Juanchos Fonda

This is hands down one of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to. We got the whole fried fish, skirt steak, beef empanadas. The empanadas are perfect, the guacamole is the best I’ve ever had and I normally don’t even go for it at restaurants. This place definitely poured their heart into their food. Try their fresh juices, mango was the closest thing I’ve had to being in the Caribbean and getting fresh squeezed. Amazing experience.

This was our first visit, and we were warmly welcomed by Jayson, the owner, who took the time to speak with us. Our server, Christian, provided excellent service—attentive and friendly throughout. The food was outstanding and exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend this restaurant, and we are looking forward to returning to try their Sunday Brunch menu.

Had wonderful brunch with friends today, everyone loved their food!! I had the whole fried snapper, it was outstanding, very crisp outside, very tender inside. Served with yummy unique sides. The chimichurri sauce is fantastic that they pour over the fish, be sure to get a bit extra for dipping.

Went here for lunch with a friend. The wait staff was exceptional. They were kind, friendly and helpful. I had the sampler which was WAY more food than I realized and it was super delicious. I am gluten free so knowing their menu is 100% gluten free was super helpful. I am also dairy free and ate here with ease. The steak was awesome. I will be back to try more! Also - don't sleep on their juices!

IT WAS SO AMAZING I CAME HERE 3 TIMES IN A WEEK. I CANT RECCOMEND THIS PLACE ENOUGH. It deserves 7 stars. Everything is gluten free and celiac safe. all the staff is wonderful. Everyone was very accommodating and the owner Jason was absolutely kind beyond means. Each time I came here and tried something new. I can't even tell you that I've had a favorite because everything was new and had unique flavors. Just the fact that everything is gluten-free means that there's so many different options to try. I loved every flavor I had. The portions are huge! The food is fresh and everything is cooked there. There was not one bad thing I could say about this place. Theres not one thing that I disliked here. Id come back a million more times. From the whole fish, to the pandebono, to the fish stew with coconut milk, everything is to die for. Amazing restaurant and amazing quality. Everything is perfect. The food comes out fast too. Well done.

The food was hands down the best Columbian and honestly any other food ive had recently. We couldn't stop eating even after we were full. We started with empanadas followed but the sampler and the fish of the day. Everything had flavor and a sauce that enhanced the things that normally kinda bland. My friend who never had Columbian but also said she didnt certain items tried everything and couldn't stop. She normally has a small appetite. The fish was red snapper and was amazing, just remember its the whole fish so that means bones and tail and head are served. The restaurant was also gluten free which as someone who has a friend with severe celiac is a nice option for them. Yes I would go back and plan on it.

If you’re looking for authentic Colombian food that makes your taste buds dance the salsa, THIS is the place. From the moment we walked in, we were treated like long-lost family (the kind you actually want to see). Our server Christian was an absolute gem—attentive, friendly, and always one step ahead of our cravings. And Jason, the owner? A legend. You can tell he pours his heart into this place—and probably a little magic too, because WOW. Now let’s get into the real star: the food.
It was incredible. Massive portions, bold flavors, and cooked so fresh you’d swear someone’s abuela was in the kitchen yelling “¡con más sazón!” The hot sauce had just the right amount of kick—it didn’t try to ruin your life, just spice it up a little. And the chimichurri? I’d like to be buried with it. It could make cardboard taste amazing (not that the food here needs any help). The alcoholic drinks? So good they should come with a warning label. And the guava juice for our daughter? She sipped it like it was liquid gold and side-eyed anyone who got too close. Totally fair. The vibe? Cozy, colorful, and so welcoming you’ll start checking Zillow for nearby homes. If you're not full, happy, and planning your next visit before you leave, you might not have actually eaten here. 10/10. Would eat myself into a food coma here again. 🇨🇴💃🔥🍹

We drive up and down Sweeten Creek regularly and have said multiple times that we needed to stop here. We finally did and were so glad! What a delicious experience. Jeison, the owner, greeted us and proceeded to share the favorites of the menu along with some Colombian culture. I ordered a craft cocktails which was quite tasty and complimented the cheese empanada we had as an appetizer. Our meals were served and the flavor and presentation were exceptional!! We had the pork and steak entrées which included rice, fresca salad and fresh avocado. The pork was served with plantains and the steak had fries which went well as it had a sliced Roma tomatoes and peppers with a savory soy sauce that pooled at the bottom of the dish. Sooo good! (I gave it all a good tossing and made for a delicious bite every time). We were stuffed, but couldn’t refuse the flan of the day, which was coffee topped with sliced strawberries. Jeison has created a Columbian culinary bistro (aka Fonda as he explained to us the meaning) right here for all to enjoy. Please stop in and give him and his staff a visit.

We found this place while looking for a new dinner experience! What a surprise! Anna our waitress was amazing. The red snapper along with the liver was superb! Great service! Best of Asheville! Hyacinth

A little hidden gem! Wonderful food and service! The staff were warm and inviting, and the food and cocktails amazing! Loved everything our party of five ordered.

