The Times Bar & Coffee Shop — Restaurant in Asheville

A Culinary Journey of Cocktails and Coffee: The Times Bar, Asheville's Hidden Gem

Rating: ★★★★★

As a lover of both craft cocktails and exceptional coffee, I recently stumbled upon a hidden gem in downtown Asheville: The Times Bar. Nestled within the historic S&W Cafeteria building, this trendy establishment seamlessly combines the art of mixology with the world of coffee, resulting in an unparalleled experience that will delight even the most discerning connoisseurs.

Upon entering The Times Bar, I was immediately captivated by its trendy yet inviting ambiance. The stylish decor, blending modern aesthetics with a touch of vintage charm, creates an atmosphere that is both chic and welcoming. The bar's location within the historic S&W Cafeteria building adds a layer of charm and history to the experience, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Asheville experience.

The team at The Times Bar are true masters of their craft, specializing in both seasonally inspired and classic cocktails. With every sip, I could taste the dedication and creativity that goes into each meticulously crafted drink. From the perfectly balanced flavors to the visually stunning presentation, every cocktail at The Times Bar is a work of art. The extensive menu offers a diverse range of options to cater to all tastes, ensuring there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer a classic Old Fashioned or are feeling adventurous and opt for a unique seasonal creation, each cocktail is expertly executed and guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

But The Times Bar isn't just about cocktails; it's also a haven for coffee enthusiasts. Partnering with Caffe Vita Coffee Roasters, the bar offers a selection of craft coffees that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. The skillful baristas pour their passion into every cup, ensuring that each sip is a flavorful and aromatic experience. Whether you prefer a velvety latte, a bold espresso, or a refreshing cold brew, The Times Bar will not disappoint.

In addition to their cocktail and coffee offerings, The Times Bar also takes pride in their carefully curated selection of rotating local beers and imported wines. This commitment to showcasing the best of the local and global beverage scene further enhances the overall experience, offering a well-rounded selection to suit every taste preference.

What truly sets The Times Bar apart, however, is the genuine warmth and expertise of the staff. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a genuine smile and a genuine passion for their craft. The bartenders and baristas are incredibly knowledgeable, eager to guide you through their menu and offer personalized recommendations based on your preferences. Their friendly and attentive service creates a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere, making every visit to The Times Bar an absolute delight.

In conclusion, The Times Bar is an exceptional destination for cocktail and coffee enthusiasts alike. With its trendy ambiance, expertly crafted cocktails, premium coffee offerings, and attentive service, it stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication of its team. Whether you're looking for a unique cocktail experience, a flavorful cup of coffee, or simply a place to unwind and enjoy the vibrant energy of downtown Asheville, The Times Bar is a must-visit destination that will leave you...

We went here mid January in the middle of the week which is a fairly slow time for the businesses, which Helene is also slightly responsible for. Before going anywhere here, we absolutely put into consideration how businesses might be because of the hurricane. We were delightfully surprised with how most places were very warm and welcoming. Times was not so much. We were actually recommended here by a different bar, which we had an amazing time at. We went one evening and there was about an hour and half left until close. We went to the bar, and immediately was told they were done serving for the night. It was a bit of a bummer and strange as they weren’t very busy, but we understood and went on our way. Mind you - we had been to probably 3 or 4 bars before finally being able to go to Times and get served. All places we were treated extremely kind. Last day of our visit we finally went during middle of the day and was able to sit at the bar. The drinks were absolutely phenomenal. Loved the drinks, they were great. My review is for the service. Same guy who turned us away the first time was there, plopped the menus on the bar table and left. A woman after that then took our orders and was kind enough. Other guy obviously was at the end of his shift, as he was walking to the front and back with his back pack on. He tripped on something putting something away and he for whatever reason looked back and glared at us? Besides that, we also heard him talking shit about a drink one of the customers ordered. About the entire time we were there, he was either cussing left and right or talking shit about a customer. Whenever he was done trying to bullshit his shift, he left in a hurry. It just wasn’t very professional even, for a bar. Then, the girl who was serving us originally also left?? Didn’t see her again. A guy with tattoos served us. He also was in a not great mood. And to be honest, absolutely no one was there? Are we asking for them to be jumping up and down? No. But putting it in comparison to the other places we went to, you should at least act like you enjoy your job. And if you don’t, you don’t have to be there. It’s a beautiful elevated bar with amazing drinks. You have customers and tourists here trying to support the business. It’s been very difficult for everyone there I can imagine. A bartender at a different bar told us how she finally got her water turned on after not having it for almost a month, didn’t have power for almost a month, yet she was so kind and absolutely made our night. We tipped her extremely well because he deserved it. The vibe of the Times bar we got is that they think too highly of themselves. They don’t care to still try and give great service because their drinks are good and customers still come. Just because you have tattoos and can make a drink doesn’t give you the excuse to be an asshole, it’s cringey. I gave 3 stars for the drinks, because they really were great. Service...

Let me set the scene. You’ve just wandered the quirky, artsy, beer-loving streets of Asheville. Your feet are slightly sore, your camera roll is full of murals and weird statues, and you’re ready for something classy but not snobby. Enter Times Bar. Tucked inside the historic S&W Market, this place feels like you stumbled into an old-world newspaper lounge where the cocktails are stronger than your willpower and the lighting is just right for pretending you have your life together.

Now, I came for the ambiance but stayed for the espresso martini. And let me tell you, this was not your average “I just learned how to use an espresso machine and I’m feeling bold” situation. No. This was rich, velvety, perfectly shaken, and chilled to the gods. They told me it was the best espresso martini in Asheville and honestly, they had no reason to lie. It was the kind of cocktail that makes you lean back, close your eyes, and re-evaluate every other espresso martini you’ve ever had. I’m not saying I cried but I definitely felt emotions.

To pair with this work of art, I ordered the chocolate macaron. Just one. I wanted to act like I was the type of person who says things like “just a small treat for me today” while secretly planning dinner number two later. The macaron was delicate, chocolatey, and disappeared so quickly I briefly considered going back for three more and telling the bartender I was doing “macaron research.” No regrets.

The vibe here is elegant without trying too hard. It’s got that old-school glamor with tiny touches that make you feel like you’ve entered the speakeasy version of a European café. But here’s the catch. Seating is limited. Like, blink-and-it’s-full limited. So if you see a spot open, do not hesitate. Sit down. Put your phone down. Live your best life while sipping your martini and judging everyone else’s drink choices.

Whether you’re a cocktail snob, a chocolate lover, or just someone who wandered in looking for a break from craft beer, Times Bar is a must. I’ll be back. Probably in the same outfit. Probably ordering the same martini. And definitely making awkward eye contact with anyone who dares to sit in my...