WNC -- The Western North Carolina AIDS Project (WNCAP) has announced that the 24th annual Dining Out for Life will take place on Thursday, April 30, 2026. This beloved community event brings together dozens of local eateries to raise critical funds for HIV prevention, education, and life-saving care services across 18 counties in Western North Carolina.
The fundraiser is simple: when you dine at a participating restaurant on April 30, the establishment will donate a percentage of your bill directly to WNCAP. This year’s event is especially significant as it supports clients who have been doubly impacted by HIV and the ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene.
Participating Restaurants
The list of confirmed participants continues to grow. As of mid-March, the following locations are confirmed:
Asheville
Downtown / Central: 67 Biltmore Downtown Eatery, Capella on 9, Chestnut, Corner Kitchen, Cúrate, Farm Burger, Laila, Limones, Pack’s Tavern, Posana, Sovereign Remedies, Suwana’s Thai Orchid, The Noodle Shop, Twisted Laurel, and Well Played Boardgame Cafe.
North / West / South: 12 Bones South, 828 Family Pizzeria, Bone and Broth, Butter Punk, Copper Crown, Day Trip, Gan Shan, Jargon, Jettie Rae’s Oyster House, Pomodoros Greek Italian, Plant, Pulp + Sprout, Regina’s Westside, RendezVous, Salt Face Mule, Sunny Point Cafe, The Hop Ice Cream Cafe, and Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian (both locations).
Regional Favorites
Black Mountain: Foothills Grange, Hell or High Water, and The Cheshire Arms.
Weaverville: Blue Mountain Pizza and Glass Onion Tavern.
Brevard: Quixote.
Burnsville: Root Down Depot.
Marshall: Zadie’s and Mad Co Brew House.
Why It Matters
In 2025, Dining Out for Life raised over $85,000. These funds are vital for WNCAP’s free services, which include:
Medical Case Management: Helping clients navigate healthcare and treatment.
Harm Reduction: Distributing overdose reversal kits (Narcan) and providing education.
Financial Assistance: Providing rental and utility support to prevent homelessness.
Food Delivery: Ensuring homebound clients have access to nutritious meals.