Nestled in the mountains of North Carolina, Asheville is a city that is rich in history and culture. The city’s downtown area features a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Some of the most popular attractions for locals and tourists alike are the Asheville Rooftop Bars.
Asheville’s rooftop bars are not just a place to grab a drink or enjoy some food with friends. They are also an excellent spot to view the breathtaking scenery of Asheville from an elevated vantage point.
With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to decide which of the Asheville rooftop bars is right for you.
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Must-Visit Asheville Rooftop Bars, NC
Here are some of the best Asheville Rooftop Bars you should consider when deciding which one to visit:
The Restoration Asheville
68 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 // +1 877-221-7202
The Restoration Asheville offers lodging with a fitness center, private parking, a terrace, and a restaurant. It is located in Asheville, nine miles from Biltmore Estate, offering a 24-hour front desk and room service provided by this four-star hotel.
The city center is 500 m away, and the US Cellular Center is 300 m from the property. This brand-new boutique hotel in the heart of Asheville, North Carolina, is situated on Patton Avenue and draws its inspiration from the area’s free-spirited culture.
The Restoration Asheville is a canvas for an accurate investigation of the city—and the people. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day. This is one of my favorite Asheville Rooftop Bars, ever!
The cocktail menu at The Restoration Asheville rooftop bar, also known as “The Watch,” is an impressive venue with a range of creative and delicious options to choose from. The botanical rooftop bar and terrace, which look out over Pritchard Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a great option for visitors to enjoy the scenery.
Their Avocado Toast is a great breakfast option here and is made of Avocado, Chili Flakes, Lemon Zest, Chives, Olive Oil, and Whole Wheat Toast combined with a Soft Herb Salad.
Another highlight dish is their refreshing Chopped Salad, with shaved Romaine Hearts, Red Onions, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, Bacon, House-Made Dill Ranch, and Shaved Pecorino Romano and Black Pepper.
They also have shareable plates such as their amazing Burrata and Jam, made with Jalapeno Bacon Jam, Baby Kale, Burrata, and Chili Oil, served with Garlic Bread.
Standout cocktails are definitely the Seedlip, a mixture of Seedlip 75 Gin Alternative, Rosemary Simple, Lemon, and Seltzer. The No-Groni is made of Seedlip 75 Gin Alternative, Wilfreds Bitter Aperitif, and Rasasvada Rose Bergamot, and the Lower Manhattan features Kentucky 74, Rasasvada Ruby Bergamot, and Angostura Bitters.
The Basilica of Saint Lawrence, Lexington Glassworks, and Memorial Stadium are some of the well-known attractions close to The Restoration, and some of them can be seen from this Asheville rooftop bar.
So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, this rooftop bar is sure to impress.
The Montford Rooftop Bar
199 Haywood St., Asheville, NC 28801 // +18285058750
The Montford Rooftop Bar, perched at the top of the DoubleTree by Hilton Asheville Downtown, offers a stunning indoor/outdoor location with a modern and rustic speakeasy feel.
It is a hidden gem that offers a beautiful view of the city skyline and a sophisticated atmosphere and makes this one of the most modern Asheville rooftop bars with views of the mountains, craft cocktails, and local cuisine.
It has a west-facing outdoor terrace, and panoramic windows within provide really spectacular and unimpeded views of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Asheville’s city. Here, perched above it all, you can savor locally infused, Southern-inspired meals and shareables along with seasonally driven handmade cocktails and local craft beers.
The menu features a selection of charcuterie and cheese boards, as well as a variety of flatbreads and salads. Their Green Salad is amazing and very refreshing and soothing.
The Roasted Mushroom Flatbread is made with roasted mushrooms, local market greens, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Mornay sauce and is another great shareable option. To top the tasty experience off, go for the incredible Vanilla Crème Brûlée made with house Berry Jam.
In addition to its delicious dishes, The Montford Rooftop Bar in Asheville boasts an amazing cocktail menu that features a variety of great classic and specialty cocktails.
The bar’s skilled mixologists are always happy to recommend a drink based on your preferences.
Some of the best cocktails here are the Carajillo cocktail, which is a bubbly, sweet, and spicy mixture of Old Grandad Bourbon, Licor 43, and a shot of Espresso; it is the right amount of everything a cocktail needs.
