131 Main Restaurant
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Very fancy dining spot that's great for birthdays or dates! Quick seating for our group of 6 on a Sunday night. The restaurant was very dark, tables being lighted by a single light atop and a candle. Not my favorite setup but I guess it's for the romance? The menu was pretty small, mostly seafood and the occasional burger. Higher prices than an Applebees but you're also paying for better quality food "fresh never frozen" I got the slow roasted chicken over smashed potatoes, it was humongous, like they plated me the whole bird! The sauce was delicious, as were the potatoes. My plate came to $30 Our server Johnny (?) was great! VERY informed on the menu, read us off a whole list of specials that aren't listed on their main menu. Gave us great recommendations, checked on us a lot, loved empty plates out of the way when needed, and was keeping our waters filled! Thank you Johnny!
The lighting is low and very private. The wait staff must go through extensive training. They all work together in sync. Top notch service!!! The artichokes were absolutely divine! Arrived at the table still on fire!! Deviled eggs we're great but $14 for 4, kinda crazy nothing super memorable. The steak noodle salad was HUGE and plenty to share. The steak was cooked perfectly and well seasoned. Shrimp & Grits were a huge surprise. They were exceptional. Shrimp weren't overcooked at all, which is unique and nice. Grits were creamy, well seasoned and the sliced asparagus in the creamy gravy was almost too good to swallow. All together, seasoned perfectly!. Will 100% get again.
Honestly, as many people in Asheville know, it's hard to find truly great restaurants here. This place is definitely better than many local spots, and while it's not on the level of restaurants you'd find in places like New York or Boston, I'm still glad we have it here. The service was friendly and professional, the atmosphere was nice overall, although the inside felt a little too dark for my taste. Prices are above average, so I was hoping for something a bit more unique on the menu, but most dishes felt fairly standard. Still, the food quality was solid, and overall it was a good experience.
Passing through Asheville, we chose 131 as our lunch destination and we were not disappointed. The restaurant is set in Biltmore Park. The inside is very dimly lit but each table was well lite overhead so you could read the menu and see your food. Each server we came in contact with were extremely professional and extremely helpful. But we're here for the food review!!! It was scrumptious!! We ordered the Thai Salad special and the Cheese Burger. Both were phenomenal. Side note I also had the tea which was some of the best I've had in a long time. No matter which 131 you go to you will see the quality in all aspects of your experience.
Went for the first time last night with no expectations and was very pleasantly surprised. Service was as good as any I have experienced in the Asheville area. Local trout was perfectly presented. Not a kale and quinoa guy so they cheerfully substituted a wedge salad -- probably the second best one I have ever had. Good wine selection. Only negative was that a substantial percentage of customers were dressed for Walmart. Guess I am old fashioned about social mores.
Belated review. First time there for my husband's birthday dinner in February. Can't say enough good - Service was outstanding. Smoked salmon appetizer, filet, grouper - all excellent. Was very pricey, so will likely only go back for special occasions.
Everything was done well, food,drinks and service. Can't think of anything that could've been done better. Planned to go to the restaurant next door but they were booked and not exactly welcoming or accommodating. 131 was recommended by the Hilton, so on a busy Saturday night we went, they were booked but offered for us to wait in the bar and put us on the wait list. 25 minutes later they called us. Waiting in the bar was nice with outside seating and fire pits. The 131 maniac is a very good drink Servers were very attentive and friendly. Appetizers were cornbread and Ahi tuna, both were excellent. Main course was trout for me and shrimp and grits for my wife. The trout was exceptional. A lot of words but the take away is: go here, they try hard to please and are successful.
What a great place! Megg waited on us outside and we started dinner w a great Malbec and their special cornbread. I know if sounds funny but u hVe to try it! Comes w honey or ask for a little butter but it is the best! Took the rest home for breakfast ;) we then had the salmon with red mashed potatoes and also had the ribeye w red mashed potatoes. Both were fabulous. Ended w smiles and very full belly's. Really nice ambiance w a romantic air, very comfortable seating and room to talk in confidence! Loved it!
Excellent! Great atmosphere. I ordered the North Carolina trout. Very tasty, perfectly cooked.
