Asheville claims to have more breweries per capita than any other American city, and the numbers back it up: thirty-plus operating taprooms in a population of barely 95,000. The South Slope, just south of Patton Avenue, is the densest concentration — a half-dozen breweries within a few blocks. Wedge Brewing in the River Arts District is a local favourite for its old-warehouse setting and outdoor tables. Wicked Weed and Highland are the biggest names. Burial Beer is the cult brewery, with cans that sell out the same day they are released.
For coffee, Double D's Coffee in a converted 1960s English double-decker bus on Biltmore Avenue is unmistakable. High Five on Broadway and Trade & Lore in the Grove Arcade are good third-wave spots. The Battery Park Book Exchange is a champagne bar in a used bookstore — a strange combination that mostly works.
For cocktails, Sovereign Remedies on North Market and The Crow & Quill on Broadway both have ambitious lists; The Crow & Quill is members-only, but day memberships are cheap.