With award-winning restaurants aplenty, the Asheville area’s food scene keeps getting bigger and more famous — but there are some spots only we locals know about. Because we don’t want to be too selfish, we’ve decided to share your answers to WNCs best under-the-radar eats. Bon appétit.
Cousins Cuban Cafe , 108 Broadway Ave., Black Mountain
- Sweet + savory pastries, empanadas, Cubanos, and some incredible private label coffee are just a few of the tasty treats you’ll find at this hidden gem.
Papa’s Pizza , 429 New Leicester Hwy.
- More than a few of you shouted out this pizzeria for its reliable deliciousness, generous servings + affordable prices.
Pons Thai , 3101 Sweeten Creek Rd.
- The Exxon gas station in South Asheville is a great place to fuel up not only on petrol, but on authentic Thai cuisine like curries, pad thai, and crispy duck. Pro tip: the Tom Kha soup is addictive.
Sand Hill Kitchen , 491 Sardis Rd.
- Located inside the BP gas station on the corner of Sand Hill and Sardis Rds., this unassuming spot cranks out award-winning burgers + chicken sandwiches , hearty breakfasts, and sweet treats like lemon bars and banana pudding that could rival (or beat) your grandma’s. Bonus: there’s a drive-thru.
Scramble , 144 Hoopers Creek Rd., Fletcher
- Y’all love this restaurant, which offers a blend of Mexican and traditional American foods for breakfast + lunch. Really, we want it all as long as it’s doused in that incredible, slow-cooked mole sauce.
Tommy’s Family Restaurant , 247 N. Main St., Weaverville
- Looking for food that tastes like home but without any of the drama? Hit up this spot for a novella-sized menu of family-style eats like fried catfish, prime rib, and pork chops alongside rotating daily sides.
Taste of El Salvador , 1565 Patton Ave.
- Located along a strip mall-filled stretch of West Asheville, this spot offers affordable Salvadoran fare like pupusas and tamales. Pro tip: it’s located by two other beloved eateries known only to locals: Taqueria Muñoz and Pupuseria Patty.