Asheville News

Plant, new vegetarian restaurant, begins to come together on Merrimon Avenue in Asheville

Jason Sandford May 17, 2011

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

I stopped by the former Beans and Berries shop on Merrimon Avenue yesterday to see what was up. Beans and Berries closed last month, as you recall, but I saw some new action there.

Inside I found Jason Sellers, a general contracting crew and a couple of fellow investors working on getting the small space outfitted as a full service restaurant. Sellers is one talented chef (and one damn nice guy) who has been working at The Laughing Seed, Asheville’s venerable vegetarian stop, for the last six years. He’s decided to strike out on his own.

The new restaurant will be called Plant. It will be focused on seasonal food, locally grown food, etc. It should be open later this summer. Stay tuned for more details. And wish Sellers and company the best of luck.

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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4 Comments

Jenny L July 19, 2011

I am looking forward to your opening! I love gluten free, vegan and "whole food" and raw food recipes. I can't wait to see what you will be serving. Asheville has several (but never too many) restaurants that have vegan options but adding local produce when possible is great. I would love to see at least a couple of recipes that have zero refined products in them (including oils). I travel a lot and have not seen anyone tap into this idea yet (other than some raw foodies).
A rising tide lifts all boats. I am so glad you are here!

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nancy h May 28, 2011

I wish you the very best in this new endeavor, Jason. I know it will be a great success and look forward to dining with you sometime in the future!
Rachel's mom Nancy

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Michael M May 20, 2011

I remember when Jason was "interning" at an Indian Restaurant in Raleigh back in the 90's. Talk about authentic. That family owned business is still thriving and I'm sure Plant will last just as long or longer. I'll eat there every time I visit. Good luck Jason! We'll visit soon!

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Lori O. May 18, 2011

Speaking as someone who has eaten Jason Sellers' food both at Laughing Seed and at his home, I can assure everyone that this will be one delicious restaurant. My meat-loving husband can't get enough of Jason's creations, since they are so detail-oriented with regards to flavors, textures, and presentation, and he swears he never misses the meat. In other words, I am confident that this will be a place to satisfy everyone's palate! Don't miss out!

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