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12 Bones Smokehouse
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 11 am - 4 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Dive-y, Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
140 reviews for 12 Bones Smokehouse
Review Highlights
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"the collards and jalapeno cheese grits." In 17 reviews -
"The smoked potato salad is retarded good." In 9 reviews -
"We had the pulled pork sandwiches, which were excellent." In 38 reviews
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140 reviews in English
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Review from Amanda M.
Seattle, WA
4/12/2012
The BLT is delicious, complete with caramelized bacon, fried green tomatoes, and basil mayo.
...and the jalapeño grits and slaw are a must.
Good local beer on tap and a nice vibe. But then again, this is Asheville. -
Review from Nathaniel S.
Asheville, NC
5/9/2012
12 Bones is definitely very good for the price, hands-down one of the best deals in Asheville for a large and usually enjoyable meal. I've eaten here many times since it opened, though I go a lot less now that it's been nationally 'discovered' (ie overhyped ad nauseam).
My go-to meat nowadays is a half chicken, I always ask for two leg quarters and though I get the occasional confused stare/mild gripe (why? don't like 75% of your other chicken-ordering customers want my white meat anyway??) I haven't been disappointed yet. When I used to get the typical half-chicken the white meat was sometimes dry, especially near closing time, but never so bad that I wouldn't eat it.
Other meats are quite inconsistent, or in the case of the ribs overpriced. $15-25 for lunch (incl. drink, tax, tip) is way too much for so-so ribs. And why do 'nouveau-cue' restaurants always use baby back ribs, anyway? Spare ribs are better and cheaper.
Most of the sides range from so-so to very good, but two stand out as consistently awful:
Mac and cheese tastes like it's from a box, and not well-prepared either. Usually runny and flavorless, there are much better starchy/cheesy sides here so this is pretty much a waste of plate space.
Coleslaw varies between bad and worse. I grew up eating great slaw made by my mom and grandma and I love to make it myself, including vinegar/citrus-based, mayo-based, whatever. The slaw at 12 Bones is at best weak-flavored yet overly sweet, and at worst tastes like the cabbage and onions (truly unnecessary in good slaw) are well past their prime. It honestly kind of offends me that any restaurant, much less a barbecue joint, would charge money for such lame coleslaw. You all at 12 Bones drop me a line and I'll come by for the 5 minutes it will take to show you how to make this incredibly simple dish actually taste good. :-P
Anyway, I do like this place a lot but the hype is overblown and inaccurate. Maybe if the silly hours and lines of tourists weren't so inconvenient I'd be a little more charitable... I very much appreciate that I can get a good portion of decent barbecue for a fair price and my vegetarian wife will also enjoy her meal and agree to go back sometime, however I think 12 Bones would be wise to rework many of their sides to better enhance their main dishes. More consistent overall preparation would also be appreciated. -
Review from Bernard A.
Stockton, CA
5/5/2012
Hell f*cken yeah! Finally tasted some good ass barbeque! Sorry, I'm overly excited that I didn't have to eat sh*tty barbeque from California. Yes, I'm from Cali and what I thought was good barbeque is pure sh*t compared to this wonderful place you North Carolinian's call 12 Bones.
I would do a review for each item I tasted, but I'm too tired and who really reads these reviews. I'll just say it's all damn good. -
Review from Kris T.
5/3/2012
12 Bones is one of those places that you have to try when you visit Asheville (unless you're a gluten-free vegan raw foodist... in which case, Asheville also has you covered). The President eats there when he's in town. There's a line forming by 11:30 am; by noon, it's 100 people deep.
After living in Asheville for the past month, I finally rallied a group of pork-hungry colleagues to join me for my inaugural visit. And you know what? I liked it but didn't love it.
Maybe I'm spoiled because, being a native North Carolinian, I have enjoyed a lifetime of delicious pulled pork BBQ, both eastern and western Carolina styles. Maybe it's because I'm not a ribs fan; the place IS called "12 Bones," after all. Or maybe it's because 12 Bones just doesn't quite live up to its hype.
The pulled pork was great, very nicely cooked, smoky and fatty and delicious. But I was really disappointed with the sauces. The "spicy vinegar" (ENC style) sauce was weirdly sweet, and not as spicy as I would have liked. The tomato (WNC) sauce was less sweet than the vinegar (completely backwards from the norm) and was a bit bland. And where, oh, where was the Texas Pete?! They may have it, but come on, that should be a staple on every table, just like salt and pepper.
