Sometimes one needs to get away for a few days. Our vacations don't always correspond to traditional holidays, which in many ways can be a great thing.

We decided a week in December would be a good time for a brief getaway before the Christmas holiday. Our first stop is Asheville, North Carolina. As any well-informed hungry Foodie should know, Asheville is the place to go when one is in this part of the country, looking for things to eat. The choices in Asheville can vary from traditional Carolina Barbecue, to Indian street food, and everything in-between.

I can devote a lot of words describing all the cuisine available in Asheville, but for the sake of brevity, this entry will focus on only one example of unique restaurants in Asheville.

Rezaz is a restaurant specializing in a modern take on Mediterranean cuisine. The Chef owner, Reza Setayesh, (pictured above) received his culinary training in Asheville, and now owns two restaurants in the area. Rezaz also boasts a wine bar, but local brews and cocktails are available.

We selected the Bar Menu, and selected items such as Coppa (cured pork shoulder) Cheeses with onion jam, and Small plate selections, such as Scallops crab cake.

Everything was cooked well, and with care towards presentation. Our server, Frank, was friendly and knowledgeable. What sealed the deal for us, however, was the presence of an on site pastry chief, with freshly made desserts that were made on site.

You can elect to eat in the bar area, or choose the main dining room, which we will do when we come back, or as some patrons have done, is have a glass of wine while waiting on your table. I think it will be enjoyable either way.

There are a lot of great places to eat in Asheville, but you should include Rezaz on your list. Check it out yourself at Rezaz.com. We will certainly do that next time we're here!