Tucked in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, Nine Mile Restaurant stands as a vibrant culinary beacon, drawing locals and travelers alike with its unique blend of Caribbean-inspired flavors and warm, inviting atmosphere.
From the first step inside, the aromatic symphony of spices and fresh ingredients welcomes diners, hinting at the memorable meal ahead. The menu at Nine Mile is a testament to thoughtful creativity, carefully balancing tradition and innovation to craft dishes that are as nourishing as they are flavorful.
Each offering is designed to cater to a wide range of palates and dietary preferences, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and hospitality. Whether you’re a lifelong vegetarian, a seafood enthusiast, or simply eager to explore new tastes, you’ll find something to delight your senses.
Nine Mile is more than just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of community, culture, and the art of good food. The staff’s friendly demeanor and the laid-back, welcoming ambiance only add to the experience, making every visit feel special.
The menu is not just a list of dishes—it’s an invitation to embark on a flavorful journey that spans continents and traditions, all crafted with passion and care.
Appetizers and Small Plates
Nine Mile’s appetizers set the tone for the meal, offering bold flavors and inventive combinations that spark anticipation. These small plates are crafted to awaken the palate, encourage sharing, and showcase the kitchen’s creative approach to Caribbean-inspired cuisine.
The menu features a thoughtful array of starters, each with its own distinctive flair. Many diners begin their meal with the Signature Jerk Chicken Wings, which are marinated in a house-made jerk sauce and served with a cooling mango dip.
The wings strike a perfect balance between heat and sweetness, making them a perennial favorite.
For those seeking lighter fare, the Island Salad is a refreshing option. Crisp greens are topped with local vegetables, tropical fruits, and a zesty lime vinaigrette, creating a vibrant, healthy start.
Another highlight is the Plantain Nachos, which swap out traditional chips for perfectly fried plantains, layered with black beans, cheese, and fresh salsa.
Vegetarians and vegans are not left out, with options like the Curried Lentil Patties and Coconut-Crusted Tofu Bites. These dishes are crafted with the same attention to flavor and texture as their meat-based counterparts, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying start to their meal.
- Signature Jerk Chicken Wings: Smoky, spicy, and sweet with a mango dip
- Island Salad: Mixed greens, tropical fruits, lime vinaigrette
- Plantain Nachos: Fried plantains, black beans, cheese, fresh salsa
- Coconut-Crusted Tofu Bites: Vegan-friendly, crispy and flavorful
“Every bite of the jerk wings is like a burst of the Caribbean—bold, bright, and unforgettable.” — Local Food Critic
Soups and Salads
Nine Mile’s soups and salads are more than side dishes—they are crafted to stand on their own, offering comfort and nourishment with every spoonful or forkful. These menu items reflect the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and inventive, globally inspired flavors.
A highlight among soups is the Rasta Stew, a hearty blend of root vegetables, lentils, and coconut milk simmered with a medley of aromatic spices. This vegan-friendly dish is both satisfying and deeply flavorful, appealing to those who seek a wholesome, filling start to their meal.
Salads at Nine Mile are far from ordinary. The Calypso Caesar reimagines the classic Caesar with a twist: romaine hearts tossed in a creamy avocado dressing, topped with spiced chickpeas and plantain croutons.
Another standout is the Tropical Quinoa Salad, which combines red quinoa, pineapple, roasted peppers, and a cilantro-lime dressing for a refreshing, protein-packed option.
The thoughtful balance of flavors and textures ensures that each soup and salad can be enjoyed as a light meal or a prelude to heartier fare. Many regulars appreciate the restaurant’s habit of rotating seasonal specials, providing new tastes and ingredients throughout the year.
- Rasta Stew: Vegan, coconut milk, root vegetables, lentils, aromatic spices
- Calypso Caesar: Avocado dressing, spiced chickpeas, plantain croutons
- Tropical Quinoa Salad: Pineapple, quinoa, roasted peppers, cilantro-lime dressing
“Soup at Nine Mile is not an afterthought—it’s a celebration of comfort and creativity.” — Asheville Eats Magazine
Signature Pasta Dishes
Pasta takes on a distinctive Caribbean flair at Nine Mile, where the kitchen’s signature dishes are as colorful as they are flavorful. These entrees combine classic pasta forms with bold, often unexpected ingredients and sauces, resulting in meals that are both familiar and delightfully new.
The Negril Nights pasta is a standout, featuring penne tossed in a creamy coconut-jerk sauce, sautéed vegetables, and your choice of protein. The interplay of subtle heat and sweetness is the hallmark of this dish, making it a favorite among both regulars and newcomers.
Another beloved option is One Foundation, which pairs linguine with sautéed shrimp, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes in a white wine-garlic sauce. For those who prefer a plant-based meal, the Spirulina Dream offers a vibrant blend of spirulina-infused pasta, grilled tofu, and a medley of fresh greens in a light citrus dressing.
