Restaurants in The River Arts District
A roundup of where to eat in Asheville’s River Arts District, from fancier restaurants to a brewery with a food truck
We share details on the atmosphere, food offerings and more.
Restaurants in The River Arts District
This guide to restaurants in the River Arts District shares the best places to eat while strolling in Asheville’s creative district. It includes a few dinner options, a taco shop by the river and a great spot to grab a breakfast sandwich.
Perfect steak dinner + luxurious brunch in a romantic setting
Vivian is an upscale European-influenced restaurant in the River Arts District. Don’t miss the superb steak dinner, featuring a 14oz ribeye loin with mashed potatoes and their famous steak sauce.
The Sunday brunch menu includes unique options like smoked lamb benedict and brioche donuts.
With a charming and sophisticated atmosphere, Vivian is the perfect place for a fancy night out or a delicious Sunday brunch.
Charming French fare + excellent steaks
The Bull and Beggar is an upscale French-inspired restaurant located in Asheville’s River Arts District near Wedge Brewing.
Menu highlights include succulent oysters, classic steak frites, and an unforgettable 34oz bone-in ribeye accompanied by luscious marjoram butter and seasonal sides.
The enchanting interior has cozy lighting and exposed brick for a rustic yet elegant vibe, and a charming patio is available during pleasant weather.
Casual spot for smashburgers + shakes
Baby Bull is a classic burger spot in River Arts District. The succinct menu includes burgers, sandwiches, sides, and shakes.
The all-in burger with American cheese, Duke’s mayonnaise and caramelized onions is perfection, and the malty chocolate shake is the perfect sweet end to your meal.
Baby Bull is a kid-friendly, counter-service restaurant. Plenty of outdoor seating is available with a great view of the train tracks.
Upscale pizza + ice cream with outdoor seating
All Souls Pizza is a kid-friendly wood-fired pizza restaurant in Asheville with great seasonal offerings and top-notch outdoor seating.
Their rotating menu of locally-inspired pizza pairs perfectly with a garden-fresh bibb salad, and don’t miss the crispy chickpeas appetizer.
On the sweet side, All Souls Pizza offers soft-serve ice cream. You’ll find vanilla, dark chocolate and classic swirl ice cream on the menu. It’s decadent and such a treat!
Local favorite BBQ restaurant in RAD
12 Bones is a BBQ joint in the Foundy Street area of the River Arts District known for serving the best ribs in Asheville. Menu highlights include brown sugar-rubbed ribs and corn pudding. It’s also President Obama’s go-to on his Asheville visits.
12 Bones is only open from 11am-5 pm on weekdays, so it’s best to stop by for lunch or an early dinner. You can also opt to take it to go and sit at Wedge Brewing next door.
12 Bones also has a south Asheville location in Arden.
Upscale Hawaiian + decadent desserts in the River Arts District
RosaBees is a modern Hawaiian restaurant in the Foundy Street area of the River Arts District.
They offer fresh Hawaiian food, creative desserts, and island-style cocktails. You’ll find hearty classics like loco moco alongside sophisticated seafood options like ube scallops.
At RosaBees, dessert is a must-order — don’t miss decadent sweets such as butter mochi, black chocolate dobash cake, and haupia pie (or better yet, try all three in a dessert flight).
Local hot dogs + burgers at Wedge Brewing
Chop Shop Food Truck is a permanent food truck located at Wedge Brewing in the River Arts District. The straightforward menu includes burgers, hot dogs, salads, and waffle fries.
They use local meat from Chop Shop Butchery and buns from local favorite MOTHER Bread. Don’t miss the Carolina dog with chili and slaw on a fresh brioche bun for a truly local experience.
Wedge Brewing has great outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal and a cold beer!
Creative tacos + outdoor seating in RAD
White Duck Taco Shop is extremely popular for their quick, consistent, and creative tacos.
They have over 15 different types of tacos ranging from Korean Bulgogi to Mole Roasted Duck to a classic fish taco. Don’t miss the wonderful seasonal sides like gazpacho and cheese grits.
White Duck is a counter service spot, and although the line can get pretty long, it moves fast. There’s plenty of outdoor seating at bright blue picnic tables by the French Broad River, which is great for hanging out and enjoying with kids.
White Duck Taco also has locations in downtown Asheville and South Asheville.
Kid-friendly pizza in RAD
Fresh Wood Fired Pizza is a great place for pizza and beer near Pink Dog Creative in the River Arts District. You’ll find flavorful pizza options like the Fun Guy Pizza with sautéed mushrooms and the Chevre Pizza with local goat cheese.
The service is always friendly, and they have high chairs and coloring packs available if you are looking for a good pizza place for kids. Just order at the counter and they’ll bring it out to you.
Bagel sandwiches + excellent coffee
Ultra Coffeebar is a coffee shop in the River Arts District with excellent food. They have an awesome breakfast and lunch menu from 8 am – 3 pm daily.
You’ll find some of the best bagel sandwiches in town, alongside high-quality baked goods and pastries. Menu highlights include the Odyssey with turkey, mozzarella + pesto and the sunrise bagel breakfast sandwich.
Ultra Coffeebar has a front patio space with plenty of outdoor seating. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy your food and drink in fair weather.