I try to support small business as often as I can (having owned one for 20+ years). I was truly excited to visit this restaurant However, Juancho's was a huge and expensive disappointment - perhaps the kitchen was understaffed but the food was mediocre at best. I ordered the skirt steak which was overcooked and dry - a no point I was asked how I wanted it cooked. The side dishes were fries (nothing special) and 2 plantains the size of my thumb. Coleslaw was also served - not a Colombian side dish I asked for a serving of rice, knowing full well that it would be additional. Appx 1/2 cup of rice was $4 That and 1 beer =$44 + tip To the owner: I know you will be unhappy with my review -I have read your responses to negative reviews.. it's your option but look at this as an opportunity to create a more authentic meal, after all Colombian food served with soul is just delicious

Best mojito I've had in a long time. French fries were excellent. Service was super-friendly and efficient. The simple decor with all the hats was a nice touch. However, our party of four were a little up in the air about the food. I thought my whole fried yellowtail snapper was excellent. Some of the other mains didn't have the flavors we usually expect and love in Latin American food. Maybe we just don't understand the nuances of Colombian food. And we thought $55 a head (including tip and tax and one drink or a mocktail each) - with entrés and the sampler plate in the high $20s - was a little steep for this casual place. Best wishes to the owners, though, for continued success.

I had such a great, personable dining experience here. The food & the service was great, the owner was so kind and I already can't wait to go back. Telling all my friends about this gem

Totally unplanned last minute Sunday dinner here, very unassuming from outside, and indoor ambiance was very beautiful, our server was great, very attentive, prompt service, great host... food & drinks were totally unexpected and amazingly good!! This was my first time trying Columbian food (was expecting usual Mexican/ Honduran style food). My partner loved their steak & my vegetarian entrées were delicious!! Very reasonably (under) priced for the quality of food/ drinks/ ambience. Would definitely come back... soon!!

This is a delicious Colombian restaurant and deserves their stars fellow Yelpers! I got a steak with chimichurri sauce with fries and also came with a salad/coleslaw type side, fried plantains and guacamole. Also had by far the best mojito I have had since moving here from Tampa.

The first and only Colombian restaurant in AVL, boasting many authentic dishes from that country. The food was yummy and the service by Christian was excellent.

Fantastic food!! A great spot tucked away in what used to be an office building. Great service and food!! 10/10 And they have vegetarian options that are delicious as well!!!

Everything delicious! Ample amount of tasty chicken stew and the house margaritas are excellent!!

What a great experience! It was a busy dining room when I floated in but the host made room for me at the bar. I had a delightful slightly dirty martini but was also drawn to all the other drinks that were being made by the owner, Jeison. He was busy. So busy! But, he didn't miss a beat while concocting his beverages (pouring, mashing, mixing, shaking, pouring....... you get it!) and explaining the menu to me. And there is a lot to review on that menu. I loved my Bandeja Paisa and will return for the Lechon Al Horno. A side salad came with my meal and tho to Jeison it was probably simple enough to make, it was one of the tastiest salads I've eaten. I look forward to my return - Well done, Juancho's!

It is an amazing authentic Colombian restaurant. The food is fantastic, the service superb, and the music was great! Definitely going back soon

Idk why this place isn't crazy busy, but I'll count my blessings while it lasts. Fresh, flavorful, and such high quality, healthy ingredients you won't have a stomach ache afterwards. To anyone who thinks this is expensive, you obviously haven't been paying the upcharges for gluten free or better-for-you ingredients. To be able to have all that in a restaurant with some of the best food I've ever eaten, plus attentive and kind servers? Unicorn here folks. Start with the "sampler" Bandeja Paisa and a craft cocktail or GF beer (really!) and branch out from there. PS that's not coleslaw, that's cabbage salad from the farmers market dressed lightly; as an avowed veggie hater I found it delicious. When your ingredients are excellent the recipe can be "simple". A true hidden gem with better food versus profit as the motive. Don't miss this one.

Great service everyone got their food on time and a wonderful venue to celebrate my Sisters birthday. Great Colombian music playing and the arepas were very tasty! The drinks are original (created by the owner!) and very tasty. The aguardiente mixed drink is wonderful! Highly recommend! Also the juices are AMAZING! The kids were asking for seconds.

Oh my goodness! We had a wonderful dining experience here last night! Dishes are creative and cooked per order. I had chicken and beef empanadas. They were delicious. The entrees are around $20-$30 ,but portions are very generous and like I said , made fresh . Service was on point. The ambiance is cosy. It's a small restaurant with not too much parking space so try to visit when they're not too busy. Well worth it and we'll be returning soon.

New spot in Asheville and definitely worth the drive if you are not close by. Food was delicious and the staff friendly. Cool atmosphere that is good for a date night or just a quick night out. If you are a fan of Spanish inspired food you will not be disappointed.

Best Mexican restaurant I've been to! Food was excellent! Empanadas were the best my husband & I had & we travel all over the US!