Each pasta dish can be further personalized, as diners are encouraged to select from a range of proteins including chicken, tofu, shrimp, or even tempeh. This flexibility ensures that everyone can enjoy a meal tailored to their tastes and dietary needs.
| Pasta Dish | Main Sauce | Protein Options |
| Negril Nights | Coconut-Jerk Cream Sauce | Chicken, Shrimp, Tofu, Tempeh |
| One Foundation | White Wine-Garlic Sauce | Shrimp, Chicken, Tofu |
| Spirulina Dream | Citrus Vinaigrette | Tofu, Tempeh |
- Substitute gluten-free pasta for any dish
- Choose from locally sourced proteins
- Add extra vegetables for a nutrient boost
“Pasta at Nine Mile is a canvas for tropical inspiration, where each bite tells a story of flavor and creativity.” — Chef’s Journal
Seafood Specialties
Nine Mile’s proximity to the coast is reflected in its seafood offerings, which are both fresh and inventive. The menu showcases the kitchen’s ability to highlight the natural flavors of the sea while infusing each dish with Caribbean spices and techniques.
A perennial favorite is the Marley’s Magic—a grilled mahi-mahi filet served atop coconut rice, accompanied by pineapple salsa and sautéed greens. The dish embodies the restaurant’s ethos of pairing quality ingredients with vibrant, layered flavors.
The Island Curry Shrimp is another standout, featuring plump shrimp simmered in a fragrant curry sauce with bell peppers, onions, and carrots. Served with a side of jasmine rice, it’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort, even on the coldest Asheville evenings.
For those seeking something truly unique, the Rum-Glazed Salmon offers a delightful balance of smoky sweetness and subtle heat. The salmon is marinated in a blend of Caribbean spices and dark rum, then grilled to perfection and finished with a tangy glaze.
- Marley’s Magic: Grilled mahi-mahi, coconut rice, pineapple salsa
- Island Curry Shrimp: Shrimp, curry sauce, jasmine rice
- Rum-Glazed Salmon: Salmon, Caribbean spice rub, dark rum glaze
“Fresh seafood prepared with a Caribbean twist is what sets Nine Mile apart. The flavors are bold, yet perfectly balanced.” — Seafood Enthusiast Review
Seafood Pairing Tips
Pairing seafood with the right side dishes and drinks enhances the overall dining experience. Nine Mile’s staff recommends pairing their seafood specialties with crisp, citrus-forward white wines or house-made tropical cocktails for a truly immersive meal.
For sides, the Grilled Vegetables and Coconut Rice amplify the freshness of the seafood, while a side of Sweet Plantains adds a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Nine Mile’s menu is a haven for vegetarians and vegans, offering a wealth of dishes that celebrate plant-based ingredients without sacrificing flavor or creativity. The kitchen’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in both the variety and quality of these offerings.
One of the most popular choices is the Roots and Shoots Bowl, a nourishing combination of roasted root vegetables, sautéed greens, black beans, and quinoa, all drizzled with a tangy tamarind sauce. This dish showcases how wholesome ingredients can be transformed into a deeply satisfying meal.
For a Caribbean classic, the Ital Stew is a must-try. This vegan stew features slow-cooked chickpeas, potatoes, carrots, and okra in a rich tomato-coconut broth, seasoned with allspice and fresh herbs.
It’s as comforting as it is flavorful, exemplifying the restaurant’s philosophy of “food for all.”
The Curried Tofu and Vegetables offers a hearty, protein-rich option for those seeking something with a bit more spice. Cubes of tofu are simmered in a house-made curry sauce alongside bell peppers, squash, and sweet potatoes, served over a bed of jasmine rice.
- Roots and Shoots Bowl: Roasted root vegetables, black beans, quinoa, tamarind sauce
- Ital Stew: Chickpeas, okra, potatoes, carrots, tomato-coconut broth
- Curried Tofu and Vegetables: Tofu, mixed vegetables, coconut curry sauce
| Dish | Vegan | Gluten-Free |
| Roots and Shoots Bowl | Yes | Yes |
| Ital Stew | Yes | Yes |
| Curried Tofu and Vegetables | Yes | No (can request GF) |
“Nine Mile’s plant-based menu items are so flavorful and satisfying that even meat-lovers leave happy.” — Vegan Asheville
Caribbean Classics and House Specials
The heart of Nine Mile’s menu lies in its collection of Caribbean classics and house specials. These dishes draw inspiration from traditional recipes across the islands, updated with local ingredients and the restaurant’s signature touch.
The Jerk Chicken Plate is an enduring favorite, featuring bone-in chicken marinated in a fiery blend of spices, then slow-cooked for maximum tenderness. Served with coconut rice and sautéed greens, this dish is a true taste of Jamaica in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Another standout is the Kingston Pepperpot, a rich stew of beef, sweet peppers, okra, and potatoes in a spicy tomato broth. This hearty dish is perfect for those craving something bold and comforting.
For a lighter yet equally flavorful option, the Reggae Red Snapper is pan-seared and finished with a citrus-chili glaze, served alongside grilled vegetables and plantains.
The house specials often rotate, featuring seasonal ingredients or incorporating guest favorites from past menus. This dynamic approach ensures there’s always something new to discover, even for frequent visitors.