But then there are the sides, and I had no complaints in that department. Collard greens: practically more pork than greens: salty, fatty, and absolutely perfect. Vinegar coleslaw: tangy, not too sweet, loaded with celery seeds. Smoked potato salad: holy crap, eat this now! The cornbread that comes with most of the plates was so-so, but then, I prefer hushpuppies to cornbread.
Would I recommend this place to friends? Sure, it's worth it for the experience, for a nice lunch or dinner al fresco on the covered patio, and an RC cola. And I can't say I was disappointed. But was I wowwed? Nope. -
Review from Rebecca F.
Asheville, NC
5/17/2012
So overrated. Cannot understand why this place is so popular - oh yeah, the president likes it. Ribs were dry and tasteless, collards not good at all, pulled pork not good, other sides mediocre. Ambience is fast foodish. Go to Luella's for good ribs and real Asheville ambience without the line and the stupid hours. Or head out to the country and have some real NC BBQ at any of the local joints that dot the small towns of this state. Leave 12 Bones for the president and the tourists.
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Review from Tony B.
San Francisco, CA
5/15/2012
I love bbq. Spent enough time visiting town that I can say it is the only place I went to twice to eat out. I ate out every day for almost 3 weeks. So good. som many options. Got to share a bunch of things with my friends that I would recommend this as a need to stop and try it. If you like bbq you cant go wrong here.
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Review from Natalie K.
Atlanta, GA
3/18/2012
This place is worth the hype! I love the location in RAD and I was pleased at how casual it is. The prices are SO cheap the food is GREAT! There are so many menu options.
I sampled the wedge salad which has a spicy homemade dressing and onion straws - it was so tasty! I also tried the pork sandwich with all of the different sauces. I really like the jalapeno, it was thin and vinegary. I tried the cornbread which was soft and had tons of flavor.
I ordered a green man beer with my meal which was served in a LARGE glass for under $4. It was my first stop in Asheville and I was so pleased with the atmosphere of the restaurant and the whole city. I will definitely back to sample their ribs and some of their sides! -
Review from Joseph P.
Buffalo Grove, IL
4/21/2012
Much as I wanted to not like this "iPhone of BBQ Joints", it is pretty good - just not available for those who work any distance away during the day! Pretty good Ribs - overdone but great sauce - the Blueberry in my case. Chopped Beef and Pork sandwiches are first rate, as are the sides we tried: Cole Slaw, Potato Salad, and Cheese Grits. Nice staff, long lines, quirky eating area. If you must have Diet Coke or Pepsi, forget it - it is only RC here. As the line lengthens, the smartphones come out so the trendies can announce to all how great it is to be here. Blah, blah, blah...just order and eat, and put down the iPhone!
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Review from Susan B.
LaPlace, LA
2/22/2012 1 Check-in Here
For outstanding barbecue and all the fixin's, this is the place to go! It's a dive-y looking joint hard by the side of the road in the river arts district of Asheville, which appears to be a former manufacturing area. We drove right past 12 Bones Smokehouse because it looks like an old grocery market. The short line to get in on Friday afternoon about 2:30 was rare; it's usually quite long.
We had smoked turkey and shared 4 sides: smoked potato salad, collards, jalapeño cheese grits and corn pudding and they were dee-lish but our favorites were the grits and potato salad,
Our only regrets: that we didn't get an order of ribs and that we live hundreds of miles from this memorable dining experience. We live in the land of Dinosaur Barbecue and 12 Bones is far superior. -
Review from Chelly S.
Jacksonville, FL
12/23/2011
Fantastic! This place was something special. Tin plates, great ribs, house rubs and sauces for sale, and rustic, down home ambiance. It does not get any better than this.
Come early for lunch. You have to stand in line to order your food but it is very fast and efficient and you could not ask for a better staff from beginning to end. This is an ideal take out place but you can eat In too!
The whole Arts district is a great place that deserves and needs the patronage and support of the entire community of Asheville. If you go there to eat lunch here and check out some of the great art production facilities and studios, you will want to come back again and again. It is not a congested mess like Biltmore Village but it has a much better selection of art objects.
12 Bones is worth a visit no matter where you come from. We own a second home in Waynesville and this is the best barbeque we have ever eaten anywhere. -
Review from Ashley F.
Brooklyn, NY
1/12/2012
I freaking love places like this; meaning, that even though it KNOWS it's amazing and has lines EVERY DAY, they still only stay open during lunch hours, only on weekdays. I'm not sure why they don't or can't stay open later and on the weekends, but the limited hours and guaranteed line out the door make it much more appealing.
I came with my boyfriend and brother (who was living there at the time) on a weekday and waited on line for about twenty minutes. Once you get to the register to order, you've probably already make your decisions, but it's still hard to decide, it all looks and smells so good. The daily list of sauces and rubs might even overwhelm you, they all look so good.
