Editor’s Note: Fork & Dagger is 828newsNOW’s anonymous restaurant review series, written by our independent Grub Scout—no freebies, no press perks, no agenda. Grub Scout pays full price, visits unannounced, and takes notes on food, service, atmosphere, and value. Each review reflects a recent, honest experience rated on our 1‑to‑5 fork scale. We aim to help you discover standout dining spots—from casual diners to white‑tablecloth affairs—one bite at a time.
Did you know there’s a restaurant in town that’s been around for more than 60 years? I didn’t, despite having been there before. It had been a couple of decades, but I used to enjoy brunch at Stoney Knob Café. Somehow, it slipped off my radar. Then, last week, someone casually asked if it was still open. A quick search later, and I knew it was time to go back.
Upon entering, I felt transported to the mid 90s. Glorious kitsch and ridiculous lamps, with a layout of booths and bar that all felt like a 60s diner. It’s as cozy as can be in there. No hipster modern anything. I loved it. There’s even a painting of Elvis painted to look like a Velvet Elvis, which I found absurdly delightful.
The menu was rather large, but deciding was fun because so much looked very appetizing.
I chose the Bloody Mary to start, largely because they advertised a slice of thick-cut bacon, and it was perfect. She chose the house margarita and thought it was decent.
For my meal, I chose the OPA! Platter with lamb, Greek salad, tzatziki sauce and pita bread. I know it’s brunch, but if there’s a Mediterranean platter on a menu, I find it hard to pass that up. I added two eggs and potatoes for good measure. It was wonderful. In fact, that was the best lamb gyro meat I’ve had in town. This place has a big Greek flair, and I’m always into that. The eggs were great, and the potatoes had the ideal crispy on the outside but soft on the inside texture.
She had the Omeleta Zamora with bacon, wild mushrooms, goat cheese, onions, rosemary crema and tomato salsa. We’re pretty sure it was the best omelet in Asheville.
We also had the Tacos Locos — Corona-braised chicken breast, chorizo on corn tortillas topped with plantain cilantro mousse, tequila lime infused cabbage insalata, chipotle pickled onions and smoked gouda. Even their Mexican-style dish was extraordinary.
I love this place, and I’m glad to know it’s still thriving. There was a long wait for brunch, but it was definitely worth it. The food, the decor, the service and the experience were all a welcome blast from the past. We loved it, and you will too.
