Late-Night Cake and Espresso Martinis at Old Europe

Old Europe on Broadway stays open until 11 on Friday and Saturday nights, which makes it an easy after-dinner or post-show stop downtown. Pull up with a slice of mousse cake, an eclair or a box of macarons, and pair it with an espresso martini, an Aperol spritz or an Irish coffee from the bar.

If you'd rather skip the booze, the espresso comes from Dynamite Roasting in Black Mountain. Plenty of the cakes are gluten free, and there are vegan picks in the case too.

Old Europe has been Asheville's Hungarian-rooted pastry shop since 1994, when Melinda Vetro, who learned to bake in pastry school growing up in Hungary, opened the first one on Battery Park. It's moved a few times since and now sits at 18 Broadway downtown.

The case is packed with mousse cakes, eclairs, macarons and croissants, plus old-country picks like Rigo Jancsi chocolate cake and the Ishler, a pair of walnut shortbread cookies with apricot jam dipped in chocolate. A lot of the cakes are gluten free, and there are vegan options too, like a chocolate cupcake and a seasonal cobbler.

Coffee is espresso from Dynamite Roasting in Black Mountain, and the bar pours Aperol spritzes, espresso martinis and Irish coffee. It's open 7:30 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Thursday and until 11 on Friday and Saturday.

Downtown folks swing in for a croissant and a latte in the morning and come back after dinner for cake and a cocktail. Regulars swear by the macarons.

Old Europe Pastries

Savor Asheville, NC’s diverse and flavorful food and drink scene, packed with acclaimed restaurants, lively bars, cozy coffee shops, and innovative breweries. Whether you’re craving local farm-to-table cuisine, signature cocktails, craft beer, or fresh roasted coffee, Asheville delivers a culinary adventure at every turn. Sample creative menus from downtown gems to hidden neighborhood favorites, and discover community-driven farmers markets, vibrant food trucks, and everything in between. Find the best places to eat, drink, and experience Asheville’s thriving culture of taste—your ultimate guide to unforgettable meals, handcrafted drinks, and local eats in every corner of the city.

Explore the Best Food & Drink in Asheville, NC

Celebrate and support Asheville, NC’s vibrant community of woman-owned businesses. From boutique shops and creative studios to professional services and wellness providers, these dynamic women entrepreneurs bring passion, innovation, and diversity to the local economy. Explore authentic shopping experiences, unique products, and expert services crafted and led by women making an impact across Asheville. Find events, markets, and initiatives that uplift women-owned businesses and foster community growth. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, discover how to support and celebrate the talent and leadership of Asheville’s women-owned business community.

Late-Night Cake and Espresso Martinis at Old Europe

The Scoop