For the ribs we ordered the blueberry chipotle rub. We heard so many things about it so we had to try it ourselves. After you order and get a drink (they have beer on tap, too), sit down at any one of the many picnic tables they have to offer.
We also ordered the pulled pork, baked beans, collard greens, and the jalapeno cheese grits. It was all amazing. I don't want to say anything more to overhype or ruin anything. Just go for yourself, and go hungry. -
Review from Mitch M.
Sugar Grove, NC
3/25/2012
This place is great and worth the wait! Their ribs are some of the best I have ever tasted, and the sides are super!
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Review from Steph D.
Portland, OR
2/21/2012
Oh my gawwwwwd this place is so good!!! Probably the truest, down-homiest soul food you can find in this area! I love their BLT - I'm literally salivating just thinking about it now... fried green tomatoes, thick cut, greasy bacon, (lettuce, obviously is just lettuce) and some kind of aioli on grilled bread.... the yummy is too much! It's not diet food - I can tell you right now that a trip to 12 Bones should technically probably be your only meal of the day but hot damn it is worth the sacrifice! Mac & cheese, collard greens, mashed sweet potatoes, I could go on and onnnn. They do it up right, never disappoints. GO THERE! GO NOW!!!
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Review from Fred B.
Greensboro, NC
10/8/2011 5 photos
Obviously a popular place (lines by 11:30), and with some reasons - the ribs, and some of the sides sides - but the pork and the brisket are just ordinary at best, and I've never cared much for smoked bird of any sort, except for that at several BBQ joints in the piedmont area.
This place was once a service station or auto repair place, and is in a former industrial area of Asheville, so there is a somehat funky quality to the restaurant. It can, and does, get crowded, and parking becomes sporty.
The ribs are the real headliner here. They offer baby backs with 2 or 3 choices as to sauce each day, with 2 sides and a slice of cornbread - half rack for $10, full for $18. The ribs are tender, moist, and loaded with flavor, and the Blueberry Chipotle and the Strawberry Chipotle ribs bring some nice heat, but I never really got any form of berry taste.
The Corn Pudding is nice, not exactly made in the traditional manner, but still it is rich and tasty. Collards are also a little different tasting, not sure what the somewhat different taste comes from, but the dish is not at all bad, and has some meat it it. The Baked Beans are nice, and I don't often like beans served at barbecue joints, but these are nice, not too sweet. The Mac & Cheese should be avoided, and the Cornbread is of the sweet type.They have several house made sauces - mustard based, a KC type, and a green pepper sauce - not any that I was crazy about.
The Pulled Pork is bland, and the sauces don't do much to change that, at least not to my taste - but I find that very few Western NC BBQ restaurants offer a decent pork product. The Brisket was dry, and also bland.
Go for the ribs, and go early. And for pork barbecue, go east.
Just open Mon - Fri, till 3PM.Listed in: NC BBQ Joints
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Review from Ron A.
10/11/2011 2 Check-ins Here
If you're like me, the very thought of smoked meat makes you bask in the glory of delightenment. So needless to say I was totally DTF when I arrived at 12 Bones Smokehouse (the F stands for feast, people!). And I must say that this place fully lives up to the hype.
There's not a whole lot that can be said about 12 Bones that hasn't been said already. But I will attempt to convey a few original thoughts -
The smoked potato salad is retarded good. As I've already mentioned, smoked meat ranks high on my list of foods that are probably served in heaven but to smoke a potato... who would have thought that it would be so money? Other sides that are worth getting are all of them. Seriously.
I'm pretty sure if Jesus would have turned water into barbeque sauce instead of wine it would have tasted something like the blueberry chipotle barbeque sauce. They offer it on their ribs, on the side of any smoked meat, or in a bottle to take home and have a culinary orgasm with. This sauce is the crown jewel of 12 Bones and a must for anyone who has never had it before.
After dropping mass amounts of skrilla all over local Asheville restaurants I was pleased as punch when my monster plate of food and sweet tea cost me under $8. The last time food this good cost under $8 in North Carolina was back when you could pay for your meal with Confederacy currency.
You know, for the life of me I can't figure out why this place is only open for five hours a day. But I guess when you run game on all other bbq joints in the area, you can pretty much call the shots. With that being said, make sure you get there before 4 pm during the week or you'll be leaving empty handed. -
Review from Chris O.
Dallas, TX
11/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
I'm totally surprised by the outstanding reviews on here. I knew this before going, but 12 Bones is not a Carolina 'que place. It's trying to be Memphis style!
