Small plates (chaats) or platters (Thalis) make up the impressive, flavor-driven menu of Chai Pani. Claiming “mind-blasting Indian street food,” Chai Pani pulls its dishes from authentic sources and embellishes when it only makes the food better. There are lots of vegetarian options. Don’t miss the Kheema Pav, a spiced lamb hash simmered with tomatoes, ginger and aromatic spices, then garnished with onions and cilantro, green chutney, sweet yogurt and served on two toasted buns. Sound like a Sloppy Joe? They call it a Sloppy Jai!
Embracing both Asheville’s strong craft beer culture and the popularity of Japanese/American fusion, Ben’s Tune-up sits in a prime location on the city’s South Slope area. Don’t miss the savory and spicy Duck Ramen: Pork broth with braised duck, shiitake mushrooms, pickled onions, and cilantro. Oh heck, throw in an order of Basil-chicken Dumplings too! Great, laid-back atmosphere -- and plenty of local craft beers to taste through.
The stunning decor transports you to another world. The aromas set your taste buds at attention -- and the food is an experience you will want to savor. From a comfortable and easily accessible lunchtime buffet to its ala-carte dinner menu, Kathmandu masterfully covers three styles of cuisine: Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian. Chicken or lamb saags are hearty and the Bheda Alo, which tender chunks of lamb and carefully chosen spices, are favorites here. Pair with an order of garlic naan.
Here, the crust tells the story. All Souls grinds its own flours and polenta that form the rustic, flavorful crust for a menu of imaginative pizzas. Veggies most often come from the neighboring farmers’ market and meats are sourced from North Carolina producers. Heritage breeds of livestock and veggies are the norm at All Souls -- not the exception. Try the NC soppressata, tomato, basil, oregano, garlic and aged goat cheese pizza. Eat, then wander the working galleries of neighboring River Arts District.
There are much bigger and more well-known Mexican eateries in Asheville. However, the more intimate booths and made-to-order plates at West Asheville’s El Paraiso make this THE place to stop. The food is always consistent, nicely presented and delicious. Burritos are hearty and plump. Order a variety of quesadillas to share.
This may be in the heart of Asheville, but it could just as easily be a cozy ristorante in Firenze. Pasta is made by hand, to order. A wood-fired oven churns out nicely blistered and smoky pizza, an array of artfully crafted bread and roasted meats. Don’t miss Cucina 24’s orecchiette, with its rich sauce laced with spicy Italian sausage, greens, and tomato. With an excellent list of Italian wines, it’s cozy and romantic.
Early Girl is the hands-down favorite for farm-to-table American comfort food and a great destination for vegetarians. The meat eater in your party can revel in a meal built around a pork chop or pan-fried catfish. Vegetarians won’t have to fret. The menu is loaded with lots of meatless choices, like the tempeh Reuben and sweet potato black bean cakes, choices that go far beyond a boring old salad. Great atmosphere, easy location.
Guests to Asheville don't need an excuse to take in the scenery or day spa at the Grove Park Inn. And, there's no need to be a guest at this world-class resort to enjoy its Smashed Cheeseburger. The 6-ounce patty is perched inside a fresh bun and topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion ... and Edison’s special sauce. With a side of fries or a salad -- it’s meal. This one tops our list, but there are plenty of other great burgers. Explore!
Chef and pitmaster Elliott Moss rewrote the North Carolina barbecue map when he introduced whole hog, pit-cooked pork in Western North Carolina. The James Beard Foundation - nominated chef doesn't stop with tender, juicy pork. His fried chicken sandwich has captured the hearts of critics; side dishes push beyond the usual baked beans to include green beans cooked under the hog and rice-based chicken bog. Don’t miss the banana pudding pie!
Although it’s been 3 years since Lang Baan first opened its doors, it’s still a tricky reservation to score. A James Beard Semi-Finalist for best new restaurant in 2015, this “thoughtful old school thai food,” is a real treat for Portland diners looking for bit of casual elegance. You might have eaten spicy noodles at PaaDee and perhaps never noticed their other Thai restaurant hidden behind the bar on the other side of the wall. Take a look. Go on… keep going… all the way to the back by the bathrooms, make a left… ahh, there it is.
“Langbaan,” the Thai word for ‘back of the house’, is an intimate dining room that fits no more than 20 people. The limited seating could be partially the reason that it’s difficult to get a table. The other reason is that the food is pretty dang good. In fact, it’s exquisite. Each month, the revolving prix fixe menu features, anything but typical Thai “street food” highlighting the flavors and cuisines of Thailand. Themes of coconut creme, citrus fruits and lime, peanut and chili are certain. If you are afraid of a little heat, be warned. While the spices aren’t painful, the warmth tends to linger on your lips like a gentle but fiery slap in the face. After eating eleven, 1-2 bite courses, you might not think that you’d be full from such petite dishes. However, by the time you’ve finished the main courses, you’re covertly loosening your belt buckle a notch to make room for dessert. You’re also mentally making a note to plan your return visit. Diners wait 5-6 months for a table. If a trip to Portland is on your horizon, make your reservation yesterday.