They say that how you spend the first day of the new year sets the tone for the rest of it. If that’s true, my 2026 will be fresh, vibrant, and delicious.

On January 1st, seeking a meal to match the fresh slate of a new year, I headed over to 143 Charlotte Street here in Asheville. Tucked away in the historic Grove Park neighborhood sits Jettie Rae’s Oyster House, a spot that has quickly earned a reputation as one of the city’s top—and certainly freshest seafood—dining destinations. Having a reservation was essential; even on New Year’s Day, this neighborhood favorite was bustling, and I was glad to have a table waiting for me.

The Atmosphere

Jettie Rae’s Oyster House manages a specific theme – an homage to the coastal seafood shacks of the Atlantic, named after the grandmother of the owner. The space is comfortable, offering a clean, maritime aesthetic that feels right for the historic Grove Park area. 

The Seafood

The restaurant is frequently recognized for its commitment to quality, and the freshness is the primary draw. They source their seafood with care, and you can tell they take pride in the details.

We began with the oyster appetizer.

The oysters were great—clean, properly shucked, and served at the right temperature. One of the unique aspects of Jettie Rae’s is its Oyster of the Month program, which highlights a specific variety or region and provides a bit of education alongside the meal.

For the main course, I ordered the Whole Roasted Branzino.

The fish was prepared very well. The skin was crisp, and the meat remained tender and flavorful. It is a straightforward, honest dish that relies on the quality of the ingredients, which is exactly what I was looking for to start the new year.

• Reservations: As I found, these are recommended, especially on holidays or weekends.

New for Two Thousand Twenty-Six: The Second Sunday Celebration

Jettie Rae’s has introduced something new for the community. On the second Sunday of each month, they are now hosting a Rotating Seafood Celebration. This event focuses on different coastal traditions and seasonal specialties that might not always be on the standard menu. It is an excellent reason to make a return visit during the daytime.

Planning Your Visit

If you are looking to visit this year, keep the following in mind:

• Reservations: These are highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
• Hours: They are currently open for dinner service Tuesday through Saturday, with brunch on Sundays.
• Location: You can find them in the historic Grove Park neighborhood at one hundred forty-three Charlotte Street, Asheville, North Carolina.

Starting the year at Jettie Rae’s was a very good decision. The service was steady, the food was fresh, and the atmosphere was exactly what I was looking for.