What I Ordered: - danish baby back ribs - cast iron cornbread Scores (1 = poor, 10 = excellent): Food Quality: 8.5/10 Service: 9/10 Ambience: 7/10 Value: 7/10 Overall Experience: 7.5/10 Must Get(s): - cast iron cornbread (in photo) *ask for honey & butter on the side* Avoid: - deviled eggs *my friend got them and he felt ripped off compared to the other menu items for the same price; there are better options* Quick Take: Ribs: would recommend. The sauce is tangy and it's not drenched in it which is always good. It's a large portion of food, especially considering the two additional sides. The price is reasonable, not a steal and not highway robbery. *you can switch out the sides for the other available options* Cornbread: get it. That's it. Just buy and don't look back. Ambiance: This place reminded me of a J Alexander's clone if you've ever been. Nicer upscale vibes but not too upper crust to be intimidating by any means. Any sort of informal attire is fine.
2 months ago
Oh my heavens! What an experience! This was our fourth trip to Asheville but our first time going to 131 Main. We will definitely be back! My husband and I started off with the triple dip, which was fantastic. I then ordered the tomato soup. Let me tell you, it was the BEST tomato soup. Our server, Rose, was wonderful. When I mentioned that I'm usually not a fan of croutons, but LOVED the ones in the soup, Rose explained how they were cornbread croutons and that the restaurant was known for their amazing cornbread. I wished we had ordered cornbread instead of the chip! Next time! Then our meals came out. I had the prime rib sandwich which was absolutely delicious. Hubby had the halibut special with garlic butter. Oh my goodness, the flavors were out of this world! We were so full from our wonderful meal we didn't have room for dessert. I can't wait to go back the next time we're in town! read more
7 hours ago
Everything was delicious!!!! Basil cocktail might sound weird but it's sweet and delicious!!! I liked the in house creamy garlic sauce better than the mustard that came with the crab cakes. Everything was delicious!! Our server Meg was wonderful. The Ambience was nice! Great for date night or a get together, music was very low so you don't have to shout across the table. read more
4 months ago
I, now, definitely understand what the hype is about! 10 out of 10 for food, ambiance, and service. The server was knowledgeable about the menu items. They took extra care with noting my food allergy. All of the food was well seasoned with generous portions. I can't wait to return to try something else on the menu. I wish there was more to say but it was just that good! read more
2 days ago
Very fancy dining spot that's great for birthdays or dates! Quick seating for our group of 6 on a Sunday night. The restaurant was very dark, tables being lighted by a single light atop and a candle. Not my favorite setup but I guess it's for the romance? The menu was pretty small, mostly seafood and the occasional burger. Higher prices than an Applebees but you're also paying for better quality food "fresh never frozen" I got the slow roasted chicken over smashed potatoes, it was humongous, like they plated me the whole bird! The sauce was delicious, as were the potatoes. My plate came to $30 Our server Johnny (?) was great! VERY informed on the menu, read us off a whole list of specials that aren't listed on their main menu. Gave us great recommendations, checked on us a lot, loved empty plates out of the way when needed, and was keeping our waters filled! Thank you Johnny! read more
The lighting is low and very private. The wait staff must go through extensive training. They all work together in sync. Top notch service!!! The artichokes were absolutely divine! Arrived at the table still on fire!! Deviled eggs we're great but $14 for 4, kinda crazy nothing super memorable. The steak noodle salad was HUGE and plenty to share. The steak was cooked perfectly and well seasoned. Shrimp & Grits were a huge surprise. They were exceptional. Shrimp weren't overcooked at all, which is unique and nice. Grits were creamy, well seasoned and the sliced asparagus in the creamy gravy was almost too good to swallow. All together, seasoned perfectly!. Will 100% get again. read more
2 months ago
2 months ago
6 days ago
1 month ago
5 months ago
Honestly, as many people in Asheville know, it's hard to find truly great restaurants here. This place is definitely better than many local spots, and while it's not on the level of restaurants you'd find in places like New York or Boston, I'm still glad we have it here. The service was friendly and professional, the atmosphere was nice overall, although the inside felt a little too dark for my taste. Prices are above average, so I was hoping for something a bit more unique on the menu, but most dishes felt fairly standard. Still, the food quality was solid, and overall it was a good experience. read more
Passing through Asheville, we chose 131 as our lunch destination and we were not disappointed. The restaurant is set in Biltmore Park. The inside is very dimly lit but each table was well lite overhead so you could read the menu and see your food. Each server we came in contact with were extremely professional and extremely helpful. But we're here for the food review!!! It was scrumptious!! We ordered the Thai Salad special and the Cheese Burger. Both were phenomenal. Side note I also had the tea which was some of the best I've had in a long time. No matter which 131 you go to you will see the quality in all aspects of your experience. read more