I went here last Wednesday for lunch and stood in line for about 15 minutes before ordering my food. I ordered a pork plate, and added a 1/2 pound of sliced fatty brisket. After reading this wasn't an authentic NC place, for some odd reason that day I had high hopes for the brisket.
THE BEEF BRISKET-Very well seasoned, and a little bit of smokiness present. Unrendered fat was widespread! It was very moist, but extremely chewy! Highly disappointed. And I just got through writing a review on Franklin Barbecue, who holds the title of best brisket, so that doesn't help the cause either.
THE PULLED PORK-Not bad, but dry throughout. Definitely spent too much time in the meat warmer. As the great bbq blogger in Texas would say, Sauce to the Rescue!
THE SIDES-The sides earned this place two stars. In fact, the sides were on point! Stone ground jalapeño cheese grits were a very thoughtful addition for a barbecue place and satisfied me for lunch. Practically everyone in Asheville has stone ground grits on their menu, and most all of them are great, so no surprise here. The buttered green beans were absolutely amazing! I don't know and don't care whether those beans they were using came from a can or from the farm, but they were the highlight of my meal. So many southern places do green beans the same way every time. I was happy I discovered these.
THE SAUCES-The sauces deserve some mention here, because at least one of them saved some of the pulled pork from going to waste. The regular tomato was the best of what they had, and I hardly say that about a sauce selection. I usually like 'different' sauces.
I've heard good things about the ribs, so next time I'm in town, if I have time to burn I'll go back for the ribs and maybe the chicken. Overall, being a native Memphian and a current Texan, I was extremely disappointed in the meat! On a good note, the staff was very friendly! -
Review from MC H.
Asheville, NC
2/11/2012
I still haven't tried the ribs. MUST TRY RIBS. Pulled pork is great and I love the hell out of the jalapeno cheese grits. I'll never forget going to the River Arts District location with my co-workers not long after they opened and seeing the line trailing far, far out the door. That's always a good sign right?
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Review from Kyle S.
Norman, OK
2/17/2012
If you are looking for good 'ole North Carolina BBQ then this should be the place. Many different BBQ sauces to choose from and a huge selection on the menu, almost too much! We went at a pretty good time of day, but I heard lines get pretty long and it seems obvious because there are foot prints on the ground outside prompting you where to stand when the line goes out the door and there are also misters to keep you cool in the summer, so obviously I'm not the only one who likes the place! Also, Obama eats here!
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Review from Soo H.
San Diego, CA
6/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
There was a line out the door and as I was waiting to get inside some women cam out and told us it was worth it! I ordered 1 pound of baby back ribs and 1/4 pound of beef brisket. There were a bunch of options on the sauce and I chose the brown sugar one. A little while after picking a seat the waitress dropped off my ribs. Wow! They had a good smoky aroma and some great flavors from the spice rub and a nice sweetness from the sauce. Best ribs so far on my North Carolina bbq tour! I'd give this place an extra star if possible as I can't think of any place I've ever been with better ribs.
The beef brisket was good. I'm not a beef brisket fan but wanted to try it out. The shirts were pretty nice looking so I picked up a baby blue one. The staff were friendly and efficient.Listed in: North Carolina BBQ tour
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Review from Roman M.
Philadelphia, PA
8/13/2011 1 Check-in Here
When I showed up at 12 Bones, I honestly thought that I had gone back in time to like 1940's Detroit. The entire area where 12 Bones is located appears to be abandoned industrial buildings, in a part of Asheville known as 'The River Arts District.'
I'll admit - I was skeptical.
The place had a huge line wrapping around the building, which supposedly is an old filling station. My group and I weighed the options, and decided that we would tough it out.
It was about a 30 minute long wait - So it was bearable.
When we reached the counter, I saw a small 'Obama 08' sticker overhead, with 'was here' scribbled under it. I immediately stopped my buddy in the middle of his order and asked the cashier if the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES BARACK OBAMA had actually eaten there, and she said yes.
Well 12 Bones - You could have literally given me dog crap on a plate, and I still would have loved it. The Prez, B-Bomb, the Barrackinator, had actually eaten there.
But, alas, I did not get dog crap. Not even to the slightest.
I ordered the beef brisket sandwich, with a side of baked beans and mac and cheese. The food to our table, which is a seat yourself kind of deal, was out of the kitchen in like 5 minutes.
The first thing I noticed was the massive portions, which appeared to be enough to feed a small army. The mac and cheese was well, cheesy, and the baked beans seemed to be truly from the south, as they were blended with chili.
