The Bay Breeze Hendersonville menu offers a delightful fusion of fresh seafood and Southern-inspired dishes, capturing the essence of coastal cuisine while embracing the charm of the Appalachian region.
Situated in the picturesque town of Hendersonville, this restaurant has earned a reputation for its vibrant flavors, quality ingredients, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or visiting, the menu invites you to embark on a culinary journey filled with bold tastes and satisfying meals that reflect both tradition and innovation.
From succulent oysters and crispy calamari to hearty shrimp and grits, the Bay Breeze menu is thoughtfully curated to please a wide array of palates. The chefs focus on sourcing the freshest seafood, often highlighting seasonal catches and locally grown produce.
This dedication to quality is evident in every bite, blending classic recipes with contemporary twists to create dishes that are both comforting and exciting.
Dining at Bay Breeze is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The menu is designed to accommodate everything from casual lunches to elegant dinners, with options that cater to families, couples, and groups alike.
With an emphasis on sustainability and flavor, the offerings present a perfect balance of healthful ingredients and indulgent treats. Exploring the Bay Breeze Hendersonville menu reveals a thoughtful approach to seafood dining that resonates with the community’s love for fresh, flavorful food.
Appetizers: A Flavorful Start
The appetizer section at Bay Breeze Hendersonville sets the tone for the entire meal, offering a variety of tempting starters that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to fresh seafood and bold flavors.
Designed to be shared or enjoyed individually, these dishes are perfect for whetting the appetite without overwhelming the palate.
Highlights include the crispy calamari, lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, served with a zesty remoulade sauce. Another standout is the oyster sampler, which features a selection of freshly shucked oysters paired with house-made cocktail and mignonette sauces.
For those seeking something a bit lighter, the ceviche combines fresh fish marinated in citrus with hints of jalapeño and cilantro, delivering a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Crispy Calamari: Tender squid rings, breaded and fried, served with remoulade
- Oyster Sampler: Fresh oysters with cocktail and mignonette sauces
- Shrimp Ceviche: Marinated shrimp with citrus, jalapeño, and cilantro
- Crab Cakes: Lump crab meat with herbs, lightly fried, served with aioli
Signature Appetizer: Bay Breeze Crab Cakes
The crab cakes are a customer favorite and a true reflection of Bay Breeze’s dedication to quality. Made with lump crab meat, these cakes are delicately seasoned with fresh herbs and a hint of Old Bay seasoning.
Pan-fried to a golden brown, they strike the perfect balance between crispy exterior and tender interior.
“The crab cakes at Bay Breeze are some of the best I’ve ever had—rich, flavorful, and perfectly cooked,” says longtime patron Sarah M.
Served with a house-made aioli, they provide a creamy complement that enhances the natural sweetness of the crab. This appetizer is an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in a classic seafood starter that embodies Southern coastal charm.
Soups and Salads: Fresh and Nourishing
The soups and salads section of the Bay Breeze menu offers a variety of options crafted to refresh and satisfy. Whether looking for a light starter or a wholesome meal, these dishes highlight the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
The signature New England clam chowder is a creamy, hearty soup packed with tender clams, potatoes, and smoky bacon. It’s perfect for cooler evenings or whenever you need comfort food with a coastal twist.
Another popular choice is the Bay Breeze house salad, which blends mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions tossed in a tangy citrus vinaigrette.
- New England Clam Chowder: Creamy soup with clams, potatoes, and bacon
- Bay Breeze House Salad: Mixed greens with citrus vinaigrette
- Caesar Salad: Romaine, parmesan, croutons, and classic Caesar dressing
- Seafood Gumbo: A spicy stew with shrimp, crab, and okra
Comparing Soup Options
| Soup | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| New England Clam Chowder | Creamy, savory, smoky | Crusty bread, Bay Breeze Crab Cakes |
| Seafood Gumbo | Spicy, hearty, complex | Steamed rice, Cornbread |
Each soup option brings its own unique personality, making it easy to choose based on your mood or accompanying dishes. The salads, on the other hand, offer freshness and balance, with dressings crafted to enhance rather than overpower the natural flavors.
