Hello AVL Bites and Brews readers.
In my travels, I'm always excited for the journey, whether it's driving across the country or catching a flight overseas. The transit is part of the adventure as much as arriving at the intended destination, and all the stops in between.
I nerd out over itinerary planning, leaving room for stumbling upon or following the recommendation of new places to eat, drink and hang out, especially if it's at a local haunt where I can get the real feel for the community.
Coming home, I'm more inspired to help locals, tourists, family and friends explore Asheville ― a place that attracts millions of visitors each year ― and greater Western North Carolina to find the most fitting, memorable and fun experience for them.
People
often ask me ― whether I'm working in the community or at the dentist ― "What is your favorite restaurant?"
My response is always, "What day is it and what is my mood?"
I can further ask, "Who's going with me, and how much time do we have?"
Restaurant round-ups, such as "New restaurants make summertime debuts in Asheville" and the most recently published "A guide to world-class restaurants in Asheville ahead of the G20 summit," are intended to help readers in their decision-making process, taking personal preferences into account.
Are you going out for date night or an anniversary? Will children under the age of 12 be with you? Are you in the mood for familiar comfort food at a neighborhood eatery or being introduced to new ingredients, recipes and preparation techniques at an hours-long tasting experience at a chef's table?
Or maybe you're craving tacos and a locally brewed beer that you have to knock on a speakeasy-style door to get?
Asheville has more than enough standouts suitable for individual tastes and dietary restrictions. Sometimes we frequent a restaurant for our favorite dishes, or maybe it's the people and hospitality that bring us back.
This summer, the Asheville Citizen Times featured 828 Family Pizzeria, diving into their menu, family history and what makes the restaurant beloved by customers. The pizzeria also made it onto USA TODAY's list of best pizza spots in the nation.
Then, baristas discussed what makes independent coffee shops special in a community, from original drink recipes that use quality ingredients and in-house syrups to the personal connections made at a locals-driven third space. (Tip: Pumpkin Spice Latte is only the beginning of the fall flavor lineup.)
As summer winds down and with it the vacation travels, embrace the local side of you that engrains you in your community. Also, make it a point to live like a tourist in your own neighborhood, visiting places and doing things beyond your regular activities and routine.
Cheers, and happy exploring!
Tiana Kennell
Food and dining reporter, Asheville Citizen Times
Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Co., covering the food and beverage industry, including the James Beard Awards, Michelin Awards, restaurant openings, closings and other hospitality industry news and events. Tips, comments, questions? Email tkennell@citizentimes.com or follow @PrincessOfPage on Instagram. Sign up for AVL Bites and Brews, our weekly food and drink newsletter here.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: World-class food guide to Asheville, secret tacos, PSL season kickoff
