EDS

My first gay bar experience was here. So I'm bias in how I feel about it. I've had a lot of great memories in this place with lots of friends and guys I've met over the years growing up in this town. It's got a small town gay bar feel to it and lots of locals. The vibe is low key and a great place to just hang out and chat with a friend or two, most of the guys I meet hear are friendly and easy to chat with. Now-a-days its the only establishment that actually feels like it has a decent gay population (particularly on weekends and events) in Asheville...so it's the only place I consider going to if I want to be in a gay populated environment. It's not going to be the most up-scale environment if that's what you're looking for. But it will be low-key and homey, with patrons from all age groups.

Scandals doesn't really feel like a "real" gay bar...it's more like a bridal shower bar for straight people who want to feel like they are cool. If all you want to do is drink and dance...you might like it. However, if you are looking for an environment populated with a decent amount of gay people...you'll be disappointed with this establishment.