Teri & Greg Siegel

Avenue M

Photo by Lynne Harty

What is your favorite part of being a restauranteur in Asheville?

Asheville has been home for 24 years – It’s so nice to see familiar faces- create relationships and connect people.  It’s not unusual for our customers to call us the Neighborhood “Cheers”   This warms my heart.  I love catching up even if it’s only for a moment.

What is the background of your restaurant’s name?

There are two parts to this.  Avenue M – named for Merrimon Avenue – The other is more involved.  I wanted to name the restaurant for my parents but we didn’t think that Dot & Al’s was going to work.  When we researched Avenue M, we realized it was the Brighton Beach Line in Brooklyn.   My Mom was born in Brighton Beach.  Then when I looked at the stops on the line there was Newkirk Plaza (my Dad was part of a club that hung out on Newkirk Avenue ) Our logo is a play on the subway sign. So there you go – Merrimon Avenue for where we live now and Avenue M for my roots. (Teri) 

What ingredient could you not live without?

Hot black Lipton tea 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (Greg)  

What is your favorite dish on your menu?

Pasta Lazo, tomato basil- red pepper cream sauce, blackened shrimp, spinach, house made fettuccine. (Greg)