

I’ve had too many days to count that have been flattened by productivity guilt. If our days have become crowded containers for what we did or did not do, perhaps we do not need to pursue more ways to be productive, but rather shake up the contents. Instead of being alive to the variances of what is done in a day-sometimes a little, sometimes a lot-we spiral in a slew of ‘if onlys’: if only I were more productive, if only I were more efficient, if only I were better, if only I were more like that person … then I could do it right, do enough, be enough. With this pile of undone things often comes an undercurrent of guilt, anxiety or shame. There’s the laundry thing, the catch-up thing, the replying to a text thing, the grocery shopping thing, the cooking thing, the cleaning thing, the creative thing, the exercise thing, the work thing, the medical thing, the thing we ought to do, the thing we don’t want to do, the thing we’ve put off despite it being the one important thing. We can always do more, and there is always more to do. When we conflate productivity with worthiness, what we do is never enough. (Photography credit Giulia Giannini McGauran.) Join Madeleine on her CreativeMornings FieldTrip on Navigating Productivity Guilt on February 15! The comfy couches and fire pits outside create a perfect spot to sit and drink a glass of Prosecco in the heart of downtown Asheville.This is an edited extract from Madeleine Dore’s new book I Didn’t Do the Thing Today. When I stop by here, I feel like I’m transported to a speakeasy from decades past, and lucky me, gin is my favorite.” – Anne LouiseĪs a team, you might find us at any one of these places, but we have enjoyed popping into District 42 on the main level of the Hotel Arras near Pack Square. “I probably wouldn’t be mad going to any bar in downtown Asheville, but I’ve enjoyed the Antidote since it opened in the South Slope.

They feature gin from their distillery next door, the Chemist. The inside is ornate and the rooftop bar is cozy and not too high up for those terrified of heights. If you like impressive cocktails and a beautiful atmosphere, stop by Antidote before or after your favorite meal. Don’t forget to order a cheese plate!” – Greyson It’s a small space but it packs a big punch. They will often clear the tables at night for dancing and fun! “As downtown Asheville grows, I’ll always remain loyal to my favorite hole in the wall, 5 Walnut Wine Bar. Seating is limited and the wine list is long with wines of every price point! Come during the day and people watch in one of the comfy window seats or at night for some local live music. You can always count on having a good time watching the big game or playing pool and it’s so centrally located in downtown that you can head anywhere you want after with ease. “The Bier Garden holds a special place in my heart. The food is elevated pub food sure to please everyone in your party. There are several upscale places you can stop by in downtown for a nice cocktail or glass of wine, but their beer list is insanely extensive featuring over 250 beers from around the world. Located at 46 Haywood Street in Asheville You can always go to its neighboring structure, the Green Mansion, but I love the Dirty Jack’s for a casual pint.” – William “While new, amazing places are popping up all the time, I love to go to Dirty Jack’s in the South Slope. The inside is modest and cozy and the outside features a great patio. Dirty Jack’sĪs Green Man’s first tap room, this has the old rustic charm highlighting the way the South Slope used to be before it became the attraction it is today. Our team shares below where we love to frequent on a night (or day, not judgement) in downtown.

In fact, it seems like we are constantly making national lists for our local businesses! Making a decision on where to go can prove challenging when they are all so good.

It’s no secret that downtown Asheville is a one stop shop for delicious food, beer, and drinks.
