Scheffer Group Restaurants Sweep Best of WNC Awards
The Scheffer Group has once again proven its commitment to providing exceptional hospitality as its three acclaimed establishments—Jettie Rae's Oyster House, Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian, and Gan Shan West—shine at the 2024 Best of WNC Mountain Xpress Awards.
Jettie Rae's Oyster House, Asheville’s premier seafood restaurant, has secured the top spot for #1 Best Seafood in Asheville. The restaurant's dedication to fresh, high-quality seafood and innovative dishes has captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike. Adding to the accolades, Mitch Stewart earned a commendable third place for Best Bartender, highlighting the exceptional talent behind Jettie Rae's renowned bar.
Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian continues its legacy of excellence, once again claiming the title of #1 Best Italian restaurant for an impressive 14th consecutive year. Vinnie's also swept the board with numerous additional honors, including #1 Best Service and #1 Best Pasta, both for 10 years running. The restaurant's unique combination of warm, inviting atmosphere and authentic Italian-American cuisine also earned #1 Best Restaurant in North and South Asheville titles. Josh March's exceptional mixology skills were once again recognized with a second-place finish for Best Bartender, and Vinnie's achieved a third-place finish in the newly introduced Favorite Restaurant category.
Gan Shan West, known for its diverse and flavorful Asian offerings, proudly took home the title of #1 Best Takeout. The restaurant's dedication to quality and convenience continues to resonate with Asheville's food enthusiasts. Gan Shan West also received high praise for its ramen, securing second place for Best Ramen, and its delectable Chinese cuisine, earning third place for Best Chinese.
Chef/Owner Eric Scheffer, the visionary behind these culinary gems, attributes this sweeping success to his unwavering philosophy: “Relentless generosity brings us closer together.” His commitment to fostering a sense of community and joy through exceptional hospitality is reflected in the consistent recognition his restaurants receive.
In Chef Scheffer's own words, “The standard of success in life isn't the things; it isn't the money or the stuff... it is absolutely the amount of joy you feel.” This guiding principle is evident in the joyful dining experiences he creates, bringing people together through the universal love of good food and the gratitude for the opportunity to be in service of others and deliver exceptional hospitality.
For more information about Chef Eric Scheffer and his award-winning restaurants, please visit Jettie Rae's, Vinnie's Neighborhood Italian, and Gan Shan West.
