Golden Hour in Asheville, NC, is the kind of restaurant that lingers in your memory long after your meal is over—a feast for both the eyes and the palate, set in a wildly eclectic and artsy environment that is as much an experience as a dinner. This is chef Jacob Sessoms’ most ambitious project yet, where the focus is on the simple decadence of high-quality, local ingredients, celebrated by the warmth of wood-fire cooking and an unfussy but passionate approach to hospitality.
The menu is a love letter to bold flavors and Southern soul. The crab or shellfish beignets are a revelation: golden, crisp on the outside, meltingly tender within, with an oceanic richness that has guests hoping they never leave the menu. For entrées, the swordfish special is so delectable you’ll want to wipe the plate clean, while dishes like the hanger steak (best ordered medium rare) and the juicy pork chop bring out the primal joy of expertly charred meats.
Even the burger here—a true behemoth—arrives nestled in a pillowy ciabatta, piled high with fresh veggies, and accompanied by golden onion rings and a mountain of fries. It is over-the-top in all the right ways and comes with enough flavor to satisfy the hungriest of appetites. And don’t leave without dessert or sampling something inventive from the cocktail program—the Saint Germain screwdriver is a crowd pleaser.
But Golden Hour is more than just the food. The space glows with quirky charm, and the staff strikes the perfect balance of attentiveness and genuine friendliness. Whether you’re relaxing at the bar or enjoying a languid meal with friends, the time seems to melt away—just like the perfectly cooked shellfish beignets on your tongue. If you crave a dining experience that champions Asheville’s creative spirit, delights your senses at every turn, and leaves you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished, Golden Hour is your must-try destination.
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