Citizen Vinyl - Asheville, NC

Attraction: Citizen Vinyl
Location: 14 O’Henry Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Industry: Record Pressing Plant
Website: https://citizenvinyl.com/

Music production meets culinary craftsmanship in this groundbreaking space where you can literally watch vinyl records being pressed while enjoying locally-sourced dishes and craft cocktails.

Located in the stunning Art Moderne Citizen-Times newspaper building, this innovative concept combines a working vinyl pressing plant, farm-to-table café, craft cocktail bar, and record store all under one dramatic historic roof.

The Vinyl Experience

Live Record Pressing: You can watch actual vinyl records being made through large windows that showcase the pressing process. The facility produces high-quality albums for record labels and independent artists, and seeing the craftsmanship firsthand adds incredible depth to your understanding of how music physically comes to life.

Curated Record Shopping: Browse an excellent selection of vinyl with reasonable pricing in the record store section. The collection focuses on quality releases, and you can find both classic albums and contemporary pressings to add to your collection.

Factory Tours: Guided tours take you behind the scenes of the pressing operation, where you’ll learn about the technical process and see the massive pressing machines in action. Tours are limited to small groups and require reservations, making for an intimate educational experience.

Recording Studio Access: The facility includes the restored historic WWNC radio station studio, now called Citizen Studios, where musicians record albums that are then pressed on-site. This creates a complete circle from recording to production to retail.

Culinary & Beverage Program

Farm-to-Table Café: The kitchen serves locally-sourced breakfast and lunch items alongside craft coffee beverages. The curried cauliflower bowl receives particular praise from visitors, combining fresh ingredients with bold flavors that complement the creative atmosphere.

Session Craft Cocktail Bar: Named one of the best bars in the country by Esquire magazine, Session serves carefully crafted cocktails in an atmosphere where vinyl spins constantly. The intimate bar setting creates perfect ambiance for both casual drinks and special occasions.

Coffee Culture: The cold brew and craft coffee program provides the perfect fuel for exploring both the pressing facility and the broader downtown Asheville area. The coffee quality matches the attention to detail evident throughout the facility.

Atmosphere & Design

Historic Architecture: The Art Moderne building creates a stunning backdrop with its dramatic first floor and decorative mezzanines. The restoration celebrates both the building’s newspaper heritage and its new role in music production.

Climb Ladders, Cross Swinging Bridges, And Spot Rare Wildlife On North Carolina’s Most Epic Mountain

Discover More

Immersive Audio Experience: Curated playlists spin constantly on turntables behind the bar, creating a soundtrack that enhances every aspect of your visit. The carefully selected music adds educational value while creating an authentic atmosphere.

Community Space: The facility serves as a gathering place for music lovers, offering everything from intimate concerts to educational programs that connect visitors with the local music scene.

Other Considerations

Pricing & Value: The combination of experiences offers excellent value, especially considering the uniqueness of watching vinyl production alongside dining and drinking. Food and beverage prices reflect the quality ingredients and downtown Asheville location.

Operating Hours: The facility operates during daytime hours for the café and record shop, with specific tour times available. The limited hours ensure you experience the operation at its most active.

Location Benefits: Situated in downtown Asheville, you’re within walking distance of numerous other attractions, galleries, and restaurants. The location makes it easy to combine your visit with broader exploration of the city’s vibrant cultural scene.

Educational Value: This isn’t just entertainment—it’s an educational experience that deepens your appreciation for music production, local food systems, and historic preservation. The knowledgeable staff enhances learning through their passion for both music and hospitality.

Citizen Vinyl
📍 14 O’Henry Ave, Asheville, NC 28801