The botanical, fruity, and bright Spice Must Flow cocktail is made of Ritten House Rye, Cocchi Americano Rosa, and Red Wine Cordial, topped with lemon, and is perfectly refreshing.
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They also have a great selection of wine and beer. The Montford Rooftop Bar is a great place to sample Asheville while taking in the city from above.
It’s typically open every evening for snacks and beverages, as well as on Saturdays for brunch. Additionally, as it is well-liked, reservations are strongly advised.
Pillar Rooftop Bar
309 College St. 6th Floor, Asheville, NC 28801 // +18285751188
Pillar is a craft rooftop cocktail bar in Asheville with views and live music.
Pillar Rooftop Bar is located in the center of Asheville atop the excellent Hilton Garden Inn Asheville Downtown. This beautifully designed location is a fantastic place to enjoy delicious cocktails and stunning views of the Asheville skyline and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
A comfortable and cozy rooftop terrace with fire pits is accessible from the chic and well-lit indoor lounge, keeping everyone toasty, even at night. At Pillar Rooftop Bar Asheville, amazing ambiance and local live music are the norms on most nights.
They also have amazing cocktails, and some of the most popular ones at the Pillar Rooftop Bar include the Pumpkin Spice White Russian, a mixture of Vodka, Kaluha, Pumpkin Spice, and cream and the Smores Martini, made of Marshmellow Vodka, Rumchata, Irish Creme, and Coffee. Both are absolute standouts.
In addition to its impressive cocktail menu, the Pillar Rooftop Bar also offers a variety of small plates and snacks to enjoy while taking in the views.
While the hotel lobby’s Pillar Kitchen is open every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the rooftop bar is the place to be in the afternoons and evenings.
Small plates of southern fusion cuisine are served here, along with seasonal and well-made drinks, beers from nearby breweries, and eco-friendly wines.
From the appetizers, I’d mention the Fried Green Tomatoes, fried to a rich, golden brown and topped with remoulade. Their Spinach Artichoke Dip also has an interesting taste and is served with house-made tortilla chips.
Their Caprese salad is made with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato with a balsamic glaze, and the House salad is made of a spring mix with carrots, cucumbers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and croutons. Both are great light dishes.
A whole section rich with options on different types of sandwiches and burgers is available on their menu.
They also have a Kid’s Corner section on the menu where they have separate dishes, especially made for the little ones.
Overall, the Pillar Rooftop Bar in Asheville is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious cocktail and a light snack or a nice dish while taking in the breathtaking views of the city.
Whether you’re looking for a casual evening with friends or a more upscale experience, this rooftop bar has something for everyone.
Social Lounge
29 Broadway St., Asheville, NC 28801 // +18283488448
Downtown Asheville has a charming rooftop martini lounge, and its name is Social Lounge.
The original and of the best craft Asheville Rooftop Bars is Social Lounge, situated downtown. The nightly dinner menu is really from Strada Italiano, which is both a neighboring establishment and a sibling establishment.
However, Social Lounge has a lot to offer on its own, including a fantastic rooftop terrace in Asheville. While there aren’t any panoramic views, it’s an excellent place to enjoy a few fine cocktails while observing the activity on Broadway Street.
Social Lounge Asheville is a two-story, slender interior lounge with a rooftop terrace that is open daily in the afternoon and evening for bar snacks and small plates (or full dinners from Strada), but it is best known for its beverages.
As you sip on a delicious and expertly crafted cocktail, you can’t help but feel like you’ve been transported to a world of a lot of fun, sharing and connectivity.
I’d recommend trying the First In Flight, which is a mixture of Gin, Luxardo, Creme de Violette, Sparkling Wine, and Lemon. Or sample the Buttercup cocktail, made of House Infused Vanilla Vodka, Pineapple, Lemon, Cinnamon, and Rosemary
There is a decent selection of wines, eight rotating taps from brewers in the area, and well-made and original house drinks.
Brunch is served on the Social Lounge rooftop every weekend. The ideal way to start the day is with vegan breakfast bowls, al fresco mimosas, omelets, Flap Jacks, and breakfast pizza.