I began the feast. Finished it 10 minutes later. Literally the fastest I have ever eaten a meal of that size. It was the best BBQ I have ever had. No joke.
Even if you are just driving through Asheville, make a point to stop here. Hell - Drive out of your way to stop here. You WILL NOT be disappointed.
Oh Yeah! The price is also amazing. -
Review from Josh S.
9/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
30 minute wait, lined up outside the door at 1:15p on a Friday?!! I am DEFINITELY waiting for this! While waiting in line, I learned the President has been here and Good Morning America calls this the best bite out there. Knowing neither of these facts prior to my visit, I remain unbiased.
I make it inside the door and within viewing distance of the cash register and special posted off to the right. I nearly always get the plat du jour when I'm lunching a new place. Special Today: Pulled Rib Plate. Smoked ribs pulled from the bone with Blueberry Chipotle. 2 sides and cornbread. $10. Blueberry Chipotle!? I need no further convincing, I'm in. I add a 20oz Green Man IPA, fill a glass of water and walk outside to the covered patio to grab a picnic table.
My plate of food arrives within seconds and it's full. I chose the corn puddin' and mac & cheese as my sides. Next time, I think I'll get an extra side of corn puddin' - the best corn casserole-ly mash I've ever had. I snagged a few sauces to try also: KC Tomato and Carolina mustard. Both excellent. The pulled off the bone pile of rib meat needs only a fork and an appetite. The combination of blueberry and chipotle is one I've never had and can't stop thinking about. The chipotle provides enough heat to make this IPA taste even better.
I'm a KC BBQ kid and this is some of the best I've ever had!
Go. Here. Now. -
Review from Sarah Ann B.
Grand Junction, CO
My wakeful and dreaming hours are continuously spent loving 12 Bones. I love this place so much, I want my remains scattered here (away from the goods of course). Who doesn't want to be embraced by the enchanting sent of pulled pork slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce. The ora of pig slowly enveloping your entire being in delight, yet cushioned by corn bread and then lifted up by the jubilation of mac-n-cheese and baked beans. Primordial happiness is found in the swirling plate of dreams that only an innocent could will into creation. If 12 Bones could manifest itself into a human manifestation (Brad Pit would be... okay), I would be hard pressed to find anything other than eternal bliss lasting for the rest of my days.
Just typing my adoration for this place turns my brain into headcheese and my pupils into liver slivers the size of silver dollars.
NOTE: Get your tush in gear to arrive early and expect a line. Be patient, good porky things come to those who wait. Menus are just inside the door, so ask your fellow porkgoer to hand one down the line.
Bottom line: LET THEM EAT PORK, and forever more let it be 12 Bones. -
Review from Derek C.
San Francisco, CA
6/8/2011
So, as part of my Asheville discovery day, I decided that it was indeed time to "step up to the plate" at twelve bones and see what the fuss was all about.
I arrived at about 11:30 thinking that I would beat the lunch rush, but sure enough the line was already wrapped around the building, but the nice folks in line who I actually ended up sitting with for lunch, steered me in the direction of what to go for off the menu.
The ribs were delicious, not too smokey, little charred, and served with your choice of sauce/sauces. I went with half blueberry chipoltle and half pineapple habanero(hot, but not too bad). Sides of amazing collards, mac and cheese and a big ole' slice of cornbread made it a reason to come back next time in town. Not a 5 star only because the mac and cheese was a little too "box style", but I'm a snob like that. Besides that, all is good and look forward to returning -
Review from Jason R.
4/27/2011 2 photos
The pulled pork was rich with a touch of smoke *without sauce*.
The rest of this review is gravy. Any smokehouse that delivers tasty meats without sauce is worth the wait. And if you show up after 11.59am, you *will* be waiting. They guy in the bow-tie said so. He also said the corn pudding was great, and that we must try the blueberry chipotle sauce on the ribs. Three for three. Then the people immediately before us who were utterly baffled by the concept of a menu and using their wallet contents became involved. I felt sorry for the bow-tied ex-Decaturian. He drew attention to himself. The blue-haired tour bus horde smelled "authenticity" and converged. We had carefully pulled around the tour bus conveniently parked across one parking lot entrance and deftly deflected their questions by noting that we're not locals. The bow tie? Not so lucky. I think I heard smacking noises. yikes.
We scurried off, found a table, and proceeded to gorge ourselves tick-like on the succulent sauces throughout. Oh, there was one other bit before the gorging: vetting dishes and sides for gluten. The fine folks at the counter have laminated lists of possible allergens in each along with overall notes of "gluten-free" and *gasp* "vegan". In a smokehouse.
