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. They have a great combination of reservations for tables but open seating at one of two bars. Outdoor seating on the patio is weather-dependent and first come, first served.
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.
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. Life is short. Drink champagne.
Love the salads and plantains!
While technically not dinner, we’ve been known to stop by the S&W Food Hall on Friday nights for a flight of ice cream from The Hop. Perch yourself on Patton Avenue to watch all the action of Drum Circle at Pritchard Park. For a fancier rooftop view, take the elevator to the top floor of The Restoration Hotel to have a cocktail or light bites at The Observatory.
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 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. Do check for reservations and/or private events as this view is special and might not be available.
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 signature cocktails that change with the seasons. 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, order drinks and food via counter service in the beer hall but there are plenty of tables to enjoy nice weather outdoors too.
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.
Update these 2 establishments in the RAD remained closed due to extensive damage from Tropical Storm Helene. 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, with art at WALLS Wine Bar. This bar in downtown Asheville offers a unique blend of art and wine. Located within the Benjamin Walls Gallery, guests can enjoy a curated selection of organic, biodynamic, and natural wines while surrounded by stunning nature photography. The bar features a self-serve wine dispensing system, allowing patrons to choose from tasting, half, or full-size pours, making it easy to sample wines from around the world. For those who prefer to sip outdoors, the sidewalk terrace provides a European-style café experience, perfect for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant street life of Asheville.
Antidote, nestled in Asheville’s South Slope neighborhood, offers a captivating cocktail experience within a meticulously crafted, three-story space that echoes the charm of a 1920s apothecary. The interior boasts vintage decor, including antique lighting, a reclaimed back bar from a New York apothecary, and cozy nooks furnished with dark wood and marble-topped tables, creating an ambiance that’s both nostalgic and inviting.
The rooftop terrace provides an intimate setting with fire pits and views of the bustling South Slope, perfect for enjoying a handcrafted cocktail under the stars . The cocktail menu is diverse and inventive, featuring Chemist Spirits made next door.
The town of Chimney Rock suffered catastrophic damage from Tropical Storm Helene. Visit the original location of Burntshirt Winery in Hendersonville. 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!
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.