It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood because Reader’s Digest has named Asheville as 2025’s Nicest Place in America. The Land of the Sky earned the top honor after receiving a record number of nominations from readers.
Many commended Asheville’s compassion in the face of crisis as Helene wrought devastation in the area. Read the article to hear from local voices like Molly Irani of Chai Pani and Gustavo “Ponkho” Bermejo of BeLoved Asheville.
What better way to celebrate this win than by sharing a few random acts of kindness we can all partake in?
“All of Asheville must be here tonight!” That’s something you probably heard if you attended the grand reopening celebration for Marquee last week in the RAD. In case you missed it, you can now explore the work of more than 300 artists at the newly renovated art bazaar.
Opening
Pet Supplies Plus is headed to the former Family Dollar on Haywood Road, across the street from Sunny Point Cafe. The pet store also has a pharmacy and grooming services. The store already has an Asheville location on Hendersonville Road.
Today Is
National Coffee Day, and we’ve never felt more seen by a national holiday. Whether you like your java hot, iced, bold, or sweet, join in the fun with us by pouring yourself a cup of ambition from one of Asheville’s local coffee shops.
Outdoors
Travel + Leisure named Chimney Rock State Park the best in NC, thanks to its steep Hickory Nut Falls and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Make a reservation to explore the beauty for yourself.
Watch
Coming to a theater near you — The Official Release Party of a Showgirl. On Friday, Oct. 3 through Sunday, Oct. 5, you can see the world premiere of Taylor Swift’s “The Fate of Ophelia,” including the music video and behind-the-scenes footage. Get tickets to a screening in Asheville.
Featured Apartment
Active living and convenience converge at Chorus Asheville — a vibrant 55+ community just minutes from downtown. Choose from stylish studio to two-bedroom apartments, and enjoy wellness-focused amenities with plenty of ways to connect (think: pickleball, yoga, social events, and more). Take a tour.*
Finance
This versatile card has quickly become a favorite for many. With no annual fee, 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2026, and up to 5% cash back on everyday purchases, it’s easy to see why it stands out.Explore the perks.*
Featured Deal
This is your last call to take advantage of our early bird deal + get 20% off your business’s spot in our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide. Use code EARLYBIRD20 before it expires on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
Expect modern Mexican cuisine from Xico in early November. | Photo via Xico
Time to fill your plate with the latest and greatest eats in Asheville. Here’s the lowdown on new openings and spots coming soon.
September openings
Piccolina, 375 Depot St. | Italian
This New York Italian eatery is serving Neapolitan sandwiches and pizza for lunch — dinner service will follow soon.
Periscope, 56 Patton Ave. | Cocktails, wine + pie
The bar has taken over the upper level of the S&W Market, serving draft cocktails, natural + organic wines, and pie from New Stock Pantry.
Finest Deli, 794 Haywood Rd. | Breakfast + lunch
The deli focuses on affordable breakfast + lunch items. Hit up the outdoor counter for bodega sandwiches and coffee early in the A.M.
Zella’s Deli, 611 Tunnel Rd. | Sandwiches
Zella’s made its comeback with a menu of stellar sandwiches, including 10 options under $10.
Coming Soon
XICO, 175 Biltmore Ave. | Upscale Mexican
Chef Scott Linquist has led popular restaurants across the country, from Miami to Los Angeles to NYC. Now, he’s bringing wood-fired flavor to Asheville. Expect whole red snapper, tostadas, and seafood cocktails in October.
Something to make your morning coffee ritual last longer this cool-weather season: a temperature control mug, rated 4.7 stars and currently 10% off. This smart mug lets you control your beverage’s temperature down to the degree, with auto shut-off technology after two hours.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
And just like that, it’s practically another month in the books. October is going to be busy as ever, and I could use your input for AVLtoday’s monthly Plan Ahead. What events are you looking forward to this month? Let me know.
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