ASHEVILLE – Get ready to roll because Zen Sushi is expanding! The beloved North Asheville eatery is set to launch a second location at the highly anticipated S&W Market food hall, bringing a fresh twist to downtown dining. This vibrant move is slated for May 2025, conveniently located at 56 Patton Ave., just a stone’s throw away from the city’s bustling core.
A Taste of Zen: What to Expect
Although the new kiosk will offer a **condensed version** of Zen Sushi’s flagship menu from 640 Merrimon Ave., diners can still expect a fantastic range of options. Are you ready to indulge?
Savor the Selection
The upcoming menu at this food hall hotspot will feature an assortment of **mouthwatering appetizers, salads, and traditional sushi rolls**. From a budget-friendly $4.89 cucumber roll to the exquisite $15.99 Yellowtail jalapeno appetizer, there’s something for every palate.
Appreciate the delicate flavors of tuna tataki, or delight in a mix of refreshing salads like avocado, cucumber, and spicy kani. With **over 15 creations of seafood sumaki rolls**—including crowd-pleasers like California and shrimp tempura—you can’t help but find your new favorite.
Healthy Choices Galore
Co-owner Queena Zheng emphasized the importance of catering to the health-conscious Asheville crowd, offering **vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free** options. You can enjoy light bites with a twist, such as pickled radish rolls and inari sushi, making it easy to eat well without sacrificing flavor. Zheng’s personal favorite? The “**veggie lover’s roll**,” which crunches delightfully with every bite.
Why Downtown? The Vision Behind the Expansion
Founded 25 years ago, **Zen Sushi** has become a staple in the Asheville dining scene, attracting both locals and tourists alike. Zheng, who took on the role of co-owner two years back, sees this second location as an opportunity to elevate the restaurant’s reach and serve a wider audience while helping the business recover from the devastating effects of Tropical Storm Helene.
Adapting to Change
The S&W Market, where Zen Sushi will reside, not only embraces local flavors but also supports community growth. Ryan Isael, the market’s property management director, emphasizes that it is crucial to bring in vendors that enrich Asheville’s vibrant culinary landscape. This strategic location allows Zen Sushi to flourish without incurring the high costs associated with standalone locations.
A New Era for S&W Market
The food hall will host a selection of beloved local vendors, from Buxton Chicken Palace to Highland Brewing and The Hop Ice Cream. Zen Sushi’s new kiosk will fill the space previously held by Mikasa Criolla, which closed after the storm, providing a fresh start and new flavors for the community.
A Bright Future Ahead
Zheng looks forward to the opening with a mix of excitement and anticipation. As warmer months approach, the revitalized S&W Market aims to attract both locals and tourists, boosting the dinner service and supporting the small businesses crucial to Asheville’s economy.
Don’t miss Zen Sushi’s debut at the S&W Market! Mark your calendars for May 2025 and let your taste buds revel in the culinary adventure that awaits. Find more information on their official site at zen-sushi-asheville.com and stay updated on S&W Market at swmarketavl.com.
Stay tuned with food and dining insights from Tiana Kennell, your go-to source for delicious updates in Asheville. For tips, comments, or questions, email [email protected] or follow @PrincessOfPage on Instagram/Bluesky.
