Neighborhood Character & History

The River Arts District occupies a stretch of land along the French Broad River that was once the industrial heart of Asheville. Brick warehouses, former textile mills, and railway buildings that once hummed with manufacturing activity now house artists' studios, restaurants, and breweries. The neighborhood's industrial bones remain visible in its architecture—corrugated metal siding, exposed brick walls, and towering smokestacks stand as reminders of its working-class roots. This raw, unpolished aesthetic is part of what gives the RAD its distinctive character, offering a stark contrast to the more manicured historic districts elsewhere in Asheville.

The area's transformation began in the 1980s when artists, attracted by cheap rent and ample space, began converting abandoned warehouses into studios. The devastating floods of 2004 from Hurricanes Frances and Ivan nearly wiped out the burgeoning district, but the community rallied, rebuilding with renewed purpose. Today, the RAD stands as a testament to creative resilience, home to over 200 artists and dozens of galleries, alongside an ever-growing collection of culinary destinations. Recent years have seen significant investment in infrastructure, including the completion of the RAD Greenway and River Arts District Transportation Improvement Project (RADTIP), making the neighborhood more accessible while preserving its gritty charm.

Food & Dining Scene

The River Arts District's food scene mirrors its artistic ethos—innovative, unpretentious, and deeply connected to local culture and ingredients. Here, chefs work like artists, crafting culinary experiences that range from refined Southern cuisine to international street food, often in settings that celebrate the neighborhood's industrial past.

12 Bones Smokehouse stands as perhaps the district's most famous culinary landmark. This no-frills barbecue joint gained national attention when President Obama made multiple visits during his time in office. Their signature blueberry-chipotle ribs exemplify their creative approach to traditional Southern barbecue, while their "meat and three" plates offer a perfect introduction to Carolina-style smoked meats. Open only for lunch on weekdays, lines often form before opening—a testament to their cult-like following. Mid-range pricing makes this an accessible splurge for most visitors.

For a more elevated dining experience, Vivian offers a sophisticated take on European cuisine with Appalachian influences. Housed in a renovated cotton mill, the restaurant's exposed brick walls and industrial windows frame a warm, intimate space. Chef Josiah McGaughey's menu changes seasonally, featuring dishes like trout with brown butter and capers or hand-made pasta with foraged mushrooms. The thoughtfully curated wine list focuses on small producers, making this a high-end destination for special occasions.

Those seeking global flavors should visit Taco Billy, a casual spot serving creative tacos with both traditional Mexican and Southern twists. Their signature "Billy Breakfast" taco features a plantain shell filled with eggs, chorizo, and cheese—a perfect example of their cross-cultural approach. With most tacos priced under $5, this budget-friendly spot offers excellent value in a colorful, laid-back setting.

For pizza lovers, All Souls Pizza creates wood-fired pies using house-milled grains and seasonal toppings sourced from local farms. Their sourdough crust has developed a devoted following, while their outdoor patio offers pleasant views of the surrounding neighborhood. Beyond pizza, their seasonal vegetable sides and polenta dishes showcase the best of Western North Carolina's agricultural bounty. Mid-range prices and a well-curated beer list make this a reliable choice for casual dinners.

The neighborhood's food scene extends beyond restaurants to include Pleb Urban Winery, which produces wines using grapes sourced from throughout North Carolina. Their industrial-chic tasting room offers flights alongside small plates, while their patio provides a perfect spot to watch the sunset over the river. Regular events featuring local musicians create a community gathering space that celebrates both viticulture and the district's creative spirit.

Coffee Shops & Bakeries

The River Arts District offers several distinctive spots to fuel your exploration with caffeine and baked goods, each with its own approach to craft beverages and artisanal treats.

Ultra Coffee Bar occupies a bright, minimalist space in the WEDGE Studios building, where they serve meticulously prepared espresso drinks using beans from Counter Culture Coffee. Their signature lavender latte offers a fragrant twist on a classic, while their avocado toast topped with watermelon radish and microgreens provides a perfect light breakfast. The shop's clean lines and gallery-white walls make it a calming respite between studio visits.

For something more rustic, Rivertown Coffee & Grind offers a cozy, lived-in atmosphere with mismatched furniture and local art covering the walls. Their house-made chai has developed a cult following among locals, while their selection of pastries from nearby bakers changes daily. The back patio, with its view of passing trains and the distant mountains, provides one of the neighborhood's best spots for unhurried conversation.

No discussion of RAD bakeries would be complete without mentioning Owl Bakery, whose European-inspired pastries have earned national recognition. Their croissants—particularly the twice-baked almond variety—achieve the perfect balance of buttery layers and crisp exterior. The bakery's commitment to organic, locally-milled flours and seasonal ingredients reflects the neighborhood's emphasis on craft and quality. While slightly higher-priced than chain alternatives, the exceptional quality justifies the splurge.

