Saturday

Get ready for a day on one of Asheville’s most beautiful trails by grabbing free coffee at Sweat Peas and then heading to a $20 breakfast at Boca, which serves up fabulous Tex-Mex fare. Mouthwatering huevos motuleños, eggs over medium with black beans, ham and peas topped with sautéed plantains, queso fresco and pico de gallo are the perfect start to a fall morning. And the pancake special, all-you-can-eat pancakes with real maple syrup, is a steal of a deal of a meal.

Next, jump on the Blue Ridge Parkway (gorgeous any time of year), and arrive at milepost 382, the Folk Art Center. Spend a few minutes walking around the Center, which showcases local artists who create stunning works of art using methods traditional to the area. You’ll see colorful quilts with such richness and depth you find yourself lost in the pattern, earthy pottery that includes some killer teapots, and many other beautiful and practical items.

From there, those interested in local flora and fauna, and a very easy hike, can take a quarter-mile educational loop with lots of information about the area’s ecosystem.

Hikers can also get on the Mountains-to-Sea Trail from the Center. This easy-to-moderate rated trail will eventually stretch from the Appalachians of North Carolina all the way down to its coast, a journey of 900 miles. Currently only 21 miles have been completed, and day hikers can turn around at any time. Friends of the trail maintain a photo-stream that never fails to intrigue and entice. Eat a picnic lunch on the trail before heading back to Asheville in the afternoon.

For dinner, stop by Chai Pani, a different take on the standard sit down Indian restaurant. Chai Pani serves Indian street food in a casual atmosphere with very affordable options.  Hungry patrons can choose several items from the “tasty bites” menu to make a meal, or try the Sloppy Jai, which delivers turkey hash on a toasted bun with yogurt and carmelized onions. The thali of the day always makes for a satisfying option, which is an entrée representative of what you would be served as a guest in an Indian home. Thalis come with several sides, salads, and a dessert. A carefully chosen meal for two should only set you back $20.

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