Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar

Slice of heaven in historic downtown Asheville! Such a pleasant find as we walked the downtown streets on a Sunday afternoon. As we passed a sidewalk art fair we saw the outside umbrellas and the pillow filled outdoor furniture and beautiful guitar and Ellie e samble playing on the outdoor patio. We venture in to find a very calming darkish old world book store with multiple levels and a humming vibe of book enthusiasts and those here to have lunch and a cocktail. We sat on the wonderfullly relaxing patio and ordered wine by the glass and a plentiful charcuterie board filled with cheeses, salami, olives, nuts, spreads and finger breads. An absolutely beautiful afternoon. Thank you!

We had our wedding welcome reception at Battery Park and Book Exchange, hosted by Donna in the enchanting "Gatsby Room," and it was an absolute dream come true. The setting was beyond magical—sipping champagne surrounded by towering book stacks while a jazz band played softly in the background created an ambiance straight out of a fairy tale. Donna, our gracious host, deserves every accolade for her exceptional service. From the moment we began planning, Donna's dedication and attention to detail were evident. She went above and beyond to ensure every aspect of our reception was flawless, and her efforts truly paid off. We were blown away by the abundance and variety of food and desserts she curated for our event. Trusting her to select the menu was one of the best decisions we made; every dish was exquisite and perfectly complemented the evening. The jazz band provided the ideal soundtrack, adding a sophisticated touch to the atmosphere. The bartenders and servers were equally wonderful, ensuring our guests felt welcomed and attended to throughout the night. Overall, our experience at Battery Park and Book Exchange under Donna's guidance was nothing short of extraordinary. It was a night filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories, thanks to Donna's impeccable planning and the venue's unique charm. We are grateful for such a perfect beginning to our wedding festivities and will cherish the memories created in the "Gatsby Room" forever!

We didn’t have any food, but tried several cocktails and loved the ambiance and live music. Service wasn’t super attentive, but we were also content to sit and wait, so it wasn’t really an issue. A beautiful and fun place to visit in downtown Asheville, especially if you are a book lover!

Battery Park Book Exchange in Asheville is a gem for book lovers and casual visitors alike. The service is impeccable, with friendly staff who are both knowledgeable and attentive. The atmosphere is incredibly unique, blending the charm of a bookstore with the elegance of a wine bar. You can browse an extensive collection of books while sipping on a glass of wine or a crafted coffee. The cozy nooks and eclectic decor make it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. It's an experience not to be missed!

Such a unique spot!!! Love being able to grab a drink and wander around the bookstore. Staff was very friendly and really loved the atmosphere.

5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I love bringing out-of-town friends here—it's always a hit. Battery Park Book Exchange is one of the most unique spots in Asheville. Tucked into the historic Grove Arcade, it’s got three cozy levels of used books, nooks to sit and sip, and that perfect blend of old-school glam and literary charm. Think vintage bookstore meets Champagne lounge, with a little Frank Sinatra floating through the air. Last time I went, I had the goat cheese, prosciutto, and apricot preserve grilled cheese and… wow. Just wow. It was ridiculously good. The host was warm, funny, and genuinely welcoming—which always makes a difference. We did have a waitress who was a bit impatient, but everyone has their off days and it didn’t take away from the experience. If you’re a book lover—or just want a charming, cozy place to grab a bite or a glass of something sparkly—go. You’ll love it.

This place is my new sanctuary whenever I visit Asheville. Didn't get to try the food but the atmosphere is wonderful.

Without equal. A used book store for serious book lovers. Nothing like it anywhere. Come for champagne or a cup of tea with sweets but gorge yourself on the amazing selection of books. I picked up A western Journal by Thomas Wolfe, 1951. $20. “The farm buildings curiously forgotten in the vast curious landscape.” Battery Park Books, a jewel to be savored among the Great Smoky Mountains.

What a fun place. The vibes are so different than place I've been to - seriously, where else can you drink champagne and read a book? My friend and I each tried a different champagne flight - both were delicious. I regret not coming hungry, as someone next to us ordered a charcuterie board and it looked Deff will be back!

