The Best Chicken Sandwich in Asheville at The Draftsman

Asheville, North Carolina, has long been celebrated for its eclectic dining scene—one that champions farm-fresh ingredients, inventive flavors, and culinary creativity. From craft breweries and artisan bakeries to upscale bistros and quirky cafés, the city’s gastronomic landscape runs deep. But among these countless dining options, a certain culinary rivalry has quietly emerged: the quest to find the best chicken sandwich in Asheville.

In a city steeped in gastronomic traditions and brimming with new culinary ideas, it’s no surprise that chicken sandwiches have risen to local star status. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, you’ll find that Asheville’s downtown scene provides a host of tantalizing options. Still, one place stands out as a must-try restaurant for those seeking the ultimate chicken sandwich experience—The Draftsman.

 

Best Bar in Asheville for Chicken Sandwiches

As you might expect, Asheville’s numerous bars and taprooms aren’t just about beer and cocktails. More often than not, these establishments have embraced the city’s passion for quality food, offering menus that exceed the typical bar fare. The question isn’t just where to find a drink, but where to find the best bar in Asheville for chicken sandwiches.

Many bars pride themselves on their craft beer selection, local spirits, and inventive mixed drinks. But only a handful have made it their mission to elevate the humble chicken sandwich into something truly memorable. The Draftsman is one such place, seamlessly marrying the laid-back vibe of a neighborhood bar with a thoughtful approach to food. Here, you’ll find not just any chicken sandwich, but a culinary masterpiece that resonates with Asheville’s dynamic palate.

 

Chicken Sandwich Asheville: A Growing Obsession

A few years ago, if you were to ask where to find the best “chicken sandwich Asheville” has to offer, locals might point you to a handful of notable spots or simply say, “Try a fried chicken joint.” But times have changed. The classic fried chicken sandwich has recently enjoyed a renaissance across the nation, and Asheville is no exception. Chefs now see the chicken sandwich as a canvas for gastronomic invention, layering flavors and textures to transform a simple staple into an artful dish.

Why the obsession? It’s partly due to Asheville’s commitment to local sourcing and creativity. The city’s chefs are masters at weaving seasonal produce and artisanal condiments into familiar dishes, and the chicken sandwich—comforting and versatile—is an ideal medium. Instead of settling for a run-of-the-mill preparation, local chefs fry their chicken in buttermilk batters infused with subtle heat, pair them with tangy sauces, and serve them on freshly baked breads. The result is a fiercely competitive scene, where each new chicken sandwich spot strives to outdo the last.

 

Best Food in Downtown Asheville: A Culinary Hotspot

Downtown Asheville sits at the center of this culinary competition. With its bustling sidewalks, charming boutiques, and artsy vibe, it’s the beating heart of the city’s food scene. Many believe that the best food in downtown Asheville emerges from a culture of innovation—where restaurateurs, farmers, and artisans collaborate to push boundaries.

This ethos benefits the humble chicken sandwich. Rather than limiting themselves to straightforward fried chicken and mayo, downtown’s chefs experiment with global flavors, Southern traditions, and unexpected ingredients. The Draftsman, located in the heart of downtown, exemplifies this approach. Their menu captures Asheville’s culinary spirit: comforting, playful, and undeniably delicious.

 

Downtown Bar with the Best Chicken Sandwich in Asheville: The Draftsman

When searching for a downtown bar with the best chicken sandwich in Asheville, The Draftsman should top your list. Within walking distance of music venues, galleries, and breweries, The Draftsman is perfectly situated for a night out exploring the city. Yet what truly sets it apart is its commitment to turning a simple dish into an extraordinary culinary experience.

The Signature Fried Chicken Sandwich at The Draftsman offers a master class in flavor balance. Priced at $16, it arrives as a generous portion perfectly suited for hungry diners ready to indulge. At its heart is a tender piece of fried chicken, elevated by a jalapeño buttermilk batter that’s equal parts tangy and spicy. This flavorful crust, crisp and lightly golden, provides an essential textural contrast to the succulent meat inside.

Topping the chicken are dill pickles, which add a crunchy, acidic punch, and shredded lettuce that lends freshness and a delicate crispness. The crowning touch, however, is the Alabama white sauce—a creamy, tangy condiment with a peppery note, born of Southern barbecue traditions and perfectly suited to chicken. Served with a side of fries, the dish feels both comforting and contemporary, blending familiar flavors with subtle twists that keep you coming back for more.

 

The Anatomy of a Great Chicken Sandwich

What separates a good chicken sandwich from a great one? The best versions start with quality ingredients, carefully sourced and thoughtfully prepared. Every component matters: the seasoning in the batter, the freshness of the produce, the house-made sauces, and even the choice of bread. The Draftsman’s chicken sandwich gets each element right.

• The Chicken: Fresh, high-quality chicken breast is essential. At The Draftsman, the jalapeño buttermilk marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that isn’t greasy or heavy.
• The Breading: The jalapeño buttermilk batter provides a subtle kick, ensuring that each bite has complexity. It’s about layers of flavor rather than overwhelming heat. The breading also needs to be just right—crunchy without being thick or oily.
• The Toppings: Dill pickles and shredded lettuce may sound simple, but they are crucial. The pickles’ vinegar bite balances the richness of the fried chicken, while lettuce adds a textural contrast. These aren’t afterthoughts—they are deliberate choices that enhance the whole.
• The Sauce: Alabama white sauce is a genius addition. Unlike the standard mayo or mustard, this sauce brings tang, heat, and creaminess all at once. It’s a nod to Southern barbecue traditions and a statement that The Draftsman doesn’t settle for the ordinary.
• The Sides: The chicken sandwich comes with fries—classic, salty, and comforting. But these aren’t run-of-the-mill fries either; they’re well-seasoned, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and a perfect partner for the sandwich.

