this wine bar is focused on small production, sustainable varietals, offered by the glass or bottle. Beers here are imported from Europe. Open daily, there is outdoor seating and a fire table. Bottle Riot also offers a full line up of cocktails and small bites. We feel quite comfortable in the space which spans the generations.
Gather round the fire table at Bottle Riot
If drinking wine, why not sip from Burntshirt Vineyards, perennial winners of the North Carolina Winery of the Year. The flagship winery is located in Hendersonville with outdoor seating overlooking the vineyards. For even more stunning views, visit Burnshirt Tasting Room & Bistro at Chimney Rock. The covered patio is at the base of Chimney Rock and Hickory Nut Falls, best remembered as the waterfall in the movie “The Last of the Mohicans.” The wines surprised us as we assumed they would be overly sweet. Buyer beware of the case discount. We are proud owners of Gruner Veltliner and Rock Bottom Red!
Burntshirt Tasting Room at Chimney Rock
Escape to Asheville
Our Asheville, NC bed and breakfast is conveniently located in historic Montford. Just one mile to downtown Asheville, home of many outdoor patios ready for your enjoyment. Book one of our Asheville accommodations direct on our secure website. Start your day with our hot fresh breakfast then head out to explore all that Western North Carolina offers, including these great options for outdoor dining in Asheville.