Nestled in the vibrant culinary landscape of Asheville, North Carolina, Jack of the Wood stands as a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. This historic pub is renowned not only for its rich atmosphere and live music but also for a thoughtfully crafted menu that beautifully marries traditional Irish fare with Southern influences.
Whether you’re craving hearty comfort food, fresh seasonal offerings, or classic pub favorites, Jack of the Wood’s menu delivers an experience that excites the palate and satisfies the soul. Its commitment to quality ingredients and unique flavors makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic yet inventive dining in Asheville.
Exploring the Jack of the Wood menu is like embarking on a culinary journey through centuries-old recipes revitalized with modern touches. The menu showcases a diverse range of options—from savory appetizers and robust entrees to indulgent desserts—all designed to complement the warm, rustic ambiance of the establishment.
Beyond the food, the menu also reflects a dedication to local sourcing and sustainable practices, creating a harmonious connection between the community and the kitchen. This post delves deep into the various sections of the Jack of the Wood menu, offering insights and highlights that capture the essence of this iconic Asheville eatery.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer selection at Jack of the Wood is a perfect introduction to its culinary style, combining familiar favorites with unique twists. Designed to be shared or savored as a light start, these small plates emphasize bold flavors and quality ingredients, inviting diners to sample a variety of tastes before diving into a main course.
Signature offerings often include traditional Irish starters such as potato cakes and hearty stews, alongside Southern-inspired bites that showcase the region’s rich food heritage. These dishes are crafted to stimulate the appetite and pair wonderfully with the pub’s extensive beer and whiskey list.
The menu balances comforting textures with fresh, vibrant components to keep the palate intrigued.
Many of the appetizers are also versatile enough to serve as a casual meal for those seeking something lighter. The use of fresh herbs, locally sourced vegetables, and house-made sauces adds depth and authenticity to each dish.
Whether you’re a fan of crispy, fried treats or prefer something more refined, the appetizer menu at Jack of the Wood offers something exciting for every taste.
Popular Starters
- Irish Potato Cakes: Golden-fried and seasoned, served with a tangy house-made dip.
- Smoked Trout Dip: A creamy blend of smoked trout, herbs, and cream cheese, served with toasted bread.
- Seasonal Vegetable Plate: Fresh local vegetables roasted or grilled to perfection.
- Steak Bites: Tender pieces of beef seared and served with a rich mustard sauce.
“At Jack of the Wood, every appetizer is crafted to invite conversation and connection—perfect for sharing a moment over great food and drinks.”
Entrees and Main Dishes
The heart of the Jack of the Wood menu lies in its entrées, which showcase a mastery of traditional Irish cuisine fused with Appalachian influences. Each dish is a testament to the kitchen’s commitment to seasonal ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
The mains range from robust meat dishes to vegetarian-friendly options, ensuring something for every preference.
Their signature stew is a highlight, simmered slowly to develop rich, layered flavors that reflect the comforts of home-cooked meals. Meanwhile, the pub’s take on fish and chips offers a crispy, golden crust paired with tender white fish sourced from sustainable fisheries.
Vegetarian and vegan options are equally well-considered, featuring fresh, local produce that brings color and vitality to the plate.
Portion sizes are generous, designed to leave diners feeling satisfied without overwhelming the senses. The menu also frequently rotates to incorporate seasonal specialties, reflecting the best of what the region has to offer throughout the year.
This adaptability keeps the dining experience fresh and exciting, no matter how often you visit.
Signature Entrées
- Traditional Irish Stew: Slow-cooked lamb or beef with root vegetables and herbs.
- Fish and Chips: Beer-battered local white fish served with hand-cut fries and tartar sauce.
- Grilled Portobello: Marinated mushroom cap served with seasonal vegetables and a balsamic glaze.
- Shepherd’s Pie: Layered meat and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Preparation Style |
| Traditional Irish Stew | Lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, herbs | Slow simmered for tenderness |
| Fish and Chips | Local white fish, beer batter, potatoes | Deep-fried, crispy exterior |
| Grilled Portobello | Portobello mushroom, seasonal vegetables, balsamic glaze | Grilled and marinated |
| Shepherd’s Pie | Ground meat, vegetables, mashed potatoes | Baked with layered topping |
Soups and Salads
Jack of the Wood offers a refreshing and nourishing range of soups and salads that complement its heavier dishes. This section of the menu highlights fresh, seasonal produce and house-made dressings that bring out the natural flavors of each ingredient.