The food and service were both amazing! Sat outside for a lunch/cocktail hour. The cocktails were delicious and so were all the empanadas! We will certainly be back!

Just ok. Not a huge range of flavor and portion size vs. their Greenville or Charlotte contemporaries who are similarly priced (maybe). Service was delayed at times, especially when ordering a second beer. One empanada for $5? Dial back the guacamole (which doesn't go with Colombian empanadas to begin with) and give me another empanada, please. Yuca was also just OK.

Went for my birthday lunch, everything was so tasty and delicious! I love that there are so many things I'm able to eat (GF) The entire staff was so nice and friendly- excellent service! Thank you for my sweet birthday Flan surprise! Best I've had in a long while! Definitely will be back!! Fun ambiance as well

We had the beef sancocho soup, which is served with a great cabbage salad + perfectly ripe avocados and arepas for dipping into the soup (more stew than soup). Also tried the Lechon al Horno, a perfectly roasted pork dish served with rice, salad and plantains. The service was super friendly and efficient. Coming back ASAP.

Ate here for the first time a few days ago. Food is amazing. Delicious. Enough for leftovers the next day. Owners and staff are super friendly. Only negative was the length of time it took to receive our cocktails.

I really enjoyed their food. I'm not aware of any other restaurants in Asheville serving this kind of food. Service was great. They are new and have only been in business for a couple of months. Give them a shot.

Outstanding service and food was delicious. They had the best alcohol-free mojito and daiquiri that I have ever had (and I have had a lot). Please support this business so it stays as a resource for its community.

Had Lomo Salteado. The beef was gristly. Also very expensive for what it is. Not bad but not great. The waiter was overworked but helpful - need more staff.

Spectacular meal! The whole fish was scrumptious! Only Lomo in town and it's delicious and authentic. App sampler was the perfect share.

I am SO hesitant to say how incredible the food is here. It won't be long before there is a line out the door! I've lived in the Asheville area for 6 years now and enjoy all of the fine dining as well as the small "mom and pop" operations. I think the meal I just had might be the best restaurant meal I've had since moving here. It was wonderful to discover fine Columbian cuisine. So fresh, unique, perfectly prepared and the service was impeccable. I will definitely go back!!

Great new restaurant, first time here and we were really surprised at how good the food was! Service was excellent, nice, intimate setting, very pleasant experience. Extensive menu. Fried rice with chicken was very flavorful, empanada appetizer best by far in town, patacone (sort of a plantain sandwich) was wonderful. We will be back to try more dishes soon. Highly recommend this place!!

everything i ate here was top notch and flavorful. there is no other food like this in asheville! i had the soup , cannot remember the name but it was fantastic. i couldn't provide one negative critique. it's a little off the beatin path but well worth it! .

My husband and I, formerly from Miami, love and seek out Columbian, Spanish, Cuban, Mexican food whenever we can. We have enjoyed the best in several countries and Juancho's Fonda ranks at the top with the very best we have had. The roast pork is fork tender and perfectly spiced, the beans cooked for hours and so delicious, accompanited by rice, plantains and salad, all generous portions. The latin themed music was played at a nice volume in the background and added to the ambiance - hard to find good background music for dining anywhere these days. The owner was very hospitable coming out to talk to us. It is evident he is passionate about the quality and preparation of the food and providing a pleasant experience for his customers. Our waitress Anna was awesome and so sweet. We live an hour away but will return to Juancho's on a regular basis, it is that good.

A hidden gem of a restaurant! The wait staff is extremely friendly and accommodating in helping to explain menu choices. The food excellent and delicious. We ordered the sampler plate with a delicious sampling of steak, chicken, pork belly, sausage, tostones, plantains arepas, fries... and talk about a deal. The empanadas were fabulous. The tropical salad was a delicious mix of different fruits with a mix of fresh tropical fruits. Our waiter brought out a mild yummy hot sauce... All complimenting the sampler. A definite winner and a treat! Definitely will visit this establishment again with our friends! Give them a try, you'll be pleased! A fun experience!

Juancho's Fonda is a welcome addition to the AVL dining scene. Staff is gracious and knowledgeable, willingly explaining the dishes and providing suggestions when asked. The food is exceptional- Seafood Cazuelo is a standout. We will definitely return.

This place is stellar. The food is spectacular, really exceptional. Fresh ingredients, creative but not crazy, large portions, and a wonderful variety of side items we did not realize were coming but loved. Two of us each had an entree and shared the Seafood Cazuela: lobster tail, pan-broiled shrimp, fish of the day, and octopus in a cocunut stew served with rice, tostones, cabbage salad and avocado on the side -- so good. We took home enough leftovers to eat for two days, but I cannot wait to go back and try more. Creative cocktails with fresh add-in options and very reasonably priced for Asheville. Service was great. The decor is warm and seats are comfy. This place is a gem. I just realized the one other Yelp review at this time has called it a gem, so trust both of us, it really is.