Jack in the Wood, Comfort Food, Great Brews, Local Bands

In the heart of downtown Asheville, North Carolina, sits a local pub known as Jack of the Wood. Located at 95 Patton
Avenue, this popular spot is not only a beloved gathering place for locals but also a destination for travelers visiting the
area.

"We serve a great selection of whiskeys, 18 rotating taps featuring local and world craft brews, and an award-winning menu with comforting favorites."

The history of Jack of the Wood dates back to 1991 when the Eckerts moved to Asheville from Philadelphia. and opened a vegetarian lunch counter at the downtown YMCA. Two years later, they expanded their business and built a full-service international vegetarian restaurant located on historic Wall Street, known today as the Laughing Seed Café. However, the Eckerts wanted something more, and with their English and Irish backgrounds, they wanted to create a neighborhood bar with an atmosphere that reflected their heritage.

Using the space underneath Laughing Seed, the couple set to work creating Jack of the Wood. Local philanthropist Julian Price had helped get Laughing Seed going, but the Eckerts used their restaurant's profits to build the pub. 

Over the years, Jack of the Wood has hosted countless local bands and musicians, making it a favorite spot for live music enthusiasts. The pub's cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make it a welcoming place for locals and tourists alike. In fact, a number of celebrities have been spotted at Jack of the Wood and Laughing Seed over the years, including Woody Harrelson, Sandra Bullock, Willem Dafoe, and Andie MacDowell.

Today, Jack of the Wood remains a beloved neighborhood bar, managed by the Eckerts' daughter, Annabel Eckert, who arrived in 2019 to oversee both establishments. With its rich history and commitment to local culture and music, Jack of the Wood is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for an authentic Asheville experience.

"We present our long running Bluegrass Jam Thursday nights, TOURING BANDS FRIDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS, and a Bluegrass Brunch on Sunday afternoons. STOP BY to see why Jack’s is one of Downtown Asheville’s most beloved gathering spots!"

To find out more about Jack of the Wood and to keep up with their events visit their website here

WNCtimes April 2023