CrazyCatLady and I miraculously have New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day off together, and no obligations to be in another state. Since we haven’t had a nice weekend getaway in a while, we thought we’d check out Asheville, a town that I have visited only in passing. I’ve been rather pleasantly surprised at the number of hotel/B&B accommodations that are still available.
Anyone know of any nice-but-not-ridiculously-expensive places to stay? Good places to eat? Anything can’t-miss?
As you’ve discovered, there are goo-gobs of B&Bs in the area. I don’t know enough about them, though, to recommend one over another.
As far as restaurants go, my favorite is Zambra’s, a wonderful tapas and wine bar. The menu changes daily, and it’s always fabulous. I believe they’re taking reservations now for a 5-course New Years Eve dinner. If I were going to be in town, I would seriously consider going. Heiwa Shokudo is a great little Japanese place downtown. The menu isn’t extensive, but all of their food is very fresh and excellently prepared.
Jack of the Wood is another favorite place among locals. They brew their own brew, serve great pub grub, and host genuinely good live music, usually bluegrass, Celtic or rockabilly. I’m sure there will be something fun there on New Year’s.
Downtown is a fun place for wandering. There are all kinds of interesting little stores and galleries to poke around in.
Although lots of folks would say you can’t miss it, I wouldn’t actually recommend the Biltmore House, unless you’re very interested in decorative arts. It’s overpriced and overcrowded, and they’re not exactly known for treating their employees well. If you do go there, don’t eat in their restaurants. You’re paying for a swanky atmosphere, not good food. Likewise, you can buy Biltmore wine at the Estate, or you can buy it more cheaply at the local grocery stores. If you do decide to go to Biltmore, I’ve heard good things about the behind-the-scenes tour. You get to see the boiler rooms and servant’s quarters and all the things that made the house actually work.
I’m sure you guys will have a blast. Left Hand of Dorkness and I will be out of town that weekend, otherwise we’d offer to take you out and show a good time.