BBQ Meets Art at Asheville’s 12 Bones Smokehouse
Living in Hendersonville comes with a delicious side of adventure—and one of the tastiest trips you can take is just a short drive north to 12 Bones Smokehouse in Asheville’s eclectic River Arts District. If you’re looking for new things to do in Hendersonville or nearby, this legendary barbecue joint invites you to savor mouthwatering smoked meats, house-crafted sauces, and quirky Carolina charm under the watchful eye of a mural of Anthony Bourdain. It’s the kind of place that feels both like a culinary pilgrimage and a local tradition all rolled into one.
12 Bones: A Smoky Tale of Flavor and Community
Founded in a humble roadside shack in 2005 and once frequented by President Obama, 12 Bones Smokehouse has grown into a mainstay of Western North Carolina’s food scene. Owners Angela and Bryan King have embraced their Southern roots (and love of beer) to maintain the same slow-cooked legacy while adding fresh twists that celebrate local culture and ingredients.
Now nestled in a spacious warehouse at 5 Foundy Street in Asheville, the restaurant shares space with a brewery and art installations, reflecting the creative spirit of the neighborhood. The walls are decked with graffiti art and stickers from local businesses, embodying what makes Asheville—and by extension, the greater Blue Ridge region—so inviting.
Food That Speaks the Language of the Mountains
When it comes to the menu, comfort food reigns supreme. Whether you’re stopping by for the spicy blueberry chipotle ribs, a tender pulled pork sandwich, or the creamy corn pudding, what’s served up is as heartfelt as it is flavorful. Regulars rave about the jalapeño cheese grits, collard greens, and always-tender brisket that practically melts with every bite.
- Smoked turkey and Brie sandwich topped with house-made sauces
- Pork sandwich with Angela’s mom’s kimchi—an ode to her Korean roots
- Cornbread and sweet potato mash that feel like Sunday dinner on a plate
- Craft beers like Sweater Weather pumpkin ale and Mixtape Flashback blueberry wheat
Every dish shows off the magic that happens when flavor is slow-smoked and crafted with heart. It’s also a great way to get inspired if you’re thinking of moving to Hendersonville and want to know what kinds of food adventures await nearby.
A Brewery That Brews With Purpose
As if the food alone wasn’t enough reason for a visit, 12 Bones Brewing offers some of the best beer pairings just a sip away. Housed right next to the restaurant in Arden, the brewery is run by Angela’s brother, Dominic, who brought his expertise from Colorado to create beers that mingle perfectly with BBQ.
From dark lagers brewed with local malt to small-batch ales infused with fresh fruit and seasonal spices, each pint feels like an extension of the kitchen. Their use of beer in the kitchen—even for pickles and cupcakes—adds just the right dash of Asheville’s offbeat flavor.
A Day Trip Worth Savoring
If you’re living in Hendersonville or planning to relocate to Hendersonville, 12 Bones Smokehouse is one of those must-try destinations. Just under an hour’s scenic drive, this is where Asheville’s creative soul meets smoky perfection. It’s a perfect lunch stop before a stroll along the French Broad River, an afternoon at the nearby art studios, or a visit to one of Asheville’s famed breweries.
The River Arts District itself is a hub of cultural activity, where old warehouses are now bursting with painters, potters, and musicians. After a hearty BBQ meal, you can walk it off while admiring the works of local creators—a priceless perk of the area’s thriving art scene. Make sure to check the Carolina Calendar for any upcoming food or art happenings nearby.
Your Culinary Welcome Mat
One of the understated joys of moving to Hendersonville is how easily these quick getaways enhance your everyday life. Whether it’s taking friends who’ve come to visit or exploring with the family on a carefree Saturday, 12 Bones provides a down-to-earth yet memorable experience that captures the essence of Western North Carolina living.
So next weekend, pop up to Asheville for some ribs, suds, and street art. Then head back to Hendersonville full and smiling, reminded once again that choosing to call this region home was one of the best decisions you’ve ever made.
Location & Contact
12 Bones Smokehouse – River Arts District
5 Foundy Street, Suite 10
Asheville, NC 28801
(828) 253-4499
12bones.com
Explore more local favorites and life in the mountains at Our State Magazine, a fantastic resource for learning all about what’s cooking across North Carolina.