Planning a day trip for a food tour? Venture into the heart of Asheville, as these dining destinations, though a bit farther away, are highly recommended by locals. Here's a curated list of top establishments within a 30-minute drive that are worth the trip.
Hole Doughnuts
Photo courtesy of Hole Doughnuts
Distance from Wander Black Mountain: 23.4 miles
Location: 168 Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC 28806
Hours: 8AM-1PM Wednesday-Sunday (or until sold out); Closed Monday & Tuesday
Phone: (828) 774-5667
Website: https://www.hole-doughnuts.com/
Hole is a popular destination known for crafting made-to-order doughnuts using locally sourced ingredients, offering flavors like vanilla glazed, toasted almond sesame cinnamon, cinnamon sugar, and a weekly seasonal variety. The dough is meticulously prepared with organic stone-ground flour, unrefined organic cane sugar, sea salt, cage-free eggs, and whole butter. Guests can witness the entire process in the open kitchen, savoring the pleasure of freshly fried, glazed doughnuts that transport them to cherished childhood memories.
Tip: Given the high demand for the doughnuts, it's advisable to arrive early, as they may sell out before closing.
Sunny Point Cafe
Photo courtesy of Sunny Point Cafe
Distance from Wander Black Mountain: 23 miles
Location: 626 Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC 28806
Hours: 8AM-2PM daily
Phone: (828) 252-0055
Website: https://www.sunnypointcafe.com/
A family-owned establishment offering American comfort food from morning to evening, Sunny Point Café features a covered patio for a delightful dining experience. The menu includes a variety of breakfast options such as croque madame, southern omelette, huevos rancheros, fucheros, and stuffed french, among others. The lunch menu offers delicious choices like shrimp & grits, chicken and waffle sandwich, fried chicken biscuit, crispy tofu sandwich, and more, providing a diverse selection for all tastes.
Tip: Expect a wait; upon arrival, add your name to the list, and take the opportunity to explore the town while waiting. The wait is usually between 30-45 minutes.
Ukiah
Photo courtesy of Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse via Instagram
Distance from Wander Black Mountain: 21 miles
Location: 121 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Hours: 5PM-9PM Sunday-Thursday; 5PM-9:30PM Friday & Saturday
Phone: (828) 470-7480
Website: https://ukiahrestaurant.com/
Experience a stylish fusion of Japanese soul food with American BBQ influences at this trendy dining spot offering a terrace setting. Japanese Smokehouse invites diners to share a diverse array of dishes, from snacks like edamame to raw selections like Sliced Hamachi, and from dumplings and buns featuring crispy mushroom bao to big and bowl options like duck hot pot. Indulge in unique desserts like mochi doughnut skewer and charcoal cream puff, completing a culinary journey that combines Japanese flavors with American twists.
French Broad Chocolate Lounge
Photo courtesy of French Broad Chocolates
Distance from Wander Black Mountain: 20.6 miles
Location: 10 S Pack Square, Asheville, NC 28801
Hours: 11AM-10PM daily
Phone: (828) 252-4181
Indulge in the world of chocolate at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge, a chocolate specialist located in Pack Square, downtown Asheville. With a signature blue building, the lounge offers a variety of meticulously crafted treats, including truffles, bars, housemade ice cream, bonbons, caramels, cookies, cakes, brownies, and an extensive menu of drinking chocolates.
Tip: Don't miss out on the delightful Chocolate-dipped ginger snap, highly recommended by locals.
Curate
Photo courtesy of Curate
Distance from Wander Black Mountain: 19.5 miles
Location: 13 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Hours: 4PM-10:30PM Tuesday-Thursday; 11AM-10:30PM Friday-Sunday; Closed Monday
Website: https://curatetapasbar.com/
Cúrate invites patrons on a culinary journey through the richness of Spanish cuisine via its flagship restaurant, online marketplace, wine club, and culinary trips. Embracing the Spanish philosophy of "heal yourself," Cúrate aims to unite people in moments of wonder and joy through the exploration of diverse flavors. The restaurant provides an immersive experience into the cultural tapestry of Spain. The menu rotates with the seasons, featuring a variety of Spanish classics such as traditional Spanish jamón, chicken croquetas, grilled trout, patatas bravas, and other beloved Spanish favorites.
Tip: Due to the restaurant's high demand, it's advisable to make advance reservations, typically ranging from 2 to 4 weeks ahead. While walk-ins may secure a seat at the bar, it's often challenging. Locals highly recommend trying the charcuterie boards, octopus, and indulging in the signature cocktails.
Doing an Asheville food tour should definitely be on your travel list the next time you're in town. The variety is plentiful and the flavors are enticing. If you want to add more stops to this for a more personal tour while staying at Wander Black Mountain, just message our 24/7 Wander Concierge via the Wander app or through text at 737-377-3205; they're ready to help you at any hour. Happy touring and see you soon!
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