Ok, so we sat down... Wait, I'm forgetting another thing. They have multiple sauces just waiting in their nondescript metal squishy delivery devices for you to try them. The nondescriptness was well complemented by descriptions placed next to each. I only tried three of the four on my pulled pork. The spicy vinegar sauce is exactly what we've wanted in a vinegar sauce. The sweet tomato sauce? Yup. Sweet. And tomatoes. Truth in advertising. The spicy mustard sauce was liquified to barbecue sauce consistency. Alas, not with warm gooey delicious pork fat.
After all that, and while dodging the blue haired hordes, we snarfed. Relatively quickly. Our dogs were in the car. Looking at us through the window. Noses a-flare. They knew. They also knew someone else had their loved one with them in the outdoor patio area. We were a tad chilly and sat inside. This did not meet with our pups' approval. Hopefully the rib bones will assuage their annoyance.
Snarf snarf snarf. Ribs? Yummified. Plenty of meat, just the right amount of sauce already on them. Pulled pork? Just enough fat (woo-hoo!) to catch the smoke and coat the tongue. The sauces are a much appreciated bonus. The corn bread's the moist cakey style. I tend to prefer the dry crumbly style, but that's almost like discussing if an Irishman prefers green or orange underwear. Mashed sweet potatoes are exactly that. As are the green beans. It's nice to count on the simple things in life (unless they're your co-workers). The corn pudding was quite corny. I kinda giggled while eating it. The baked beans were fine. Mixed with the spicy vinegar sauce, they were great.
Why four stars? Because we'll be back for more. And, well, the tourist factor. I really have no right to be annoyed at tourists. I'm Florida born and raised. Tourists paid for everything via hotel taxes, luxury taxes, tickets, restaurant taxes, etc. But they still make me twitch. But the locals love this place, too. The local discount may help. Good, cheap butt indeed. Oh, yes, that's another bonus.
Apparently some supposedly famous people have been tourists here, too. That's has zilch to do with the pork's quality. What's better? A WALL DRUG STICKER! I knew they *must* have one, and I spotted it. muahahahaha. Ice water and mechanized Tyrannosaurus FTW! -
Review from Emily D.
Cambridge, MA
9/11/2011
You already know Obama's been here and Good Morning America has talked about it, so I'm here to give you something you probably haven't heard--a review of this place by a vegetarian.
When I first visited Asheville I heard I had to go to 12 Bones. I took my carnivorous boyfriend and ordered a plate of vegetarian sides for myself. I was absolutely floored. Every single one of my sides was incredibly flavorful, fresh, and thoughtful. Everything is made from scratch and you can absolutely taste it. The sweet potatoes are out of this world, the jalapeno cheese grits are delicious (and the perfect "grits" texture if you ask me), the mixed green salad (which comes with feta and dried cranberries) is impressive. I haven't had a side here that I didn't like. Collard greens have bacon so they're not vegetarian-friendly, but I hear they're delicious as well.
You also cannot beat the prices. If I lived remotely close to Asheville, 12 Bones would be a regular lunch stop for me. It's absolutely worth the wait. -
Review from Mark M.
Roseville, CA
11/26/2011
Oh yeah... This is what BBQ is supposed to be like! I didn't mind the ginormous line, and once ordered, food came fast. Maybe on my top 3 ribs of all time. I got the standard maple dry rub. It didn't even need any sauce, even though they were quite good. I also tried a small side of brisket, which was ok, but kinda too smokey for me. Sides were ok, but not favorites. Corn bread was great, though on the sweet side, it worked perfect with the ribs. Jalapeno cheese grits were good, and the beans were a bit undercooked, though I like the authenticity of them (definitely not canned!). Great selection of beers and bar, however I had to indulge on Cheerwine from the pop dispenser. Perfect divey atmosphere, though very clean and a friendly & extremely busy staff.
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Review from JoVonn G.
5/27/2011
My husband and I were in town for a nice getaway and were told this was the place to get BBQ. We went to the South location because it was Saturday.
We drove up and there was a line out the door. We thought the lunch crowd would have been finished at 1:30. It was no problem though, the line moved faster than I thought it would and we didn't have a problem finding a table.
I'm not a rib person but I read such good reviews on here that I had to try the blueberry chipotle ribs. My husband had the brown sugar ribs. I liked his better even though mine were good. As stated in other reviews, the sides left something to be desired. The corn pudding was the best out of what we had.
We would recommend this to others coming into Asheville. Overall it was very good. -
Review from Barbara L.