Libations and books, two of my favorite things! We stopped in here early in the afternoon and had a mimosa flight and a pot of tea. Both were delicious, and we were able to peruse the store afterward. They have a variety of rare books here (first editions, hard covers, etc.) That were really interesting to look at. We stopped back at 5 to listen to their live music, bought a drink, and found a nook to sit in. If you want to sit in their regular dining areas/sit in their sofas during live music time, you'll have to buy food, just FYI. It was fun going back down memory lane, looking at old copies of The Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew, etc. All books that I loved reading as a child.

Fun fun fun!! They have a great wind and cocktail list. The food choices were fun and interesting. Books, bevvies and live music. I loved the ambiance of this quirky place. I highly recommend this as a date night.

Wow what an amazing gem. Feels like you are wondering through someone's house filled with books. Walking through had me in awe and I absolutely loved being able to peruse the books while sipping Champaign. There also is a little restaurant with mature slightly snobby wait staff. It truly adds to the ambience while you sample various champagne. It's an experience.

Cute!! All I kept thinking was - I wish I could have my book club meet here! Comfy seating nestled between the bookshelves make for a really fun cozy vibe. The champagne list was pretty expensive so we didn't order a drink but we were able to browse the aisles for a little while. I didn't see any books that jumped out at me but it was a cool spot. Check it out!

I'm coming here every time I visit Asheville. Not gonna change my mind. I've wanted to visit this place every time I go to Asheville but it just never worked out. FINALLY...my good friend heard me say it when I came to visit this past weekend and she made it happen. Immediately upon walking in, I fell in love. We got on the wait list and made our way upstairs to the small bar to wait for our table. Walking through tight bookshelves and finding classics randomly was such a delight and I was overwhelmed with joy. I felt like I was in another part of the world. I got a glass of champagne and we found a bench amongst the books to wait for our table. I found Little Women. I grabbed it and took it with me so I could buy it. I found the Crucible. Grabbed that and took that with me to buy it. I found a book about American Women authors. Took THAT book with me...LOL! Omg. Hahahaha I couldn't stop. FINALLY...I got up in search of Great Expectations and the owner saw me and asked what I was looking for. I told him. He comes back with a giant book that had 4 Charles Dickens books into one. GREAT EXPECTATIONS, Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol and A Tale of Two Cities. I felt the little girl inside me that was drawn to writing and books leap for joy. We eventually got our table and had a bottle of delicious wine and shared a cheese board. Oh and 3 women walked in that were dressed like ballerinas from The Nutcracker. Wild!! Magical evening and that is by far my favorite place in Asheville

In just one visit this place became one of my favorite places on Earth. It perfectly merges everything a person could ever desire in just one location - Old, beautiful books of all varieties; smooth and flavorful coffee; soft and creamy chocolate; the company of beautiful and smart women; cozy ambient live jazz music; and wine - oh! And wine!

This might be my favorite place I've ever been to. Books, champagne, vegan cheese board? HEAVEN. I am so excited that book bars are becoming more popular because they are the literal best thing ever.

An atrocity is being committed in the blue mountains of this wondrous town on our books and our psyche. This place may be a sociological or psychological experiment in trying to piss one off beyond your most wildest imagination -- congratulations, they have succeeded. I concede, fully surrender, whatever you want. You can keep your thing, whatever your establishment is, and I promise to never set foot in here ever again. Chalkboard sign on the sidewalk states: "everyone welcome", yet apparently no one is. You can see many other reviews going back several years or you can let me attempt to explain. Upon entering (once we were finally permitted to open the door by the maitre de standing there), we stood awkwardly in the doorway and were subjected to an interrogation: "are you here to browse books or have a drink?" Umm, both, but let me in first so I can see what you're offering before you depose me out here on the sidewalk. The idea of both browsing books and having a drink in a bookstore that offers both items seemed to present a dilemma to the staff. i observed a complex analysis take place regarding where to seat us despite an entire store full of empty tables outside of the immediate bar area. After a lot of yammering and consultation between various staff members,we were sat. We would like to order a small plate of food; do you have any? "Umm, you have 5 minutes and only off this top page" of an extensive menu with more pages than a top page. 30 minutes before closing, the staff is literally packing up. Chairs being moved so you can't even get out or your seat or space. Are you kidding me? Basic etiquette? Sat there in shock trying to slurp down our one drink we were permitted. We were less shocked when we got up to leave and had to shimmy thru a 2" open space between the table and the chairs stacks on top of us and my purse flies into a beautiful champagne glass sitting on the table, smashing it to the floor, because chairs literally imprisoned us, while we finished our drinks. From the moment we were "permitted" through the front door, every moment was excruciatingly awkward. I cannot even. PS. We were forced to stay in this purgatory 30 minutes longer than necessary because the servers delivered the incorrect checks to 3 parties and lost someone's credit card during the debacle for a solid 30 minutes.

