12 Bones Smokehouse

One of Asheville’s longstanding favorite barbecue joints, 12 Bones takes a no-nonsense approach to delivering smoked meats and classic sides Monday through Friday and only until 4 pm. That’s right, this place does so well it doesn’t see the need to stay open on the weekends at the River Arts District location, an example of its commitment to being part of the local community more than catering to weekend crowds. Sandwiches are the cheapest way to go, but prices for a plate with two sides and cornbread hover around $10 and will more than fill you up.

The baby back ribs from 12 Bones check all the boxes—they’re tender, crispy, and caramelized—but they also add something new to the mix: wildly creative flavors. Rather than sticking to the typical vinegar-based Eastern barbecue sauce or tomato-based Lexington style, 12 Bones instead chooses a third option: sauces made with blueberry-chipotle, Cheerwine, and pineapple habanero. While ribs are the star dish, you can also get beef brisket, pulled pork, smoked turkey, and chicken.

But the beauty of everything new is how it springs from deep Carolina roots. Jovial chef Katie Button of Nightbell makes a cured duck heart that harks back to another era, and the impossibly popular 12 Bones (worth the long line) brings old-school, slow-smoked perfection to the barbecue scene. Similarly, you can taste the wood-fire goodness in every dish at Smoky Park Supper Club, or eat the whole hog on a single sandwich (well, figuratively at least) at Buxton Hall.

The lively crowds at this BBQ hot spot range from hippie potters to downtown suits—former president Barack Obama made 12 Bones his first stop on multiple trips to Asheville—who come for the ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, sweet vinegar slaw, and corn pudding. On a sunny day, grab a seat at the picnic tables outside and take in the murals that cover every wall in the vicinity.

Barack Obama’s favorite North Carolina rib joint, the 12 Bones Smokehouse is a lunch-only spot renowned for its mouthwatering BBQ sold by the pound. Obama famously stopped at the 12 Bones for brisket, ribs and pulled pork while on the campaign trail in 2008, but soon proved that the visit was more than a photo op by stopping by again every time he has been in the area since.

We also plan on tyring 12 Bones Smokehouse for lunch one day since I hear rave reviews and we don't have much in terms of good BBQ where I live in Ohio!

While President Obama's multiple visits to this much-loved barbecue hotspot may have garnered 12 Bones some national attention, Asheville locals have been singing its praises for years. The restaurant, which has two Asheville area locations, is perhaps best known for its River Arts District locale where a line of hungry loyalists begins to form by 11am each weekday. Inside this no-frills, red-roofed quick-serve on Riverside Drive, a steady supply of pulled pork, beef brisket and slow-smoked baby back ribs are served with finger-licking sauces, including Blueberry Chipotle, which is available in bottles to take home.

A trip to Asheville isn’t complete without sinking your teeth into the city’s world-famous BBQ!. Out of the dozens of BBQ joints in the Land of the Sky, the one that always seems to rise above all the rest is 12 Bones Smokehouse. The tried and true family recipes and exceptionally tender meats have earned this local joint a spot on the Food Network’s list of “Top 10 Spots for BBQ in America.” After trying their smoked brisket for myself, I can’t say that I’m willing to argue.

Showcasing old family recipes and new inventive flavors, this River Arts District hole in the wall has no qualms about mixing it up with Memphis, Kansas, and Carolina-style ribs. A favorite of the Obamas, 12 Bones Smokehouse no-frills establishment has maintained their commitment to simple ingredients prepared with utmost care. Head to either of their locations and load up on Baby Back ribs in intriguing flavors such as blueberry chipotle or pineapple habanero.

12 Bones Smokehouse is an Asheville institution that has often reached the national media. It opened in 2005 in a squat building in the River Arts District, long before the RAD was the trendy neighborhood that it is today – full of art studios, shops, galleries, and parks, and home to some of the best restaurants and cafés in town. This popular spot offers creative barbecue that doesn’t adhere 100% to any particular style but tastes fantastic.

