Take date night up a notch at a unique Asheville establishment that somehow manages to simultaneously feel elegant, rustic, and sultry. Part of the esteemed Kessler Collection of hotels, dining establishments, and experiences, the Red Stag Grill certainly lives up to the Kessler name. It’s also in perfect keeping with the Grand Bohemian Hotel, in which it is located. A favorite in Biltmore Village, the Red Stag Grill is situated near several other classy establishments, as well as the Swannanoa River.
The moment you set foot in the Red Stag Grill, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a hunting lodge, albeit the classiest hunting lodge imaginable. You’ll quickly realize that the term ‘from scratch’ exemplifies not just the food, but also the decor and the building itself. Gaze overhead at hand-hewn beams as you’re led to your handcrafted table.
Dim lighting gives the venue a romantic touch, which is unfortunately diminished somewhat by the proximity of the tables to one another. Still, the restaurant retains an intimate feel and therefore tends to attract couples. It’s formal enough for a memorable date, but casual enough to relax.
If you’re like most Red Stag visitors, you’ll begin your experience with a craft cocktail or a carefully paired glass of wine. The knowledgeable staff members know exactly which wines pair best with which appetizers and entrees, so don’t be afraid to ask for their opinion. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with the Seven Falls Merlot or the Kessler Margarita. The restaurant also serves a variety of local craft beers, including the Highland Gaelic Ale and the Greenman IPA.
The Red Stag Grill boasts an extensive menu with selections designed to keep both adventurous and picky eaters happy. Those with dietary limitations may struggle, although a handful of vegetarian options are available. In general, however, the restaurant best suits human carnivores. When possible, the restaurant opts for locally-grown, hormone-free ingredients.
If you intend to visit on the weekend, plan ahead; the restaurant tends to fill up quickly, so reservations are essential. Seating is far less difficult to score during the week —especially at lunchtime.
A few of our favorite menu items include:
Bohemian Bowl
Craft your meal exactly to your liking with one of the Red Stag Grill’s Bohemian Bowls. Begin with either the wild mushroom farro bowl (which includes a fresh herb patte) or the asparagus and brie risotto bowl (served with roasted tomato butter). Add your choice of shrimp, salmon, chicken, eggs, or filet mignon.
Crab & Lobster Cocktail
No, this is not an alcoholic beverage, but it’s the next best thing. Why choose between crab and lobster when you can have both in the same appetizer? Enjoy Maine lobster and lump blue crab alongside pea tendrils, avocado, and lemon herb aioli.
Mountain River Elk Loin
A Red Stag favorite, this meal delivers the ultimate hunting lodge experience. Grilled spring onions, broccolini, and huckleberry vincotto elevate this delicious entree.
Butcher’s Cut
Featured on the Chophouse Menu, this meal changes based on regional availability. It always includes an excellent cut from a local ranch. It’s seasoned to perfection with Kessler’s signature rub.
Chicken and Waffles
If you visit during brunch, do yourself a favor and order this Southern favorite. The buttermilk fried chicken breast is extra juicy — and it clearly complements Red Stag’s fluffy waffles. Top it off with delectable sorghum syrup.
No matter what you order, you’ll appreciate Red Stag’s careful plating and use of fresh ingredients. With such an extensive meal, it won’t take much to convince you to make a return trip.
Insider Tips
-The Red Stag Grill offers different lunch specials for each day of the week. Favorites include stuffed Portobello mushrooms on Monday and fish and chips on Friday. Lunch specials are not available during the weekend.
-Struggling to find the Red Stag Grill on social media? Take a look at the Grand Bohemian Hotel’s Instagram page, where you’ll find regular updates on special events.