Introduction
Asheville, North Carolina, isn’t just a beer lover’s paradise; it’s rapidly becoming a foodie destination, too. The vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains boasts a craft beer scene that rivals any in the country, and increasingly, those breweries are stepping up their culinary game. Forget choosing between a great brew and a delicious meal—Asheville offers both in abundance. This guide highlights some of the best Asheville breweries that offer a complete dining experience, combining exceptional craft beer with equally impressive food. We’ve curated this list based on a combination of beer quality, food reviews, atmosphere, and local recommendations, ensuring a mix of tried-and-true favorites and exciting new additions to the scene.
Criteria for Delicious Combinations
We know that everyone has different tastes, so we strove to bring you a diverse range of options. Our selections were carefully considered and based on a balanced combination of factors. Firstly, of course, is the beer! The quality and variety of the brews on offer are paramount. Next, we delved into the food. Was it just an afterthought or did the brewery prioritize creating something truly special and complementary to their beers? Ambiance matters, too. Is it a family-friendly spot? Is it a place you can take visitors from out of town to show them the best of what Asheville has to offer? Lastly, we looked for overall value. Are you getting good quality beer and good food for a fair price? All of these factors have helped inform our ultimate selections.
Brewery Profiles
Hi-Wire Brewing: Games and Great Grub
Hi-Wire Brewing, with multiple locations across Asheville, offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere that makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Their flagship location on the South Slope is a sprawling space with games galore, from ping pong to foosball, creating a lively and engaging experience. But Hi-Wire isn’t just about the entertainment; they also boast a solid selection of craft beers and a tasty menu.
Their beer lineup is diverse, ranging from easy-drinking lagers and IPAs to more adventurous sour beers and stouts. The Hi-Wire Lager is a crisp and refreshing choice, perfect for a warm Asheville day. For hopheads, the Hi-Pitch IPA delivers a satisfying dose of bitterness and citrusy aromas. And for those looking for something unique, their Sour series is constantly rotating, offering exciting and tart flavor combinations.
On the food front, Hi-Wire offers a range of pub fare that complements their beers perfectly. Their pretzels with beer cheese are a classic pairing, and their burgers are consistently rated highly. The menu often features creative specials, so be sure to check what’s new. What makes Hi-Wire special is its ability to create a fun and inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy good beer, good food, and good company. It’s the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or a family-friendly afternoon.
Address: Multiple locations, check their website for details.
Burial Beer Co.: Darkness and Deliciousness
Burial Beer Co., with its dark and gothic aesthetic, is a brewery that takes its beer seriously. With several locations, the South Slope location is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast. Their beers are known for their complex flavors and innovative brewing techniques. They are not afraid to experiment. While they are a staple for beers, their commitment to good food has also made them a local favorite.
Burial’s beer selection is extensive, featuring a range of styles from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and Belgian-inspired ales. The Skillet Donut Stout is a cult favorite, offering a decadent combination of coffee, chocolate, and vanilla flavors. For IPA lovers, the Surf Wax IPA is a go-to, with its bright citrus and tropical fruit notes. And for those seeking something more traditional, their Shadowclock Pilsner is a crisp and refreshing choice.
The food at Burial is just as impressive as their beer. Their menu features elevated pub fare with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The burgers are outstanding, featuring high-quality beef and creative toppings. Their sandwiches are equally delicious, and they often have rotating specials that showcase the best of what’s in season. What sets Burial apart is its commitment to quality and its unique atmosphere. It’s a brewery that takes both its beer and its food seriously, creating a memorable experience for anyone who visits.
Address: Multiple locations, check their website for details.
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.: A Destination Experience
While technically just outside of Asheville in Mills River, Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. is worth the short drive. This sprawling brewery complex is more than just a place to drink beer; it’s a destination. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, with walking trails, gardens, and even a concert venue. And, of course, the beer is world-class, and the food is absolutely delicious.
Sierra Nevada’s beer lineup is legendary, featuring classics like Pale Ale and Torpedo IPA, as well as a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-release beers. The Pale Ale is a quintessential American pale ale, with its balanced bitterness and citrusy aromas. The Torpedo IPA is a hop bomb, delivering a massive dose of bitterness and piney flavors. And for those looking for something different, their seasonal selections are always worth exploring.
