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What you need to know

Cúrate is the spot locals send friends when they ask, “Where’s the best restaurant in downtown Asheville?” This Spanish tapas bar is famous for transforming a 1920s bus depot on Biltmore Avenue into a buzzy, vibrant hub for food lovers who crave something special. Chef Katie Button—a scientist turned culinary star who cooked at legendary El Bulli—serves up authentic small plates, killer wine, and warm hospitality that earned Cúrate a James Beard Award for Outstanding Hospitality. The marble bar, open kitchen, and lively crowd make every meal feel like a party in Barcelona. Menu staples include Spanish classics like jamón Ibérico, pulpo a la gallega, and those garlic shrimp you’ll dream about all year. Try the patatas bravas or lamb skewers, sip something from the all-Spanish wine list, and you’re set for one of Asheville’s best date nights or group dinners.

Local's Tip

Make a reservation—this place fills up fast! If you want to really experience Asheville’s food scene, order a bunch of tapas to share. You can grab lunch or dinner, and if you’re rolling with a big crew, the more plates, the more fun.

What the locals say

People dig Cúrate’s energy—romantic, bustling, and cozy all at once. It’s the kind of place visitors and regulars return to for celebrations, family hangouts, or a spontaneous night out. Weekends do get busy, so locals always book ahead if they want a seat at Chef Button’s bar. Many say Cúrate is a “must-try” if you’re chasing true Asheville nightlife and landmark restaurants downtown.

What you need to know

Cúrate is the spot locals send friends when they ask, “Where’s the best restaurant in downtown Asheville?” This Spanish tapas bar is famous for transforming a 1920s bus depot on Biltmore Avenue into a buzzy, vibrant hub for food lovers who crave something special. Chef Katie Button—a scientist turned culinary star who cooked at legendary El Bulli—serves up authentic small plates, killer wine, and warm hospitality that earned Cúrate a James Beard Award for Outstanding Hospitality. The marble bar, open kitchen, and lively crowd make every meal feel like a party in Barcelona. Menu staples include Spanish classics like jamón Ibérico, pulpo a la gallega, and those garlic shrimp you’ll dream about all year. Try the patatas bravas or lamb skewers, sip something from the all-Spanish wine list, and you’re set for one of Asheville’s best date nights or group dinners.

What the locals say

People dig Cúrate’s energy—romantic, bustling, and cozy all at once. It’s the kind of place visitors and regulars return to for celebrations, family hangouts, or a spontaneous night out. Weekends do get busy, so locals always book ahead if they want a seat at Chef Button’s bar. Many say Cúrate is a “must-try” if you’re chasing true Asheville nightlife and landmark restaurants downtown.

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