2 months ago
5 months ago
Went for the first time last night with no expectations and was very pleasantly surprised. Service was as good as any I have experienced in the Asheville area. Local trout was perfectly presented. Not a kale and quinoa guy so they cheerfully substituted a wedge salad -- probably the second best one I have ever had. Good wine selection. Only negative was that a substantial percentage of customers were dressed for Walmart. Guess I am old fashioned about social mores. read more
6 months ago
Belated review. First time there for my husband's birthday dinner in February. Can't say enough good - Service was outstanding. Smoked salmon appetizer, filet, grouper - all excellent. Was very pricey, so will likely only go back for special occasions. read more
1 year ago
Everything was done well, food,drinks and service. Can't think of anything that could've been done better. Planned to go to the restaurant next door but they were booked and not exactly welcoming or accommodating. 131 was recommended by the Hilton, so on a busy Saturday night we went, they were booked but offered for us to wait in the bar and put us on the wait list. 25 minutes later they called us. Waiting in the bar was nice with outside seating and fire pits. The 131 maniac is a very good drink Servers were very attentive and friendly. Appetizers were cornbread and Ahi tuna, both were excellent. Main course was trout for me and shrimp and grits for my wife. The trout was exceptional. A lot of words but the take away is: go here, they try hard to please and are successful. read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us! We hope to…
What a great place! Megg waited on us outside and we started dinner w a great Malbec and their special cornbread. I know if sounds funny but u hVe to try it! Comes w honey or ask for a little butter but it is the best! Took the rest home for breakfast ;) we then had the salmon with red mashed potatoes and also had the ribeye w red mashed potatoes. Both were fabulous. Ended w smiles and very full belly's. Really nice ambiance w a romantic air, very comfortable seating and room to talk in confidence! Loved it! read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us! We hope to…
4 months ago
1 year ago
What I Ordered: - danish baby back ribs - cast iron cornbread Scores (1 = poor, 10 = excellent): Food Quality: 8.5/10 Service: 9/10 Ambience: 7/10 Value: 7/10 Overall Experience: 7.5/10 Must Get(s): - cast iron cornbread (in photo) *ask for honey & butter on the side* Avoid: - deviled eggs *my friend got them and he felt ripped off compared to the other menu items for the same price; there are better options* Quick Take: Ribs: would recommend. The sauce is tangy and it's not drenched in it which is always good. It's a large portion of food, especially considering the two additional sides. The price is reasonable, not a steal and not highway robbery. *you can switch out the sides for the other available options* Cornbread: get it. That's it. Just buy and don't look back. Ambiance: This place reminded me of a J Alexander's clone if you've ever been. Nicer upscale vibes but not too upper crust to be intimidating by any means. Any sort of informal attire is fine. read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us! We hope to…
9 months ago
I have never been here before and decided to try it and I was not disappointed the service was great food is delicious and staff is very friendly highly recommended to dine here read more
1 year ago
Very nice setting, a bit loud, but who am I to complain about everyone having a great time and meal. The cast iron skillet cornbread is amazing, has some jalapeño in it, with honey to drizzle on top. Grilled trout from the menu might be the best trout I've had anywhere. read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us! We hope to…
1 year ago
Great location in Biltmore park quick service . This restaurant tends to get very busy reservations are a good idea. They have a great chefs bar where you can sit and watch the chefs prepare the food. Excellent food right atmosphere great location read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us! We hope to…
1 year ago
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us! We hope to…
Excellent service and good. Been here numerous times over the years and consistently awesome. Perfect lighting and intimate dinning. Hope is an excellent Bartender. I will be back read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us, Dan! It's…
The vegetarian menu here is, let's just be honest, inadequate. To come to a nice-ish establishment and be relegated to a veggie burger and "vegetable plate" is in my view unacceptable. And yet, the service is always top-notch and... Wow, this is the best homemade veggie-burger patty in Asheville. They use beets in the mix, I know that much, but otherwise its ingredients are a wonderful mystery. Throw in a good buttery bun, fresh tomato, good pickles and importantly, a generous slab of fantastic melty gooey havarti cheese, and this baby rises to another level. The "Farmer's Plate" is unlike almost every other vegetable plate I've ever suffered through in one crucial way: it's crazy good. Wild rice salad, deviled eggs, cheese grits, curried corn; all are solid. Even the kale salad is good, and I hate kale. Are cheese grits a stretch on a veggie plate? Probably, but they're a melt-in-your-mouth beautiful, satisfying stretch. Oh and do yourself a favor, save room for pie. Trust me on this. read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and feedback, Bob. We are thrilled…
