Burger warriors: The Social takes on WNC Battle of the Burger challenger­s

Burgers are serious business in WNC — for both chefs and diners — and this weekend’s inaugural Battle of the Burger promises some stiff competition for the title of Best Burger in WNC. Among a diverse field of challengers ranging from the Farm to Fender food truck to downtown cocktail lounge The Vault, a little East Asheville bar and grill, The Social, is planning to bring their A-game to the event on Sunday, Aug. 10.

Small bites: RibFest gets a makeover

As in summers past, WNC residents can expect a barbecue rib festival to happen this month at the WNC Agricultural Center. But this year there’s a new RibFest in town. What has been called since 2007 the Carolina Mountain RibFest will now be known as Carolina West RibFest and will sport an edgy new look aimed at appealing to a broader, more alternative audience.