Character Study, a Book-Themed Cocktail Bar, to Open in Asheville

ASHEVILLE – Dive into a good book with a craft cocktail in hand at a new bar due to open this summer in West Asheville. In late-August, Character Study will debut at 797 Haywood Road, the former location of Alley Cat Social Club. The bar concept comes from Chall Gray, Jay Sanders, and Lucia Gray, the owners of Montford neighborhood’s Little Jumbo bar, at 241 Broadway St.

A Unique Experience

“Character Study will feel pretty unique,” said Chall Gray. “I’ve been saying that it’ll be somewhat like finding your way into a classic Hollywood red-sauce hangout through a psychedelic-tinged library. It’s a really interesting space, and we’ve had a lot of fun with the design.”

Craft Cocktails and Literary Vibes

Little Jumbo, named one of The Best Cocktail Bars in the South by “Garden & Gun” magazine, opened seven years ago. The expertise of Little Jumbo mixologists will pour over to its sister bar but expect a new, signature line of cocktails. “We’ve been working on lots of fun drink ideas to bring to our side of town,” said Chall Gray.

There will be a rotating classic cocktail special for $9 each day, and the menu will feature a series of new drinks that the team has been developing and refining.

Literary Theme and Collaboration

Character Study’s literary theme will be supported by fellow West Asheville business, Bagatelle Books, which will provide the books sold at the bar. Books will be line priced at $8 each and guests may add items to their bar tab if they’re staying for a drink. Carrels ― small, semi-private, cubicle-style desks often seen in libraries ― will be among the seating options and may be used for patrons to converse or play games. Large, upholstered half-circle booths will provide spacious nooks for groups.

Atmosphere and Opening Hours

Character Study, housed in a classic 1922 brick building, is under renovation that includes the installation of new windows designed to draw in natural light. The bar will open at 4 p.m. daily. “A lot of people refer to Little Jumbo as Montford’s living room, and I think we’re going to bring a version of that vibe West,” Gray said.