Finding a reliable meal in a tourist town like Asheville is sometimes a headache. You’ve got the high-end spots downtown where you need a reservation three weeks out, and then you’ve got the burger joints that are great until you realize you’ve eaten three burgers in four days. Honestly, that's why Carrabba's in Asheville North Carolina remains such a staple. It’s tucked away at 10 Buckstone Place, basically hiding in plain sight between the hotels off Tunnel Road.
If you aren't looking for it, you’ll drive right past it. But for locals on the East Side or travelers staying nearby, it’s that "ol' reliable" that delivers exactly what you expect: wood-fired flavor and a ton of garlic.
Why Carrabba's in Asheville North Carolina is Different
You might think every chain is the same, but the Asheville vibe usually bleeds into everything. Here, the service tends to feel a bit more like a neighborhood spot than a corporate machine. The managers, like the ones folks mention in recent reviews, actually walk the floor. It’s not rare to see a manager stopping by a booth to check on a steak or make sure the bread arrived warm.
Speaking of the bread—it’s basically the main event for some people. That herb-infused olive oil is dangerous. You tell yourself you’ll only have one piece, and then suddenly the basket is empty.
The Menu Hits (and the Misses)
Let's talk food. The Chicken Bryan is the heavyweight champion here. It’s wood-grilled chicken topped with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a basil lemon butter sauce. It sounds simple, but the smokiness from the wood fire really changes the game. If you're feeling indecisive, the Carrabba’s Italian Classics Trio is the way to go. You get Chicken Parmesan, Lasagne, and Fettuccine Alfredo on one plate.
Is it "authentic" Italian from a nonna's kitchen in Sicily? Probably not. But it’s delicious, and the portions are usually massive.
Some regulars swear by the Mezzaluna—half-moon ravioli stuffed with chicken, ricotta, and spinach. On the flip side, if you're looking for a super light, low-calorie meal, this might not be your first choice. Most things are swimming in some kind of delicious, buttery sauce. That's kinda the point, though.
Insider Tips for the Asheville Location
If you’re planning a visit, there are a few things you should know to make it better.
- The "Hidden" Entrance: Since it’s tucked behind other buildings near the mall area, GPS sometimes gets a little funky. Look for the signs near the Holiday Inn; it’s right in that cluster.
- Wine Dinners: This location frequently hosts specialized wine dinners. In early 2026, they've been featuring pairings with Duckhorn Vineyards. These are usually four-course affairs and cost around $60 per person. It’s a solid deal if you want a more "elevated" experience than just grabbing a quick bowl of pasta.
- The $10 Take-Home Deal: Keep an eye out for their specials where you buy one entree and get another one to take home for ten bucks. It’s a lifesaver for lunch the next day.
- Seating: If you’re a fan of watching the action, try to sit near the open kitchen (the "exhibition kitchen"). Watching them pull pizzas and steaks off the wood-fired grill is pretty entertaining.
Dealing with the Crowds
Asheville gets busy. Between the leaf-peepers in the fall and the Christmas at Biltmore crowd, Tunnel Road can become a parking lot.
Friday and Saturday nights at Carrabba's in Asheville North Carolina are packed. Use their online "Get Seated Faster" feature. It’s not exactly a reservation, but it puts your name on the list before you even leave your house. It saves a lot of standing around in the lobby.
What People Get Wrong
A lot of people think chain restaurants can't have a soul. While Carrabba's is part of a larger group, the staff in Asheville often stays for years. You’ll see servers who recognize their regulars. That matters.
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Also, don't sleep on the steak. Most people go for pasta, but the Tuscan-Grilled Ribeye is surprisingly good. They use a signature grill baste that has a lot of black pepper and garlic. It’s not your standard steakhouse flavor; it’s more aggressive and rustic.
Final Practical Steps
If you’re ready to head over, here’s the quick checklist:
- Check the hours: They generally open at 11:00 AM daily, closing at 10:00 PM (or 11:00 PM on weekends).
- Join the Rewards: If you eat at Outback or Bonefish Grill too, their "Avenue C" (formerly Dine Rewards) works across all of them. You get points fairly quickly.
- Order the Sangria: Specifically the Blackberry Sangria. It’s a fan favorite for a reason.
If you’re staying in downtown Asheville and don't want to deal with the parking, they do have a robust delivery setup through the usual apps, but the food is always better when it’s fresh off the wood-fire grill. Head over to Buckstone Place, grab a booth, and make sure you ask for extra herbs in your oil.