Dinner at Rhubarb in Asheville

While the dining room at Rhubarb was packed on a weeknight, the bar was readily available with a cozy corner table near the front window. The menu offers Southern fare with a twist and a whole bevy of local cheeses.

Entrance to Rhubarb

The bartender was happy to answer our questions about the menu and we had some mighty fine eats.

Fried Hominy with Lime and Chili - Great item to share

Berber Pie - I had no idea what a Berber Pie was. Turns out to be a hand made savory pie. This one was stuffed with Rhubarb Jam, Benton's Prosciutto, and Spiced Onions. So tasty!

Roasted Sunburst Trout stuffed with  Fennel - Delicious local fish

Local Cheeses with Rhubarb and Chutney

The menu tends to change seasonally and with the variety of large and small plates, everyone should find something to make their taste buds happy.

Braised Rabbit with Hominy and Corn at Belmont Food Shop

Braised Rabbit with Hominy and Corn a photo by pjpink on Flickr.

While Belmont Food Shop changes its menu frequently, I was fortunate enough to dine there when the appetizer list featured Braised Rabbit with Hominy and Corn. Tender chunks of rabbit with a creamy-silky sauce. The balance of corn and hominy perfected this dish. Because of the richness, the portion size was just right as well.

We had not planned to eat here, but arrived early enough to snag a couple of places at the bar. I also enjoyed the Roast Chicken with Spoon Bread and Spinach. The chicken was moist and tasty; spoon bread, spot on with the balance of corniness and sweetness.

The wine that I imbibed was the Petit Petite from David Michael. One of my recent favs, but a bit pricey given a restaurant down the street offers it for $12 less per bottle. I guess the wine prices make up for the fantastic price of the $30 three course prix fixe.