The Observatory

“This is such a fun beautifully decorated establishment. Architectural details like the warmth of historic brick walls and creative unusual planters make this a place with visiting. Plenty of dining options.”

“Sorry to the server who had to deal with my 5.5 year old cranky daughter and her complaints of no strawberry shortcake. I just wanted to watch the sunset with some ice cream and a Prosecco for me and my wife. Nope. Even ordering a red velvet cake didn’t work! Probably because the cake wasn’t very good. But the view was great! I took her to the basement game room. Which went..”

“This is a great rooftop bar. It is not as good as Flat Iron in terms of mountain views. However, it feels roomier and you’d an have a conversation without feeling like you have to hear a neighboring conversation. Service was friendly. Outside area could use some more shade, as could Flat Iron”

“The Observatory rooftop bar in Asheville is an absolute gem and easily one of the best spots in the city for a night out. From the moment we stepped in, the vibe was perfect—chic, relaxed, and full of great energy. The views from the rooftop are stunning, especially around sunset, and really add something special to the experience. The drinks were top-tier. Creative cocktails made with fresh ingredients, and everything was well-balanced and delicious. The bartenders clearly know what they’re doing. We tried a few different ones throughout the night and loved every single one. The food was just as impressive—elevated small plates with bold flavors that paired perfectly with the drinks. You can tell they put real thought into the menu. What really made the night was the atmosphere. The music, the lighting, the overall layout—it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay all evening. Me and my friends had a blast just hanging out, laughing, and soaking it all in. The staff was friendly and attentive, too, which made the whole experience seamless. If you’re in Asheville and want a classy, fun spot with amazing views and great vibes, The Observatory is a must. Five stars, no question.”

“The drinks were good, but the service really ruined the experience. There didn’t seem to be much organization, as the servers were sharing tables, which made it easy for some customers to get overlooked. When my husband and I were ready for the check, we couldn’t get anyone’s attention. He eventually went to the bar where he saw servers dancing, while guests were still waiting to be helped. We’re all for having fun at work, but service should remain the priority. We wouldn’t go back or recommend- there’s other rooftop bars with better service.”