4 Best Restaurants in River Arts District, Asheville

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We've compiled the best of the best in River Arts District - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

The Bull and Beggar

$$$ Fodor's Choice

The Bull and Beggar is decidedly warehouse hip, with brick walls, old wood floors, and high ceilings. The French-inspired menu plays like an upscale steak house, and the surf-and-turf theme extends to the mollusks, which include raw oysters and escargot. Their 30-seat nearby spinoff, Baby Bull, now hosts their popular Burger Monday, with deals on fabulous double-patty burgers.

37 Paynes Wy., Asheville, NC, 28801, USA
828-575–9443
Known For
  • An incredible 34-ounce dry-aged rib eye
  • Excellent surf, as well as turf
  • Sunny patio
Restaurant Details
Closed Wed.

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12 Bones Smokehouse

$$

The lively crowds at this barbecue hot spot range from hippie potters to downtown suits—former president Barack Obama made 12 Bones his first stop on multiple trips to Asheville—who come for the ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, sweet vinegar slaw, and corn pudding. On a sunny day, grab a seat at the picnic tables outside and take in the murals that cover every wall in the vicinity.

5 Foundy St., Asheville, NC, 28801, USA
828-253–4499
Known For
  • Smoky baby back ribs
  • Waitresses who call you "sweetie"
  • Collard greens and other Southern sides
Restaurant Details
Closed weekends; closes at 4:30 on weekdays

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Summit Coffee Co.

$ | River Arts District
Serving third-wave coffee in a chic industrial space, this is a convenient stop for cold brew and more while visiting art studios.
4 Foundy St., Asheville, NC, 28801, USA
828-705–8071
Known For
  • Beans roasted in-house
  • Great selections of beans and espresso drinks
  • Bagels

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Recommended Fodor's Video

Vivian

$$$

The emphasis is on the cooking at this dimly lit, painted-cinder-block eatery that blends French techniques with Southern ingredients like mountain trout and North Carolina shrimp. Vivian's service is top-notch, making it ideal for a date night.

348 Depot St., Asheville, NC, 28801, USA
828-225–3497
Known For
  • Creative versions of contemporary dishes
  • Interesting craft cocktails
  • Unpretentious setting
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon. and Tues. No dinner Sun.

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