by Eric Bowman
Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Wed June 6, 2018
There is a myriad of reasons to explore Asheville.
When you think of this southern city, the stunning mountain views, the great music or the rising craft beer scene may come to mind.
While those are fine reasons to visit Asheville, it's the fantastic food that will have you planning your return trip back.
Asheville is the "Brewery Capital of America" and the beer is why so many people visit. Any given weekend you'll find a number of bachelor and bachelorette party crews touring the city, hopping from brewery to brewery.
But every beer connoisseur knows you're going to need a great meal before, after and during a day of drinking.
Home to multiple James Beard Award nominee chefs, Asheville's food scene is on the rise. The primary focus throughout the city is on fresh local ingredients, with many establishments offering farm to table delights. Locally sourced food crafted with the utmost care will keep your taste buds satisfied and craving more.
Kick off your morning at Hole Doughnuts, where they don't make the doughnuts until you place your order. A friendly staff, a cool atmosphere and exceptional doughnuts at an affordable price-what better way to start the day?
Whether you spend the rest of your day strolling the city or out on an outdoor adventure like hiking, biking, kayaking or rafting, you'll want to have a fulfilling lunch and dinner.
One new Asheville restaurant that puts a unique spin on food is White Labs Kitchen & Tap.
The boutique restaurant and tasting room showcases how beer can be used in the food process. Beer-infused and fermented foods may sound odd, but it's incredibly delicious.
The lactobacillus fries are super tasty with just the right amount of crunch and if you love pizza, this is the place to be. White Labs has a 72-hour fermented dough that your taste buds will go crazy for. They're also not shy on loading up the toppings either, which is a terrific bonus. Plus, they even offer gluten-free dough. In fact, you'll find gluten-free menu options all over town.
Looking for the ultimate rooftop experience in Asheville? Capella on 9, the rooftop restaurant and bar at the AC Hotel is the ideal spot for happy hour or dinner. Not only will you be treated to stunning views of downtown Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains, but you'll also get to taste some of the best appetizers in the city.
The charcuterie board features domestic and imported meats, the crab cake duo still makes my mouth water and the stuffed piquillo peppers with goat cheese, honey and mint may have just been the best thing I ate all weekend.
Speaking of great meats, both AUX Bar and Foothills Butcher Bar & Kitchen have exceptional burgers, steaks and more. They're both relatively new eateries but they're quickly becoming popular spots.
Give your taste buds a unique experience with the duck wings at AUX Bar, which is tossed in a sweet potato sauce. Yes, they're finger licking good.
And the mac-n-cheese at Foothills was definitely something to write home about.
For Sunday brunch, consider Vivian. It's also a fairly new establishment, but it packs a strong punch of flavors. The fried french toast and poffertjes (mini Dutch pancakes) are sweet deliciousness and the deep-fried pork loin with sausage gravy and a fried egg in between a classic biscuit was sensational.
Another spot for great beer and top-notch food all at the same place, consider Wicked Weed. Just make sure you show up early though because it gets packed throughout the day.
Other stellar options downtown include White Duck Taco Shop, Mayfels, Tupelo Honey and Curate. James Beard Award-nominated Chef Katie Button runs Curate, a foodie lover's dream right in the heart of downtown Asheville. A traditional tapas bar experience awaits those who are craving some classic Spanish cuisine.
There's an array of flavors in Asheville, and while the beer might be the reason for your visit, it's the flavorful food you won't be able to stop talking about.
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