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Ratings and reviews

Travelers' Choice2022
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Sponsored by: Jargon

Top 3 Reasons to Eat Here

1. A Special Occasion Destination
1. A Special Occasion Destination
"Jargon was a highlight during our recent trip to Asheville."
clints37
See reviews that mention A Special Occasion Destination
2. Owner and Staff Who Truly Care
2. Owner and Staff Who Truly Care
"This was our favorite dining experience in Asheville"
laurenvarble89
See reviews that mention sat at the bar
3. Real Standout in Asheville
3. Real Standout in Asheville
"The menu is innovative and delicious"
marilynneh2015
See reviews that mention chef
About
Jargon is a small, intimate setting that offers upscale new American cuisine, along with specialty craft cocktails. Creativity and art are central to the restaurant, where tables are made from sections of vintage bowling alley lanes and Scrabble tiles outfit the restroom walls. We are a locally-owned business with a knowledgeable and passionate staff who is dedicated to making your experience at Jargon a delightful one.
PRICE RANGE
$8 - $52
Special Diets
Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
Meals
Dinner, Drinks
CUISINES
American, Contemporary
FEATURES
Gift Cards Available, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Street Parking, Free off-street parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Wine and Beer, Accepts American Express, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Discover, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service, Non-smoking restaurants
Reviews (733)
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Traveler rating
643
53
23
11
1
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Time of year
LanguageEnglish
Traveler rating
643
53
23
11
1
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All reviews trout pork belly meatballs short ribs ribeye roasted beets octopus salad brussels sprouts bread fries ice breaker chefs table dining experience anniversary dinner great cocktails wonderful atmosphere
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Reviewed 2 weeks ago via mobile

Went to Jargon over the weekend with family. You will be “wowed” the second you walk in with the quaint dining atmosphere that includes refurbished bowling alleys turned into tables and a turntable playing background music at the hostess station. Our meals were all fantastic...- and this is coming from a group of restaurant snobs. The chef left nothing to chance and our meals were culinary masterpieces. Drinks, appetizers, and meals were all fantastic. If you walked by our table, you would have heard: “try mine, try mine” as we all shared our meals. I never order dessert, but our meals were so good, we had to partake in them too! It was only an 8 minute drive from our downtown hotel, with curbside parking and a public parking area directly across the street. Stay away from the overhyped downtown restaurants and go to Jargon. You won’t be disappointed.More

Date of visit: May 2023
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Restaurant's Favorite
Reviewed November 11, 2022

Last weekend my friend and I traveled to Asheville for some leaf-peeping. For most of the weekend, the weather did not cooperate and the city was crowded as a Tattoo Festival was being held. We made a reservation at Jargon and are SO glad we...did. Jargon is not downtown, but just a short drive from our hotel. From the moment we walked in, we were welcomed; and we loved the dining area (after taking a peak at the outdoor patio area, we may choose that option next time we're in town). To say that our meal was delicious is English understatement. Every item was a dazzling surprise of taste and texture. We split small plates, a 'snack' and an entree. Each item was so different and so tasty. Our server, Reign, offered expert and EXCELLENT suggestions which we gladly followed. Jargon owner, Sean Piper, stopped at our table to make sure we were having a good dining experience-were we ever! We loved the decor, the cuisine, even the well-modulated background music. I wish Mr. Piper and the entire staff well! In a city that has many restaurant options, Jargon is indeed a standout! The Ladies Room wall of Scrabble tiles is charming too!More

Date of visit: November 2022
Helpful?5  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 2 weeks ago

Delicious cocktails & food; great service! We sat at the Chef's Counter & loved watching the cooks at work. Highly recommend the mushrooms, pasta, desserts & drinks. Treat yourself & a special someone!

Date of visit: May 2023
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 2 weeks ago

