North Carolina City Was Just Named the No. 1 Food Destination in the U.S. — Here's Why

Why Asheville, North Carolina, is such a hot culinary destination — and where to eat when you visit.

Solo dining is great – but once in a while I miss good companyPhoto byTown Talks

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville, North Carolina, has once again claimed the top spot in Yelp's 2022 survey of the best cities for foodies, a title it also held in 2020.

Asheville's culinary scene is celebrated for its creativity and rich diversity, drawing food lovers from all over the country.

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Yelp highlighted several standout spots, including the acclaimed Spanish restaurant Cúrate, led by James Beard Award winner Katie Button, and Chestnut, a Southern American fusion eatery known for its meticulous handcrafting of every dish.

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The South Slope Brewing District also boasts notable mentions like Funkatorium, with its unique sour beer offerings, and Daddy Mac's Down Home Dive, a southern barbecue joint serving time-honored family recipes.

Other top Asheville eateries include Tupelo Honey, The Admiral, Corner Kitchen, and White Duck Taco Shop.

What truly sets Asheville apart is the compelling stories behind its culinary gems. Chai Pani, an Indian street food eatery by chef Meherwan Irani, won the James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant.

Additionally, the city's first Filipinx restaurant, Neng Jr's, by chef Silver Cousler, and the revitalization of Tastee Diner by chef Steven Goff, showcase Asheville's dynamic food scene.

Asheville proudly embraces its "Foodtopia," a vibrant community of culinary innovators dedicated to nurturing both the body and soul.