Luminosa earned two prestigious distinctions. | Photo by GVLtoday
Several Asheville restaurants were recognized at the inaugural MICHELIN Guide American South awards last night. Out of 200+ recognized eateries across Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, these Asheville spots stood out.
Changing the game
Luminosa earned the MICHELIN Green Star, awarded to restaurants excelling in sustainability and pioneering the future of gastronomy. The Flat Iron Hotel restaurant has a zero-waste kitchen and sources the majority of its ingredients within 50 miles of the restaurant.
Best value
Several spots earned the Bib Gourmand recognition, given to restaurants serving good food for a good value — according to the Guide, they’re “often known as personal favorites among the inspectors when dining on their own time.” Out of the 50 picks, Little Chango, Luminosa, and Mother all made the list.
We were delighted to see Little Chango on the list. | Photo by Camille Nevarez-Hernandez
Expert recs
More Asheville eateries made the cut as “American South’s 2025 Recommended restaurants,” handpicked by meticulous inspectors.
Holiday Fair benefiting Rotary Club of Greenville | Thursday, Dec. 4-Sunday, Dec. 7 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Greenville Convention Center, Greenville | $9+ | Holiday Fair is a cherished tradition in the Upstate, bringing the joy of the season to families, friends, and holiday enthusiasts alike. Holiday Fair benefits the Rotary Club of Greenville.*
Election Day. The Town of Weaverville, Town of Woodfin, and the Woodfin Water & Sewer District hold their municipal elections today, Nov. 4. Residents of these districts can find info from sample ballots to polling place wait times through Buncombe County Election Services.
Arts
This week, Blue Spiral 1 will unveil four new exhibitions. “Spectrum,” “Heidi Tarver: The Story So Far,” “Chris Liberti + Will Dickert,” and “Field of Vision” will all be on view through Wednesday, Dec. 24. Be there for the opening reception this Friday, Nov. 7, 5 to 7 p.m.
Number
800. That’s how many turkeys (complete with the fixings, of course) will be distributed to local families at Eblen Charities’ annual Giving Thanks at Thanksgiving giveaway on Friday, Nov. 21. Families in need of a meal can sign up — you can help supply the food by donating.
Environment
The most famous Christmas tree in the US has been chosen. A 75-year-old Norway Spruce will light up NYC’s Rockefeller Center, donated by a family from upstate NY. Next year, what about a tree from NC? After all, our state is the country’s top producer of Fraser Firs — learn more about the local industry. (NBC)
Announced
Gov. Stein announced a $50 million Broadband Recovery Program to help internet providers rebuild infrastructure damaged by Helene. The program prioritizes restoring high-speed internet to homes, businesses, and communities.
Job
Ready to kickstart your career in digital media sales remotely? We’re looking for a Sales Coordinator to fuel our fast-paced sales team, with a competitive salary, premium benefits, unlimited PTO, and real growth opportunities to boot. Apply to join our team.
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This lightweight leafblower is the perfect fall tool for removing leaves from your yard, with cruise control and a quiet yet powerful motor for under $80.*
Plan Ahead
You’re about to get busier
These aren’t your average gingerbread houses. | Photo by AVLtoday
Take out your calendar — we’re back with our monthly Plan Ahead, giving you the lowdown on the must-do events this November.
Asheville Sessions | Thursday, Nov. 6-Sunday, Nov. 9 | Times vary | Various locations | Free | Celebrate 100 years of the first commercial recordings made in Appalachia with remastered releases, concerts, and community events. Ye Olde Whale Fair | Saturday, Nov. 15 | 1 p.m. | The Whale West Asheville | Free | The merriment at this mini renaissance-style fair is brought to you by the Montford Park Players, who will perform during the afternoon of ale and vendors.
National Gingerbread House Competition Display | Tuesday, Nov. 18-Sunday, Jan. 4 | Times vary | Omni Grove Park Inn | Free | The stunning display of sweets returns — there are different viewing hours for the public and hotel guests, so check before you go.
Asheville Holiday Parade | Saturday, Nov. 22 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m. | Downtown Asheville | Free | The parade is back with a fleet of floats decorated to match this year’s theme, Toyshop Whimsy.
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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.
I’m beyond overjoyed to see so many stellar local restaurants get their flowers from the MICHELIN Guide. Thanks to the amazing array of culinary talent and food + beverage workers that make Asheville’s dining scene so special.
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