THE MARKET PLACE RESTAURANT | asheville, nc

WineCheeseScallops
Sep 18
5 min read

Dinner at The Market Place Restaurant – Asheville, NC

Brick building with sign "The Market Place 20 Wall," red umbrellas, and string lights. Bright, sunny day with blue sky and clouds.

Downtown Asheville is one of those rare gems where history, charm, and culinary creativity meet in perfect balance. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville’s downtown is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and eclectic mix of shops, breweries, and restaurants. Every corner feels alive with music, culture, and the unmistakable Appalachian spirit. It’s the kind of place that instantly makes you slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and savor the moment.

Urban patio with plants, red umbrellas, and white picket fence. Chalkboard sign reads "Open! For dinner." Cozy, inviting ambiance.

For our anniversary trip, we knew Asheville had to be on the list. And after a little research, we quickly discovered that The Market Place Restaurant was a must-visit. Founded in 1979, this restaurant has deep roots in Asheville’s culinary history, and today it’s led by Chef William Dissen—a fellow West Virginia native, which made the experience feel even more personal for us.

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About Chef William Dissen

Chef Dissen is not only one of the most respected chefs in the country, but also one of the most sustainable. He has been nominated by the James Beard Foundation as one of America’s “Outstanding Chefs” and was named “The Most Sustainable Chef on the Planet” by none other than Chef Gordon Ramsay and National Geographic. His dedication to Appalachian ingredients, regional traditions, and sustainable practices shines through in every dish.

We also happen to be big fans of William’s cookbook—it’s a staple in our kitchen. We’ve recreated several of his recipes at home, and each one has turned out beautifully. If you’d like to experience his approach to Appalachian-inspired cuisine in your own home, you can find the cookbook on Amazon here.

If you’re interested in more of the restaurant’s history and the building itself, their About Us page shares wonderful details about its role in Asheville’s downtown revival.

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The Drive to Asheville

Silver car on winding road with green foliage and blue skies. Driver giving a thumbs-up through the window, conveying a joyful mood.

Our day began with a drive south from West Virginia into the mountains. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect—blue skies, crisp air, and sunshine streaming through the trees. Best of all, we realized The Back of the Dragon—one of the most scenic and exhilarating drives on the East Coast—was practically on our route. Naturally, we had to take our two-seater sports car and make that detour. Sweeping curves, mountain views, and the thrill of the road made for a perfect prelude to our anniversary celebration.

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First Impressions: The Market Place Restaurant

Brick building with "The Market Place" sign, red umbrellas, string lights, and yellow flowers outside. Urban setting, lively atmosphere.

The exterior of The Market Place immediately draws you in with its historic brick façade and timeless charm. It feels like a cornerstone of downtown Asheville, with the kind of presence that makes you pause and admire before stepping inside.

Spacious restaurant with wooden floors, high tables, stools, chandelier, staircase, and people dining. Cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Once inside, we were greeted with an atmosphere that perfectly blended elegance with warmth. The interior is inviting, with high ceilings that open up the space, large windows pouring in natural light, and modern yet tasteful artwork adorning the walls. The vibe was upscale but comfortable, creating the perfect backdrop for an intimate evening. We were seated at a romantic corner table in the back, giving us a wonderful view of the dining room while still feeling tucked away in our own little world.

The dining room at The Market Place manages to strike that rare balance between sophistication and comfort. The high ceilings give the space an airy, open feel, while the natural light streaming through the oversized windows brings warmth and brightness to the room. The thoughtful design makes the restaurant feel simultaneously grand and intimate, perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory evening with friends.

The décor itself feels curated with intention—artwork on the walls reflects both modern creativity and regional character, while the lighting creates a soft glow that enhances the atmosphere without being intrusive. Each table feels carefully placed, offering enough privacy to feel cozy while still allowing guests to enjoy the energy of the dining room. The overall effect is one of timeless charm mixed with contemporary elegance, making the space just as memorable as the food itself.

A bar with a bartender serving a seated man. Shelves of liquor and a TV are in the background. Warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere.

The bar at The Market Place is a destination all on its own. With its polished wood, soft lighting, and shelves lined with an impressive selection of spirits, it immediately draws the eye as you enter the restaurant. The bartenders craft cocktails with the same level of care and creativity that defines the kitchen, often incorporating seasonal ingredients and local flavors. Whether you’re sipping a classic Old Fashioned or one of their signature creations, the bar provides a lively yet refined atmosphere that complements the dining experience beautifully. It’s the kind of place where you could easily start your evening with a drink or linger after dinner to soak in the ambiance.

Dimly lit cafe interior with glowing orb chandeliers, tall windows, and warm orange accents. A cozy, relaxed atmosphere.

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The Meal

Baked dish with crumb topping in a black skillet, garnished with green leaves, beside crispy toast slices on a wooden table.

We began our evening with the appetizer special of the day—a mushroom dish served with crusty crostini. Earthy, rich, and perfectly seasoned, the mushrooms were layered with depth of flavor that paired beautifully with the crisp bread. It was the kind of starter that immediately set the tone for the rest of the meal: simple ingredients elevated with care and technique.

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Wood Grilled Bistro Steak

Grilled steak on a stone plate, topped with fried onions, green sauce, and yellow flowers, served on a wooden table.

The first entrée we shared was the Wood Grilled Bistro Steak, a 10-ounce teres major cut that was tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. It was served atop a silky onion soubise, its gentle sweetness playing against the richness of bourbon-roasted chanterelle and morel mushrooms. The red wine jus added depth, while the Appalachian chimichurri brought a bright herbal kick that balanced the dish beautifully. Crispy shallots on top gave the perfect crunch to each bite. Every element worked in harmony, creating a dish that was both indulgent and deeply satisfying.

Whole Sunburst Farm Trout

Roasted fish with crispy skin in a red dish, garnished with yellow flowers, lemon, and veggies. Rustic wooden table setting.

Next came the Whole Sunburst Farm Trout, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The rainbow trout, served boneless, was delicate yet flavorful, its flaky texture elevated by a medley of summer vegetables—cherry tomatoes, capers, cipollini onions, squash, and heirloom peppers. The garlic butter and fresh summer herbs tied it all together, while the crispy okra added an Appalachian touch that made the dish sing. It was light, vibrant, and full of bright flavors that reminded us of the season.

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Raspberry Almond Torte

Elegant dessert with chocolate layers, a raspberry, and edible flower on a speckled plate. Warm wooden table background.

We couldn’t resist dessert and chose the Raspberry Almond Torte. A rich chocolate ganache paired with raspberry coulis created the perfect balance of indulgent and refreshing, while the chocolate curls gave it that extra touch of elegance. It was the sweetest way to end our evening, both literally and figuratively.

A Night to Remember

Couple smiling indoors, standing close together. She wears a coral dress with a tan purse, he wears a plaid jacket. Colorful chandelier overhead.

Our dinner at The Market Place was everything we hoped it would be and more. From the warm welcome to the thoughtful service, from the historic setting to the beautifully prepared dishes, every detail made our anniversary dinner unforgettable. We’re so thankful we made the trip and even more thankful we chose to celebrate at this remarkable restaurant.

If you find yourself in Asheville, The Market Place is an absolute must. It’s not just a meal—it’s an experience that celebrates the spirit of Appalachian cuisine and the artistry of one of the region’s greatest chefs.

Website:

https://marketplace-restaurant.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarketPlaceAVL

Address: 20 Wall St, Asheville, NC 28801

Phone: (828) 252-4162