So it could be that the courtyard is not that new, and we have simply never visited it, but it was delightful. And there were heaters and retractable roof. A detailed review of what we ordered: Crispy HNG Pig Ears was our app. These were...ridiculously tasty, and I could eat them all day long as a snack. They sound odd, but if you’ve never had them, they are crispy slices, not big chunks. And lightly flavored with hoisin sauce. They were crunch-chewy. See photo. My husband had the Chickpea and NC Sweet Potato Tagine. There were other items on the menu that looks tempting, but we have them with frequency. For instance, the Sunburst trout we have been having for 15 years, at various restaurants, so although I’m sure it was good, we wanted to try a little something new. He’s not a vegetarian, but this was really delightful. I find that places that tend to serve a lot of local meat products, such as Jargon, will have an exquisite vegetarian option. This sounds counterintuitive, but it’s true. One time, they had some Lion’s mane mushrooms, and I will never forget how beautifully they were cooked. It’s Asheville, there must be wonderful vegetarian options on each menu, and Jargon has always delivered excellent flavor with their veggie dishes. I had the soft shell crab special… it was a bit of a letdown. I enjoy softshell crab, and there’s certainly nothing wrong with this preparation. I think perhaps it had too much sauce, but more than anything, it just felt heavier than I wanted. I think the breading on it was a bit heavier than I expected. And it was deep fried a bit more than expected. I’ve had softshell crab fried very lightly with a dusting of breading, and that’s probably just what I prefer. But I don’t think the chef did anything wrong with the preparation, it was just heavier than I anticipated. My palate, not the chef’s fault. I also had the nettle soup, which was outstanding! Service: I think the big thing that differentiates Jargon from other restaurants in town is the service. There are so many restaurants in Asheville to choose from, and so many at this price point, delivering innovative and locally sourced cuisine, but the service at Jargon has always been outstanding, from the second they greet you at the door. Our individual server was excellent and other folks would come by to check on us as well. There are restaurants in town at this price point that if you ask the host for a seat they seem almost pissed off. Even with reservations. It’s just that sort of crappy attitude that pervades some of the nicer restaurants. I worry that we are overworking our waitstaff, and I’ve seen some folks from out-of-town be rude or belligerent or drunk or all of the above to servers and hosts. Asheville has become one of those towns with bridal parties and that sometimes leads to drunken celebratory rude behavior. So it probably is quite tiring being a server at some of the nicer places in Asheville. But I never feel a bad vibe at Jargon. It’s also often tricky (as a local) to get a table at a restaurant if you don’t have reservations and just decide at the last minute to go out. And sometimes some of the restaurants will scoff at you for not having reservations. Jargon is never that way. They try to find a place for you if possible, and if not, they are very polite about it. We were made to feel welcome, from the second we walked in the door and that can make a huge difference in the quality of the experience.More

Date of visit: May 2023
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 3 weeks ago

I’ve been to Jargon several times and it never disappoints. It’s a wonderful spot for a date, first or fiftieth, or whether you’re looking to treat some out of town friends with something memorable and exciting. Jargon offers so many wonderful tastes of North Carolina....Most recently I took my brothers groomsman’s bachelor party out for a classy dinner! We were given our own private dining space and everyone felt at home. We ordered every drink on the menu and they were all delicious, and effective, lol. We shared multiple appetizers and had ALL the entrees, but you must save room for desert. Their special after dinner menu is the perfect way to finish a meal. From your own French press to the fine pastries and the espresso cocktails, or three… there is no better way to end an evening. Those of you who live here already know but if you’re visiting the area THIS is YOUR can’t miss dining experience.More

Date of visit: April 2023
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 4 weeks ago

I went to Jargon on Friday, April 21st with my wife and another couple. My wife and I have a toddler and are limited to just a couple of date nights a year. When we do actually get to go out, we want to make...the most of it and usually don't hold back. To be 100% transparent, I am in the wine industry and do business with most every restaurant in the Asheville area. That being said, I do not write bad reviews as it would not bode well for my business. I am reluctant to voice my concerns and usually just suck it up, pay the bill, and leave dissapointed. However, when I have a great experience, I will rave ad nauseum about it to anyone that will listen. I had such an experience at Jargon. I had been once before, for brunch, and it was great. This however was an extravagant, 3+ hour dinner journey. I became aware of Ryan Kline, the Executive Chef, almost 10 years ago at a pop up dinner. I was enamored with him from the beginning as somehow he had made a soup that included popcorn that blew me out of the water. I hands down believe that he is now the best chef in Asheville. Therefore, I knew going in on Friday night that there was going to be no doubt that the food would be over the top. It did not dissapoint. I am not writing this review though becasue of Ryan's food. I of course will include him in my review, but this is about the service. Asheville as a whole is not known for its great service. There are a handful of spots around town that will take care of you, but most will have you leaving with a bad taste in your mouth (pun intended). Everything, as we know, has gotten way too expensive. The expectiation that I get my money's worth when I dine out has never had greater importance. I will even be happy with overpriced mediocre food as long as the service is over the top. I will definitely give you another chance if your service/attitude is happy/fun/congenial. Jargon knocked it out of the park with their service. Couple that with Ryan and his kitchen staffs' food and you have a recipe for success. From the moment we walked in the door until the time we walked back out, everything was on point. Alyssa greeted us at the door as if we had known each other for 20 years. She informed us that our friends were at the bar and walked us over to them. She explained that our table was ready, but if we were willing to wait just a few minutes more that a table outside would be available. The back patio is a hidden gem right outside the back door. Ariana at the bar was mixing up delicious cocktails and promptly tabbed us out a few minutes later as our table was available. As soon as we settled in, Caitlyn greeted us with water and suggestions. She let us piece together our family style dining experience by coursing out our meal in several layers. We had: crispy pigs ears, fingerling potatoes, rabbit croquettes, duck pate, duck breast, lamb, ribeye, mushrooms, cucumber gazpacho, brown butter financier cake, and the chaco taco! Eddie, another server, delivered some of our food and checked in on us several times as well. He told us that he had moved to Asheville from California several years back and had worked at a Michelin Star restaurant when he was out west. He said that he dined around Asheville upon his arrival and that he wanted to work at Jargon once he tasted the food. Sean, the owner, visited our table several times thoughout the evening. He thanked us for coming in, checked that everything was up to our expectations, and told us about his businesses growth upon our asking. He made mention that he did not take a PPP loan during the Pandemic and that he wears that as a badge of honor as to his restaurants reputation. He also noticed that my friends Pimm's cocktail was missing a straw and offerd to get one. He explained that the cocktail was better enjoyed with a straw since it was built in layers. This to me represents a keen eye for exemplary service and shows that, as an owner, he has a pulse on the heartbeat of his business. Jargon is in West Asheville. If you are from out of town, then you need to experience this side of town. It does not come with the headaches of parking and hustle bustle that downtown Asheville has. You can explore West Asheville for all of its eclectic wierdness as well. I will continue to patronize Jargon when I can get a babysitter and afford to go out. I don't want to take a chance on something else that just may dissapoint. I hope that you give it a try.More

