March/April New & Notable

The Lantern  
Hendersonville
Coastal cuisine comes to the mountains at The Lantern in The Charleston Inn, which opened in December. A skillet of cornbread (chef Casey Maness’ mother’s recipe) starts the meal, with lowcountry favorites like crab cakes and gumbo to follow. 755 N. Main St.; (828) 513-5033; www.thecharleston.net

Ruff’ton Brewhouse   
Rutherfordton
Just before New Year’s, Rutherford County’s first brewery began serving up pints, courtesy of owner Mary Mooney and brewmaster Brad Plemmons. The brewery’s dry, crisp Blonde Merlin ale and hoppier pale ale are served alongside pub food like the Ruff’ton Special: a sandwich or wrap with turkey, bacon, and creamy jalapeño spread. Customers can relax on the covered patio or in the cozy taproom. 177 N. Main St.; (828) 375-2337; www.rufftonbrewhouse.com      

Red Ginger DimSum & Tapas  
Asheville
Traditional scratch-made dim sum inspired owner Mai Medvedev to bring authentic Chinese cuisine to Asheville in February. The intimate space is too petite for cart service; instead, dishes like black truffle dumplings and foon zao (steamed chicken feet with black bean sauce) are prepared in an open kitchen. 82 Patton Ave.; (828) 505-8688; www.redgingerasheville.com
 

The Hub of WNC
Robbinsville
In March, this popular Graham County takeout and coffee shop serving breakfast and barbecue expanded to a sit-down restaurant. Owner Greg McCoy and his team repurposed a century-old barn to create a rustic dining area, with décor that highlights the county’s history. The adjoining 1950s gas station still serves as a coffee shop. 664 Rodney Orr Bypass; (828) 479-0478; Facebook: The Hub of WNC LLC