This summer, the first phase of Asheville Regional Airport’s $400 million expansion project will take flight, debuting the new seven-gate north concourse. As the interior finishes are being finalized, the airport announced a list of five restaurants and two retail spaces opening in the new terminal.
Restaurants ready for takeoff
Three storefronts will open upon the completion of phase one — two restaurants and one retail shop.
- The Goods @AVL | A one-stop shop for snacks, drinks, travel gear, “Asheville” branded gifts, and locally made products. There will be self-checkout available if you’re chronically late for flights.
- Jimmy John’s and Tropical Smoothie Cafe | The two fast-food chains will move in to offer made-to-order smoothies and sandwiches.
The north concourse will also open with two temporary concession stands, operating until construction wraps up on the south concourse. You can visit Costa Coffee for a caffeine boost and baked goods and Aletitude for a beer and grab-and-go grub.
More waiting in the wings
Four additional restaurants and shops are slated to open in 2027, debuting in tandem with the completion of phase two of the airport expansion.
- Appalachian Exchange | A market to pick up essentials from local shops.
- Smoky Grounds | A coffee shop with a rotating selection of local beans and grab-and-go options.
- Beercode Kitchen & Bar | A sit-down spot serving elevated pub fare and local craft beers.
- Vino Volo | In addition to a wide wine selection, the bar offers craft cocktails and an Italian-inspired menu spanning breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A self-serve Costa Coffee machine and travel@ease vending machine will also be located in the pre-security area.
What else is included in phase two? Once work on the north concourse wraps up, phase two of the expansion will begin with the demolition of the south concourse to make way for a new lobby, permanent TSA checkpoint, and an expanded ticket lobby and baggage claim area.
You’re the pilot now
The blueprints are in your hands — if you could design the concourse to include your favorite local spots to shop and eat, what would you pick? Here are some of our favorite reader responses:
- “Gypsy Queen for a pre-flight meal or Owl Bakery if I’m just wanting a snack.”
- “A rotation of local restaurants with limited menus, think S&W stalls with 3-6 month rotations.”
- “I think Biscuit Head would appeal to travelers.”