4 months ago
8 months ago
My early dinner with a friend turned out great here at 131 Main! We shared the Prime Rib Sandwich, which was tender and seasoned just right, and instead of the fries, opted for the house salad, which was perfectly made with arugula, romaine, shredded carrots, fine diced eggs, beet, and, I believe, havarti cheese! It was a perfect fit with the sandwich and plenty to share. The service was exceptional and atmosphere nice. I will be returning to try one of their fish dishes! read more
9 months ago
4 months ago
9 months ago
We saw this place across from our hotel balcony and saw the smoked rising from their smoker. The latter together with the singer performing on their patio drew us to it. We had a wonderful dinner, though we only had drinks and salads. Both were great. I started with a Manhattan and my wife an Old Fashioned. I ordered the Grilled Ahi Tuna Salad. The salad was a delightful blend of greens, avocado, mango and red onions with a ginger dressing. The ahi had a lightly smoked flavor which I loved. My wife had the Chicken Cob Salad with Bleu Cheese Vinaigrette. The chicken was really tender. The bleu cheese chunks were plentiful and the one I stole were just so good (I don't think they were missed). Our server, Chris, was very friendly and attentive throughout our meal. The restaurant's atmosphere was very comfortable, the lighting was very soft with spotlights just shining on the tables. Though we come to Asheville often, this was our fist time in this area. But this is a new favorite area for us. read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us, John! We hope…
2 years ago
OK, so I did not remember coming here before but obviously I did. The second go-round was way better, but there was still a little bit of room for improvement. We made a reservation online, which are kind of hard to come by. We showed up a little early to ask if we could be seated and they only had a spot inside which was fine. It seems like if you go off, you're safe, but otherwise you should make a reservation. It was still pretty busy, even though the hour was early. The service was incredible in terms of organization and how attentive they were. We had multiple servers who were checking on us at all times. I got a glass of wine, which was a pretty decent red. The glass it was served was awful. It felt thick and cheap. Honestly I'm kind of bougie when it comes to wine glasses so I expect something nice when I go to a nice place. We split a steak and each got a salad. The Caesar and the wedge salad were both amazing. Highly recommend. The dressing and flavors were delicious. Very good sizes as well. Steak normally comes with french fries but they served it with potatoes. Our server apologized andgot us the correct side. It actually ended up working out because I preferred the potatoes and my partner liked the french fries. Honestly, honestly, each getting a salad and splitting the meal was perfect. The server did box everything up for us nicely, but forgot to put the dressing in which we did request. Overall, he was incredibly friendly and personable in general though. Quite pricey at about $92 with splitting. I did feel like the quality was good and I love the attention to detail and how you can watch the kitchen as you sit. read more
10 months ago
Excellent steak , salad, and cocktails. Marinated ribeye very tasty. Wedge salad best around. Service top notch and great atmosphere for date night or upscale dinner for whole family. Some unique tasty cocktails like the pearfection martini. read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us! We hope to…
5 months ago
An excellent experience. Great service. We had seats by the open kitchen fascinating. Had the fish special of the day halibut. It was perfectly cooked and tasted great. read more
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us, Dan! We love…
2 years ago
Business owner information
Joe D.
Thank you for the great review and for dining with us, Richard We…
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More info about 131 Main Restaurant
308 Thetford St
Asheville, NC 28803
Directions
(828) 651-0131
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https://www.131-main.com
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Ask the Community - 131 Main Restaurant
Are you serving turkey dinner on Thanksgiving or the day after?
Hello Mariah. We are closed on Thanksgiving so our Team Members can be with their families. Hope we can serve you on another day. Have a great Thanksgiving!
I heard you might offer a daily seafood special. Is there any truth to that?
Yes, we do feature fresh seafood tableside. Hope you can join us soon!
What's on the dessert menu?
Our dessert options are featured tableside and do change from time to time. You can contact the location of your choice and inquire regarding the current dessert features. Hope you will visit soon!
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