Capella on 9, Asheville
The new AC Hotel from Marriott collaborated with Asheville Chef Peter Pollay of Posana for its farm-to-table menu of European-inspired dishes. Slated to open in mid August, the rooftop restaurant and bar will offer dishes like patatas with roasted vine tomatoes and flank steak with Spanish goat cheese and piquillo aioli. 10 Broadway; (828) 258-2572; www.capellaon9.com
Adair Brothers Smokehouse, Cashiers
Scott Adair has been busy working for Wolfgang Puck, but for his new project, he grounds himself in family roots. Open since May, Adair Brothers Smokehouse focuses on family recipes for its homemade dry-rubbed ribs and Texas-style brisket. Try all five homemade barbecue sauces, plus side dishes like fresh collards and jalapeño cornbread, which are made in-house with local produce. 281 US 64; (828) 743-3200; https://www.adairbrotherssmokehouse.com/
Baba Nahm, Asheville
Open since April in the Grove Arcade, Baba Nahm, from Reza Setayeh of Rezaz in Asheville, has brought affordable Middle Eastern street food to the heart of downtown. Nosh on large helpings of shawarma, fries with tahini and harissa sauce, or a falafel pita. All menu items are ready for quick pick-up, but the vibrant storefront will make you want to linger through desert. 1 Page Ave.; (828) 575-2075; https://babanahm.com/
Mountain Layers Brewing Company, Bryson City
Sip on a sugar-lime saison or Scotch ale in a brewery that offers two floors of taps and a rooftop deck overlooking the Tuckasegee River and downtown Bryson City. Open since May, the seven-barrel craft brewery owned by Mark and Kim Prewitt allows you to sit right next to the brewing action and enjoy flagship beers like the Tuck n’ Roll double pale ale. 90 Everett St.; (828) 538-0115, https://www.mountainlayersbrewingcompany.com/home