Shopping & Local Businesses

Shopping in the River Arts District offers a refreshing alternative to mass-produced goods, with businesses that emphasize craftsmanship, sustainability, and direct connections between makers and buyers.

Marquee showcases the work of dozens of local designers and craftspeople in a beautifully curated space. From handcrafted jewelry and ceramics to small-batch skincare products and textiles, the shop offers accessible entry points to collecting local art. The owners' commitment to representing diverse makers ensures that the inventory constantly evolves, making repeat visits rewarding.

For those interested in sustainable fashion, Rite of Passage offers carefully selected vintage clothing alongside pieces from independent designers who emphasize ethical production. Their collection ranges from workwear-inspired basics to statement pieces, all united by a focus on quality materials and timeless design. The shop's industrial-meets-bohemian aesthetic perfectly captures the neighborhood's creative spirit.

Book lovers should visit Bagatelle Books, a thoughtfully curated used bookstore specializing in art, design, and regional literature. The shop's small footprint belies its impressive selection, with floor-to-ceiling shelves packed with everything from rare art monographs to paperback classics. The owner's encyclopedic knowledge makes this a perfect spot for literary discovery, whether you're seeking a specific title or open to serendipitous finds.

For home goods with a story, East Fork Pottery has grown from a small wood-fired operation to one of Asheville's most recognized brands while maintaining their commitment to craftsmanship. Their flagship store in the RAD showcases their full line of ceramic dinnerware in a range of glazes inspired by the Western North Carolina landscape. While their pieces represent an investment, their durability and timeless design make them heirlooms in the making.

Cultural Attractions & Green Spaces

The River Arts District's primary cultural draw remains its concentration of working artists' studios, where visitors can observe the creative process firsthand and engage directly with makers.

Wedge Studios houses dozens of artists working across media in a former warehouse, with open studios that invite exploration. From painters and sculptors to jewelers and textile artists, the building offers a comprehensive overview of Asheville's diverse creative community. The ground floor gallery showcases rotating exhibitions, providing context for the work being produced upstairs.

For a more immersive experience, North Carolina Glass Center offers demonstrations and classes in glassblowing and flameworking. Watching skilled artisans transform molten glass into delicate vessels provides a mesmerizing glimpse into this ancient craft. Their gallery features work by both resident artists and national figures in contemporary glass, making it a destination for collectors and casual visitors alike.

The district's relationship with the French Broad River is celebrated at French Broad River Park, which offers walking trails, picnic areas, and access points for paddlers. The recently completed greenway connects the RAD to other riverside parks, creating miles of continuous paths for walking and cycling. The park hosts regular events, from outdoor yoga classes to environmental education programs focused on river ecology.

For those interested in Asheville's brewing culture, The Foundation complex houses several breweries alongside a skate park and outdoor art installations. This DIY cultural hub embodies the neighborhood's independent spirit, with regular live music performances and community events that bring together diverse cross-sections of Asheville residents.

Nightlife & Entertainment

As the sun sets over the French Broad River, the RAD transitions from a daytime destination for art and food to a more intimate nightlife scene that offers alternatives to downtown Asheville's busier establishments.

Wedge Brewing Company operates two locations in the district, both offering excellent craft beers in distinctive settings. Their Foundation location features an expansive outdoor area with fire pits, food trucks, and regular movie screenings projected against the building's exterior wall. Their original location in the Wedge Studios building offers a more intimate courtyard setting, where conversations flow easily among artists, locals, and visitors.

For cocktail enthusiasts, Bottle Riot offers a sophisticated wine and cocktail bar experience without pretension. Their rotating selection emphasizes small producers and unusual finds, while knowledgeable staff provide guidance without intimidation. The industrial-chic space, with its exposed brick and soft lighting, creates an atmosphere conducive to both romantic evenings and friendly gatherings.

Live music finds a home at The Grey Eagle, one of Asheville's longest-running music venues. Located on the district's edge, this intimate space hosts everything from touring indie bands to traditional Appalachian musicians. Their taco kitchen serves until late, making this a complete evening destination. The venue's unpretentious atmosphere and excellent sound system have earned it a special place in Asheville's music community.

Conclusion

The River Arts District represents Asheville at its most authentic—a place where creativity, culinary innovation, and community converge in an unpretentious setting that invites exploration. Unlike more polished tourist destinations, the RAD rewards those willing to wander, with discoveries waiting down railroad tracks, inside unmarked warehouses, and along riverside paths. For the best experience, visit on a weekday when artists are working in their studios and restaurants are less crowded. Consider renting a bicycle to easily navigate between the district's spread-out attractions, or join one of the regular studio strolls that provide structured introductions to the neighborhood's creative spaces. Whether you come for the food, the art, or simply the distinctive atmosphere, the River Arts District offers a slice of Asheville that balances the city's growing popularity with its enduring creative spirit.