The New South is in no way mired in its plantation heritage. In fact, it's one of the fastest-growing and most rapidly changing regions of America. Here's a preview of some recent developments.
Asheville -- The dining scene here gets better and better as new chefs with varied culinary backgrounds move in and open restaurants. Two owners have renovated a Victorian home to open the Corner Kitchen, 3 Boston Way (tel. 828/274-2439), serving a finely tuned pan-American cuisine; the Sunday brunch here is one of the best in Asheville. An Asian-fusion cuisine draws foodies to Doc Chey's Noodle House, 37 Biltmore Ave. (tel. 828/252-8220), a spot magazines have voted the number-one Asian restaurant in North Carolina. Chinese, Japanese, Thai, you name it -- if it's Asian, it's served here. Dishes from the sunny Mediterranean and tapas with Spanish, Portuguese, and Moroccan influences are showcased at Zambra, 85 Walnut St. (tel. 828/232-1060). Sometimes live music groups also perform at Zambra. After dark, the best American musical acts are showcased at the Orange Peel Club, 101 Biltmore Ave. (tel. 828/225-5851). Popular local bands also get exposure here.
