Blue Ridge Tavern And Trading Post

I'm not upset with this place. It's the only dining option at the Asheville airport, aside from Cinnabon, which I don't really consider food. The Blue Ridge Tavern is straightforward...

I ordered the $16 salad, and I was disappointed to find that it contained very little lettuce. It looked nothing like the pictures on the menu, so be warned—you're better off getting a salad from a fast food restaurant.

NOT BAD FOR AN AIRPORT BAR! My margarita was delicious, although a bit expensive at $14! I suppose that’s just the airport markup. I do have to mention that the drink was strong! So you definitely get your money's worth.

I had the unfortunate experience of being stuck at Asheville airport due to a flight cancellation, but I ended up having both breakfast and dinner at this restaurant. Despite the situation, I was pleasantly surprised. It's pretty much the only dining option available aside from a Cinnabon/Auntie Anne's. Keeping that in mind, the food was enjoyable. It may not be extraordinary, but considering its monopoly in this small airport, we were grateful that the meals were quite tasty. They also have a full bar, and my wife raved about the Cosmopolitan they made for her.

I had lunch at their quick-service counter upon arriving in Asheville, and I picked up some chocolates from the gift shop before departing. On both occasions, the staff were the friendliest and most enthusiastic airport café workers I’ve ever encountered. I ordered the Pimento Sandwich, a Lemon Oatmeal Bar, and a Spiced Chai Latte. I really enjoyed the sandwich; the cheese and pepper filling was unlike anything I’ve tried before. The bread had been pressed and grilled, but the sandwich was served cold. While it was delicious as is, I would have loved to experience it warm and freshly pressed. The lemon bar and chai were also excellent. I preferred the oatmeal crust on the lemon bar to the typical shortbread, as it added a more balanced flavor. The chai had a nice spiciness, and I appreciated the option to have it with almond milk. There’s also a Vanilla Chai that the barista mentioned is sweeter. From the gift shop, I bought a 4-pack of assorted Timothy Maguire chocolates. I’m still enjoying them, and they’re delicious so far. I really like the local touch in the gift shop items!