A favorite stop for Barack and Michelle Obama during their P,aces visits, 12 Bones has long been a local go-to for barbecue. The hardwood-smoked ribs, with the popular blueberry-chipotle, spicy pineapple habanero, or more traditional brown-sugar sauce, best dinner places asheville nc a top attraction. And many go for the pulled pork, smoked turkey, or epic Hogzilla bacon, bratwurst, pulled pork, and pepper jack on a hoagie sandwiches.

Often considered the best barbecue in Asheville, 12 Bones is known for being President Obama’s favorite place to dine while in town. The ribs, available in a few delicious rubs and sauces, are some of the best you’ll find anywhere. A variety of smoked meats are served as platters, sandwiches, or added to the surprisingly tasty (if not terribly healthy) salads, and a self-service sauce bar lets you sample all of their innovations.

Another locally-owned American barbecue joint, 12 Bones Smokehouse understands the importance of doing things slowly and doing them right. Each of their delicious, caringly-made meats is slow-roasted over the ideal combination of meat-smoking woods, then seasoned with unique, always-changing flavorings, so each visit is a unique and delicious experience. Your dog can join you at one of the outdoor picnic tables!

As one of the more popular BBQ restaurants in Asheville, North Carolina, this lunch-only smokehouse was made famous with a notable visit by former President Barrack Obama. Serving up hefty portions of BBQ meat by the pound, this casual lunch joint smokes everything from scratch over select hardwoods, oak, and cherry. Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating and be prepared for a long line out the door.

5 Foundy Street, Suite 10, Asheville, North Carolina 288012350 Hendersonville Road, Arden, North Carolina 2870412bones.com1-828-253-4499 (Foundy Street)1-828-687-1395 (Hendersonville Road). With two locations in Asheville, this is the prime spot for gluten-free barbecue lovers to satisfy their cravings. Everything is cooked from scratch, and the meats are smoked over select woods.

The unpretentious 12 Bones Smokehouse serves up a few mouthwatering items your former President and his family will love. Yep, this BBQ joint is so good Obama went back twice for some Carolina BBQ and it’s hard to resist the smells wafting through the entire Foundy District as you]re exploring. Meats include pulled chicken and port, and sliced beef brisket.

President Obama drew attention to this no-frills, lunch-only Asheville BBQ spot when he stopped here on the campaign trail. Today, 12 Bones Smokehouse is still resoundingly popular with locals, who come here primarily for the blueberry BBQ chipotle ribs, luscious corn pudding, and top-notch pickled okra. While the interior isn’t fancy, the food is fine.

The area is booming with studios and galleries and food stops along the way, including 12 Bones Smokehouse (5 Foundy Street), a hyped barbecue spot with otherworldly ribs smothered in divine sauces made from Cheerwine and blueberry. The sides here are also unmissable, because to be honest, we can't resist the corn pudding and jalapeño grits.

12 Bones Smokehouse is one of Asheville’s most famous barbecue joints, known for its slow-cooked meats and homemade sides. The restaurant uses cherry and oak wood to smoke its meats, offering flavorful dishes like ribs, chicken, and pork. With its casual atmosphere and mouthwatering menu, 12 Bones is a must-visit for any barbecue enthusiast.

12 Bones Smokehouse is a popular choice for slow-cooked BBQ and ribs in Asheville. They have a location in the River Arts District beside The Wedge Brewery's new location as well as a South Asheville location. See what all the hype is about and then purchase their famous Blueberry Chipotle or Sweet Tomato sauces for the drive home.

At 12 Bones Smokehouse, everything is made from scratch and smoked long & slow over select hardwoods. Roll up your sleeves and dive into drool-worthy ribs that are doused in either Cheerwine or blueberry chipotle sauce. For a lighter intro, dabble into the side plate (pick four) and the “just a taste” meat menu.

2- 12 Bones – Made famous by President Obama, 12 Bones is an icon in the River Arts District of Asheville. 12 Bones is only open for lunch, and their blueberry barbecue sauce is a must take home with you item. There is usually a line out the door, which proves its popularity and, of course, its yummy goodness.

EM: BBQ and beer … this is one of my favorite spots in Asheville. When someone asks what they should do when they come to Asheville I always include 12 Bones in my recommendation. Not only is their food and beer delicious but it’s served in a relaxed, chill spot with plenty of outdoor seating and easy parking.

