Neighborhood Character & History

The Montford Historic District exudes a timeless charm that transports visitors to another era. Designated on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, this residential neighborhood showcases an impressive collection of architectural styles spanning from the 1890s through the 1920s. As you stroll along the wide, shady streets, you'll be captivated by the ornate Victorian homes with their intricate gingerbread trim, spacious front porches, and colorful facades. Many of these historic homes have been meticulously restored and now serve as bed and breakfasts, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the neighborhood's historic ambiance.

Montford's development began in earnest during the late 19th century when Asheville experienced a tourism boom following the arrival of the railroad in 1880. The neighborhood was originally designed as an affluent suburb, attracting wealthy residents who built impressive homes reflecting the architectural fashions of the time. During the early 20th century, Montford was also home to Highland Hospital, a psychiatric facility where Zelda Fitzgerald, wife of author F. Scott Fitzgerald, tragically died in a fire in 1948. This rich and sometimes somber history has shaped Montford into a neighborhood that honors its past while embracing its evolution into one of Asheville's most beloved districts.

Food & Dining Scene

Montford's culinary landscape offers a delightful mix of established favorites and hidden gems, reflecting Asheville's reputation as a food-lover's paradise. The neighborhood's dining scene is characterized by farm-to-table ethos, creative cuisine, and warm, inviting atmospheres that make each meal memorable.

Nine Mile stands as one of Montford's culinary cornerstones, serving Caribbean-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. This beloved neighborhood restaurant offers flavorful pasta dishes infused with Caribbean spices, jerk-seasoned proteins, and vegetarian options that have earned it a devoted following among locals and visitors alike. Don't miss their signature "Nine Mile" pasta with jerk chicken or the "Negril Nights" with spicy shrimp. With moderate prices and generous portions, Nine Mile provides excellent value in a casual, vibrant setting.

For an upscale dining experience, Chiesa (Italian for "church") occupies a converted historic church building and serves authentic Northern Italian cuisine. The intimate, romantic atmosphere complements their handmade pasta dishes, seasonal specialties, and thoughtfully curated wine list. Their pappardelle with wild boar ragu and house-made gnocchi are standout dishes that showcase the kitchen's commitment to traditional Italian techniques with local ingredients. This mid-to-high-range restaurant offers a perfect setting for special occasions or a memorable date night.

Those seeking a more casual dining option will appreciate Tod's Tasties, a neighborhood café serving breakfast and lunch with a focus on comfort food made from scratch. Though small in size, Tod's delivers big flavors with their breakfast burritos, creative sandwiches, and daily specials that highlight seasonal produce. This budget-friendly spot offers counter service and outdoor seating, making it a perfect stop for a quick, satisfying meal.

For international flavors, Baba Nahm brings Middle Eastern street food to Montford with their flavorful falafel, shawarma, and mezze plates. Their house-made hummus, fresh pita bread, and vibrant salads provide lighter options that don't sacrifice flavor. This mid-range eatery offers quick service in a bright, modern space that contrasts beautifully with the historic surroundings.

The neighborhood is also home to The Montford Rooftop Bar, which, while technically part of the Hyatt Place hotel at the edge of the district, offers spectacular views of downtown Asheville and the surrounding mountains. Their menu features creative small plates, craft cocktails, and local beers that showcase Asheville's renowned brewing culture. This high-end spot is perfect for sunset drinks and appetizers before exploring Montford's dining options or heading into downtown for the evening.

Coffee Shops & Bakeries

Montford's coffee culture provides the perfect complement to its dining scene, with several standout cafés and bakeries that serve as community gathering spots and fuel stations for neighborhood exploration.

Montford Pull Up offers a unique coffee experience from its converted Airstream trailer. This charming mobile café serves expertly crafted espresso drinks using locally roasted beans, alongside fresh pastries from Asheville bakeries. Their signature lavender latte and cold brew with house-made syrups have developed a loyal following among neighborhood residents and visitors alike. The casual outdoor seating area makes it an ideal spot to people-watch and soak in Montford's relaxed atmosphere.

For those seeking both coffee and substantial breakfast options, City Bakery on the edge of Montford offers artisanal bread, pastries, and sandwiches alongside their coffee program. Their croissants—particularly the almond and chocolate varieties—are widely considered among the best in Asheville. The bakery's bright, airy space with exposed brick walls reflects the neighborhood's historic character while providing a comfortable spot to linger over breakfast or lunch.

OWL Bakery (Old World Levain) may be a short drive from Montford proper, but it's worth mentioning for their exceptional European-style pastries and bread made with organic, locally-sourced ingredients. Their pain au chocolat, seasonal galettes, and sourdough loaves draw visitors from across Asheville. The bakery's commitment to traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients aligns perfectly with Montford's appreciation for craftsmanship and heritage.

Shopping & Local Businesses

While Montford isn't primarily known as a shopping destination, the neighborhood is home to several unique local businesses that reflect its creative spirit and community-focused character.