Whether as a starter or a light meal, these options provide a welcome balance.
The soups vary daily, often featuring traditional recipes like creamy potato leek or hearty vegetable options. Salads combine crisp greens with inventive toppings such as roasted nuts, cheeses, and house-made vinaigrettes.
These dishes emphasize simplicity and freshness, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine through.
Special attention is paid to dietary needs and preferences, with gluten-free and vegan options readily available. This ensures that all guests can enjoy a thoughtfully prepared dish that suits their lifestyle.
The soups and salads at Jack of the Wood are perfect for those seeking a healthy yet flavorful choice.
Seasonal Soups
- Potato Leek Soup: Creamy and smooth with fresh leeks and Yukon gold potatoes.
- Vegetable Soup: A medley of roasted root vegetables in a savory broth.
- Soup of the Day: Rotating daily options based on seasonal ingredients.
Fresh Salads
- Mixed Greens Salad: Local greens tossed with house vinaigrette, nuts, and cheese.
- Beet and Goat Cheese Salad: Roasted beets paired with creamy goat cheese and candied pecans.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with house-made dressing and croutons.
“Our soups and salads reflect the changing seasons, showcasing the freshest ingredients Asheville has to offer.”
Sandwiches and Burgers
For those craving a more casual dining experience, Jack of the Wood’s sandwiches and burgers deliver bold flavors with a gourmet touch. These options are crafted to satisfy hearty appetites while maintaining the pub’s commitment to quality and creativity.
Each sandwich or burger is accompanied by a choice of sides that enhance the overall meal.
The burgers are made from locally sourced beef and are cooked to order, with a variety of toppings that range from classic cheddar and lettuce to more adventurous combinations like caramelized onions and smoked bacon.
The sandwiches similarly feature fresh breads, house-made sauces, and premium fillings that elevate simple concepts into memorable dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are thoughtfully integrated, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a flavorful and fulfilling sandwich or burger. The menu’s attention to detail extends to the sides as well, which include hand-cut fries and seasonal vegetable chips, providing satisfying accompaniments to the main item.
Burger Specialties
- Classic Cheeseburger: Local beef, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and house sauce.
- Bacon & Onion Jam Burger: Topped with smoked bacon and sweet onion jam.
- Veggie Burger: House-made patty with mushrooms, grains, and spices.
Signature Sandwiches
- Roast Beef & Horseradish: Thinly sliced roast beef with creamy horseradish sauce on a baguette.
- Grilled Chicken Club: Marinated grilled chicken with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
- Portobello Mushroom Sandwich: Grilled mushroom with roasted peppers and goat cheese.
| Item | Main Components | Accompaniments |
| Classic Cheeseburger | Beef patty, cheddar, lettuce, tomato | Hand-cut fries or vegetable chips |
| Bacon & Onion Jam Burger | Beef patty, bacon, onion jam, cheddar | Hand-cut fries or vegetable chips |
| Roast Beef & Horseradish Sandwich | Roast beef, horseradish sauce, baguette | House salad or fries |
“Our burgers and sandwiches are designed to deliver maximum flavor with every bite, making casual dining feel special.”
Desserts and Sweet Treats
The dessert offerings at Jack of the Wood are a delightful way to conclude a memorable meal. The menu features a selection of classic Irish desserts alongside Southern-inspired sweets, all made with care and high-quality ingredients.
These desserts provide a perfect balance of richness and freshness to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Popular choices include traditional favorites like bread pudding and sticky toffee pudding, which offer comforting textures and warm, inviting flavors. Seasonal fruit crisps and tarts showcase local produce, adding a fruity brightness to the dessert lineup.
Each dish is thoughtfully paired with accompaniments such as cream, custard, or ice cream to enhance the overall experience.
The dessert menu also caters to those with dietary restrictions, offering gluten-free and dairy-free options without compromising on taste. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone can indulge in a sweet finale to their meal at Jack of the Wood.
Classic Irish Desserts
- Sticky Toffee Pudding: Moist cake soaked in rich toffee sauce, served warm.
- Bread Pudding: Traditional recipe with raisins and cinnamon, topped with custard.