I've been by the bookstore champagne bar for years and this is the first time I stopped in. It's delightful! I had no idea they also serve bakery items, savory foods, and portions large enough to make lunch out of it. The bookstore is huge and like a maze! This is my first time back in downtown Asheville after the hurricane and I'm grateful to see that the downtown is as vibrant and busy as ever.

Tried to come and enjoy a nice Sunday. The pretentiousness of the place will make you sick. Don't sit, don't read, don't use a computer. They think they are a bar but they are a dicey lunch spot with used books on the shelf. Won't be back

It's a cool place I'd take visitors who like high tea, champagne, and books. I'm just let down that they don't fully combine the classy bar and being able to read a book. I know of several places that have successfully integrated these things. Yet, for some reason, they immediately ask if you are there for food and drink, or books. You can't really do both. I'd love if they let guests have wine/drink and read a book. But you kind of have to nicely beg the staff to do so. A very cute and timeless aesthetic in this place. But let down that they aren't truly integrating their two concepts. When it says "book exchange and champagne" I'd expect the two to be available together. Maybe in the future!

Fun place for a drink in a bookish location. I'm a reader and didn't find much to browse and enjoy, so disappointing in that regard. Very cute that they deliver the checks in a Dr. Seuss book!

I was visiting the area from across the country when I came across this amazing bookstore. I've never been in an establishment where I was able to browse books while enjoying a glass of wine. Being my first time ever having wine, I asked the server for suggestions and I took whatever she suggested. I also had a BLT. I know, weird combo, but I also had water! The BLT was delicious and I learned I don't like wine AT ALL! hahah. They had a great selection of books. I picked up a 1st edition copy of Black God by D.Manners-Sutton on clearance for a few bucks! I'll be back in Asheville in October and will definitely be stopping by here again. This time I'll try champagne :P haha.

Whenever I travel to new places I find myself gravitating to bookstores and this is one of my favorite bookstores to browse in the country. Its a great place to wander the stacks (if you're able bodied. Not so much if you use a wheelchair) and if you love books this has the right ambience. If you're looking for something specific you might need to go someplace else but if you enjoy the search this is a good place to spend time. I've never done the food/wine thing so I can't speak to that experience.

The Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar was such a cool experience! We had amazing service the entire time with multiple staff constantly checking up on us, the food and drinks were delicious, and getting to browse the book selections after eating was really nice touch for our trip. I had the BLT and Cosmopolitan and both were delicious!

I used to love this Battery Park Book Exchange especially because it was pet friendly, neighborhood vibe bookstore and cafe. Unfortunately they are no longer pet friendly and also the whole format changed when we were in Asheville last year. Unlike any other bookstore you can't just walk in. There's a host stand at the entrance of the bookstore and you have to state your intentions- looking at books, dining, getting drinks/wine inside, etc The interior seating areas is not one you can just go in and sit anymore... you have to book a table like a restaurant or something based on what an employee told us when we sat down for a bit at one of the many empty seating areas. Still have a lot of books as it's a bookstore and such a vibe. It seems like it's more of a cafe/restaurant now than a bookstore and a simple and easy pop in, order a drink and snack, and buy some books. Also, the upstairs is quite stuffy/hot. Maybe the A/C wasn't working because they had a fan. There are more seating/cafe area upstairs too. Sad to see the change at this place. Wasn't as inviting and friendly service either like it was before. Staff felt a bit snooty snoots and didn't make you feel super welcome in comparison to previous visits in years past. We ended up not making any purchases this recent visit and leaving much sooner than we anitcipated.

Horrible service. Rude employees. Don't read anything on their website because it's not accurate. Don't waste your time.

