At the former site of Sobol House Of Furnishings along the historic rail line, a new taproom, restaurant, and venue hopes to become the ultimate gathering space in Black Mountain.

The RailYard is one of the newest businesses to launch in Black Mountain — joining Taco Billy, The Pure & Proper, The Hop, and Foothills Grange — but the development has been in the mind's eye of founder John Richardson for years.

The 70-ft bar is one of the longest in Buncombe County. | Courtesy of Lindsay Higgins Photography

“We see this space as an incubator — for community, for the nonprofit PubCorps, for local musicians and bands, and for local vendors, artisans, and food trucks," says Richardson, who also runs Black Mountain Pizza & Ale House and the local nonprofit PubCorps, a volunteer organization that encourages folks to connect over shared service and a pint of beer.

"That's why we're building in service opportunities, community activities, and live music from the very beginning,” he adds.

The community is invited to the grand opening on Saturday, April 15, 12-10 p.m., which will include live music from American roots band LazyBirds.

Find Adirondack chairs, fire pits, and corn hole outside. | Courtesy of Lindsay Higgins Photography

Here are the major details on the new 1.31-acre space:

A 7,000-sqft main building, with five garage doors and a 70-ft long bar that serves craft beer, wine, cocktails, and mocktails
SmashBalls, an in-house burger joint with plant-based options
A 1,200-sqft community space suited for markets, yoga classes, volunteer events, and other private events
An acre of outdoor seating with picnic tables + fire pits
An outdoor stage for live music
15 shipping containers additional food and beverage offerings

The RailYard will also be the headquarters of PubCorps. Starting later this year, you can attend monthly large-scale food packing events, and maybe make a new friend while you're there.

"We want service to be a central part of the DNA here," says Richardson.