hard to narrow down, but here are some things I can’t live without in AVL.

Everything is amazing! Share and order lots…

ASHEVILLE is full of killer art. The changing exhibits at Blue Spiral always inspire me. While some pieces are $$$, the staff is not stuffy.

When it’s too hot or too cold to be outside, I love coming here and playing retro games and drinking craft beer.

Brussel sprouts. Even if you don’t like Brussel sprouts. Trust me.

I dig Ebb & Flow in West AVL for massage. They’ve also got a tea room to chill in.

Best burger in town- locally sourced, too. Highly recommend trying seasonal beers rather than the tried and true. They’re brewing some interesting things!

My favorite things about AVL

Mountain Madre is a family-owned Mexican Kitchen & Agave Bar. Not only are we known for using fresh local ingredients in all of our dishes and margaritas, but we are also known for having the largest Agave bar in Western North Carolina-- offering only the finest Tequila and Mezcal. Owners, Danny & Paige Scully, created Mountain Madre with the intention to bring families and friends together. Together with our Mountain Madre team we are committed to providing our guests the best quality food, vibrant atmosphere, and a memorable experience!

"This is my go-to spot for downtown! The food is delicious and locally sourced. They have great vegan options, cocktails are unique and made from scratch. You can't ask for a better out-door patio. Love it!"

Mountain Madre

Downtown Asheville's first legal distillery. Specializing in Caribbean influenced Vodka and Rum, Dalton Distillery brings unique handmade small batch liquors that peak your curiosity and raise your exceptions. Tours & Tastings offered every weekend.

Dalton Distillery's dive- Dalton's After Dark-  holds the largest local spirit selection in downtown Asheville while also serving some of the best drink specials in town.

Dalton Distillery

Ukiah merges Japanese Soul Food with American BBQ techniques. With everything from Raw to Ramen, Woodfired to Smoked, it's quickly becoming a new favorite in Asheville. Oh, and they recently just started weekend brunch!

Located close to the Orange Peel, this spot is perfect for a pre-concert dinner or cocktails on date night! Their large Japanese inspired menu keeps everyone at the table happy. Grab a spot on the patio, and don't forget to order a some Wagyu skewers.

Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse

Downtown Asheville's original vegetarian/vegan restaurant. Fresh, organic, and local! Craft cocktails, draft beers, herbal elixirs, a juice bar, and a beautiful outdoor dining patio on historic Wall Street.

RECENT REVIEW: "We love this place! Great healthy place for brunch, lunch or dinner. Happy to run in for a juice, or to sit down for Tempeh Ruben and Buchi! The staff is friendly and service is ALWAYS on point!"

Laughing Seed Café

Jack of the Wood pub is your Celtic downtown pub serving craft brews, Irish whiskeys, and pub fare since 1997! Check out our new artisanal Sandwich Menu!

RECENT REVIEW: ...this place has ALL the live music, plus hearty pub grub and an amazing rotating tap selection... You !! must!! try the scotch egg and brussel sprouts!!!

Jack of the Wood Pub

Highland Brewing was founded in 1994, establishing it as the pioneer of Asheville, NC’s craft beer scene.

Highland Brewing Company

They are an unpretentious and unique destination spa nestled on a mountainside minutes from the vibrancy of downtown Asheville. Along with traditional Japanese bathing and soaking, in completely private outdoor salt tubs, guests enjoy spa-style showers, first-class massage therapy, nature setting and sounds, locally sourced spa products – including CBD salves, local, handcrafted signature soaps, apparel, totes and more. Guests don a Japanese Yukata (cotton robe) and sandals before retiring to their private hot tub overlooking the National Forest.

While other saunas may take 10 – 15 minutes to work up a sweat, when you step into their sauna, you will begin to sweat almost immediately.

Shoji Spa & Lodge

Asheville's Therapeutic Salt Cave and Spa

Our seafood is flown fresh daily which makes us the seafood destination for locals and visitors who share our passion for fresh Maine lobsters, oysters and fish.  You can check out our website which has our full menu and daily oyster and draft beer list!

Be sure to check out their Clam Bake To- Go!  Available through their website- there are three different sizes, which feed anywhere from 2-8 people.  They provide everything you need, all you need is a pot and a stove!

The Lobster Trap

Founded in 1990, Blue Spiral 1 presents work by exceptional artists in an awe-inspiring space. The light-filled 15,000 square-foot gallery spans three floors connected by an open stairway. Over 20 annual exhibitions of a large range of mediums.

Blue Spiral 1

Welcome to Asheville's Favorite Place to Play! Over 5000 Video Games, Pinball, Billards, Skeeball, Foosball, and the best in Retro Music all day from noon til 2am for Only $10! We've got all your favorite Local Craft Beers on tap!!

"Pay $10 and it's all you can play retro arcade games. It's literally the coolest thing on earth. If you're a local who lives in West Asheville, this place is affordable and fun and open until 2am! I just can't say enough positive things..." -Sarah (Yelp)

Asheville Retrocade

Copper Crown is located in East Asheville, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway. The menu offers a little something for everyone and reflects their appreciation of local products as well as their varied influences.

Copper Crown

We offer excellent bodywork from highly skilled massage therapists. We specialize in therapeutic modalities such as Myofascial Release, Deep Tissue, and Neuromuscular; as well as relaxing Swedish massage, and more! Hot towels & Aromatherapy are included in every session 60 minutes or longer.

"Beautiful environment, fantastic massage, professional staff,  and awesome tea room to boot. Wow, Ebb & Flow has got it going on. This will undoubtedly be Asheville's finest Massage Therapy Center!"

"Ebb and Flow has a very welcoming atmosphere with soothing music, crystals and plants. The citrus water is welcoming after a massage. I didn’t have to wait long and everyone was very nice!"

"Always a relaxing experience . Easy and professional."

"Very professional experience and a nice ambiance. Online system for appointments and payment and reminders makes the interaction at the center faster."

Ebb & Flow Massage Therapy Center

Formerly Bhramari Brewhouse. 
Bright, crisp beers. 
Amazing food.
An elevated space. 
Asheville's South Slope.

My favorite things about AVL

Asheville Fanatic

hard to narrow down, but here are some things I can’t live without in AVL.

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