Curate in Asheville Is One of the Best Tapas Restaurants
Cúrate is a traditional tapas restaurant located on Biltmore Avenue in Asheville, North Carolina. This popular eatery serves up everything from croquetas de pollo to patatas bravas and brings the essence of Spain to downtown Asheville. With a name that literally means “cure yourself” in Spanish, Curate in Asheville is a wonderful place to share plates with family and friends. Here are some of the things you’ll find there.
Learn more about Curate in Asheville and other local eateries when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of information on the best places to dine, including the Esmeralda Inn & Restaurant!
Enjoy a Meal at Curate in Asheville
THE CHEF
Most guests are surprised to learn that Curate’s Execute Chef isn’t Spanish. It’s even more surprising that she was a budding scientist before starting her cooking career! Chef Katie Button attributes her quick rise to elBulli, the Michelin-Star restaurant where she worked under Ferran Adrià. She then opened Curate in Asheville, signed a cookbook deal, and opened a sister bar named Nightbell after just a year of professional training. Today, Ms. Button’s hard work has paid off – her popular downtown eateries attract patrons from far and wide.
THE ATMOSPHERE
Originally a bus depot in the 1920’s, Curate now features a 40-foot marble bar and open kitchen. Waiters glide between the tables, describing the menu’s authentically prepared tapas in accents that mix Southern English and Spanish. The restaurant’s energy is romantic, lively, and vibrant, and it’s usually very busy. Be sure to call ahead!
THE MENU
Not sure what to order from the Curate menu? We’ve got you covered! We suggest the pulpo a la gallega, warm octopus flavored with sea salt, paprika, and accompanied by puréed potatoes. Or try the garlic shrimp (order some bread to soak up the white wine broth!) and the lamb skewers with a spicy moorish sauce and steamed spinach. Wash it all down with a glass of wine or signature cocktail and you have a meal you won’t soon forget.
OTHER GREAT PLACES TO TRY
If you stop by Curate without making reservations, don’t worry! There are plenty of nearby restaurants to visit while you wait. Rhubarb and Chestnut are both located on Biltmore Ave, and Zambra and Cucina 24 are within walking distance. Grab a cocktail at the bar, then head back to Curate for a delicious meal.
Curate in Asheville is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner every day except Monday. Visit their website or call ahead to make your reservations.
ENJOY EVEN MORE CULINARY DELIGHTS AT THE ESMERALDA INN & RESTAURANT!
Searching for lodging near Asheville, NC? Book your stay at The Esmeralda Inn! Our Chimney Rock bed and breakfast has an incredible restaurant right onsite. Enjoy fresh ingredients, carefully crafted dishes, and impeccable service each time you dine. We even offer daily specials and a seasonally-changing menu. Contact us to make your reservations and check our availability to book your room. We look forward to having you!
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Photo Credit: merc67 | Getty Images