- Baileys Cheesecake: Creamy cheesecake infused with Baileys Irish Cream.
Seasonal Sweets
- Apple Crisp: Baked apples with a crunchy oat topping, served with vanilla ice cream.
- Berry Tart: Fresh seasonal berries atop a buttery crust with a light glaze.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy mousse made with dark chocolate and whipped cream.
“Dessert at Jack of the Wood is a celebration of tradition and innovation, bringing warmth and sweetness to every plate.”
Beverages and Drink Pairings
Jack of the Wood’s beverage menu is thoughtfully curated to complement its diverse food offerings. The selection includes a wide range of craft beers, fine whiskeys, wines, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails, reflecting the pub’s Irish heritage and Asheville’s vibrant craft beverage scene.
Drink pairings are encouraged to enhance the flavor profiles of the dishes.
The beer list features local Asheville brews alongside imported Irish ales, providing options for every beer lover. Whiskey enthusiasts will find an impressive array of single malts and blends, perfect for sipping neat or mixing into classic cocktails.
The wine list is equally diverse, offering selections from both Old World and New World regions.
Seasonal cocktails incorporate fresh herbs, local fruits, and house-made mixers, creating refreshing and innovative options that pair beautifully with the menu. Non-alcoholic choices, including craft sodas and specialty coffees, ensure all guests have something delightful to enjoy.
Craft Beer Selection
- Local Ales: Rotating taps featuring Asheville’s best breweries.
- Irish Imports: Traditional Irish stouts and lagers.
- Seasonal Brews: Specialty beers crafted to match the time of year.
Whiskey and Cocktails
- Single Malt Whiskeys: A curated collection from Ireland and Scotland.
- Classic Cocktails: Irish Coffee, Whiskey Sour, and more.
- House Specials: Seasonal creations featuring local ingredients.
| Drink Type | Notable Options | Suggested Pairings |
| Craft Beer | Local IPA, Irish Stout, Seasonal Ale | Fish and Chips, Stews |
| Whiskey | Jameson, Bushmills, Glenfiddich | Meat Entrées, Cheese Plates |
| Cocktails | Irish Coffee, Whiskey Sour, Seasonal Mule | Desserts, Appetizers |
“Our beverage program is designed to enhance every meal, offering thoughtful pairings that celebrate both tradition and innovation.”
Special Diets and Menu Adaptations
Jack of the Wood is committed to inclusivity and catering to a variety of dietary needs. The menu clearly identifies options suitable for gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a delicious meal without compromise.
The staff is knowledgeable and always ready to accommodate special requests.
Gluten-free options are plentiful, with many dishes either naturally free of gluten or easily modified upon request. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are crafted with the same care and creativity as the rest of the menu, often highlighting seasonal produce and plant-based proteins.
This thoughtful approach reflects the restaurant’s dedication to both taste and health.
In addition, the kitchen takes allergy concerns seriously, maintaining protocols to prevent cross-contamination and offering detailed ingredient information. This transparency helps diners feel confident and comfortable when selecting their meals.
Gluten-Free Choices
- Irish Stew (without bread): Naturally gluten-free with hearty vegetables and meat.
- Seasonal Vegetable Plate: Fresh and roasted vegetables prepared without gluten.
- Salads: Many salads are gluten-free when ordered without croutons.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
- Grilled Portobello Mushroom: Served with seasonal vegetables and vegan glaze.
- Veggie Burger: House-made patty with flavorful spices and fresh toppings.
- Soup of the Day: Often includes vegan-friendly options.
“Our goal is to make every guest feel welcome and cared for, regardless of dietary restrictions.”
Conclusion
Jack of the Wood in Asheville, NC, offers a unique and memorable dining experience that honors both its Irish roots and the vibrant local food culture. Its menu is a carefully curated collection of dishes that blend tradition with innovation, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients and expert preparation.
From appetizers that invite sharing to hearty entrees and indulgent desserts, every item reflects a passion for quality and authenticity.
The diverse beverage program, inclusive menu options, and warm, inviting atmosphere make Jack of the Wood a standout destination for anyone seeking exceptional food paired with excellent drinks. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler exploring Asheville’s culinary scene, the thoughtful menu and attentive service promise a satisfying and enriching experience.
In every bite and sip, Jack of the Wood captures the spirit of community and celebration that defines this beloved pub.
