Asheville’s has been called the “Paris of the South,” largely because of the city’s diverse and unique artistic and architectural offerings on display in the city’s many historic art deco buildings and neighborhoods. Many of the same characteristics that make Asheville and Western NC wonderful places to visit have also helped this region attract an incredible diversity of culinary talent. This talent can be seen by wide array culinary styles on display within the regions cafe and bistro restaurants.
Home to a few traditional bistros with French and other eastern european cuisine, Asheville also has big variety of small restaurants and cafes that feature fusion, healthy/vegetarian, Asian, Southern, breakfast/brunch, farm to table, Cajun, Latin, and many other culinary styles.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between art galleries or somewhere to grab lunch between outdoor experiences, Asheville cafes and bistros offer a variety of settings to pass the day, sip espresso or have a quick lunch.
Top Cafes & Bistros in Asheville
Isa’s Bistro
Isa’s Bistro offers a seasonally inspired menu crafted by Executive Chef John Venuto, who brings culinary finesse and a unique twist to international favorites.
Situated in downtown… read more
Isa’s Bistro offers a seasonally inspired menu crafted by Executive Chef John Venuto, who brings culinary finesse and a unique twist to international favorites.
Situated in downtown Asheville, Isa’s Bistro features Asheville’s favorite pet-friendly, street-level covered patio, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and people-watching. Their brunch showcases exquisite pastries made fresh…
Tiger Bay Cafe, West Asheville
Located inside Battlecat Coffee Shop in West Asheville, this female-owned, family-run cafe serves up breakfast and lunch, including bagels, waffles, paninis, salads, and more inspired by Southern… read more
Located inside Battlecat Coffee Shop in West Asheville, this female-owned, family-run cafe serves up breakfast and lunch, including bagels, waffles, paninis, salads, and more inspired by Southern, East Indian, and Latin culinary traditions. Try the breakfast bagel or the Cuban panini! Vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Green Sage Cafe
A local favorite, this certified green restaurant nurtures the well-being of its customers through its fair-trade organic coffee and tea, organic beer and wine, natural and organic local food for… read more
A local favorite, this certified green restaurant nurtures the well-being of its customers through its fair-trade organic coffee and tea, organic beer and wine, natural and organic local food for breakfast and lunch. Enjoy fresh juices, sandwiches, salads, soups, coffee drinks and more. Look for the solar panels on the roof! Open daily 7 AM-6 PM. 5 Broadway Avenue.
Storm Rhum Bar & Bistro
Located in Asheville’s South Slope, this unique bistro and bar offers an exceptional new-world approach to classic food and drink. Their bar also boasts one of the largest rum selections in North… read more
Located in Asheville’s South Slope, this unique bistro and bar offers an exceptional new-world approach to classic food and drink. Their bar also boasts one of the largest rum selections in North Carolina. Try their nightly specials and enjoy live music on their outdoor patio in the warmer months. Open Wed-Sun, 11 AM- 2 AM. Mon/Tues 4 PM-2 AM. 125 S. Lexington Ave
The Rhu
This downtown cafe and bakery serves fresh breads, pastries, salads, sandwiches, soups, and more. Shop the pantry for local and regional foods, housewares, and artisanal products. They’ll even… read more
This downtown cafe and bakery serves fresh breads, pastries, salads, sandwiches, soups, and more. Shop the pantry for local and regional foods, housewares, and artisanal products. They’ll even pack a picnic for you to take on your mountain adventures! Open Mon-Fri 7:30 AM-4 PM, Sat/Sun 8 AM-5 PM. 10 S Lexington Ave
All Day Darling
Located in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, this cozy bistro offers fresh coffee and baked goods, smoothies, salads, dinner specials, cocktails and more. Enjoy beer or wine on the patio… read more
Located in Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood, this cozy bistro offers fresh coffee and baked goods, smoothies, salads, dinner specials, cocktails and more. Enjoy beer or wine on the patio in the warmer months! Open daily 7 AM- 9 PM. 102 Montford Ave.
Sunny Point Cafe
A favorite local spot in West Asheville since 2003, discover innovative comfort food with made-from-scratch products and a farm-to-table approach. They even grow some of their ingredients in their… read more
A favorite local spot in West Asheville since 2003, discover innovative comfort food with made-from-scratch products and a farm-to-table approach. They even grow some of their ingredients in their adjacent garden. Favorites include the huevos rancheros, cornmeal hot cakes, French toast and their killer shrimp and grits. Open every day at 8 AM and breakfast menu served until 2:30 PM. 626…
Bouchon
A longtime French bistro with comfort food using local ingredients. A romantic, intimate and charming setting. Enjoy fresh mussels prepared multiple ways, Escargot, Burgundy’s signature stew Boeuf… read more
A longtime French bistro with comfort food using local ingredients. A romantic, intimate and charming setting. Enjoy fresh mussels prepared multiple ways, Escargot, Burgundy’s signature stew Boeuf Bourguignon and their famous fries. Dine al fresco along bricked walkways. Pair hand-selected French wines. 62 Lexington Avenue.
See more Restaurants by Category.
