Discovering Saint Brighid’s: A New Gem in Asheville
If you find yourself wandering through the vibrant River Arts District of Asheville, you’ll want to stop by a place that feels like it’s bursting with personality: Saint Brighid’s. This charming bar and bottle shop is not just a retail spot; it’s a cozy gathering space that invites you to explore and enjoy a curated selection of drinks.
A Vision Comes to Life
Located inside the creative collective known as Marquee Asheville, which spans an impressive 5,000 square feet, Saint Brighid’s was the brainchild of Keith and Halle Hirsch, passionate beverage enthusiasts with a flair for curating exceptional offerings. The story starts when Robert Nicholas, the owner of Marquee, reached out to the Hirsches with a dream in mind. Keith recalls arriving at the site, “He gave us a tour, and I’m not kidding, it was a dirt floor.” Even with its rough beginnings, the couple could see Robert’s vision taking shape and felt drawn to the project. “We believed in the space,” Keith shares, “but I think what it’s become has surprised us all.”
A Thriving Hub for Arts and Culture
What has emerged is nothing short of a cultural and artistic hub. With over 300 eclectic booths from local artisans, Marquee has transformed into a lively destination, and you’ll find Saint Brighid’s right at the entrance. As you walk up the ramp, get ready to discover a cozy corner filled with wooden picnic tables, velvet-upholstered high tops, and a colorful bottle shop that immediately grabs your attention.
Unique Design Meets Functional Space
The bar and shelves feature stunning metalwork created by artists Valerie Hoh and Cynthia Wynn from Key West, Florida. This creatively repurposed furniture is a testament to the thoughtful design that invites patrons to unwind. “People will have completely different experiences coming in here,” Keith explains. “It’s not one of those cookie-cutter things where you walk in and everybody’s getting the same thing. This place is so broad and so organic.”
A Diverse Selection of Beverages
Saint Brighid’s radiates an elegant yet industrial vibe, and one of the standout features is its remarkable variety of beverages. With dozens of shelves showcasing a multitude of labels, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice! “We wanted to narrow our beer selection down to just things that were less than 10 cases available to the entire Southeast,” Keith shares. “For wine, our ethos is that everything has to be multi-generational organic.”
This focus on rarity doesn’t mean sacrificing approachability; in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Keith explains that they offer “deep cut wines that might end up in some collector’s cellar” and make them available by the glass. “We wanted a place where it was very easy to come in, and if you didn’t know anything about wine, you could just shop by label and find a fantastic bottle of organic wine.”
Thoughtful Curation Beyond Alcohol
The Hirsches have expanded their thoughtful approach into non-alcoholic drinks as well. Halle notes, “It wasn’t an afterthought for us. We think it’s such a great thing to be available for so many people.” Since Marquee is a family-friendly space open during the day, it’s great to see options that cater to every guest.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name of the establishment, Saint Brighid’s, holds a special significance for Keith and Halle, who both have Celtic ancestry. Brighid is celebrated across various cultures as a goddess of art, music, beer, and wine – making her a perfect figure for this unique spot. “She’s also known as a love goddess,” Halle explains. “That was very near and dear to me because of the overarching love that goes into creating a place in the community for everyone.” This idea of community and togetherness resonates deeply within the walls of Saint Brighid’s.
Your Next Stop in Asheville
So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, don’t miss a chance to experience the magic of Saint Brighid’s located within Marquee Asheville at 36 Foundy Street. It’s more than just a bar – it’s a place where the community comes together, explores new flavors, and celebrates the love poured into every drink.
