TAP out: The Asheville Public to close

Photo by Max Cooper

The Asheville Public (TAP) will close this month after about a year in business at the former location of the Silver Dollar Restaurant.

Mark Henegan, co-owner of the restaurant along with his wife, Jenny Henegan, says the business was too time-consuming. The couple planned to open the eatery with partners, but wound up taking full responsibility for its operation. “Our intention was never to work this business like we're working it,” Mark says.

TAP will close on Sunday, Jan. 13. On Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 15 and 16, the shabby-chic and antique decorations that fill the space will be available for purchase in estate-sale fashion. The husband-and-wife team have enjoyed collecting the pieces together, Mark says. Eventually, they hope to set up a booth at one of the antique malls around town.

The Henegans plan to stay in Asheville while they work on their other projects in New York City. They own Madiba, a South African restaurant in trendy Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Mark, who is from South Africa, spends a lot of his time managing catering projects there. This spring, he will appear on an episode of Donald Trump's All Star Celebrity Apprentice. And Jenny’s modeling career is picking up again, Mark says, adding that their main focus will be on their two teenage sons, Skyler and Troy.

TAP will continue to serve its eclectic, global cuisine until it closes, but if you're craving more of its food, chef Matthew Miner will compete in the Fire on the Rock dining series starting on Wednesday, Jan. 16.

There's a chance TAP could remain open under a different owner. The business is for sale through broker Jeff Eatherly. Eatherly can be reached at 255-4801.

The 175 Clingman Ave. spot has a long history as a restaurant — The Silver Dollar occupied the building from the 1940s until it closed to make way for TAP. Its sign still hangs inside the restaurant.

For more information about TAP, visit theashevillepublic.com or call 505-1720.

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