By Administrator The crisp mountain air of Asheville, North Carolina, is often associated with farm-to-table Southern cuisine, craft breweries pouring IPAs, and a general bohemian vibe. But beneath the surface of this culinary hotspot, a subtle current of international flavors flows. While you might not immediately think of lederhosen and oompah bands when you picture Asheville, there are indeed places where you can find a taste of Germany. Finding authentic German food Asheville NC may require a bit of searching and an open mind, but the reward is a satisfying journey into the heart of hearty, comforting dishes. This guide aims to navigate you through the limited, yet noteworthy, options for enjoying German flavors in this vibrant mountain town.
A Taste of Germany in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Asheville is definitely not known for its robust German culinary scene like cities such as Milwaukee or Cincinnati. However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck if you’re craving a plump bratwurst, a crispy schnitzel, or the tangy bite of sauerkraut. Several establishments in and around Asheville offer German-inspired dishes, often blending them with other European influences or giving them a Southern twist. The key is to know where to look and to adjust your expectations accordingly. While you may not find a traditional German beer garden, you can certainly find restaurants and breweries that offer a hint of Deutschland. So, let’s embark on a culinary adventure to discover where you can get your fill of German food Asheville NC.
Where to Savor German Dishes Around Asheville
Due to the current restaurant landscape in Asheville, finding a dedicated, fully authentic German restaurant is a difficult task. However, the establishments listed below offer dishes that scratch that German food itch. Keep in mind that some of these places may have limited German food options and are not exclusively German restaurants.
The Black Forest Restaurant
Located a short drive from Asheville in Black Mountain, the Black Forest Restaurant offers a traditional German dining experience. The menu features classic German fare, including various schnitzels, sauerbraten, and wursts. The restaurant’s ambiance is reminiscent of a cozy German Gasthaus, with warm wood accents and a welcoming atmosphere. Diners rave about the generous portions and authentic flavors. Dishes are generally served with red cabbage, spaetzle and potato pancakes. Black Forest Restaurant is as close as one can get to authentic German food near Asheville NC.
Sovereign Remedies
Situated in the heart of downtown Asheville, Sovereign Remedies is known for its innovative cocktails and thoughtfully sourced menu. While not exclusively German, they often feature dishes with European influences, including German-inspired options. Keep an eye out for specials like spaetzle with wild mushrooms or a hearty bratwurst served with homemade sauerkraut. The restaurant’s commitment to local ingredients and creative culinary approach makes it a worthwhile stop for foodies looking for a unique take on German flavors.
Cúrate Bar de Tapas
Although primarily focused on Spanish tapas, Cúrate sometimes includes German-inspired items on their menu. This is particularly true during special events or seasonal celebrations. Chef Katie Button’s dedication to quality and authentic flavors shines through in every dish, so if you happen to find a German offering, it’s sure to be a memorable experience. Keep an eye on their social media or website to see if any German-inspired tapas are available during your visit. The restaurant is located in downtown Asheville.
Oktoberfest Celebrations and German-Style Brews
While a dedicated German restaurant might be elusive, Asheville embraces the spirit of German celebration, particularly during the fall. Keep an eye out for Oktoberfest events hosted by local breweries and community organizations. These festivities often feature traditional German fare like pretzels, sausages, and, of course, plenty of German beer. The atmosphere is lively and festive, providing a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in German culture.
Furthermore, many of Asheville’s renowned craft breweries produce German-style beers. Look for lagers, pilsners, and weissbiers that adhere to traditional German brewing methods. These beers pair perfectly with the hearty flavors of German food. A crisp pilsner, for example, is an excellent complement to a grilled bratwurst, while a malty bock enhances the richness of sauerbraten. Here are a few breweries that sometimes offer German beer options:
- Highland Brewing Company: One of Asheville’s oldest breweries, Highland often produces classic styles, including some inspired by German brewing traditions.
- Burial Beer Co.: While known for their IPAs, Burial also experiments with lagers and other European styles, so keep an eye out for their German-inspired offerings.
- Wicked Weed Brewing: Known for a wide variety of beers, Wicked Weed sometimes features German-style brews in their taproom.
Bringing the Taste of Germany Home
If you’re unable to find exactly what you’re looking for in Asheville’s restaurants, you can always bring the taste of Germany home. While a dedicated German grocery store might not exist in Asheville, several stores carry ingredients that allow you to create your own German feast. Check out the international sections of larger grocery stores for items like:
- Sauerkraut
- German mustard
- Spaetzle
- German pickles
- Imported German candies and chocolates
You can also find various types of sausages and cured meats at local butchers and specialty food stores. With a little creativity and some quality ingredients, you can recreate classic German dishes in your own kitchen.
A Simple German Potato Salad Recipe
For a taste of Germany at home, try this simple recipe for German potato salad:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped bacon
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons German mustard
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes until tender. Let them cool slightly, then peel and slice.
- Fry the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon and reserve the drippings.
- Sauté the onion in the bacon drippings until softened.
- In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, bacon, onion, vinegar, mustard, sugar, and celery seed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently toss to combine.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Final Thoughts: Embracing German Cuisine in Asheville, NC
While Asheville, NC, might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of German cuisine, a delightful surprise awaits those willing to explore. The availability of German food Asheville NC may not be extensive, but the existing options offer a flavorful glimpse into the world of German gastronomy. From the traditional dishes at Black Forest Restaurant to the German-inspired creations at Sovereign Remedies, there are opportunities to satisfy your craving for bratwurst, schnitzel, and other German favorites. Plus, with Oktoberfest celebrations and German-style beers available at local breweries, you can fully immerse yourself in the spirit of German culture. So, embrace the unexpected and discover the German flavors that Asheville has to offer.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about trying something new, exploring German food Asheville NC is an adventure worth taking. Don’t hesitate to venture beyond the typical Southern fare and discover the hidden gems that await. And now that you have some ideas on where to start, we encourage you to share your favorite German food finds in Asheville. Let us know in the comments below if you have any recommendations or experiences to share. Prost!
