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Grub Scout

With more than 20 years of experience in restaurants, bars, coffee shops and wine distribution, Grub Scout has worked in nearly every corner of the local food and beverage industry. Now, in a new role outside the service industry, Scout offers unfiltered takes on dining in Asheville and across Western North Carolina. Free from personal ties, Scout says anonymity is the secret ingredient behind each candid review. With no allegiances, just appetite, the goal is simple: to serve up straight talk and keep readers coming back for more.

Two halves of a cheeseburger with melted cheese and onions on a toasted bun, with French fries on a yellow plate.
Food & Drink
1 day ago
Fork & Dagger: The greasiest spoon on Haywood Road

Hail Mary in West Asheville offers unpretentious, old-school junk food with a punk rock vibe.

Breakfast plate with scrambled omelette, hash browns, a biscuit, orange wedge, and a cup of jam on the side.
Food & Drink
1 week ago
Fork & Dagger: Revisiting Abeja’s House Cafe, a South Asheville breakfast favorite

Improved coffee, standout pancakes and a beloved Mexican omelet show why this hidden Hendersonville Road gem remains one of Asheville’s most reliable breakfast spot

Plate with two stuffed chicken drumsticks with melted cheese and peppers, paired with seasoned French fries on a yellow plate.
Food & Drink
3 weeks ago
Fork & Dagger: Zella’s Deli delivers big New York flavor in Asheville

This Tunnel Road deli serves fresh-made sandwiches, crispy seasoned sides and the kind of atmosphere that feels straight out of Manhattan

Grilled sandwich cut into triangles with melted cheese and meat, served with French fries and a pickle spear on a plate.
Food & Drink
4 weeks ago
Fork & Dagger: Corner Kitchen delivers a Mother’s Day meal worth the wait

Despite the holiday crowds, the beloved farm-to-table restaurant delivered attentive service, relaxed vibes and dishes that mostly lived up to its reputation

A chopped pork plate at Iron & Oak in Woodfin comes piled with moist barbecue, white bread, pickles and raw onion
Food & Drink
1 month ago
Fork & Dagger: Iron & Oak lives up to the hype in local barbecue scene

A rustic riverside hangout in Woodfin pairs standout meats with craft beer and classic Southern sides

Creamy pasta dish with shrimp, sliced chicken, onions, zucchini, and other vegetables on a pink plate.
Food & Drink
2 months ago
Fork & Dagger: That torta. That queso. Those fries.

Ay Caramba in North Asheville delivers way more than your typical Mexican menu — and it’s worth branching out

Food & Drink
2 months ago
Fork & Dagger: Zambra Tapas still sets the standard after two decades

Since 2001, the Spanish-inspired restaurant has blended local ingredients, bold small plates and a timeless atmosphere

Food & Drink
2 months ago
Fork & Dagger: From antipasto to pie, Del Vecchios shows its staying power

This Asheville favorite keeps it simple with quality ingredients, thoughtful topping pairings and a clean, satisfying slice

Food & Drink
2 months ago
Fork & Dagger: A long-delayed visit to Oyster House pays off

West Asheville spot delivers standout seafood and a sense of old Asheville charm

Food & Drink
3 months ago
Fork & Dagger: Greek flair, bold flavors shine at Stony Knob Cafe

A decades-old Asheville staple mixes retro vibes with some of the best brunch dishes in town

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