We came to your establishment to sit down and enjoy a drink and plan a vacation... we pulled out a lab top to be able to chart our course and plan our trip. We were told there is a no lab top policy... I understand the notation of not wanting to be a coffee shop/ library... and wanting people to talk to one another as opposed to being locked in re screen time..... but in my opinion this policy is extremely short sided. We used to enjoy coming here regularly...we enjoyed recommending this place... will we not ever return or recommend coming here again.

I had this place on my list of places to check out in Asheville because I'm a huge book lover. My friend and I first came in to just check out the book selection after having dinner nearby, but we ended up staying for a glass of wine and dessert. They had a lot of vegan options! The menu was super cute - the items were all book themed. The book selections were unique, this isn't where you would come for the latest releases. Overall, we did not have great service. From the hostess stand to the table service, we definitely felt neglected.

We did not eat here but loved browsing the books. This place is a must see for the aesthetics alone. They have various charcuterie boards with book theme names. This concept was a total hit and everyone in the store/restaurant looked happy. Who could not be when combining books, sweets and champagne?!

I had really high hopes for this place! I came across this place on social media just after leaving Asheville a couple months ago (solo holiday trip) and knew that the next time I returned, I would most definitely be coming here. It's on the corner of Grove Arcade shopping center and has ample outdoor and indoor seating. When I arrived, there was a nice local vendors market going on on the sidewalk so that was fun to check out first. Upon entering, there is a host stand, a display case with pastries, some menus, and of course books galore. It was actually a little overwhelming but I was excited to spend some time here. The hostess indicated I could wait for a seat or head throughout the store and order upstairs at the small bar. I took my time walking through this beautiful maze of a place and flipped through several interesting looking picks. It was a little disappointing so see so many spots were "reserved" but empty, and it wasn't that crowded on a Sunday afternoon. Once I made my way upstairs to the small bar, I decided on a flight for the full experience. And the bartender up there told me that I actually had to be seated for that - not a big deal, but I had to go all the way back down to the main entrance. I got seated at a communal table on the first floor. The flight came out quickly and the waitress described each one before pouring (I went with the Grand Tier - billecart-salmon, louis roederer veuve clicquot). Each one was a 3 oz pour. I sipped and savored for about an hour while a live musician started up, which added to the ambience. They also had a small plates/sandwich menu, which I would probably try next time. All in all, I enjoyed my experience and would come back but something just felt...not sure how to put it exactly, off in terms of the service/atmosphere. It just wasn't quite as ~relaxing~ as I had hoped/expected; and I'm not sure if thats just because it was my first time or the hosts/waitstaff didn't exude as welcoming/inviting an air that I would look for in this kind of place. I guess it almost felt like pseudo-upscale if that makes any sense. Nonetheless, I love champagne, I love books, and I'm definitely going to give this another go on my next trip, especially when it's warm out, I think sitting outside on the patio with a chilled glass, a beach read, and the bright sun will be perfect, and hopefully the service/staff will be the cherry on top!

Came in a little before closing and sat in the bar area for dessert. (They were not serving dinner anymore). Super cute book store with tables throughout to eat/drink. The live music was already over, but that was a nice touch. The bar area was decorated nicely for the KY Derby.

This is a really neat spot in Asheville for book lovers! They have a pastry case right inside that looks absolutely divine. I wish we had been hungry enough after dinner for some. The chocolate croissants had so many layers and they had cookies the size of your fist! We sat down amongst the books and planned to order sandwiches for dinner. However, I hadn't seen online anywhere, but they stop serving most of their food menu at 6. We ended up ordering a charcuterie board, which was delicious and plenty of food for two. The meats and cheese and nuts and fruit were delicious. There was a mustard on the board that was VERY spicy haha. Overall a fun experience!

What a cute and unique book store! We just ate so only shopped around and checked out the used books. Loved the selection, but more importantly the gorgeous store. They had cozy blankets and beautiful sitting areas. You must see the hostess to be seated. Hoping I can get lost in this shop again soon.

