This September marks the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, a storm that left its mark on Western North Carolina. While it’s easy to focus on what we lost, we want to celebrate what’s been gained. Asheville has shown incredible resilience this past year, with a wave of new shops, restaurants, and bars adding fresh energy downtown.
At Pinecrest Bed & Breakfast, a historic Tudor home with lush gardens and abundant breakfasts, we love being just minutes from downtown Asheville—close enough to explore the newest hot spots, yet tucked into a peaceful neighborhood. It’s the best bed and breakfast in Asheville for couples who want a romantic getaway near downtown with gourmet breakfasts, a walk-to-downtown location, and the charm of a historic home.
Downtown Openings with Plenty of Style (and Photos to Prove It!)
Farmase – (pronounced ˈfaar·muh·see’) brings an unexpected speakeasy vibe to Biltmore Avenue, tucked away in a basement location that transforms its underground setting into an intimate asset. This new cocktail bar creates a cool, moody atmosphere that feels both hidden and welcoming – the kind of place that rewards adventurous guests willing to descend below street level for expertly crafted drinks. Located just a short walk from Pinecrest Bed & Breakfast, Farmase represents the creative energy that’s defining Asheville’s post-storm downtown scene, where innovative bar concepts are finding unique spaces to flourish. The basement location isn’t a compromise – it’s part of the charm that makes discovering this spot feel like uncovering one of downtown’s best-kept secrets.
BRU –takes the street-level approach where Farmase goes underground, offering the same owners’ vision in a bright, counter-service format that bridges the gap between coffee shop and casual eatery. Open later than most coffee shops, BRU serves both the morning caffeine crowd and the lunch-and-beyond appetite with an extensive sandwich menu that goes well beyond typical café fare. Their ultimate BLT – a towering creation that arrives with perfectly seasoned fries – exemplifies the elevated comfort food approach that makes this more than just another coffee stop. The counter service keeps things relaxed and efficient, while the extended hours mean Pinecrest guests can grab a substantial sandwich later in the day. Located right on Biltmore Avenue above its sibling speakeasy, BRU represents Asheville’s knack for maximizing space and creating complementary experiences that serve the neighborhood from sunrise well into the evening.
Wildwood Still – elevates downtown Asheville’s bar scene both literally and figuratively, claiming the rooftop of the Moxy Hotel on Biltmore Avenue with sweeping views that stretch across the Blue Ridge Mountains. This whiskey-focused destination pairs an impressive selection of spirits with thoughtfully crafted small plates, creating the perfect combination for lingering over drinks while soaking in those long-range mountain vistas. The rooftop design balances cozy intimacy with grand scenery – firepits anchor comfortable seating areas where guests can settle in for the evening, while tables positioned to capture the best views make every visit feel like a special occasion. For Pinecrest Bed & Breakfast guests seeking that quintessential Asheville experience of mountain views paired with exceptional drinks, Wildwood Still delivers a must-see rooftop retreat that showcases exactly why this city’s setting is as compelling as its craft beverage culture. And they take reservations on Open Table!
Maguro – brings fresh excitement to downtown Asheville’s dining scene with an extensive sushi menu that showcases both traditional favorites and creative rolls, perfect for sushi enthusiasts ready to explore a huge selection of expertly prepared options. Their Sushi & Sashimi Deluxe platter exemplifies the restaurant’s commitment to quality and presentation, offering a generous sampling that satisfies serious sushi lovers (that’s our son and yes, he at it all.) Understanding that not everyone craves raw fish, Maguro thoughtfully includes cooked alternatives like stir fry dishes and hibachi entrees, ensuring that mixed groups and families can all find something appealing on the menu. This inclusive approach makes it an ideal choice for Pinecrest guests who want to experience exceptional Japanese cuisine without leaving anyone behind – whether you’re drawn to the artistry of fresh sashimi or prefer the sizzle of hibachi-style preparations, Maguro delivers authentic flavors in downtown Asheville’s increasingly diverse culinary landscape
And More New Faces Downtown
- Southern Highland Craft Guild – found new life in the heart of downtown after Hurricane Helene forced the closure of their longtime Biltmore Village location. Taking over the former Mountain Made space in the historic Grove Arcade, this beloved institution continues showcasing the finest Appalachian craftsmanship in a setting that feels perfectly suited to their mission. The Grove Arcade location puts their curated collection of regional pottery, textiles, woodwork, and jewelry right in the walkable downtown core, making it easier than ever for Pinecrest guests to discover authentic mountain crafts.
- Periscope – transforms the top mezzanine of the S&W food hall into a smart cocktail destination with prime views of the bustling food court below. Their draft cocktail system keeps drinks affordable at $12 – like an excellent Aperol spritz that’s perfect for watching the activity unfold beneath you. The space offers intimate seating vignettes for couples and larger tables for groups, while the unique pie menu from New Stock Pantry adds an unexpected sweet touch. For Pinecrest guests, it’s an accessible perch that combines craft cocktails with people-watching in downtown’s most dynamic food scene
- Asheville Forager – brings a unique selection of specialty foods and sundries to Wall Street, stocking hard-to-find items that fill gaps in downtown’s grocery landscape. While their curated shelves offer intriguing discoveries you won’t find elsewhere in the area, the real excitement centers around their deli counter, which creates perfect grab-and-go opportunities for Pinecrest guests. With fresh sandwiches, chips, and drinks ready to travel, Asheville Forager becomes your gateway to an impromptu picnic – whether you’re heading to Pack Square Park, finding a riverside spot, or discovering one of the nearby green spaces that make outdoor dining such a pleasure in this mountain town
- Delighted – on Haywood Road offers the kind of thoughtfully curated gift shopping experience that independent stores do best, with a charming collection that spans journals and notecards to jewelry, books, puzzles, scarves, and distinctive tea towels. This locally-owned shop strikes the perfect balance between practical items like quality shopping bags and special keepsakes that capture Asheville’s creative spirit. For Pinecrest guests seeking authentic souvenirs beyond the typical tourist fare, Delighted provides carefully chosen pieces that feel both meaningful and useful – the kind of finds that remind you of your mountain getaway long after you’ve returned home
Asheville’s creative spirit is alive and thriving. Every stroll downtown brings fresh discoveries, and each of these openings is a reminder of how the city continues to evolve.
If it’s been a while since your last visit, now’s the perfect time to return. Stay with us at Pinecrest Bed & Breakfast—park your car, relax in our gardens, and set out to explore all the new things downtown Asheville has to offer.