Huli Sue’s owners posed with Fieri’s famous Camaro. | Photo via Asheville Independent Restaurant Association
When Guy Fieri came to town in early December to promote his tequila brand, he also got a taste of Asheville’s food scene. This Friday, Jan. 30 at 9 p.m., a new episode of “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” will feature Huli Sue’s BBQ and Grill, the beloved Grove Arcade spot blending classic Hawaiian dishes and Texas-style barbecue.
So, what did the Mayor of Flavortown taste? Beyond the famous Sue’s Huli chicken and soy spam bowls, Fieri dined on the reuben spring rolls, poke nachos, baby back ribs, and mac and cheese with brisket, all according to the Asheville Independent Restaurant Association.
“He immediately felt like a longtime friend even after only a few hours spent together. He was excited to share our food with the nation, and we were excited to feed him,” says owner Lisa Smith-Vann.
To see Huli Sue’s moment in the spotlight, tune in to Food Network this Friday at 9 p.m. or during reruns on Saturday, Jan. 31 at 12 a.m. and Saturday, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m.
We may not be out of the woods with winter weather just yet. A wintry system could bring snow Friday night into Saturday morning, but right now, “there is much to be determined and nothing guaranteed, other than cold,” according to Ray’s Weather.
Community
The Legacy Neighborhoods Coalition is proposing that Asheville consider “preservation districts” to give neighborhoods more say in development and prevent displacement. Plans include stronger resident notifications, displacement risk assessments, and honoring local history with public art. City staff are helping the coalition develop proposals for potential City Council consideration. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Eat
Can you smell the shortbread? Girl Scout Cookie season is upon us — and our local council is slinging cookies around town. Find your nearest booth.
Film
“A Grand Biltmore Christmas” isn’t the only film employing Asheville actors. Check out listings for movies and shows seeking local actors for regional projects, from short to feature films.
Announced
Alt-rock band Modest Mouse will play two shows at The Orange Peel this summer, June 12 and 13. “Float On” over to the venue’s website to snag tickets this Friday, Jan. 30 at 10 a.m.
Outdoors
NC’s largest trout hatchery, Bobby N. Setzer in Brevard, is emptying tanks for the first time in 40 years, preparing for a $39.7 million renovation. To keep mountain rivers stocked, the state will buy private trout and use the Glady Fork Hatchery in Transylvania to supplement production. (Asheville Citizen-Times)
Today Is
International Lego Day. You can let your imagination run wild with the building bricks at one of Buncombe County Public Libraries’ LEGO builder’s clubs, meeting monthly or weekly, inviting all ages.
Coming Soon
Did this catch your eye? That’s because locals (like you) are excited about new happenings around town. Spread the word about your business, services, big news, or event with our thousands of subscribers. Visit our business promo portal to get started — no long-term contract required.
Finance
You don’t have to handle debt by yourself. A debt relief program can help simplify things by rolling multiple balances into one manageable, personalized payment. Explore Money’s top-rated programs and get a free quote today.*
Health
Investing in your future health should not be reserved for the top 1%. Midi Health makes expert-guided longevity care accessible and affordable — helping you feel strong, sharp, and energized for decades to come. Visits are virtual and covered by most insurance. Learn more.*
Number
$0. That’s how much 94% of Nourish patients pay out of pocket to talk to a dietitian covered by their insurance. You could be covered, too — check your coverage + get matched with a dietitian who can cut through the food noise and build you a plan to thrive.*
Finance
Upgrade your wallet with one of 2026’s must-have cards for Americans with good credit. Think: up to 6% cash back on categories you actually use, rewards on every single purchase, and a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers into 2027. Learn more and apply.*
Category
City
$15.5 million for small biz support
The funds are intended to revitalize Asheville’s small business sector. | Photo via Canva
At its Tuesday, Jan. 27 meeting, Asheville City Council approved spending $15.5 million in CDBG-DR funding to support local small business recovery in the wake of Helene.
Through the Small Business Support Program, funding will be given to four local organizations to run grant programs for affected businesses:
Mountain BizWorks | $10 million
ArtsAVL | $2,322,500
Eagle Market Streets | $2,322,500
Venture Asheville | $855,000
Next, city officials will work with each partner to finalize details and lock in the details of how each program will work before launching.
The Buy
If you’ve ever stared at your screen wondering where the real opportunities are hiding, this free class is your shortcut. You’ll learn how to use AI to cut through the noise and identify high-probability trades in seconds. No more emotional decisions. No more stress. Just clear direction on what to trade.
As a lifelong Food Network super fan, I’ll be enjoying this Friday’s DDD episode the best way I know how... parked on the couch with my Huli Sue’s takeout. I highly recommend y’all do the same.
}})
