The Admiral

This dive bar-meets-fine-dining establishment feels like it’s run by a pirate who's seen every episode of Bar Rescue. Located in a cinderblock building in West Asheville, The Admiral’s space has a surprising blend of nautical decor, antique tin ceilings, and polished mahogany furniture. The menu toes the line between one you might find at a white tablecloth steakhouse and a New American spot. They nail classics like beef tartare and seared scallops, but it’s the dishes like the pork belly funnel cake, bonito sake mussels, and off-the-wall salads that really make the restaurant fun. 

Over the last decade, despite going through some leadership changes, The Admiral still has plenty of charm, and it’s hard to not feel cool when you’re eating here. Stop by dive bar The Double Crown after dinner for the full West Asheville experience.