The Draftsman: A Favorite Among Bars in Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina, is famous for its vibrant culture, eclectic art scene, and dynamic nightlife. Whether you’re a local or a visitor looking for a fun evening out, the city offers a plethora of bars that cater to every taste. However, there is one bar that stands out from the rest: The Draftsman at The Restoration Hotel. Known for its lively atmosphere, engaging games, and incredible drinks, The Draftsman has earned its reputation as one of the best bars in Asheville. From live music to a delicious food menu, this downtown hotspot is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Asheville’s thriving nightlife.

Asheville Bars with Live Music

One of the best things about Asheville is its live music scene, and The Draftsman does not disappoint. As one of the top Asheville bars with live music, The Draftsman offers an intimate and lively setting where guests can enjoy local musicians while sipping on craft cocktails. Whether you’re into jazz, blues, or acoustic sets, the music here is always on point, enhancing the overall experience.

Live music at The Draftsman creates the perfect backdrop for a night out, whether you’re meeting friends or enjoying a date night. The bar’s cozy yet energetic vibe complements the tunes, making it a go-to spot for live entertainment in downtown Asheville. If you’re looking for a fun night of drinks and great music, The Draftsman should be at the top of your list.

A Speakeasy Hideaway among Downtown Asheville Bars

Located in the heart of the city, The Draftsman is a quintessential downtown Asheville bar that encapsulates everything people love about the city. With its easy access to other downtown attractions, The Draftsman is the perfect place to start or end a night of bar hopping in Asheville.

What sets The Draftsman apart from other downtown Asheville bars is its unique combination of upscale yet relaxed ambiance. The bar is designed with a chic, speakeasy-inspired aesthetic that perfectly complements Asheville’s creative energy. The location is also unbeatable, making it convenient for visitors exploring the city’s shopping, art galleries, and other nightlife hotspots.

With its prime location, friendly staff, and warm atmosphere, The Draftsman is not just a bar—it’s an experience that reflects the vibrant spirit of downtown Asheville.

One of the Top Asheville Bars with Games

Looking for a bar that offers more than just drinks? The Draftsman is one of the top Asheville bars with games, providing endless entertainment for those who like a little fun with their cocktails. The Draftsman takes bar games to the next level, offering classic games like pinball, billiards, and skee ball, as well as popular video games like Golden Tee and Buck Hunter.

Not only do these games add an element of excitement, but they also make The Draftsman the ideal spot for friendly competition. Whether you’re challenging friends to a game of pool or showing off your pinball skills, the fun never stops at The Draftsman. These games create a laid-back yet lively environment that appeals to groups and individuals alike, making it one of the best Asheville bars with games.

If you’re looking for an evening of fun, laughter, and games in Asheville, The Draftsman is where you want to be.

Asheville Bars with Food

No night out is complete without some great food to pair with your drinks, and The Draftsman excels in this area too. As one of the top Asheville bars with food, The Draftsman offers a carefully curated menu of shareables and mains that are perfect for a night out.

Start your meal with crowd-favorite appetizers like the Chicken Fried Cheese Curds served with pepper jelly, or the Buffalo Cauliflower, a vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the Roasted Chicken Nachos or the Draftsman Burger will definitely hit the spot. The burger, made with a grilled short rib and chuck patty, topped with caramelized onion dijonnaise and Ashe Co. Cheddar, is a must-try for anyone looking for comfort food done right.

The Draftsman’s food menu also includes delicious salads like the Mixed Greens Salad with goat cheese and blueberry vinaigrette and the indulgent Mac & Cheese, made with Ashe Co. cheddar fondue and black pepper biscuit crumbs.

With a diverse menu of delicious offerings, The Draftsman is not just one of the best bars in Asheville for drinks—it’s also a top spot for food lovers.

Asheville Bars for Large Groups

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just hanging out with a large group of friends, The Draftsman is one of the best Asheville bars for large groups. With its spacious layout, variety of seating options, and lively atmosphere, The Draftsman can comfortably accommodate groups of all sizes.

The combination of games, live music, and a wide selection of food and drinks makes it the perfect place for group gatherings. The menu’s shareable plates, like the Slider Trio and Chicken Wings, are ideal for splitting with friends, while the drink menu offers something for everyone, from craft cocktails like the Restoration OF (a private barrel bourbon with Demerara and bitters) to a variety of beers on tap.

For groups looking to enjoy an evening out, The Draftsman provides the perfect setting with plenty of entertainment options to keep everyone engaged.

Drinks at The Draftsman

Of course, no blog about The Draftsman would be complete without mentioning their excellent drink selection. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or a locally brewed beer, The Draftsman has you covered. Some of their standout cocktails include the Espresso Martini, made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cold brew, and the Gin Gin Mule, a refreshing combination of gin, mint, lime, and ginger beer.

If you prefer beer, The Draftsman has an impressive selection on draft, including local favorites like Burial Beer Shadowclock Pilsner and Green Man Trickster IPA. You can also find non-alcoholic options like the Lagunitas IPNA, a great choice for those looking to enjoy a flavorful brew without the alcohol.

Wine lovers will appreciate the bar’s carefully curated wine list, featuring selections like the Pleb Shuffle Red from Asheville, NC, and the San Pietro Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige, Italy.

With a drink menu that caters to every palate, The Draftsman is the perfect spot to unwind, whether you’re grabbing a casual beer or savoring a more sophisticated cocktail.

Why The Draftsman is one of the Best Bars in Asheville

From its fun games and live music to its incredible food and drinks, The Draftsman is truly the best bar in Asheville. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening of games with friends, a romantic night out, or a lively spot to catch live music, The Draftsman has something for everyone. Its central location in downtown Asheville, combined with its welcoming atmosphere and top-notch service, makes it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.

Next time you’re in Asheville, make sure to stop by The Draftsman for an unforgettable bar experience. With its unique blend of entertainment, food, and drinks, it’s easy to see why The Draftsman is a favorite among Asheville’s best bars.

Discover one of the Top Bars in Asheville: The Draftsman

Asheville’s bar scene is as diverse and exciting as the city itself, and The Draftsman is a standout among the many great options. Whether you’re looking for a bar with live music, fun games, delicious food, or a welcoming space for large groups, The Draftsman has it all. Its combination of great entertainment and expertly crafted drinks makes it one of the top bars in downtown Asheville. So next time you’re planning a night out, be sure to make The Draftsman your first stop.