If you’ve ever found yourself hankering for a pint of locally-crafted ale and a hearty meal made with fresh, regional ingredients, then Asheville, North Carolina is the place for you. As someone who was born and raised in the heart of this vibrant Blue Ridge Mountain town, I can confidently say that the local pub scene here is second to none when it comes to celebrating the best of Western North Carolina’s food and drink.
Asheville’s Craft Brew Legacy
Now, I know what you might be thinking – Asheville is probably best known for its thriving craft beer culture. And you’d be absolutely right! The city has earned the reputation as the “San Francisco of the East” when it comes to all things craft brew. The Up & Under Pub, for example, boasts an impressive 20 rotating taps that showcase the very best of Asheville’s local breweries. From the hoppy, high-ABV IPAs of Wicked Weed to the smooth, sessionable lagers of Burial Beer Co., this place has something to satisfy even the most discerning beer snob.
But what really sets Asheville apart is the way its pubs have seamlessly integrated these world-class craft brews with an equally impressive culinary scene. It’s not enough to just have a killer tap list anymore – the best pubs in town are also creating menus that celebrate the bounty of Western North Carolina’s farms, producers, and purveyors.
Blending Brew and Bounty
Take Burial Beer Co. for example. Sure, they brew some of the most sought-after IPAs and farmhouse ales around. But they’ve also put together a food menu that reads like a love letter to Appalachian ingredients and techniques. You can pair your Bolo Coconut Porter with a plate of crispy fried chicken skins dusted in Carolina gold seasoning. Or maybe you’re in the mood for a juicy burger topped with pimento cheese and pickled green tomatoes.
And it’s not just the beer-centric pubs that are getting in on the action. Even the more traditional watering holes, like The Thirsty Monk, have upped their culinary game to keep up with the times. Here, you’ll find elevated pub fare like smoked pork belly tacos with house-made slaw and sriracha aioli, all washed down with a refreshing draft cider from Appalachian Ridge.
It’s a win-win for the discerning diner – you get to indulge in expertly-crafted beverages while also savoring the fruits of the region’s abundant agricultural bounty. And the best part? You don’t have to choose between the two. In Asheville, the pub experience is all about striking the perfect balance between brew and bounty.
Exploring Asheville’s Pub Scene
Of course, with so many amazing pubs to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together a little guide to some of my personal favorites in the Asheville area. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through the best of the city’s pub scene!
The Thirsty Monk
Let’s start with a classic. The Thirsty Monk has been a fixture in downtown Asheville for over 15 years, and it’s easy to see why. With an impressive selection of both local and international beers on tap, plus a menu that offers a modern twist on traditional pub fare, this place has something for everyone.
One of my go-to orders is the smoked pork belly tacos – the rich, tender meat is the perfect complement to the bright, tangy slaw and creamy sriracha aioli. And you can’t leave without trying one of their house-made ciders, like the crisp and refreshing Appalachian Ridge.
Burial Beer Co.
As I mentioned earlier, Burial Beer Co. is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast. But this place is more than just a brewery – it’s a celebration of all things Appalachian, from the seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients on the menu to the rustic-chic decor that pays homage to the region’s rich history.
I always start with an order of the crispy fried chicken skins, dusted in a blend of Carolina gold seasoning that packs a serious punch of flavor. And for my main, I can never resist the pimento cheese burger, topped with sweet pickled green tomatoes and served on a pillowy-soft brioche bun. Of course, you’ll want to pair it with one of Burial’s signature brews – maybe the earthy, subtly-smoky Bolo Coconut Porter.
The Up & Under Pub
No Asheville pub roundup would be complete without a mention of The Up & Under Pub. As I mentioned earlier, this place boasts an incredible selection of 20 rotating taps, showcasing the very best of the city’s thriving craft beer scene.
But what really sets The Up & Under apart is the way they’ve elevated the classic pub experience. The menu is a masterclass in pairing bold, innovative flavors with equally impressive brews. I’m particularly fond of their dry-rubbed chicken wings, which get a delicious kick from a house-made Buffalo sauce made with local honey and IPA. And if you’re in the mood for something a little heartier, the juicy, double-stacked smashburger is an absolute must-try.
Wedge Brewing Company
Last but certainly not least, we have Wedge Brewing Company. This industrial-chic brewery and taproom is located in the heart of the River Arts District, making it the perfect spot to refuel after a day of exploring the area’s galleries and studios.
The vibe here is laid-back and convivial, with communal tables, board games, and a sprawling outdoor patio. And the beer selection is just as approachable – from the crisp, citrusy IPA to the roasty, chocolatey stout, there’s something to please every palate.
But what really sets Wedge apart is their commitment to supporting the local community. They partner with a rotating roster of food trucks, ensuring that you can always find a delicious, locally-sourced meal to pair with your brew. And they even host regular events and fundraisers to give back to the neighborhood. It’s the perfect embodiment of Asheville’s “buy local, drink local” ethos.
Raising a Glass to Asheville’s Pub Scene
As you can probably tell, I’m pretty passionate about the pub scene in Asheville. It’s a place where the love of craft beer and the celebration of regional cuisine come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, a plate of crispy fried chicken, or a refreshing cider, the pubs in this town have got you covered.
So the next time you find yourself in Asheville, be sure to put on your most comfortable walking shoes and embark on a pub crawl through the heart of this vibrant, food-and-drink-obsessed city. Your taste buds will thank you.