This Asheville rooftop bar is a lively setting where you can often enjoy a varied roster of local artists every Wednesday and Thursday night on the rooftop patio.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect place for a date or simply treat yourself to a night out, The Social Lounge is the perfect destination.
Capella on 9
10 Broadway St. f9, Asheville, NC 28801 // +18282582522
Are you looking for an adventure in the city? Look no further than Capella on 9, the Asheville rooftop bar in the Capella hotel. Located atop the luxurious Capella hotel, this rooftop oasis offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and a sophisticated atmosphere that is sure to impress.
Providing modest meals and expansive views, this is one of the best Asheville Rooftop Bars.
Capella on 9 is located on the ninth floor of the excellent Capella Hotel by Marriott Asheville Downtown, and is the closest thing to a NYC-style rooftop bar in Asheville.
The Capella offers stunning views of the mountains and the metropolitan skyline from its two distinct rooftop patios and trendy indoor lounge.
Wines, beers, and a lovely selection of excellent and hand-crafted mixology cocktails are served in this venue.
Don’t miss trying the Smokey Paloma, made of tequila, grapefruit soda, Pamplemousse, campari, lime juice, and smoked salt rim, or their Grey Garden cocktail, made of gin, Earl Grey simple syrup, Earl Grey bitters, creme di violette, and lemon juice.
In addition to its delicious cocktails, Capella on 9 also offers a variety of small plates and snacks to enjoy while taking in the views.
So, in addition to being able to see Asheville from the rooftop bar of the hotel, you can also taste it. The tapas-style cuisine features locally produced foods and is offered for breakfast as well as lunch and evening.
The bar’s menu features a selection of small bites, tapas, entrees, and desserts.
Their Kale Caesar Salad, made with roasted artichoke hearts, marinated cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, toasted bread, and housemade Caesar dressing, is tasty and light.
Another highlight dish is the Maple Glazed Carrots, made with crushed walnuts, spiced maple syrup, and sauce verte, or give a try to their amazing Grilled Salmon if you are a seafood lover. A multipurpose rooftop bar in Asheville, Capella on 9 is a great place to go for brunch, afternoon cocktails, a special dinner, or a fun night out with friends.
To avoid the crowds and take in the breathtaking sunset, arrive early. Weekends bring more people and better energy thanks to live DJs or live music.
Overall, Capella on 9 is a rooftop bar that offers a meditative atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and snacks. So, come and explore Capella on 9 and let yourself be transported to a world of new heights, views, and tastes.
Antidote at Chemist Spirits
151 Coxe Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 // +18285052882
Antidote at Chemist Spirits is one of the most fantastic Asheville rooftop bars unlike any other. Located atop the Chemist Hotel, this stylish and sophisticated bar offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and a unique atmosphere that is sure to impress.
Though Antidote at Chemist Spirits was only established in 2018, the early 1900s setting gives the establishment a far more “been around forever” vibe. The cozy inside lounge, located in a three-story building on the South Slope, is accompanied by a small rooftop terrace.
Antidote is best described as “intimate” and “exclusive,” as only a limited number of visitors are permitted at once, and seats are allotted upon entry.
This establishment is, first and foremost, a cocktail bar where you may sample unique, inventive, and delectable drinks crafted by talented bartenders.
The mixologists at Antidote are known for their innovative and delicious cocktails, including the signature spicy, refreshing, and sour Lions’s Roar, made with Rittenhouse Rye, fresh Ginger, St. Elizabeth Allspice Dram, Lime, Angostura Bitters, and Lime Wheel.
From “Chemist Cocktails” to Spanish, French, and American G&Ts, everything is served in a special glass. Additionally, you can take a flight board and sample a variety of foods.
A carefully curated wine list, specialty brews, bar nibbles, and desserts are available to go along with the drinks, though a full dinner may not be appropriate here.
There are fire pits and lovely views of the South Slope from Antidote’s gorgeous rooftop deck.
Antidote at Chemist Spirits is an excellent place for fantastic cocktails in a good ambiance, with a welcoming, enjoyable, old-school attractive, and speakeasy vibe. Ideally, relax on the roof, in the sun, or next to the fire pit.
