Three of us tried Claywood for the first time a few days ago. We waited until they’d been open for a couple months and had a chance to get their footing.
During those months, the three things I heard most often were, “owner Carly is so nice”, “it’s too expensive”, and “their ‘boards’ are too big, have too much piled on them, and I have to dig around to get to what I want”, in that order.
I can confirm that owner Carly IS very nice after many online conversations with her. I wasn’t able to attend their opening preview, but they did know when three of us were coming in. That said, I can honestly say we got one bit of special attention (a complimentary board), but otherwise were treated like everyone else.
My take after an evening at Claywood
We had no idea that complimentary board was headed our way (thank you Carly), so we ordered a Mimosa Board, and three Small Plates: Carrot and Ginger Salad, Caramelized Brussels Sprouts, and Spanakopita Strudel. It would have been way too much food even without the complimentary smaller board. We had time to cancel the Sprouts, but nothing else. We each brought a small box of fruit, cheese & more home.
Boards
If you look at what’s on each board and what it would cost you, at current prices – to purchase all of those ingredients, prep, and serve – the price is fair. Many of their boards are large, so it may feel like the price is high, but you’re not just paying for what’s on the board, you’re also paying for preparation, presentation, service, ambiance, convenience, and overhead. And Claywood’s boards are meant to be shared, so there’s that.
If it makes sense for them financially, it would be nice to have one or two smaller boards on the menu.
As far as having to dig for what we wanted, we didn’t have any problem getting whatever we wanted from the boards. Everything’s presented beautifully. A feast for the eyes and belly. Small gold-colored tongs and spoons for sauces come with the boards. I admit to using my fingers once or twice. Don’t judge me.
Small Plates
I feel like a couple small plates might be priced a little high, but overall, they’re reasonably priced. Very much like what you’d expect at other area restaurants.
Brunch
Not only does Claywood’s current Brunch Menu look especially delicious, prices are average among nicer restaurants in the area.
Cocktails, Wine & Whiskey
Claywood’s classic and original cocktails listed on their menu average just under $16. I consider that expensive for Hendersonville. You can always order a basic (like a G&T) cocktail made with “well liquor” if you prefer. They have a nice selection of NA cocktails, too.
That said, from what I experienced, Claywood’s bartender Bret is exceptional. Tell him what liquor you like, taste preference, etc., and he’ll whip you up something delicious. Sit at the bar and watch the show. No pressure, Bret. 😉
Their curated Wine & Whiskey programs are solid. They already have over 120 bottles in the whiskey program to choose from. Keep an eye on the offerings as they grow.
The Space
Claywood’s tag line is “Wine & Whiskey Social”. They’ve done a great job converting a long, narrow rectangle into a warm, cozy space with sofa seating, leather-like sofa and club chairs like you’d find in a lounge, nice bar seating, and a few tables. It’s about socializing and conversation. In the back of the space is what they call “The Social Room”. It’s the only place I saw with a screen on the wall. As of now, it’s for overflow seating and private events. It’s lovely. See the gallery below.
The Crew
As soon as we walked in, two out of three working the open kitchen recognized me, and I them. I knew Sous-Chef Jordan and Line Cook Alex when they worked at The 2nd Act, The Buzz, and now Claywood. Love living in a town where this happens! Chef W. Flakes is new to the area. He goes by “W”. Just say the letter.
I also recognized our server Chris. He’s currently working at Claywood and another spot in town. He’s pretty amazing, handling the entire dining room by himself this evening. Bret might have jumped in a couple of times? Every picture I took of Chris is blurred to some extent because he rarely stopped moving.
Bottom Line
Claywood’s offering a relaxed, elevated experience that’s new for Hendersonville. The demographic leans younger, but not exclusively. Feel is somewhere between “bohemian” Asheville and “professional” Greenville, SC. Dress? I’d suggest “dressy casual”. It reminded my friend of being in a bigger city, hanging out with urban professionals after work.
Go to Claywood and see what you think. Pretty sure you’re gonna to love it!
NOTES:
- Claywood’s Menu is a little hard to find on Mobile screens. It’s found by clicking the image under “Claywood Food And Cocktail Menu”.
- Live Music Friday evenings from 6-8pm
- They’ve paid for dedicated parking, free for customers, in the lot next to their building. Not sure if that will continue after the 7th Ave road construction is completed?
- It’s quieter than many other bars. At least it was this night.
- Claywood’s a good spot for meeting up with friends for drinks.
Claywood
317 7th Ave E
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Phone: (828) 471-7500
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