What a great idea! I discovered that this place existed when I was Yelp-searching for a local bookstore to stop in at on a day on vacation when it ended up raining and was a bit too unpleasant for outdoors-ing. I saw "book" and "champagne bar" and I was IMMEDIATELY in. I should have known by the word "exchange" in the name that this was a used book store, but that still surprised me. I love browsing used bookstores, but I was a bit more in the market for looking for exactly what I wanted to read and I find used bookstores difficult to navigate if you have an idea of what you want. If you have all the time, no goal, and no specific book-quest...used bookstores are THE BEST. Still, I did find a book to buy. Amidst the bookshelves of for sale tomes, there are seating areas for the bar portion of this business. After making my purchase, I went to the hostess stand to be seated so I could read a bit and enjoy some champagne and what not for a spell. Also to wait out the drizzly rain before walking back to my car. I was seated at a low table near to the main bar, in a very low cushy chair (it was comfortable enough for my little-stature body, but might be weird for other people). I ordered one of the champagne cocktails, which was ok...it tasted to my palate like just champagne...no other or additional flavors or tastes as advertised on the menu. So those may not be worth the money for what they are. But after that, I got a simple glass of sparkly wine and a cheese board to enjoy for a little while longer. The food they have is definitely meant for sharing. But I was easily able to take the rest as leftovers and they made for a great late night snack later. I really enjoyed my visit here and think you should definitely give it a whirl if you are a booky-boozy kind of person.

This place is one of my favorite places I've ever been to. Champagne and books, my happy place. We came right when it opened at noon on a Saturday and enjoyed our lunch which included Harry Potter salad, sandwiches and a champagne flight. We also walked around and enjoyed all the books and bought some as well. This place is super neat and service was friendly. I need one for these places near where I live.

Such a cool place!! Stopped in with a group of 4 at about 3pm on a Friday and got a table right away. It was getting busier when we left though. They said they don't take reservations- good to know. We had some tea- so cute with little dishes for honey and fancy teacups and spoons. Had a meat and cheese charcuterie board and it was so delicious. Staff was so friendly. Then wandered around the bookstore and found some books! Very enjoyable experience, cool unique place- would definitely come back!

This place really is a treat. I come in here just to browse the huge selection of books and maybe order a cocktail. The menu has beautifully named options (think, "The Gatsby), and it just feels so cozy and warm being inside. I really want to order one of the charcuterie boards but the price is kinda up there

We happened upon this place looking for a bite and a beverage. What a lovely atmosphere with comfortable outdoor and indoor seating. Nice wines. Great foods and absolutely delicious pastries. All surrounded by a legitimate bookstore where you can spend hours perusing the literature. Will definitely come back when I am in town.

Really fun place to go. I've been 3 times with different friends and they all love it. The staff are all very friendly and the boards are just delicious. Can't wait to go back when I'm in Asheville!

Such a fun spot especially if you're a reader.. menu portions are large and great for sharing. Outdoor dining is great if the weather is appropriate. A lot of the indoor seating options were reserved so make a reservation if you plan to go on a cooler day or if the weather isn't ideal. The drink menu offers other options if you don't prefer champagne. The store is fun to wander!

This is a seriously cool place! Love the book store vibe and champagne bar. Tons of gluten free options and plant based options. The chickpea salad was an awesome delicious treat. Seasonal hummus hit the spot big time. Seriously get in here and enjoy all they have to offer. Our service was super friendly and made us feel at home.

Omg what an amazing place to get your drink fix and read a sweet book! You can get lost for hours!

This place is simply fantastic in every way! Battery Park Book Exchange & Champagne Bar became an instant favorite with the wife and I after our last visit to Asheville last year. There's just something so unique about this place that will keep us coming back. The vintage feel, the books, the drinks, the live music. All of it together produces such a fun atmosphere. I don't have a special go-to drink order here as we've basically tried it all, but what I will say is the champagne cocktails are top notch, and you can't go wrong with any selection. They also have a large wine list, and oh boy some of those wines can get extremely pricey, but they do have reasonably priced single glass prices, so keep your options open. In addition, their sangria is to die for! Easily one of the best sangrias that I've tasted in a very long time and probably my #1 standout drink. Verdict: If you're around the Asheville downtown area and looking for a unique experience, look no further. This spot offers a great variety of drinks, an enjoyable atmosphere, live music, interesting books, and it's all in a prime location to everything great that Asheville has to offer! Rating: 5

This is not a place to go for books. It's to eat/drink surrounded by books. The selection is limited to special antiques or curated topics with minimal selection. Most offensively, you can't sit on any of the many, many sofas to look through the books. They are ALL reserved for people who may or may not need them to eat. There are plenty of other fantastic bookstores in town. Pop your head in to see the ambience here, then turn on your heels and go to a store for actual readers.

