Editor’s Note: Fork & Dagger is 828newsNOW’s anonymous restaurant review series, written by our independent Grub Scout—no freebies, no press perks, no agenda. Grub Scout pays full price, visits unannounced, and takes notes on food, service, atmosphere, and value. Each review reflects a recent, honest experience rated on our 1‑to‑5 fork scale. We aim to help you discover standout dining spots—from casual diners to white‑tablecloth affairs—one bite at a time.
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — I’ll begin by being quite frank. The Madness on Merrimon has come a long way. I’ve been there several times over the last few years, and it was spotty at best. But this trip saw great improvements. They seem to have really dialed in the menu.
The thing I most like about the place is the concept. Offering sushi and burgers works for me. It feels very urban, like something you’d get in Manhattan. Tres chic, you know?
We began with cocktails. I had the same drink I always do, and it has always been perfect. The Yuzu Old Fashioned: Japanese whiskey, Yuzu extract and house bitters is an ideal concoction and an inventive take on a classic…