Editor’s Note: Fork & Dagger is 828newsNOW’s anonymous restaurant review series, written by our independent Grub Scout—no freebies, no press perks, no agenda. Grub Scout pays full price, visits unannounced, and takes notes on food, service, atmosphere, and value. Each review reflects a recent, honest experience rated on our 1‑to‑5 fork scale. We aim to help you discover standout dining spots—from casual diners to white‑tablecloth affairs—one bite at a time.
This week, I’m profiling hip cocktails and fusion cuisine from a bus station. Yep, you heard me. The Hound resides in the former Greyhound bus station on Tunnel Road in East Asheville. It took me a couple years to get there, but I’m really glad I did.
Form and Function did a gorgeous job with the aesthetic. Lots of open windows give it a breezy air flow on a hot day, and there’s a nice, large patio. It’s all very chic, yet pays tribute to the structure’s former purpose with images of dogs adorning the space.
I got a kick out of the cocktail menu, which referenced several obscure song titles. The “Call Me a Dog” (draft paloma, Lunazul tequila, grapefruit juice, Jarritos) could have been ideal, but because of the generous pour was a bit imbalanced. The “Inertia Creeps” (draft spritz, Aperol, mandarin, prosecco, soda, orange peel), unfortunately, fell victim to the same generosity. That said, they were very busy, and this would not deter me from trying others.
As far as food goes, the cuisine is rotated seasonally. Bonito Kitchen is serving a creative selection of Pacific, Latin American, and North African fusion. This menu is available Monday through Saturday, and R&D Barbecue is the Sunday thing.
The Ceviche de Gambas was stellar, as were the accompanying house-made tortilla chips. This was ceviche that could not be improved upon.
The Musubi, Hawaiian-style Spam sushi, was delicious and fun. Just remember that it’s served traditionally, as the largest sushi roll you’ve ever seen, more like a small sandwich, and not too easy to share. Do not skip it. I did not expect perfectly marinated sticky rice.
The B’Stilla was a unique and tasty layered flaky Moroccan filo pie with spiced shredded chicken served with a nice traditional carrot salad.
My favorite dish of the evening was the fancy hot dog. The Bonito Dog is a Wagyu beef frank served on a brioche bun with takoyaki sauce, kewpie mayo, takuan, anonori, togarashi, and bonito flake. This was a perfect dish, especially with the Maui potato chips. I’m looking forward to having it again.
Dessert was a spicy Mexican brownie that was simple but comforting. You really can’t go wrong with that.
There were quite a few other items on the menu that looked appetizing, so since I didn’t try them, I think you should. Overall, this place was delightful, and I’ll definitely be hanging out on that patio again.
Rating: 🍴🍴🍴🍴