Asheville, NC
2/19/2011
You'll get 4 star ribs and 5 star sides at 12 Bones. This matters a lot to me. The smoked potato salad is fabulous and so it the sweet vinegar coleslaw.
There's only one thing wrong with the Riverside 12 Bones --- they have very weird hours. They only serve lunch on weekdays and are closed on weekends. Plus, to avoid standing in line you need to get there after 2PM. Otherwise, I really love the place.
REally casual, outdoor seating near a creek, no available parking at lunch time. -
Review from Anna L.
Knoxville, TN
4/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am not a rib kind of girl, but to experience Obama's pick for NC BBQ I put on my big girl boots and tried the Blueberry Chipotle ribs. Oh, my! We will make a special detour to eat here again.
My hubby chimed in and said to mention the sides and overall feel of a southern picnic when you're enjoying outside dining. Indeed.
What a great atmosphere and unbeatable food! Make sure you pick up a slice of Pecan Pie, the crust was perfection.Listed in: Asheville with Kids
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Review from Alicia S.
Weaverville, NC
12/28/2011
My favorite BBQ in Asheville, sides are fantastic. Too bad foodtv and Obama and ABC news has sung its praises as its hard for us locals to get in now
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Review from Josh E.
Lynn, NC
3/16/2011
So the 5 stars is in relation to all other Asheville BBQ. It would be disingenuous of me to say that 12 Bones is at the same level as Bridges BBQ Lodge in Shelby, NC, Allen & Son in Chapel Hill, or even Jack's Stack in KC.
However... when in comes to Q in Asheville, 12 Bones is my favorite. As others have said, this is "inventive" Q. The menu has several highfalutin combination such as the Blueberry - Chipotle ribs and, well, portabello salad with feta (I know there are plenty of vegetarians in Asheville, but c'mon it's a BBQ place). Some of these are very good (the aforementioned ribs) and some fall flat (Smoked Potato salad). What keeps 12 Bones high in my esteem is that their Q is at least grounded in proper Q. There is smoke on the meat. I honestly can't tell you if they are using a Southern Pride or other wood/gas combo but they are getting something right. Unless I feel like driving for an couple hours to go to Shelby, this is the place for Q at lunch. -
Review from Beth G.
Boca Raton, FL
2/19/2011
I could probably say this in a haiku if I were more clever, but here's how I feel about this place: get ribs with the brown sugar rub, sit back, and let those ribs welcome you to heaven.
Oh, and order ahead. You get to go over to the cash register with the short line, pay, and you'll be home with the goods in no time. -
Review from Wayne C.
Brentwood, TN
3/26/2011
Me and Obama don't agree all that much but we are in lockstep when it comes to the great ribs at 12 Bones.
I'm a BBQ snob. Based on the reviews I did not expect I would have the best BBQ ribs ever because those are from Memphis. Wrong.
This place blew me away. I only had the ribs which were a full rack with 1/2 Blueberry Chipotle and 1/2 Brown Sugar rubbed. Next time I'll order the entire rack Blueberry Chipotle... they were NOT sweet (which I was worried about) and they were full of smoke and the outside edges were caramelized to perfection.
My wife and kids who do not like ribs (in actuality they do not like mediocre ribs) had a taste of mine and they all loved the ribs.
The smoked potato salad was very fresh and had just enough smoke. They were outstanding. I also got the turnip/collard greens and they were fresh (didn't seem from frozen) with chunks of ham hock. They actually had flavor which is rare to get in restaurants.
I love vinegar-based sauces inherent to the Carolina's and their sauces - even their traditional tomato-based sauce were outstanding. I purchased 4 bottles of various sauces to take home. It is rare to find BBQ sauce that isn't full of corn syrup and artificial sweetness.
The cornbread was pretty bland but my kids liked it. -
Review from Caroline F.
Wheat Ridge, CO
12/23/2010
...have I seriously never written a review for 12 Bones?
This ends now.
To put it simply, when I was in college at UNCA, I would sometimes skip my lunchtime class JUST to drive to the river arts district and eat at 12 Bones. After graduating, I moved to West Asheville and was located dangerously close to this restaurant.
My boyfriend and I, for years, have gotten the same thing to share:
Me: Pulled pork bbq sandwich, coleslaw and mashed sweet potatoes
Him: Half rack of ribs, corn bread, mac & cheese and jalapeno cheese grits (the man likes his cheese)
Southern food doesn't get any better than this, people.
A note to the wise: call in a to-go order and skip the ridiculously long line of people waiting to dine in.Listed in: ¡Viva Ashevegas!
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Review from Lans S.