Main Courses: Seafood and Beyond
The main course offerings at Bay Breeze Hendersonville are where the menu truly shines, showcasing a variety of seafood dishes prepared with both traditional and innovative techniques. From grilled fish to indulgent shrimp plates, there is something to satisfy every craving.
The grilled Atlantic salmon is a standout, marinated in herbs and citrus before being cooked to a flaky, tender perfection. Another popular dish is the shrimp and grits, a Southern classic elevated with succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, and creamy cheese grits.
For those who prefer something heartier, the blackened catfish with Cajun spices delivers bold flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Grilled Atlantic Salmon: Herb and citrus marinade, served with seasonal vegetables
- Shrimp and Grits: Creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and sausage
- Blackened Catfish: Spicy Cajun seasoning, served with rice and coleslaw
- Lobster Roll: Fresh lobster meat in a buttery toasted bun
Highlighting the Shrimp and Grits
The shrimp and grits dish is a perfect example of Bay Breeze’s ability to meld comfort food with gourmet appeal. The grits are slow-cooked with cheese and cream to create a velvety base.
Topped with plump, juicy shrimp sautéed with garlic, bell peppers, and smoky Andouille sausage, the dish balances richness and spice beautifully.
“The shrimp and grits at Bay Breeze are a must-try—each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors,” notes chef and food writer James L.
This entree is frequently praised for its hearty yet sophisticated profile, making it a go-to choice for both regulars and first-time visitors seeking a taste of Southern seafood tradition.
Sandwiches and Burgers: Casual and Satisfying
For guests looking for a more relaxed dining experience without sacrificing flavor, the sandwiches and burgers section offers a diverse range of options. Each sandwich is crafted using fresh ingredients and thoughtfully paired with house-made sides.
The classic fish sandwich features a lightly fried white fish filet served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy tartar sauce. Meanwhile, the Bay Breeze burger stands out for its juicy beef patty topped with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and a smoky barbecue aioli.
Vegetarian options are also available, including a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich with roasted red peppers and goat cheese.
- Classic Fish Sandwich: Fried white fish, tartar sauce, lettuce, tomato
- Bay Breeze Burger: Beef patty with cheddar, bacon, BBQ aioli
- Grilled Portobello Sandwich: Mushroom, roasted peppers, goat cheese
- Chicken BLT: Grilled chicken breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo
Side Options
All sandwiches come with a choice of sides, which include:
- House-cut fries
- Sweet potato fries
- Coleslaw
- Side salad
These sides complement the sandwiches perfectly, offering a balance of crispy, sweet, and fresh elements to round out the meal.
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Choices
Bay Breeze Hendersonville recognizes the importance of catering to diverse dietary preferences, offering a well-rounded selection of vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. These options are crafted with the same attention to flavor and quality as the rest of the menu.
Vegetarians can enjoy dishes such as the grilled vegetable platter, which features a seasonal array of locally sourced vegetables, charred and seasoned to perfection. Another favorite is the quinoa and kale salad, tossed with roasted chickpeas, avocado, and a lemon-tahini dressing.
Gluten-free diners will appreciate the availability of grilled fish and shrimp dishes, many served without bread or with gluten-free alternatives upon request.
- Grilled Vegetable Platter: Seasonal veggies with herb vinaigrette
- Quinoa and Kale Salad: Roasted chickpeas, avocado, lemon-tahini dressing
- Gluten-Free Grilled Salmon: Served with seasonal sides
- Gluten-Free Shrimp Skewers: Marinated and grilled to perfection
Emphasizing Dietary Flexibility
Bay Breeze understands the importance of making dining inclusive and enjoyable for all guests. The kitchen staff is attentive to dietary needs, ensuring that modifications are handled with care and precision.
This commitment enhances the overall dining experience, making it easy for guests to find satisfying options regardless of dietary restrictions.