Arrogance abounds. Pretentious place that's uninviting and snooty. Have stopped here in the past. Now the staff is so rude I won't be back. Plenty of other places to get great books.

What a fun spot! We went here for the books and stayed for the champagne! We tried a mimosa flight of a few different flavors which was fun. They also had a gluten free charcuterie board which was probably one of the most unique I've had so far. It had local jams and honeys along with yummy cheeses and fruits. The place is very crowded so make reservations or be prepared for a long wait, but it's perfect for hanging out with friends. The store is full of lots of old books so it isn't a place I'd go to it I was shopping for brand new books.

Such a cute place. I came with friends, and we enjoyed martinis while browsing the huge selection of books. The atmosphere was lovely, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

What a hidden gem. Amazing charcuterie board. Mimosa flights and the Secret Garden champagne cocktail. All while sitting outside while watching passerby's shop at the local battery park exchange.

Very cute bookstore and champagne lounge. We loved the secret garden cocktail with a nice balance of blanc de blanc, elderflower and hibiscus. It was very cool to see first editions and the classics with a chic book cover. Service was good, however, our group of 7 had to squeeze in to a couch and 2 armchairs while groups of 4 had 2 couches and assorted chairs.

I have been here before for an event hosted on the second level overlooking much of the bookstore. This time I came to enjoy a glass of wine while reading a book. It was easy to find a table on a Wednesday.

Stopped by for a bottle of champagne at a wonderful bookstore. The food prices were a bit high but alcohol and books were reasonable.

I am seriously obsessed with this place and since going this past weekend think about it all the time. I felt like Belle when she walked through the Beasts library... only better because there was champagne and good smelling food. We only had a 20 min wait which was perfect to look through the maze of books. Once seated we ordered our cocktails... I got The Great Gatsby... it was phenomenal. For food we just split The Secret Life of Cheese which is a 3 cheese board with all the tasty extras. We added some prosciutto to it and it was incredible. I wanted to stay longer but we had other plans. I will for real be back to try all the tasty cocktails and the menu items. All the menu items are titled from Books! The service was great and wonderful ambience.

A wonderful bookstore ruined by an ethos based around selling food and wine instead of books. You are not welcome to sit, unless you've made reservations. You may not approach the bar to drop a wineglass off, because it's staff only. You may not leaf through the books on the shelf: buy before you browse, and preferably browse elsewhere. Also... for a place that claims it's a champagne bar... it has pretty mediocre champagne. Not that that's it's worst sin: that's pretension and poor customer service, but if you're going to do that, at least have a decent sommelier.

This is my new favorite place in Asheville! I plan to come here every single time I am in Asheville now that I have discovered it. It is not really hidden but it kind of is. We were looking for it and almost walked right past it. The service is great. All of my favorite things are under one roof!! They have a great champagne selection as well as some snacks and other drinks. I also discovered that they have tea so that will be what I get next time. They do have lots of books here that you can purchase as well. The decor is nice and the overall feel here is upscale but casual.

Amazing place!!! We went for an afternoon tea on a Sunday. There were live chill music and in addition to great selection of wine and champagne, you can browse a wide variety of books mostly used.

Came here with a party of 9, we got seated quickly. The drinks were great! Saw some really cool books

Imagine ducking into your favorite cafe, but it's lined with books and intimate seating, and there's a three piece band with a stand up bass setting the vibe. You've got to be 21 and up to enter, which is a treasure for adults who want to unwind. I could imagine spending many rainy afternoons here, drink of choice in one hand, an essay or novel in another. Conversation is there if you want it, and please leave your laptop home. There are hidden gems tucked away all over the space, rare editions and author autographed tomes. Take time to explore and dig into any title that catches your eye. No one is rushing is you.