Brooklyn, NY
6/14/2011
This place is countryside parkbench picnic charming! The line of hungry folks outside, surviving the heat thanks to the amusement park misters, says it all.
My ribs w/Blueberry Chipotle sauce were tender, moist, and delicious. I'd do that again. Help yourself and pump you own bbq sauce? F-yeah!
The mac & cheese was a bit of a let down, howevs. Seemed to me like a glorified version of Kraft...
Hold up, did I mention the Iceberg Wedge?! It was phenomenal, as far as iceberg wedges are concerned. This bad boy came crispy fried onions, bacon, and spicy ranch. Refreshing and delicious. -
Review from Roger H.
Asheville, NC
12/29/2010 4 Check-ins Here
Just go. If you love BBQ...ribs...pulled pork...then this is mecca. I don't have much to add to the other reviews except they "sides" are to die for. Many made with farm to table ingredients. And they have local beers. You can even get a 10 oz glass if you want one for lunch...but worry about getting boozy!
The only thing that gets this a 4 star is that it is only open M-F 11-4. Ridiculous!!!! The trick is to get takeout and pick it up right at 4PM. -
Review from Brett M.
Austin, TX
3/16/2011
Living in TX, I've had my share of BBQ. I must say this is solid and on top of the great food it also has a super cool vibe. This is one of those restaurants that you might quickly drive by and not realize just how good it is (except for the long line of people standing out the doorway).
The ribs are awesome as well as the chopped beef. All the sides are impressive and have a southern twist which speaks to my Mississippi heritage. I have to admit I got more excited about the sides than the meat, but the meat certainly didn't fail me.
I have no idea what the other BBQ in Asheville is like, but this seems like the place to be. -
Review from Charles R.
Plano, TX
6/29/2011
During a business trip, a group of 15 of us came over here on someone at our conferences recommendation. The outside of it will catch you by surprise, but not because of the "rustic" look of the place, but rather at the line of people going halfway around the building to order there food.
Because of how many there were of us, we ended up ordering probably close to 10lb's of meat of theres, giving me a fairly good idea of how they taste. I'll start off by saying that the typical BBQ staple of brisket and ribs really aren't anything to write home about on their own. Both were fairly dry. What set 12 Bones apart though is their assortment of sauces that really liven up the other wise mediocre meat. The day we went they also had cheddar jalepeno sausage which was incredibly. The sausages looked more like brats then typical sausage, but the combination of the jalepeno, and cheese, in addition to their tomato BBQ sauce was something to remember. Their pulled pork, and pulled chicken were also equally impressive.
Coming from Texas, I had slightly different expectations of the meats. I am usually able to my brisket without a knife, and with ribs, I am normally able to pull the meat right off the bone at the restaurants I normally frequent. If you go in with the same expectations I had of their brisket and ribs you will be disappointed until you try it with one of their numerous sauces. Unfortunately though, I can only imagine how good it would have been if the meat was on the same par as the sauces.
If I ever come back to Asheville, I will definitely be returning. -
Review from Jeff M.
Wake Forest, NC
11/13/2010 1 photo
Ok...here we go. I love BBQ. No, you don't understand....I really love BBQ. 12 Bones did the trick and cured my craving. Mostly very pleased but was a little disappointed in the ribs. But let me tell you about ALL the good stuf before I critique the ribs.
Let's start with the sides...can you say "corn puddin'"? Delicious! I little on the sweet side. Nice.
Then we can discuss the grits...creamy and spicy with diced japs! I'm a big fan of grits...yes, I'm from the south.
The mac and cheese was ok...didn't knock my socks off. The greens were tasty...just the right amount of vinegar. The surprise was the mashed sweet potatoes. I could have had a second helping of those!
Now, let's chat about the ribs. I ordered my "nekid" which is definitely the way I prefer them. The ribs were meaty and well seasoned. My only complaint was that they were really tough. I had a tough time pulling the bones apart. If they would have been a little more tender, I would have been in heaven.
The pulled pork was A-. Well smoked but a bit dry. I prefer a vinegar sauce but the mustard sauce was right on the money for me this visit. -
Review from Jon L.
We finally made it here.
They are closed on the weekends.
We arrived on a Friday for a late lunch and were immediately served.
It was around 230p and as we walked in we heard a couple of locals
say it's the first time they had been there on a Friday with no line out the door.
It was a bit cool for a late March weekend so the weather might have been a factor. They have a few tables in but mostly picnic table out.
I had the blueberry chipotle, half rack of ribs, they were excellent.
You get a couple of sides with cornbread.
It's as good as billed, very laid back and casual and the sweet tea is really good too!
