Cultura opened in 2019 as an evolution of Wicked Weed Brewing’s commitment to providing outstanding culinary experiences. In 2020, Cultura was a James Beard semi-finalist for Best New Restaurant before
the shutdown. Under the helm of Chef Eric Morris, Cultura pivoted during the pandemic and closed to the public but kept the kitchen alive and thriving by donating 5000 meals per week to those in need throughout WNC. The newly reimagined restaurant will feature New American cuisine focusing on culture-based foods. This style of cuisine uses old-world techniques and culinary traditions that inspire us and the literal act of culturing food for preservation.
THE SPACE
Cultura's dining room offers seating for 70, along with décor features of natural elements, including a large selection of greenery and living plants, edible mushrooms, herbs, and wooden foeder barrel booths paired with vintage touches in glassware and silverware. The interior also displays a rotating array of local artwork. Inquire at culturareservation@gmail.com if you are interested in hosting your next event in our restaurant space.
Our Team
EXECUTIVE CHEF, ERIC MORRIS
Eric Morris is the executive chef at Cultura and the Funkatorium by Wicked Weed Brewing, which was a semifinalist for a James Beard Award in 2020. Eric has been cooking professionally for over two decades, including as chef de cuisine for the critically acclaimed Nightbell in Asheville and Pearl & Ash in New York City. He served as sous chef for Tom Colicchio's Riverpark, where he helped to establish Riverpark Farm, a portable urban farm initially built-in milk crates at a 15,000-square-foot stalled construction site.
GENERAL MANAGER, CANDICE DVORAN
Candice Dvoran is the General Manager of Wicked Weed Brewing’s fine dining restaurant, Cultura, and mixed-culture flagship location, Funkatorium. Candice was born and raised in Miami, Florida, which continues to influence her in all facets of her life. While in South Florida, Candice spent her days building her professional experience in retail management. In the evenings and weekends, she spent her time exploring the craft beer community that was gaining national attention.
In 2016, Asheville’s craft beer scene inspired Candice and her husband to relocate to North Carolina, and soon thereafter, Candice began working for Wicked Weed Brewing. In her management role at Cultura and the Funkatorium, Candice has prioritized focusing on locally sourced ingredients, developing partnerships with local purveyors, and helping to build a community of like-minded industry professionals with an attention to creating inclusive work environments and guest experiences. It’s essential to Candice that EVERYONE feels welcome.