Montford Books & More is a charming independent bookstore offering a carefully curated selection of new and used books, with particular strength in local history, nature guides, and works by North Carolina authors. The shop also features locally made crafts, cards, and gifts that make perfect souvenirs of your Montford visit. The knowledgeable staff are always ready with recommendations for both reading material and neighborhood exploration.

For those interested in wellness and natural products, Herbiary offers a fascinating selection of medicinal herbs, tinctures, essential oils, and botanical products. This apothecary-style shop also hosts workshops on herbal medicine, aromatherapy, and sustainable living practices that attract both locals and visitors interested in traditional healing arts.

Flora brings natural beauty to Montford with their artistic floral arrangements, houseplants, and botanical gifts. This light-filled shop showcases the work of local artisans alongside their plant offerings, creating a space that feels both like a retail store and a living gallery. Their selection of locally made pottery, textiles, and botanical-inspired jewelry makes Flora a perfect stop for unique gifts.

Montford Farmers Market, held seasonally at the Montford Community Center, brings together local farmers, bakers, and artisans each Saturday morning. This small but vibrant market offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted items in a friendly, community-oriented setting that exemplifies Montford's neighborhood spirit.

Cultural Attractions & Green Spaces

Montford's cultural landscape is as rich and varied as its architectural heritage, offering visitors opportunities to engage with history, theater, and natural beauty throughout the neighborhood.

The Montford Park Players represent North Carolina's longest-running Shakespeare festival, performing free outdoor productions in the amphitheater at Hazel Robinson Amphitheatre during summer months. Since 1973, this community theater company has brought classical works to life against the backdrop of Montford's natural beauty. Bringing a picnic and watching a performance under the stars is a quintessential Montford experience that connects visitors to both cultural heritage and community spirit.

History enthusiasts should not miss the Riverside Cemetery, established in 1885 and serving as the final resting place for notable figures including author Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry (William Sydney Porter). This 87-acre Victorian-style garden cemetery features winding paths, ancient trees, and stunning monuments that make it both a historical resource and a peaceful place for reflection. Self-guided tour maps are available for those interested in exploring the cemetery's significant gravesites and architectural features.

The Montford Community Center serves as a hub for neighborhood activities, offering recreational facilities, community events, and programs for all ages. The center's grounds include playgrounds, sports courts, and green spaces that provide gathering places for both residents and visitors.

For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Reed Creek Greenway offers a peaceful walking path that follows Reed Creek through the neighborhood. This urban trail features native plantings, informational signage about local ecology, and several seating areas perfect for enjoying a coffee or picnic lunch. The greenway connects to the larger Asheville greenway system, making it possible to walk from Montford to other parts of the city along scenic, pedestrian-friendly routes.

Nightlife & Entertainment

While Montford may not rival downtown Asheville for nightlife options, the neighborhood offers several distinctive venues for evening entertainment that reflect its artistic character and historic charm.

The Montford Rooftop Bar, mentioned earlier for its dining, transforms into one of the neighborhood's premier nightlife destinations after dark. The spectacular panoramic views of the city lights and mountain silhouettes create an unforgettable backdrop for enjoying craft cocktails and local beers. Live music performances on weekends feature local musicians playing acoustic sets that complement rather than overwhelm conversation.

For a more intimate evening experience, The Crow & Quill on the border of Montford and downtown offers a speakeasy atmosphere with an impressive selection of whiskeys, craft cocktails, and local beers. The vintage furnishings, dim lighting, and occasional live music—ranging from jazz to folk to experimental—create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and distinctly Asheville. Their knowledgeable bartenders specialize in both classic cocktails and innovative creations featuring local ingredients and spirits.

During summer months, the aforementioned performances by the Montford Park Players provide evening entertainment under the stars. These productions typically begin at dusk, allowing attendees to experience the magic of live theater as day transitions to night in the outdoor amphitheater. Many locals make an evening of it by bringing dinner, wine, and blankets for a complete cultural experience.

Conclusion

The Montford Historic District offers visitors a perfect blend of Asheville's past and present—a neighborhood where historic preservation meets culinary innovation, where cultural traditions thrive alongside creative new enterprises. Whether you're admiring the architectural details of a restored Victorian home, savoring Caribbean-inspired cuisine at Nine Mile, or enjoying Shakespeare under the stars with the Montford Park Players, this charming district provides experiences that engage all the senses.

For those planning to visit, consider exploring Montford on foot to fully appreciate its architectural details and peaceful atmosphere. Many of the neighborhood's bed and breakfasts offer accommodation in historic homes, allowing you to immerse yourself in Montford's unique character. And don't miss the opportunity to chat with locals—Montford residents are typically proud of their neighborhood and happy to share insider tips about hidden gems and upcoming events. In Montford, you'll discover a side of Asheville that balances the city's artistic energy with historic charm and natural beauty—a truly special corner of this beloved mountain city.