 

Pairing Your Chicken Sandwich with Asheville’s Drink Scene

What elevates the chicken sandwich experience at The Draftsman even further is the bar’s stellar drink program. After all, this is where food and drink come together to showcase why The Draftsman might just be the best bar in Asheville for chicken sandwiches.

Asheville’s craft beer culture is known nationwide. A rotating selection of local brews means you can pair your chicken sandwich with a crisp pilsner, a hoppy IPA, or a smooth amber ale. Each beer offers a different dimension to the meal. A tart, fruity sour beer might accentuate the sandwich’s jalapeño notes, while a malty brown ale could mellow the heat and highlight the sandwich’s savory qualities.

Cocktail enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. Ask the bartender for a recommendation—perhaps a citrus-forward cocktail that complements the chicken’s richness or a smoky whiskey-based drink that echoes the barbecue heritage in the Alabama white sauce. The Draftsman’s staff is knowledgeable and eager to suggest pairings that deepen your culinary adventure.

 

Why The Draftsman Rises Above the Competition

While Asheville offers many great chicken sandwiches, The Draftsman distinguishes itself through attention to detail, quality ingredients, and a dedication to providing an excellent overall experience. The comfortable, welcoming interior invites you to linger, whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or winding down after a busy day in downtown.

At The Draftsman, the chicken sandwich isn’t just a menu item—it’s a passion project. By using a jalapeño buttermilk batter, Alabama white sauce, and thoughtful accompaniments, they’ve created a signature dish that feels both rooted in tradition and boldly innovative. In a city celebrated for its culinary curiosity, this stands as a testament to The Draftsman’s commitment to excellence.

 

Other Great Chicken Sandwich Spots in Asheville

While The Draftsman claims a top spot, it would be remiss not to acknowledge that Asheville’s chicken sandwich scene is robust and varied. Other eateries experiment with pickled vegetables, specialty buns, or international flavors to make their mark. Some opt for sweet-and-spicy glazes, while others feature unique slaws. The result is a friendly rivalry that benefits diners by constantly pushing the envelope.

Still, The Draftsman’s version has that intangible “it factor” that sets it apart. It expertly balances flavor, texture, and tradition in a single handheld feast. Once you try it, you’ll understand why locals and visitors mention it when discussing the city’s must-try dishes.

 

Embracing Asheville’s Culinary Culture

Sampling Asheville’s best chicken sandwich at The Draftsman is more than just enjoying a meal; it’s embracing a slice of Asheville’s culinary culture. This city thrives on creativity, community, and collaboration. Restaurants and bars like The Draftsman take pride in sourcing from local farms, experimenting with new techniques, and welcoming feedback from patrons. The result? A continually evolving food scene that surprises and delights at every turn.

As you stroll through downtown Asheville, you’ll pass breweries highlighting regional hops, cheese shops featuring local dairy farms, bakeries using heritage grains, and farmers’ markets overflowing with vibrant produce. This commitment to quality and authenticity trickles down to every plate in town, including The Draftsman’s iconic chicken sandwich.

 

Tips for Enjoying Your Chicken Sandwich Adventure

• Come Hungry: This chicken sandwich is generous. Arrive with an appetite so you can fully appreciate each bite, fries included.
• Pair it Right: Don’t skip the drinks. Whether you’re a beer lover, a wine connoisseur, or a cocktail enthusiast, The Draftsman can guide you toward the perfect pairing.
• Explore Downtown: Before or after your meal, take time to wander downtown Asheville. Check out local shops, pop into an art gallery, or catch a show at a nearby music venue. Part of the fun is weaving a great meal into the tapestry of city life.
• Ask Questions: The staff at The Draftsman knows their menu and Asheville’s culinary scene. Feel free to ask about sourcing, preparation methods, and recommendations. Their insights might lead you to discover new favorite flavors.
• Come Back for More: Asheville’s dining scene evolves with the seasons. Even if you fall in love with the chicken sandwich at The Draftsman on your first visit, consider returning to see what’s new, or bring friends to share the experience.

 

A Culinary Destination Worth Visiting

In a city renowned for its restaurants, bars, and breweries, standing out is no small feat. Yet The Draftsman has earned its place among the top players in Asheville’s food scene. By perfecting a dish as iconic and beloved as the chicken sandwich, they’ve proven their culinary prowess and dedication to delivering excellence.

For those searching for the best chicken sandwich Asheville has to offer, The Draftsman isn’t just another stop—it’s a destination. With its jalapeño buttermilk batter, dill pickles, shredded lettuce, and Alabama white sauce, their fried chicken sandwich transforms a familiar favorite into something truly extraordinary. Add in the friendly service, inviting ambiance, and thoughtful beverage pairings, and you’ve found a downtown bar with the best chicken sandwich in Asheville—a place that represents the city’s vibrant, ever-evolving culinary scene.

So, the next time you’re looking for the best place to eat in downtown Asheville, hungry for a dish that captures the area’s flavor and flair, set your sights on The Draftsman. Taste their signature chicken sandwich, savor the complexity of each component, and discover for yourself why it stands among the city’s finest culinary achievements.