Tonight, we enjoyed an unforgettable dinner at Cornerstone Restaurant in Asheville, and it was one of those meals that just sticks with you—in the best way possible. From the hearty meatloaf to the perfectly fried country fried steak, every bite was pure comfort food heaven. And let’s not forget the Bloody Mary—a spicy, savory delight that paired perfectly with our meal. 🍹😋
.
But what truly made our night special wasn’t just the delicious food—it was the exceptional service. Huge shoutout to Faith, who took care of us like we were family. Her warmth and attentiveness reminded us of why we love dining out: it’s not just about the food, it’s about feeling welcome.
🌄 A Little History:
.
If you’ve been in Asheville for a while, you might remember this building’s past life as a Shoney’s. Back then, about 30 years ago, we were newcomers to the area—just venturing into the Deep South, where everyone seemed so friendly it almost felt like the Twilight Zone. People would wave, say hello, and smile like they’d known you for years. It was a bit of a culture shock, but in the best way possible.
.
Back in those days, Shoney’s was the place to be. I was lucky enough to work there, and the crew felt like family. Gary Lowe, the owner, was leading the way, and Julia—the Management Queen—kept everything running smoothly. Jack and Kevin, our store managers, were always positive and supportive. The kitchen was run by Jaime and Chris, who could handle the busiest nights without breaking a sweat, and Jermaine kept the dishes moving. Then there was me and Lana, rocking the floor as waitstaff, pulling in $200-$300 a night—a pretty great haul back then.
.
We weren’t just servers—we were a part of people’s lives. Whether it was celebrating newlyweds, birthdays, or cheering on a team after a big win, we were right there, toasting and celebrating with our guests. Sometimes, though, life wasn’t always happy. We’d get those quiet guests—someone recently widowed, sitting down to their first meal alone. We would set aside our aprons, sit with them, and just be there—listening, sharing stories, maybe even shedding a tear. It was at Shoney’s that I learned the power of community and connection—how just being present can make a difference in someone’s day.
The Evolution: From Shoney’s to Cornerstone
.
When Cornerstone took over, the place didn’t lose its heart—it just found a new way to beat. The restaurant retained that welcoming atmosphere while evolving into a place that feels even more connected to Asheville’s modern, vibrant spirit. The food is amazing, the drinks are always flowing, and the people? Still just as wonderful.
.
Cornerstone has become an anchor in the community, offering delicious meals, great cocktails, and an array of craft beers—perfect for celebrating Asheville Beer Week! 🍻 We even snapped a photo of the beer taps, showcasing a variety of local brews ready to be enjoyed.
.
This place is more than just a restaurant—it’s a cornerstone of our lives. A place that’s seen us grow, change, and come back again. Last night wasn’t just about food—it was about memories, old and new. Thank you, Cornerstone, for keeping that spirit alive!
