Environment
Nine Mile has three locations in Asheville. West Asheville, South Asheville, and Montford. While all three share a similar vibe, the South Asheville location, located in the Biltmore Park Shopping Center, feels a bit less authentic compared to the cozier West Asheville spot. However, it does have the advantage of being larger and often easier to get a table at.
One challenge with Nine Mile is that they don’t take reservations, making it tricky when meeting friends or hosting out-of-town visitors. Wait times can get extremely long, and I’ve had times where my group had to change plans because the wait was just too much. This is actually why I’ve never been to the original Montford location, it’s always packed! For good reason though, the food is just that good!
Food
Nine Mile specializes in Caribbean-inspired cuisine. Before my first visit a few years ago, I had never tried Caribbean food and wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised by how flavorful and delicious everything was! That said, I’ll admit, I don’t handle spice well, and some dishes pack more heat than this Midwestern gal can handle.
For gluten-free diners, Nine Mile offers a variety of options, and the staff is knowledgeable about dietary restrictions. However, one frustration is that while they offer gluten-free pasta, they cook it in the same water as traditional wheat pasta. Though this is clearly noted on the menu, it’s still a bit of a letdown for those with Celiac Disease or a gluten intolerance. If you’re strictly gluten-free, I’d recommend steering clear of the pasta dishes.
My go-to dish at Nine Mile is the Back-a-Yard Bowl, a hearty, flavorful meal with a base of rice and beans, your choice of protein, and sweet, caramelized plantains. If you’ve never had plantains before, this is your sign to try them, you’ll thank me later. They add the perfect touch of sweetness and texture to the dish!
Another highlight of Nine Mile is their house-made sauces and salad dressings. If you find one you love, you can even purchase a bottle to take home as a tasty souvenir.
You might notice the caption on the photo of my meal, this picture was taken shortly after Hurricane Helene. Nine Mile was one of the first Asheville restaurants to reopen, offering a special meal deal to support the community. After such a devastating disaster, it felt especially meaningful to finally sit down to a hot meal, support a local business, and experience a small moment of normalcy and joy again.
Final Thoughts on Nine Mile
Nine Mile is a great spot in Asheville if you’re looking for bold flavors and a unique, Caribbean-inspired menu. While the wait times can be a downside, the food is worth it, just plan accordingly, especially during peak hours. If you’re down to wait, consider grabbing one of their delicious drinks from the bar. If you’re gluten-free, you’ll appreciate their awareness of dietary restrictions, but be mindful of cross-contact with the pasta.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Asheville, Nine Mile is definitely worth checking out. Just bring your appetite, and maybe a little patience!
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Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in this blog are based on my personal experiences with restaurants offering gluten-free options. While I aim to provide accurate and helpful information, I cannot guarantee that the gluten-free options at these establishments will meet everyone’s needs or expectations. Cross-contact and ingredient changes are always a possibility.
Please exercise your own judgment and diligence when dining out, particularly if you have Celiac Disease or gluten sensitivity. I am not liable for any adverse effects that may occur from consuming food at any of the restaurants mentioned in this blog. Always confirm with the restaurant staff to ensure your meal meets your specific dietary requirements.
Your safety is your responsibility—eat smart and stay gluten-free!
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