If you’ve got a few hours and a hungry heart, downtown Asheville is the perfect place for a spontaneous food adventure. Recently, we decided on a little on‑the-fly food tour — three stops, three vibes, three amazing meals. 🍴 Here’s where we landed, and why we think you’ve got to try them soon.
Our Spontaneous Food Tour – Three Eats in Downtown Asheville
Brunch at The Blackbird Restaurant
📍 47 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
We started the day at The Blackbird — right in the heart of downtown. Brunch here was a dream. Their veggie benedict? Comforting, creative, and perfectly seasoned. And the beignets? Light, fluffy, and just the pick‑me‑up we needed.
Blackbird’s menu is all about fresh, local ingredients rooted in Southern tradition, with a modern twist. Guests rave about the seasonal dishes and vibrant flavors: “The food, desserts, and prompt service will impress you every time.”
If you’re craving a relaxed, delicious brunch before exploring downtown — this is a great start.
Mid‑day Pizza + Wings at La Pizza Party (South Slope)
📍 39 Banks Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
After brunch, we roamed over to Asheville’s South Slope for some pizza and fun eats at La Pizza Party. Think crispy pizza slices, wings, and — yes — an incredible Mexi‑burger that surprised everyone at the table. Everything was cooked just right, flavorful, and perfect for a midday treat.
Plus: they’ve got a rooftop patio, which adds that extra breezy Asheville vibe. Great views, good eats, and casual energy — perfect for a spontaneous urban lunch stop.
Late Lunch / Early Dinner at Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge
📍 7 Rankin Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
For our final stop — because yes, we were still hungry — we hit Rankin Vault. This place is legendary for its cocktails, hearty food, and easy‑going bar vibe. We dove into a burger (they’re known for having “Asheville’s best burger”) and tacos, washed down with a craft beer and a cocktail. The portions were generous, the flavors deep, and the atmosphere just right.
As one review summed it up after trying the Vault Burger and beer: “The staff was very kind … we all loved our food.” For a casual, satisfying end to a food‑filled afternoon, Rankin Vault hits the spot.
Why This Random Food Crawl Worked
- We hit 3 very different vibes: brunch‑fresh & sweet, casual pizza + wings + rooftop chill, and hearty bar food with drinks.
- All spots are downtown or very close — so travel time was minimal, hangout time was max.
- No planning needed — just food‑love and appetite.
Whether you live in Asheville or you’re visiting, this mini‑tour is a great way to taste a little bit of everything the city’s food scene has to offer in one afternoon.
Photos by Carpe Diem Photography!
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