- Our Story
- Plant Bar
Our Story
Established in 2018, Asheville Dispensary was founded by James Gallagher with a mission to help people feel better and be healthier through the miracles of plant medicines such as hemp and CBD. Located in West Asheville, our journey began with an expansive storefront, herbal elixir bar, and community gathering space designed to share the wealth of the hemp plant with everyone.
James Gallagher’s vision has always been clear: “I feel the wealth of the hemp plant should be shared with all. I am doing my best to be a conduit to the general public by opening the Asheville Dispensary.”
Our unique brand and style capture Asheville’s natural health and soulful vibe, reflecting the essence of the surrounding mountain communities. Our dedication to helping people feel better and be healthier through the power of plant medicines has driven our expansion from our original storefront on Haywood Rd. in West Asheville to our new location in downtown Chattanooga, TN. We’ve expanded our reach to bring our high-quality products closer to you, ensuring everyone can experience the benefits of hemp and CBD.
Plant Bar
The Asheville Dispensary Elixir & Tea Bar, founded in 2018 in partnership with The NOHM Collective, was Asheville’s first non-alcoholic bar, dedicated to fostering authentic connection and promoting wellness through plant-based beverages. Nestled in the heart of West Asheville, the Elixir Bar quickly became a beloved space where people could enjoy Gong Fu Cha, high-quality coffee, Boba tea, and single-origin cacao. Its mission centered on helping people feel better and live healthier lives through ethically-sourced, nourishing offerings that provided deep satisfaction.
Over the years, the Elixir Bar evolved alongside its community. In 2022, we expanded our offerings to include a carefully curated herbal and Boba tea program, designed by our Head of Bar, Nikki, a certified herbalist and Gong Fu Cha teacher. We then extended our vision to Chattanooga, TN, bringing the same vibrant, health-focused experience to NorthShore.
In 2024, the spirit of growth led us to embrace a broader identity. The Asheville Dispensary Elixir Bar transformed into Plant Bar, a name that reflects our deep passion for the spectrum of plants behind our bars and their role in nourishing both body and spirit. Plant Bar represents the next chapter of our journey—one that stays rooted in our origins while expanding our mission to connect people, plants, and community.
Today, Plant Bar offers more than just beverages; it’s a place to connect deeply—with others, yourself, and the plants that nourish you. Whether you’re lingering for an herbal tea ceremony, grabbing a zero-proof cocktail to go, or discovering the sacred roots of cacao, every visit is an invitation to slow down, savor, and reconnect.
Plant Bar is more than just a café—it’s a growing community, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the journey.
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