Creative options for Valentine’s Day fare on a budget.
Chef J. Chong offers Asheville the Cantonese cuisine of her childhood
Beyond cooking, the Toronto native says her greatest passion is supporting the LGBTQ community.
Kava and kratom culture takes root in WNC
Over the past decade, a small but dedicated scene has developed around Western North Carolina’s kava and kratom bars.
Beer today, gone tomorrow: Asheville beer happenings Feb. 4-10
**UPDATED FEB. 7** Homeplace opens its second location, Thirsty Monk joins the hard seltzer ranks and more local beer news.
Small bites: Bow Chicka Wow Wow
With Valentine’s Day around the corner, French Broad Food Co-op is hosting its latest workshop focused on aphrodisiacs. Also: Asheville Mardi Gras celebrates its latest Cajun Cookoff; Green Opportunities announces latest classes; and plenty more in this week’s Small bites.
Super Bowl 2020 pits barbecue against sourdough
A foodcentric look at this year’s Super Bowl contenders and Asheville options for authentic (or nearly authentic) game-day grub.
Beer today, gone tomorrow: Asheville beer happenings Jan. 28-Feb. 3
**UPDATED JAN. 31** Pisgah’s Stout Hog Day returns, Bruisin’ Ales offers deep discounts on its inventory and more local beer news.
Small bites: Gan Shan Station’s final countdown
After five years, Gan Shan Station owner Patrick O’Cain has decided to close the Charlotte Street restaurant. Come spring, Jettie Rae’s Oyster House will replace the Asian-themed eatery. Also: Onesie Bar Crawl returns, Chow Chow hires an executive director and local food venues prepare for Super Bowl LIV.
Give!Local 2019 wraps up banner year for grassroots fundraising
A heartfelt thanks is in order, to the 414 individuals who donated to 2019’s Give!Local partner nonprofits, generating a total impact of $178,804. Every dollar goes directly to local nonprofits making a difference in the WNC community. Mountain Xpress’ fifth annual campaign to raise funds and awareness for local organizations benefiting the community has nearly […]
Carolina Beer Guy: Brewing industry figures mourn Bruisin’ Ales closing
Asheville’s first specialty bottle shop plans to close around late February.
Beer Scout: Leah Rainis taps diverse skills as new Asheville Brewers Alliance executive director
The new ABA executive director discusses her path to the position and her goals for the organization.
New Asheville hotels tap local talent to raise the bar for on-site dining
Luxury hotels in many metropolitan tourist destinations are known for restaurant concepts that bank on high-profile celebrity chefs. But Asheville hotels, while pushing the parameters of standard hotel dining, are taking a different approach.
Beer today, gone tomorrow: Asheville beer happenings Jan. 21-27
**UPDATED JAN. 24** Hi-Wire teams with Ninkasi, Cigar City and New Belgium on its annual mix-pack, Highland celebrates the Chinese New Year with a Lucky Envelope collaboration and more local beer news.
Small bites: Asheville Restaurant Week returns
Asheville Restaurant Week returns with over 30 participating eateries offering special deals. Also: Bold Rock Hard Cider partners with À La Mode Macaron for a food and drink pairing; tickets are now available for the Asheville Food Fan Awards; District Wine Bar has settled on a new name; and plenty more in this week’s Small bites.
Fur-menting fundamentals: Local experts discuss fermented foods for pets
Local vets and pet nutrition experts say there are affordable, easy ways to improve pet gut health.
Appetite for Life: Recipes for a new year
By working with the seasons, riffing off familiar recipes and being creative with embellishments, the regular contents of your kitchen can be infused with new life in 2020.
Carolina Beer Guy: After 38 years, Mack Kells seeks a new home
After an unexpected eviction, pub owner Amanda Gunter is exploring properties in Oteen and Weaverville.
Beer today, gone tomorrow: Asheville beer happenings Jan. 14-20
**UPDATED JAN. 16** The Whale and Wicked Weed collaborate on a blended golden ale, Bhramari turns four and more local beer news.
Small bites: Pet Wants launches in Asheville
Local resident and dog enthusiast Christian Ray recently launched Pet Wants Asheville, offering fresh ingredients to canines and felines alike. Also: Waynesville Chili Cook-off Stroll returns; Black Bear Brunch; and plenty more in this week’s Small bites.
Carolina Beer Guy: WNC beer industry developments in 2020
The coming year brings new brewery openings, expansions and fresh products.
Everything in Moderation: Vodka, the spirit that plays well with others
Although it’s colorless and essentially flavorless, vodka is the most popular spirit in the U.S.
