Discover the Best Casual Restaurants in Asheville: The Draftsman
When it comes to finding the perfect spot to enjoy a laid-back meal, delicious drinks, and entertainment all in one place, The Draftsman at The Restoration in Asheville should be at the top of your list. As one of the best casual restaurants in Asheville, NC, The Draftsman is more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s a destination for fun, food, and games. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, a birthday party, or a celebration with friends, this unique speakeasy offers a great mix of arcade games, bowling, and a fantastic menu filled with comfort food favorites.
If you’re looking for a casual yet memorable experience in downtown Asheville, The Draftsman is the perfect place to enjoy a meal and entertainment. Let’s explore why this hotspot ranks among the best casual restaurants in Asheville downtown.
Casual Restaurants Asheville, NC: A Fun Dining Experience
Asheville is known for its creative food scene, and while there are plenty of fine dining options, sometimes you just want a fun, relaxed spot to enjoy a meal. The Draftsman brings a fresh, exciting twist to casual dining with its combination of arcade games, two lanes of bowling, and a menu that perfectly complements the laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re coming with family, friends, or on a date, The Draftsman has something for everyone.
Start your meal with some shareable dishes that are perfect for snacking while you wait for your turn at the games. The Chicken Fried Cheese Curds, with their Cajun spice and pepper jelly dip, are a must-try and a fan favorite for a reason. For something a little lighter but still packed with flavor, try the Buffalo Cauliflower, a vegetarian and gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Other great bar food in Asheville at The Draftsman includes the Pretzels & Beer Cheese, made with house soft pretzels and Ashe Co. Cheddar, and the Roasted Chicken Nachos, which come fully loaded with queso, black beans, pickled jalapeños, and more. These dishes are ideal for splitting with friends as you enjoy the arcade games or a game of bowling.
With its lively environment and shareable plates, The Draftsman easily ranks as one of the best casual restaurants in Asheville for a fun night out.
Best Casual Restaurants in Asheville for Birthday Parties
If you’re looking for a spot to celebrate a birthday or special occasion, The Draftsman is one of the best casual restaurants in Asheville for birthday parties. Not only does it offer a great menu filled with crowd-pleasers, but the added bonus of arcade games, skee-ball, billiards, and bowling makes it an ideal spot for a birthday party in Asheville.
Whether you’re celebrating with a small group or throwing a larger bash, The Draftsman’s fun atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for kids and adults alike. You can enjoy a delicious meal from the menu while also taking advantage of the entertainment options. Imagine starting your evening with the Draftsman Burger, a juicy grilled short rib and chuck patty with caramelized onion dijonnaise, Ashe Co. Cheddar, and pickles. After dinner, you can head to the arcade area or challenge your friends to a friendly bowling competition.
For birthday celebrations, consider ordering a variety of shareable dishes to keep everyone fueled for the night. The Slider Trio, which includes cheeseburger, fried chicken, and chili-glazed pork belly sliders, is a great way to offer guests a taste of different flavors.
When it’s time to wrap up the celebration, don’t forget to order from the sweet endings menu. The Fried Candy Bar of the Day, served with vanilla ice cream, is the ultimate birthday treat and a hit with guests of all ages.
Best Casual Restaurants in Asheville for Celebrations
The Draftsman is not just for birthdays—it’s one of the best casual restaurants in Asheville for celebrations of all kinds. Whether you’re marking an anniversary, a work promotion, or simply gathering with friends for a fun night out, The Draftsman offers the perfect mix of food, drinks, and entertainment.
The casual yet vibrant atmosphere is great for celebrations that call for more than just a traditional dining experience. The downtown Asheville bar’s arcade games, bowling lanes, and billiards tables provide plenty of entertainment options, ensuring that your celebration is filled with laughter and excitement.
The Chicken Wings, known as some of the best wings in Asheville, are a great choice for any gathering, with flavor options like Buffalo, Korean, and BBQ to suit any palate. Pair those with a basket of Loaded Fries, topped with beer cheese, bacon, and bourbon-pickled jalapeños, and you’ve got the perfect combination for a casual celebration.
No matter what you’re celebrating, The Draftsman offers an unforgettable setting where you can enjoy great food and entertainment with your loved ones.
Best Casual Restaurants in Asheville with Live Music
If you’re a fan of live music, you’ll be happy to know that The Draftsman also ranks among the best casual restaurants in Asheville with live music. On select nights, the venue features live performances from local musicians, adding to the lively and entertaining atmosphere.
Enjoying live music while indulging in some of The Draftsman’s classic dishes makes for a truly memorable dining experience. For those who prefer lighter fare, the Mixed Greens Salad, featuring local mixed greens, goat cheese, toasted pecans, pickled peaches, and blueberry vinaigrette, is a refreshing choice. Add grilled or fried chicken for an extra protein boost, and you’ve got a delicious meal to enjoy while you listen to some live tunes.
Pair your food with one of The Draftsman’s signature cocktails or local craft beers for the perfect night out. The mix of live music, casual dining, and an inviting atmosphere makes The Draftsman a top spot for both locals and visitors.
Best Casual Restaurants in Asheville Downtown: Food and Fun in One Place
One of the reasons The Draftsman is among the best casual restaurants in Asheville downtown is its combination of a fun environment and excellent food. Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, it’s easily accessible and offers a unique experience that stands out in the city’s dining scene.
The Draftsman is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring Asheville. With arcade games, old-school pinball, skee-ball, and even two lanes of bowling, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a casual meal in a lively setting. Whether you’re craving comfort food like Mac & Cheese topped with black pepper biscuit crumbs or a classic Fried Chicken Sandwich with jalapeño buttermilk batter and dill pickles, The Draftsman’s menu has something for everyone.
After your meal, head to the arcade or bowling lanes to continue the fun. The Draftsman’s unique combination of food and entertainment makes it the go-to among casual restaurants in downtown Asheville.
Why The Draftsman is One of the Best Casual Restaurants in Asheville, NC
In a city known for its eclectic food scene, The Draftsman offers a dining experience that combines comfort food, craft drinks, and endless entertainment. As one of the best casual restaurants in Asheville, NC, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends, family, or colleagues.
From its shareable appetizers and hearty mains to its fun atmosphere filled with arcade games and bowling, The Draftsman provides an experience that goes beyond just dining. It’s the ideal spot for birthday parties, celebrations, or casual nights out in downtown Asheville.
So, the next time you’re searching for the perfect spot to unwind and have a great time, head to The Draftsman Speakeasy in the basement of The Restoration Hotel for food, fun, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll find that The Draftsman offers everything you need for a casual yet memorable dining experience in Asheville.