Barbecue lovers rejoice— 12 Bones Smokehouse takes smoked meats to new heights. Known as a favorite lunch spot for locals (and even Presidents!), this humble eatery delivers big on flavor. Signature Dish: Their "Pulled Pork Sandwich" is tender and smoky, with a side of baked beans that’s hard to beat.

If you’re wondering where to get the best ribs in Asheville, 12 Bones Smokehouse gets our vote!. They are located in South Asheville (their River Arts District location flooded.). 12 Bones keeps it simple with its menu: a few different types of meats served as either a platter or a sandwich.

Your dog is welcome on the patio at one of the best restaurants in Asheville: 12 Bones Smokehouse. They have incredible plates and sandwiches, sauces, local beers … just typing this makes us hungry. It’s the kind of place that locals go to and one of THE best places to get a bite in town.

Budget-friendly prices, generous portions, and a fast-moving line make 12 Bones a favorite barbecue joint. Along with ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, 12 Bones has some of the best side dishes around. Jalapeno cheese grits, corn pudding, and smoked potato salad are certainly worth a try.

The lines may be long, but it’s worth the wait for this locally loved BBQ joint. Enjoy the Southern style, slow-smoked barbecue and scratch-made sides while they last—when they sell out, they… read more. The lines may be long, but it’s worth the wait for this locally loved BBQ joint.

It’s no secret that the city is proud of its BBQ talents, and this is on display at 12 Bones Smokehouse. Here a world of flavours meets the art of barbecue, and you can indulge in some favourites. Expect pulled pork, beef briskets, and their signature slow-smoked baby back ribs.

A favorite stop for Barack and Michelle Obama during their Asheville visits, 12 Bones has long been a local go-to for barbecue. The hardwood-smoked ribs, with the popular blueberry-chipotle, spicy pineapple habanero, or more traditional brown-sugar sauce, are a top attraction.

Only open weekdays from 11 am to 4 pm, 12 Bones in the River Arts District draws a crowd, and the wait to place your order can be long. Even President Barack Obama had to wait during his three visits here As with any authentic barbecue house, 12 Bones has little atmosphere.

Gluten-free restaurants in Asheville, especially those serving up that famous North Carolina BBQ, are not hard to come by. Our top three gluten-sensitive Asheville BBQ joints include 12 Bones, Bear’s Smokehouse, and Luella’s. You honestly cannot go wrong with any of these.

Get a taste of real North Carolina barbeque (and see why it’s the best!). 📍 Google Maps | Phone: (828) 253-4499 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 4:30 pm Mon, 11 am – 5 pm Tue-Fri, Closed Sat & Sun. A trip to Asheville isn’t complete without some classic Carolina barbeque.

This lunch-only smokehouse serves barbeque, platters, and sandwiches in a casual and fun atmosphere. Meats are smoked over select oak and cherry hardwoods. The owners believe in using simple ingredients and take lots of care in preparing your food.

12 Bones is a local legend for their Chipolte Blueberry sauce. That said, this place changed ownership a few years back, I don’t know if that was a good or bad thing. I love their ribs, they seem to be on point when it comes to ribs.

We researched, asked locals, got many passionate recommendations, but ultimately, we chose 12 Bones. What a fantastic spot to indulge any barbeque whims. Bryan and Angela King are a laid-back power couple who run this bustling place.

No trip to Asheville is complete without barbecue, and 12 Bones is the place to get it. This smokehouse serves traditional North Carolina barbecue in a relaxed, funky industrial setting. Meat is the central focus.

Iron and Oak Brisket Co. and 12 Bones Smokehouse & Brewing | The Texas-style barbecue classics are taking on low-and-slow smoked eats during this final face-off — time to decide the culinary champion.

On the other end of the spectrum, for the best lunch meateries, check out 12 Bones Smokehouse (only open for lunch, so don’t miss it!) and Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack, both on Sweeten Creek Road.

I have already promised 12 Bones for lunch as my husband always wants barbeque when he is back down south. But where for dinner?. I should also mention I'm vegetarian.

Long a local go-to for barbecue, 12 Bones is rumored to be a favorite Asheville restaurant frequented by none other than the Obamas when in the area.