- Jerk Chicken Plate: Bone-in chicken, fiery jerk marinade, coconut rice, greens
- Kingston Pepperpot: Beef stew, sweet peppers, okra, potatoes, spicy tomato broth
- Reggae Red Snapper: Pan-seared snapper, citrus-chili glaze, grilled vegetables
“Nine Mile honors Caribbean tradition while adding its own Asheville twist, making each classic dish feel both comforting and new.” — Culinary Explorer
House Special Features
House specials are announced regularly and tend to sell out quickly, as they often feature limited-run ingredients or chef-inspired creations. Diners can expect anything from locally sourced lamb to tropical seafood medleys, depending on the season and chef’s inspiration.
The specials board is always worth a glance, as it offers both adventurous newcomers and loyal regulars an opportunity to experience the kitchen’s latest innovations.
Gluten-Free and Allergen-Friendly Choices
Nine Mile goes beyond simply accommodating dietary restrictions—it celebrates them. The restaurant’s commitment to providing gluten-free and allergen-friendly options is evident throughout the menu, ensuring that all guests can dine with confidence and enjoyment.
Many of the core dishes, including pastas, rice bowls, and stews, are naturally gluten-free or can be modified upon request. The kitchen takes care to prevent cross-contamination, with dedicated preparation areas and clear labeling of all menu items.
Diners with allergies or specific dietary needs are encouraged to inform their server, who will work closely with the kitchen to ensure a safe and delicious meal. Common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and soy are clearly marked, and substitutions are offered wherever possible.
Nine Mile also offers a variety of gluten-free desserts, such as coconut macaroons and flourless chocolate cake, allowing everyone to end their meal on a sweet note. This attention to detail sets Nine Mile apart as a truly inclusive dining destination.
| Menu Category | Gluten-Free Options | Dairy-Free Options | Nut-Free Options |
| Appetizers | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Main Dishes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| Desserts | Yes | Some | Some |
“The staff at Nine Mile went above and beyond to accommodate my allergies, making me feel safe and cared for from start to finish.” — Guest Testimonial
- Notify your server of any allergies or dietary restrictions
- Look for symbols indicating gluten-free or allergen-friendly dishes
- Enjoy a rotating selection of gluten-free desserts
Desserts and Beverages
A meal at Nine Mile isn’t complete without indulging in one of its signature desserts or sipping a house-crafted beverage. The dessert menu is a showcase of Caribbean-inspired sweets, each designed to provide a perfect finish to your dining experience.
The Rum-Soaked Bread Pudding is a must-try, featuring rich, custardy bread pudding infused with dark rum and topped with caramelized bananas. For something lighter, the Mango Sorbet offers a refreshing, dairy-free alternative, made with ripe mangoes and a hint of lime.
Chocolate lovers will adore the Flourless Chocolate Torte, a decadent slice of rich chocolate cake that happens to be gluten-free. Each dessert is prepared in-house, using high-quality ingredients and a dash of island flair.
Beverage options range from fresh-squeezed juices and tropical smoothies to a curated selection of local craft beers and Caribbean-inspired cocktails. The Pineapple Mojito and Ginger-Lime Margarita are popular choices, both delivering a refreshing twist on classic favorites.
- Rum-Soaked Bread Pudding: Dark rum, caramelized bananas, custard
- Mango Sorbet: Dairy-free, mango and lime
- Flourless Chocolate Torte: Gluten-free, rich chocolate
- Pineapple Mojito: Fresh pineapple, mint, white rum
- Ginger-Lime Margarita: Ginger, lime, tequila
“The desserts at Nine Mile are the perfect blend of comfort and adventure—just sweet enough to keep you coming back.” — Dessert Lover’s Digest
Specialty Beverages
Signature cocktails are crafted with house-made syrups, fresh juices, and a selection of premium spirits. Non-alcoholic options, such as the Passionfruit Cooler or House Ginger Beer, ensure that everyone can enjoy a memorable beverage, regardless of preference.
The staff is happy to recommend pairings based on your meal and taste preferences, ensuring a harmonious end to your dining experience.
Conclusion
Nine Mile Restaurant’s menu is a tapestry of vibrant flavors, diverse influences, and thoughtful inclusivity. Each dish, from appetizers to desserts, reflects a deep respect for both Caribbean culinary traditions and the eclectic tastes of Asheville’s dining community.
With its wide range of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-friendly options, Nine Mile strives to make every guest feel welcome and valued.
What truly sets Nine Mile apart is its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and infusing every plate with creativity and care. The staff’s passion for hospitality shines through in every interaction, transforming a simple meal into a memorable occasion.
Whether you’re seeking a comforting bowl of stew, a lively seafood dish, a plant-based delight, or a sweet, indulgent ending, you’ll find it all on this menu—each bite a celebration of flavor and community.
Dining at Nine Mile is more than just eating; it’s an experience that connects people through food, culture, and warmth. The menu invites you to savor the richness of the Caribbean, explore new culinary horizons, and feel right at home, no matter where you’re from.
For those who crave both adventure and comfort, Nine Mile stands as a beloved destination—a place where every meal tells a story worth savoring.