“The gluten-free options at Bay Breeze are thoughtful and delicious, making me feel welcome and well-cared for every visit,” shares customer Mark T.
Desserts: Sweet Endings
The dessert menu offers a selection of indulgent sweets designed to provide a perfect finale to your meal. These desserts are crafted in-house, using fresh ingredients and classic techniques to create comforting yet refined treats.
The key lime pie is a standout, featuring a tangy and creamy filling atop a graham cracker crust, garnished with whipped cream and fresh lime zest. Another popular choice is the chocolate ganache tart, rich and decadent with a buttery crust and a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
For a lighter option, the seasonal fruit sorbet is made fresh daily, offering refreshing notes that cleanse the palate.
- Key Lime Pie: Tangy citrus filling with graham cracker crust
- Chocolate Ganache Tart: Rich chocolate with flaky crust and sea salt
- Seasonal Fruit Sorbet: Fresh, light, and dairy-free
- Classic Bread Pudding: Warm, spiced, served with vanilla sauce
Pairing Desserts with Drinks
Bay Breeze also offers a curated selection of dessert wines and coffee drinks that pair wonderfully with each dessert option. For instance, the key lime pie pairs beautifully with a crisp Riesling, while the chocolate ganache tart is complemented by a robust espresso or a glass of port wine.
| Dessert | Recommended Pairing |
| Key Lime Pie | Riesling or Lemon Verbena Tea |
| Chocolate Ganache Tart | Espresso or Port Wine |
| Seasonal Fruit Sorbet | Light White Wine or Sparkling Water |
Beverages: Complementing Every Dish
The beverage menu at Bay Breeze Hendersonville is thoughtfully designed to complement the diverse flavors throughout the meal. From handcrafted cocktails to local craft beers and an extensive wine list, there’s something to suit every preference.
Signature cocktails often feature fresh herbs, citrus, and premium spirits to echo the coastal theme of the menu. The “Bay Breeze Mule,” for example, combines vodka, ginger beer, and lime with a sprig of fresh mint, offering a refreshing and balanced drink.
For beer lovers, selections include regional craft brews as well as popular national options. The wine list is carefully curated with an emphasis on varietals that pair well with seafood and Southern cuisine.
- Bay Breeze Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, lime, mint
- Craft Beer Selection: Rotating local and seasonal brews
- Wine List: Whites, reds, and sparkling varietals
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Freshly brewed iced tea, lemonades, and sodas
Choosing the Perfect Drink
Pairing your meal with the right beverage can elevate the entire dining experience. Consider:
- Light, crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio with fish and salads
- Rich reds such as Zinfandel or Merlot for heartier dishes like blackened catfish
- Refreshing cocktails to balance spicy or smoky flavors
“The beverage options at Bay Breeze enhance the food beautifully, with every drink thoughtfully chosen to complement the menu’s diversity,” raves bartender and enthusiast Lisa K.
Conclusion
The Bay Breeze Hendersonville menu is a celebration of fresh seafood, Southern flavors, and thoughtful culinary craftsmanship. Each section—from appetizers to desserts—reflects a commitment to quality ingredients and vibrant taste combinations that honor coastal traditions while embracing modern influences.
Whether indulging in the rich, creamy shrimp and grits or savoring the crisp freshness of a ceviche appetizer, diners are immersed in an experience that is both comforting and exciting.
The variety of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, demonstrates the restaurant’s dedication to inclusivity and guest satisfaction. Coupled with a well-curated beverage list and attentive service, Bay Breeze offers a dining experience that appeals to both casual visitors and discerning food lovers.
This menu not only satisfies hunger but also invites guests to explore new flavors and enjoy the warmth of Southern hospitality combined with coastal culinary excellence.
For anyone seeking a memorable meal in Hendersonville that expertly balances tradition and innovation, the Bay Breeze menu is an exceptional choice. Its thoughtfully prepared dishes, welcoming ambiance, and focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients make it a standout destination for seafood enthusiasts and food adventurers alike.
