ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) – Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. The clock is ticking on finding the perfect place to share a memorable meal your significant other. With hundreds of tasty cafes and diners in the Greater Asheville area to choose from, finding a romantic restaurant can feel like a daunting task. Whether you are looking for cozy or classy cuisine, take a gander at what the 828newsNOW team, local radio personalities and media advisors from the Asheville Media Group recommend for you and your loved one to enjoy for the heart-shaped holiday.
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Cucina 24 – Italian cuisine
Recommended by Bo Aughtry, Media Advisor
“Cucina 24 has an incredible upscale menu with Italian favorites as well as dishes that a lot of diners will find new and exciting. They have an incredible pizza menu as well as an extensive wine list. Soft lighting creates a relaxing ambiance and the service is amazing. Perfect date night spot.”
Laila Asheville – Modern Indian cuisine
Recommended by Piper Phynnie, on-air personality on 105.9 The Mountain
“My husband and I went to Laila’s Indian restaurant a few weeks back. They were the nicest staff and went above and beyond to accommodate my food allergies. Just for fun the manager had the kitchen whip up one of the tastiest sides I’ve ever eaten so I’d have a few options. It wasn’t even on the menu! The food was outstanding and the atmosphere is very nice – fancy enough to know you’re somewhere special but with a relaxed tone. I’d definitely recommend it for a special night out.”
Stoney Knob Café – American and Greek fusion
Recommended by Joe Oreb, Media Advisor
“One of the first places we dined when we visited Asheville for the first time prior to getting hired here. Very unique ambience, hard to describe, must experience for yourself. Wide selection of options not overpriced and always spot on. If you’re planning to go, make a reservation.”
Tupelo Honey Café – Southern American food
Recommended by Jordan Coppinger, Music Director
“Their food is always spot on and consistent. The fried green tomatoes to start are my favorite appetizer. The portions are pleasing and I’ve always gotten service with a smile! Classy place but not stuffy. You can walk in there dressed up for a romantic dinner or wearing jeans for a fun Galentine’s Day with the ladies. And don’t skimp out on the buttery biscuits with blueberry compote. As a local, I also encourage others to join their V.I.P. club for cool local perks every time you go.”
Trailhead – American bar and grill
Recommended by Jacob Vander Weide, Reporter for 828newsNOW
“Trailhead is one of the busiest restaurants in Black Mountain for a reason. Their burgers, which you can order with locally raised beef, are possibly the best in the Greater Asheville area. Along with quality appetizers, a bar and handmade pies for dessert, Trailhead is a great spot for a casual dinner with your loved one.”
Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian – Italian cuisine
Recommended by Aaron LaFalce, on-air personality on 105.9 The Mountain
“The atmosphere and food are extraordinary. I grew up eating meals with my Italian grandparents and Vinnie’s is the closet I’ve experienced to the wonderful food we would have around our family table. I’ve taken my wife there for date nights and my 9-year-old daughter for daddy-daughter dates. Both of them approve!”
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