Date of visit: April 2023
Helpful?1  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed 4 weeks ago

Our third visit to Jargon over the years, and we are pleased to report...they still have their fast ball! Without shame, we love this place....the food, the service...the vibe....everything about this casual, friendly, creative restaurant makes us smile. We've sat in the dining room, at...the chef's counter and at the bar. Next time, we'll try the outdoor patio. Bravo you guys....you never disappoint.More

Date of visit: April 2023
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed April 22, 2023

Simply put: best dinner in Asheville and a MUST for any visit here. The absolute joy and creativity expressed in the food, the gorgeous plating, the incredible knowledge and passion of their staff (shoutout to Reign, the best server!) just floored us. We had a...party of six from all over the US and every single one of us ranked this as one of the best meals we’ve had. We shared six small plates, two desserts, and a variety of drinks and it was perfection. Listen to the hundreds of five star reviews— this place could cost double for the atmosphere, service, menu, and experience and it would still be worth it. The owner was lovely and was personally checking in on each table and the staff as well. We wish we didn’t live on the west coast so we could make it a regular spot, but we will be visiting again whenever we are back!More

Date of visit: April 2023
Helpful?2  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed April 14, 2023 via mobile

This was our first time and we made a reservation because of the reviews. Wow, this place was amazing! We were greeted at the door and walked to our table. The friendliness and welcoming vibe was present at the start. Our server Sarah knew the...menu and made great recommendations that increased our dining experience. The food was spectacular and prepared and presented perfectly. Sean, the owner stopped at our table to check on us. This restaurant is a little out there, but well worth a trip. It is highly rated because they all deserve it. Great experience and we will return.More

Date of visit: April 2023
Helpful?2  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed April 2, 2023 via mobile

The food was excellent. The menu and vibe of Jargon is very eclectic. The cocktails were amazing. We shared cheese pairings with garlic rolls. I ordered the beet salad and kung pao octopus which was cooked perfectly.

Date of visit: March 2023
Helpful?
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed March 21, 2023

One night in Asheville and I am glad that we picked this spot for dinner. Service was great. We sat at the bar and Arianna was our server. The cocktails and recommendations were spot on. I would go there again if I come back to...Asheville. Everything we ate was awesome.More

Date of visit: March 2023
Helpful?2  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed March 21, 2023 via mobile

I had an incredible experience sitting at the bar for dinner. Ariana is fun, witty, and makes incredible drinks. She made our entire evening and we will absolutely be back because of her!

Date of visit: March 2023
Helpful?2  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed March 19, 2023 via mobile

Jargon is a true delight again and again and again! The ambience the service and of course the food are always spot on. We can't wait until our next visit!

Date of visit: March 2023
Helpful?2  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed March 19, 2023 via mobile

“Cool” dining atmosphere - very retro vibe. Fabulous food with nice variety for us “plant-based” eaters. Unique speciality cocktails. Our server, Eddie, was terrific - very warm, kind and had several suggestions regarding menu items. Would definitely eat here again.

Date of visit: March 2023
Helpful?3  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Reviewed March 18, 2023

Jargon was absolutely FANTASTIC! The food was so delicious, the drinks were tasty, and we had the most incredible server, Katelyn. The owner, Sean, was there and made it a point to speak to every table. This is a very special place. Highly recommend!

Date of visit: March 2023
Helpful?3  
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Questions & Answers
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EileenO123456
September 1, 2021|
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Response from bluejeanfood | Reviewed this property |
I would call them
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Karen R
January 22, 2021|
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Response from lucycT6506XT | Reviewed this property |
Yes the outdoor seating is a beautiful setting with lights and heaters for cool nights.
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JARGON, Asheville - Menu, Prices & Restaurant Reviews - Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions about Jargon

Yes, Jargon is taking precautions against COVID-19. A full list is available within the "safety precautions" section of this page.

Jargon is rated accordingly in the following categories by Tripadvisor travelers:
  • Food: 5
  • Service: 5
  • Value: 4.5