Downtown Asheville is packed with great places to eat and drink, but if you’re searching for a cool, local gem with craft cocktails, award-winning burgers, and a laid-back vibe — Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge should be at the top of your list.
Tucked away on Rankin Avenue, this neighborhood spot has quietly become a go-to for locals and in-the-know visitors alike. Whether you’re grabbing a cocktail after work, meeting friends for lunch & dinner, or looking for late-night eats — Rankin Vault delivers.
🍹 The Vibe
The space blends moody lounge lighting with energetic conversation. There’s a cozy bar up front with some of Asheville’s finest bartenders — seriously, fast, friendly, and they know their drinks.
The lounge opens up into a mix of high-top and low-top tables, and in the back, you’ll find the actual vault room — once an enclosed vault, now reimagined with an open side so you can peek into the dining space and vice versa. It’s a nod to the building’s history, and it gives the lounge its name — The Vault.
Outside, you’ll find an inviting patio where you can sip and snack while soaking in the downtown Asheville scene.
🍔 The Food
The food menu hits all the right notes. Think elevated pub fare with some fun surprises.
We tried:
- The Vault Burger (voted Best Burger in Asheville) — juicy, flavorful, perfectly cooked, and worthy of the hype
- Chicken tacos — crispy, fresh, zesty, and well-seasoned
- A local craft beer
- One of their signature cocktails (don’t skip the specials!)
Other hits on the menu include:
- Sliders (including a Bahn Mi-style)
- Crispy tots (several ways)
- Nachos
- Salads
- Smashburgers
- One of the best late-night menus in Asheville (available 11 PM–2 AM)
🏆 History & Hype
Rankin Vault opened in 2008 and quickly carved out a niche as a local favorite. Over the years, they’ve been featured in numerous Best of WNC lists, especially for their legendary Vault Burger.
Some of the accolades:
- 🏅 Asheville’s Best Burger — multiple years running via Mountain Xpress
- 🍸 Known for strong, smartly crafted cocktails and one of the best happy hour scenes in downtown
- 🍔 Featured on local foodie blogs, pub crawl lists, and “best late-night eats” guides
📍 Make Your Way to The Vault
Whether you’re a longtime local or new to Asheville, Rankin Vault is one of those places that feels like home after just one visit. Come for the food, stay for the people, and return for the vibe.
Rankin Vault Cocktail Lounge
7 Rankin Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Late-night menu: 11PM–2AM
Cocktails, burgers, and good times daily
