Finding New York Times-predicted food trends in Asheville

The publication put out its annual list of food predictions, but some forward-thinking Asheville spots already have these trends on lock.

cook with k.png

Dine with new friends at Dinner with Strangers.

Photo via Cook With K

Goals for 2025? To be a trendsetter. At the end of last year, the New York Times put together a list of food trend predictions for 2025. But we see that there are a couple of Asheville spots ahead of the curve when it comes to these trends.

Savory coffee

It’s time to branch out from the vanilla oat milk latte. High Five Coffee’s rosemary sage latte from its winter menu gets an extra kick from a garnish of fresh-cracked black pepper.

Grab-and-go grub

It seems like we’re always on the move, and the NYT says 2025 shouldn’t be any different, so grab-and-go fare is expected to rise up the ranks. The sandwiches, soups, and burritos from West Village Market are a classic, and we also love the tasty + convenient bites from Side Project, the grab-and-go case from Chef Michelle Bailey in Citizen Vinyl.

Heart-warming hospitality

NYT predicts people will crave companionship and seek more intimate + cozy dining experiences emphasizing eating together and community connection. The perfect answer to these desires is Cook With K’s Dinner with Strangers. Keep a close eye on its website to get tickets for the next dinner — they sell out fast.

High protein eats

Eating like a gym bro doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor. There are plenty of high-protein options at Green Sage Cafe — add protein powder to any of its smoothies, or opt for a bowl like the Havana with chicken, salmon, or sprouted tofu, plus extra protein from black beans and pumpkin seeds.

A buzz without booze

THC- and Kava-infused drinks have risen in popularity, and Asheville has certainly jumped on the trend. You can add Delta 9 to any drink at Plant Bar inside Asheville Dispensary or pick from the wide variety of hemp-based beverages available at Local 604 Bottle Shop.

More from AVLtoday
The group behind Gan Shan, Jettie Rae’s, and Vinnie’s is setting out to capture the magic of NY’s Mott Street with its fourth concept, The Majestic.
A Weaverville company stitches itself into the history of space travel, while a historic former NASA facility in Rosman returns to its original mission 60 years later.
Make the most of good weather by taking your meals al fresco on one of Asheville’s many beautiful patios.
Chef Montgomery Taylor of Montgomery Sky Farm and Meherwan Irani and Molly Irani of Chai Pani Restaurant Group pushed past the semifinalist round for the accolades.
Mezze, wraps, and Mediterranean favorites are spicing up the lineup at the historic food hall.
Three Asheville exhibitions are showcasing craft, light, and Impressionist landscapes in fresh perspective this spring.
Put down the tech and pick up one of these hands-on hobbies by joining a local club or class.
Asheville restaurants, cafes, and diners serving up all the eggs, pancakes, shakshuka, mimosas, and other brunch favorites that will start your day off right.
New ArtsAVL-backed studies show a $436M economic impact, but a leaner, more independent workforce is reshaping how the region’s music economy operates.
Maximize your commute with these reader and editor picks of Asheville NC podcasts for business, leadership, and entrepreneurship.