Sierra Nevada offers multiple dining options, from a casual taproom to a more upscale restaurant. Their menu features a range of dishes that are designed to pair perfectly with their beers. From wood-fired pizzas to farm-to-table entrees, there’s something for everyone. The brewery often hosts special events and beer dinners, providing even more opportunities to experience the pairing of beer and food. Sierra Nevada is special because of its sheer scale and its commitment to sustainability. It’s a brewery that offers a complete and immersive experience, from the beer to the food to the atmosphere.
Address: 100 Sierra Nevada Way, Mills River, NC 28732
New Belgium Brewing Company: Sustainability and Flavor
New Belgium Brewing Company, another national brand with an Asheville outpost, is known for its commitment to sustainability and its delicious beers. Located along the French Broad River, the brewery offers stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere. Their beers are known for their balance and drinkability. Their food options showcase their love for sustainability.
New Belgium’s beer lineup is diverse, featuring flagship beers like Fat Tire Amber Ale and Voodoo Ranger IPA, as well as a range of seasonal and experimental brews. Fat Tire is a classic amber ale, with its malty sweetness and subtle hop bitterness. The Voodoo Ranger IPA is a juicy and tropical IPA that’s perfect for hopheads. And for those looking for something more unique, their sour and barrel-aged beers are always worth trying.
The food at New Belgium is just as impressive as their beer. Their menu features a range of dishes that are made with locally sourced ingredients and designed to pair perfectly with their beers. From their delicious burgers to their creative salads, there’s something for everyone. The outdoor seating area offers stunning views of the river, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a beer and a meal. What makes New Belgium special is its commitment to sustainability and its dedication to creating a positive impact on the environment. It’s a brewery that you can feel good about supporting.
Address: 21 Craven St, Asheville, NC 28806
Zillicoah Beer Company: Lager and Local Flavors
Zillicoah Beer Company, tucked away in a riverside location, stands out for its focus on traditional lagers and its partnership with local food vendors. The spacious outdoor area is perfect for enjoying a beer and a meal with friends, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals. Their outdoor beer garden is something truly special.
Zillicoah’s beer lineup is centered around lagers, offering a refreshing alternative to the IPA-dominated craft beer scene. Their Czech Dark Lager is a standout, with its rich malt flavors and smooth finish. Their Helles Lager is another popular choice, offering a crisp and clean taste. And for those who prefer ales, they also have a rotating selection of IPAs and other styles.
The food at Zillicoah is provided by rotating food trucks and pop-up vendors, ensuring a diverse and ever-changing menu. You might find anything from tacos to barbecue to gourmet sandwiches. This collaboration with local food vendors is what makes Zillicoah special. It’s a brewery that supports the local community and provides a platform for talented chefs and food artisans.
Address: 870 Riverside Dr, Asheville, NC 28801
Other Notable Mentions
While the breweries listed above are among the best, Asheville boasts many other breweries with food options worth checking out. Wedge Brewing Company, with multiple locations, offers a solid selection of beers and a rotating cast of food trucks. Green Man Brewery, a long-time Asheville favorite, has a pub-style menu that complements its classic English-style ales. These breweries didn’t quite make our top picks, but they still offer a solid beer and food experience for those looking to explore more of Asheville’s brewery scene.
Tips for Visiting Asheville Breweries
Navigating Asheville’s vibrant brewery scene can be an adventure. Here are a few tips to make the most of your experience. With ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft readily available, transportation is easy. Be mindful of peak hours and consider visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds. Also, check the website to see if they accept or require reservations. Remember to drink responsibly. Stay hydrated with water and pace yourself throughout the day. Don’t be afraid to explore different styles of beer. Talk to the bartenders, ask for recommendations, and try something new. Checking individual brewery websites is a great way to determine hours, menus, and any special events that might be happening. Many Asheville breweries are pet-friendly, so check before you go if you want to bring your furry friend along.
Conclusion
Asheville’s brewery scene is more than just about the beer; it’s about the community, the atmosphere, and, increasingly, the food. The breweries highlighted in this guide offer a complete dining experience, combining exceptional craft beer with equally impressive food. From the games and good vibes at Hi-Wire to the elevated pub fare at Burial and the destination experience at Sierra Nevada, there’s something for everyone in Asheville’s vibrant brewery scene. So, grab your friends, explore these incredible Asheville breweries, and discover the perfect pairing for your taste buds in Asheville! These are just a few of the many fantastic breweries with food in Asheville – get out there and discover your own favorites! The possibilities are endless, and the only way to find your personal preferences is to explore, taste, and enjoy.
