Game Day in Asheville at The Draftsman Bar & Lounge: Your Downtown Hub for Every Matchup

If you’re looking for the best place to watch the game in downtown Asheville, The Draftsman Bar & Lounge checks every box. Tucked inside The Restoration Asheville, this polished-yet-laid-back lounge blends the excitement of a true sports bar with the elevated hospitality the hotel is known for. It’s the perfect spot to settle in for a weekend of college football, catch your favorite NFL team, check in on playoff action, or stop by for a midweek rivalry game.

With comfortable seating, great sightlines, and sound designed to hit the sweet spot—not too loud, not too soft—The Draftsman makes game day feel effortless. Add in a menu of craft cocktails and shareable bites, and you’ve got the kind of place where one quarter easily turns into the full game.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a casual viewer, or simply craving the energy of a good matchup, The Draftsman Bar & Lounge delivers the kind of game day in Asheville experience you’ll want to repeat.

A Sports-Watching Setup Designed for Real Fans

Every sports lover knows not all watch environments are created equal. Some bars miss the mark with bad views, inconsistent sound, crowded seating, or the wrong game playing.

At The Draftsman Bar & Lounge, the experience was built for fans:

✓ All Premium Channels

Never worry about whether your game is on. From college football Saturdays to NBA playoffs, soccer, hockey, golf, tennis, and more, The Draftsman carries all major and premium sports channels—so you get the exact matchup you came for.

✓ Multiple Screens With Perfect Sightlines

A lineup of strategically placed screens ensures you won’t miss a highlight, no matter where you sit. Sit at the bar, grab a lounge chair, or settle in with a group—every angle is a good one.

✓ Sound That Hits the Sweet Spot

The atmosphere is energetic without being overwhelming. Commentary is clear, big plays land with the right vibe, and you can still chat comfortably with friends.

✓ Comfy Seating for Long-Haul Viewing

Game days run long. The Draftsman’s plush seating and warm design invite you to actually settle in—no stiff bar stools, no uncomfortable corners, just a relaxed, modern space built for hanging out.

Together, these features make The Draftsman one of the best sports bars in downtown Asheville—a spot where game day feels inviting, energetic, and totally stress-free.

Craft Cocktails, Local Brews & Shareable Bites

A good sports bar isn’t just about screens. The food and drinks matter—especially in a city like Asheville, known for its craft beer and culinary creativity.

At The Draftsman Bar & Lounge, the menu is built for effortless hang time:

Craft Cocktails

The bartenders shake and stir a menu of signature drinks, classic cocktails, and seasonal specials. Whether you want something bright and refreshing, bourbon-forward, or spirit-free, you’ll find easy sippers built for steady gametime pacing.

Local Brews

Asheville’s beer scene is unmatched, and Draftsman puts local breweries front and center. Rotating taps, crisp lagers, hop-forward IPAs, and small-batch pours offer something for everyone.

Shareable Bites

From house favorites to elevated bar snacks, the food menu is designed for groups. Think warm apps, snackable plates, and dishes that pair perfectly with halftime—and a drink refill.

The mix of great drinks and crowd-friendly bites makes it an easy go-to for watching the game in Asheville with friends.

More Than a Sports Bar: Live Music on Select Nights

Game day energy is only the beginning. On select nights, The Draftsman extends the vibe with live music, giving you a reason to stick around after the clock runs out. Think acoustic sets, local talent, and relaxed late-night energy.

Whether you’re rolling into overtime or rolling into your evening plans, The Draftsman keeps the momentum going.

The Best Place for Watch Parties in Asheville

Hosting a group? Planning a big rivalry matchup? Want your own space for playoffs?

The Draftsman offers options for:

  • Birthday game nights

  • Fantasy league meetups

  • Alumni gatherings

  • Bachelor/bachelorette sports outings

  • NFL Sundays with a crew

  • Local/non-local fan clubs

  • Company watch events

Larger Group Options

For bigger watch parties, you can inquire about reserved seating or group accommodations inside The Draftsman.

Private Viewing Events at The Restoration Asheville

If you’re dreaming even bigger, The Restoration Asheville offers several private event venues that can be transformed into personal viewing lounges. Think multiple screens, customized sound, tailored menus, and a private space that feels elevated but fun.

It’s perfect for playoffs, championship games, team-building events, or hosting something truly memorable.
Learn more about private events at The Restoration Asheville.

Why Locals & Visitors Love Game Day at The Draftsman

At its core, The Draftsman Bar & Lounge is what happens when a downtown sports bar mixes with boutique hotel energy—refined but approachable, lively without being chaotic, polished but comfortable.

Guests love it because:

  • It strikes the perfect balance between sports energy and elevated atmosphere

  • It has all the big-game essentials without the rowdiness of a typical sports bar

  • The seating and sound make watching easy and enjoyable

  • The food and drinks feel intentional, not like an afterthought

  • It’s centrally located in downtown Asheville, making it great for pre-game or post-game exploring

For visitors staying at The Restoration Asheville, it also becomes a built-in perk: an on-site lounge where you can grab a drink, catch the game, and connect with other travelers or locals.

Plan Your Next Game Day at The Draftsman Bar & Lounge

Whether you’re cheering on your favorite college team, catching the pros, or tuning into a high-stakes playoff matchup, The Draftsman Bar & Lounge Asheville is the go-to destination for game day in downtown Asheville.

With premium channels, multiple screens, great sound, craft cocktails, and a menu built for sharing, it’s everything you want from a sports-watching spot—plus the elevated touch of The Restoration.

Hosting a larger watch party?
Start planning your group gathering or upgrade to a private viewing experience in one of The Restoration Asheville’s event venues. Submit a request for more details and let our team help you build the perfect game day.