38 College Towns with Food Scenes So Good, You'll Want To Extend Your Stay

34. Asheville, North Carolina – Appalachian Soul, Global Spirit & Craft Brews

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville (home to UNC Asheville) is a culinary magnet renowned for its fierce commitment to Appalachian traditions, sustainable sourcing, and an incredibly creative, independent spirit. Discover restaurants like Cúrate (Spanish tapas) or Chai Pani (Indian street food) that have garnered national acclaim, alongside spots celebrating mountain terroir with foraged ingredients and heritage meats. Its legendary craft beer scene (think Wicked Weed, Sierra Nevada) is one of the nation's best. Asheville’s food culture is a vibrant tapestry of old and new, local and global, making every meal an adventure.