Goals for 2025? To be a trendsetter. At the end of last year, the New York Times put together a list of food trend predictions for 2025. But we see that there are a couple of Asheville spots ahead of the curve when it comes to these trends.

Savory coffee

It's time to branch out from the vanilla oat milk latte. High Five Coffee's rosemary sage latte from its winter menu gets an extra kick from a garnish of fresh-cracked black pepper.

Grab-and-go grub

It seems like we’re always on the move, and the NYT says 2025 shouldn’t be any different, so grab-and-go fare is expected to rise up the ranks. The sandwiches, soups, and burritos from West Village Market are a classic, and we also love the tasty + convenient bites from Side Project, the grab-and-go case from Chef Michelle Bailey in Citizen Vinyl.

Heart-warming hospitality

NYT predicts people will crave companionship and seek more intimate + cozy dining experiences emphasizing eating together and community connection. The perfect answer to these desires is Cook With K's Dinner with Strangers. Keep a close eye on its website to get tickets for the next dinner — they sell out fast.

High protein eats

Eating like a gym bro doesn't mean you have to sacrifice flavor. There are plenty of high-protein options at Green Sage Cafe — add protein powder to any of its smoothies, or opt for a bowl like the Havana with chicken, salmon, or sprouted tofu, plus extra protein from black beans and pumpkin seeds.

A buzz without booze

THC- and Kava-infused drinks have risen in popularity, and Asheville has certainly jumped on the trend. You can add Delta 9 to any drink at Plant Bar inside Asheville Dispensary or pick from the wide variety of hemp-based beverages available at Local 604 Bottle Shop.