Summer Dining in Asheville
Seasonal Dishes and Cocktails at The Restoration Asheville
Summer in Asheville brings the Land of Sky to life. Warm weather fills the streets with music, festivals, and outdoor adventures. Visitors hike mountain trails, explore local art, and enjoy the vibrant energy of downtown.
After a day of exploring, great food and drinks make the experience even better. At The Restoration Asheville, our restaurants celebrate the flavors of the season. From Appalachian comfort dishes to refreshing rooftop cocktails, each venue offers something unique.
Here are the summer dishes and drinks you should try during your visit.
Seasonal Dining at The Exchange Restaurant & Bar
Seared Sunburst Trout
First, start your culinary journey at The Exchange Restaurant & Bar. This restaurant highlights mountain-to-table cuisine inspired by the Appalachian region.
One standout summer dish is the Seared Sunburst Trout. Our chefs source the trout fresh each day from a local vendor.
The dish balances bold flavors and vibrant colors. It includes:
-
seared radish
-
farro
-
grilled radicchio
-
scallions
-
soubise
-
pickled red onions
Together, these ingredients create a dish that feels both refreshing and satisfying.
Classic Bar Bites at The Draftsman Bar & Lounge
Root Beer Float
Meanwhile, guests looking for something playful should visit The Draftsman Bar & Lounge.
Located on the basement level of The Restoration Asheville, this lively speakeasy combines craft drinks with games and entertainment.
One summer favorite is the Root Beer Float. This nostalgic treat brings back childhood memories.
The drink features house-made root beer topped with vanilla ice cream. Guests often enjoy it while bowling, playing Skeeball, or listening to live music.
After a sunny day exploring Asheville, it offers the perfect sweet finish.
Rooftop Cocktails at The Observatory
Apricot Spritz
Finally, head upstairs to The Observatory Rooftop Bar & Lounge.
The rooftop bar offers sweeping views of downtown Asheville. Guests relax here with seasonal cocktails and light bites.
This summer’s featured cocktail is the Apricot Spritz. Inspired by European aperitivo culture, the drink captures the feeling of warm afternoons on an Italian terrace.
Apricot Spritz Ingredients
-
1½ oz Aperol
-
1½ oz apricot nectar, chilled
-
½ oz fresh lemon juice
-
2 oz Prosecco, chilled
-
1 oz soda water, chilled
-
thyme sprig for garnish
Preparation
-
Fill a wine glass about three-quarters full with ice.
-
Pour the Aperol, apricot nectar, lemon juice, and Prosecco over the ice.
-
Top with soda water.
-
Gently stir the cocktail.
-
Garnish with a thyme sprig.
Then sit back and enjoy the refreshing flavors of summer.
Restaurants at The Restoration Asheville
The Restoration Asheville features three distinct dining experiences. Each restaurant highlights a different side of Appalachian cuisine.
The Exchange Restaurant & Bar offers mountain-to-table comfort dishes made with local ingredients.
The Draftsman Bar & Lounge pairs craft beers with elevated bar bites, bowling, and classic arcade games.
Meanwhile, The Observatory Rooftop Bar & Lounge delivers seasonal cocktails and light bites with panoramic city views.
Together, these restaurants create a complete dining experience for visitors exploring Asheville.
Discover Summer Dining in Asheville
Whether you crave Appalachian comfort food, playful bar snacks, or refreshing rooftop cocktails, The Restoration Asheville offers something for every palate.
During your next visit, explore the city’s outdoor adventures. Then return to The Restoration to enjoy the flavors of summer.
To learn more about our restaurants and seasonal menus, visit our website.