Keep in mind that Antidote only accepts walk-ins and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
And, also note that the rooftop bar is closed for the season, and will reopen again in April 2023!
Top of the Monk
92 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 // +18282545470
Providing handcrafted drinks and Asheville’s finest whiskey selection, Top of the Monk is a quaint and cozy rooftop establishment.
If you want to go from popular Belgian beers to more sophisticated handcrafted cocktails, head to Top of the Monk, which is located atop the Thirsty Monk Brewery.
Top of the Monk has a rustic and comfortable indoor bar as well as a wonderful and airy rooftop patio where you may sip while admiring the majestic mountain range beyond.
Top of the Monk concentrates on serving the highest caliber cocktails, using freshly squeezed juices, homemade bitters, tinctures, infusions, drams, flavored syrups, and shrubs, as well as the proper ice and glassware.
The ideal drink requires attention to every last detail.
Each cocktail also includes a tiny key that opens a food cabinet that was formerly a post office, where you can find everything from hot peanuts to delicious brownie pieces.
Top of the Monk offers Asheville’s best whiskey collection in addition to a small selection of beers, wines, and expertly made cocktails.
Give a try to their incredible The Ford Cocktail 1895, made with Botanist Gin, Lillet Rose Aperativo, Benedictine, house Peppercorn, and Rosemary Bitters.
Or sample the magical house specialty cocktail named The Sexy Old Fashioned, made of Woodford Double Oaked Bourbon, High West Double Rye, Benedictine, House All Spice Dram, Angostura, and Barrel Aged Cherry Bitters. It’s amazing and served on a rock!
This is a one of the best Asheville rooftop bars for a couple or small group of friends to enjoy fine beverages because of the relaxed, cozy, and friendly ambiance and setting.
This special corner of Asheville offers a sophisticated experience, complete with scenic views, yummy sips, and a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this rooftop oasis is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to elevate their day or night out.
W XYZ Bar
51 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 // +18282322838
This alphabet-named is one of the most stylish Ashville rooftop bars is located over Biltmore Avenue.
The elegant W XYZ Bar is located in the center of town on the second story of the magnificent Aloft Asheville Downtown.
The bar, which underwent renovation in 2020, has a vibrant inside area with a pool table and plenty of comfortable seating that opens to an outside terrace named The Ledge.
The large patio provides pleasant views of Biltmore Avenue and the surroundings despite not being particularly high.
The W XYZ rooftop bar is open in the afternoon and at night and offers a full bar menu with excellent small bites, handcrafted cocktails, and craft beers.
The rooftop often has a comfortable, urban, and stylish lounge ambiance, but on weekends it comes alive with live music and DJ performances.
On regular days, the elegant design and comfy seats at the bar provide a friendly, cozy, and inviting atmosphere, making it the ideal place to escape the noise and bustle of the city below.
It offers a large selection of creative and delectable drinks, such as The Humble Bee, made of Jim Beam Bourbon, Honey-Thyme Syrup, and Fresh Lemon Juice, or their amazing Not So Salty Dog cocktail, a mixture of Vodka, Grapefruit Juice, Triple Sec, Fresh Lime Juice, and Angostura Bitters.
Their menu also offers a variety of small bites and shareable plates, greens, burgers, flatbreads, and sweets.
Some of the food standouts are their Truffle Fries, which are seasoned steak fries, truffle aioli, and topped with wasabi crème for the special aftertaste.
The Cajun Fries are also another great snacking option, made with blackened steak and sriracha mayo.
The Rustic Garlic flatbread crust is served with arugula, green onions, mushroom, and truffle aioli, and is a great shareable option, too.
W XYZ Bar becomes even more enchanting as the evening progresses, and the lights of the city twinkle below, making it the ideal venue for a summer evening out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one.
Conclusion: Asheville Rooftop Bars
Asheville rooftop bars are a great place to go when you want to have a refreshing drink, a tasty bite, and chat with friends while enjoying the stunning views.
They are perfect for people of all ages and preferences. So choose one of your favorite Asheville rooftop bars and enjoy the scenery.
If you are interested in visiting other places in Asheville, you can also check out the 9 Best Asheville NC Restaurants.
Visiting other destinations in North Carolina? Check out our other delicious guides:
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Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever