ASHEVILLE — Potential New Boyfriend in Asheville made USA TODAY’s list of best bars in the country.
The USA TODAY Bars of the Year 2026 list, released July 29, features 38 bars, from dives to high-end cocktail bars.
"Part of the experience coming here is to have some sort of an exciting experience. Something that's a little bit unusual or nontraditional, and that starts with our name," said Disco, who goes by the single name and is the visionary behind Potential New Boyfriend. "Our goal was to create a space where everyone feels comfortable and welcome. Every element in the space has that in mind."
Potential New Boyfriend, an unpretentious wine and dessert bar and listening lounge in West Asheville,
was chosen for its welcoming, cozy vibes, good tunes, and remarkable dining and drink selections, including house-made artisan ice cream.
Find out more about Potential New Boyfriend and how the list came together.
Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Co., covering the food and beverage industry, including the James Beard Awards, Michelin Guide, restaurant openings, closings and other hospitality industry news and events. Tips, comments, questions? Email tkennell@citizentimes.com or follow @PrincessOfPage on Instagram. Sign up for AVL Bites and Brews, our weekly food and drink newsletter here.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: USA TODAY named Bars of the Year. This Asheville lounge made the list











