Where to Actually Drink Beer (and wine) in Western North Carolina

Downtown and River Arts

Notice I don’t recommend a ton of spots in the middle of town. A lot of this area caters more to tourists, so you’re better off driving a bit to get to the best beer in the region.

TRVE Brewing Co.

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This Denver brewery just opened their Asheville location.

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White Labs Brewing Co - Asheville Kitchen & Tap

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White Labs is one of the world’s leading producers of brewers’ yeasts. And Asheville houses one of their three brick and mortar locations! At this one, they make delicious pizzas using their own yeast in the crust.

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Wedge Brewing Company

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The most neighborhood-y feel of all the breweries on this list. Go when it's warm out, since seating is all outside!

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North of the City

Zillicoah Beer Co.

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Zillicoah is the one we keep from the tourists. Every Asheville beer person's favorite beer to drink. Shhhhh. Note that they only allow guests under 21 on Sundays!

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You can't get these beers at home.

Leveller Brewing Co.

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I’m biased because I work here.

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Outsider Brewing Company

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West Asheville

Asheville's grungy, creative neighborhood has plenty of beer to match.

Cellarest Beer Project

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Cellarest is just a year old, and they're leading Asheville's beer scene into historically weird and wacky techniques. I'd recommend: anything on the menu.

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Leo's House of Thirst

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I’m obsessed with this place— delicious natural wine and scrumptious yet light food accompaniment options.

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East Asheville

Burial Beer’s Forestry Camp

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Burial is well known, but their headquarters isn’t. Let’s keep it that way (shh)

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Hillman Beer

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In my humble oprionion, this is a top notch spot for both food and beer.

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Worth the Drive

Southern Appalachia is all about craft, beer included. These gems are hiding in the mountains, and pair best with a hike.

South of the City

Sideways Farm & Brewery

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Run by a husband, wife, and son, plus some bees and goats.

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Burning Blush Brewery

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The beer here is underrated!

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East of the City

Whaley Farm Brewery

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Brand new to the brewery scene, head brewer and owner Chris is taking inspiration from old European brewing traditions. Ask him about cask pours and side pulls!

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Fonta Flora Brewery - Whippoorwill Farm

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This is one of my three favorite breweries in the world. It’s worth the drive east of Asheville, especially if you combine a visit with a hike or a trip to lake James.

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If you're venturing east of Asheville for an outdoor adventure, squeeze this farm brewery destination onto your itinerary. A Blue Ridge Parkway hike followed by one of their terroir inspired projects? Yes!