VBGB Beer Hall & Garden is a charming place frequented by local patrons and eager tourists. The feel of the traditional beer garden with alfresco seating and wooden tables is infused with modern-day entertainment like gaming zones, live gigs, DJ nights and other exciting line-ups. Try not to forget the varieties of bottled beer and microbrews and lip-smacking food that truly define a beer garden.
What happens when you mix sushi and burgers? Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar serves this interesting combination of Japanese and American cuisines to its adventurous patrons. A good place to experiment with food, it allows diners to mix and match dishes calling it the 'Burgushi'. Try a Deliverance Roll which contains pork wrapped in seaweed and covered with barbecue sauce or sample a Bento Box with a burger-sushi combination. An open mind is all you need as you experience two diverse cultures come together in a memorable gustatory experience.
Growlers Pourhouse is a favorite Charlotte destination for the crowds looking to unwind with a refreshing afternoon beer. This pub has fantastic beer on tap and also a menu of classic, pleasantly-greasy bar food, such as french fries and an enticing soft pretzel with a side of beer cheese. Growlers' seasonal beers throughout the year surely give a reason for the season.
This popular, members-only concert venue hosts bands like Out of the Blue in addition to its in-house rockers who perform on the stage. Several country music concerts also take place here. Free dance classes are offered on ladies nights when women patrons can enter free of charge. Keep your ID on hand —you can enter only if you are 18 or above, while drinks are offered only to those over 21 years of age.
A downtown favorite, the Thomas Street Tavern is a former post office converted into a bar and restaurant. It's always good for either an inexpensive meal or a late-night drink, and the locals can be seen relaxing inside anytime. A beer garden out back, opening at 5p on weekdays and 3p on weekends, features ping-pong tables and is pet-friendly.
Perched on the 15th floor of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Punch Room is a classy lounge that boasts of sprawling views of the city. This lounge is known for offering an extensive list of cocktails, wines and other spirits to choose from to accompany you. In case you feel hungry, you can munch on the Tapas style delicacies or other dishes from Punch Room's delightful menu. The elegant interiors are adorned with luxurious furnishings that have a classy appeal and an old-world charm. Its stylish interiors and an impressive menu makes this a great spot to hang out with your special someone and unwind after a hectic day. Though pricey, a visit here is an experience in itself.
Crave Dessert Bar fulfills your need for all things sweet and sugary. Apart from the sinful desserts crafted with attention to detail, over 40 unique cocktails and small yet satiating portions of savories feature the eclectic presentation by the knowledgeable chefs. Guests are welcomed to try out this culinary feast and admire the beautiful art and photographs adorning the interiors. Also, their fruit-flavored hookahs can be a perfect way to end the exquisite meal.
If you are in the mood to try out some prime quality steak, Morton's, The Steakhouse is the place to go to. The perfectly-cooked aged meat has put this branch of Morton's on the map. Other dishes which are recommended here include their delicious chicken dishes, fresh seafood delicacies and scrumptious dessert options. The bar menu consists of a number of premium spirits and wines which balance out the flavors of the all-American meat and seafood preparations perfectly. The restaurant, with its elegantly appointed dining space is perfect for a date or a business meeting. Private parties and business meetings can also be hosted in their private dining room.
Cedar Street Tavern is a nice place to enjoy a quiet dinner with that someone special. At the same time it can be perfect for a family lunch as well. The restaurant allows a distinctive dining experience, as customers can choose to eat at the special booths, lounge around the fireplace or simply watch some great football action on the eight TV screens. The fiber optic ceiling with its shooting stars creates a dreamy ambience and takes you miles away from the mad world outside.
One of Charlotte's most popular eateries and drinking spots, Dandelion Market offers an impressive menu that consists of such delectable dishes as the grilled lamb lollipops - complete with a special black cherry sauce - the zucchini ribbon pasta and the sausage-stuffed Poblano pepper. There is also a beer and cocktail menu available, so you can grab a drink on tap or a fancy cocktail and take advantage of the relaxing atmosphere.
The gray interiors and contrasting highlights greet diners looking for New American contemporary cuisine in a chic setting. The delicious combination of spices make for a tempting spread that one can't get enough of. Renowned restauranteurs Mills Howell, Jamie Lynch and Alejandro Torio have come together to create this fine venture that has caught the imagination of the crowds. Try the Lamb Burger, Jerk Chicken Lettuce Wraps and Wasabi Crusted Salmon which are the highlights of the menu.
Sophia's Lounge, situated inside The Ivey's Hotel, is the go-to place for unwinding over drinks with your friends, colleagues and loved ones. This fine establishment is visited by guests of the hotel and the locals alike. The sophisticated and classy decor at Sophia's Lounge featuring sleek wooden flooring, plush sofas, fancy furniture and chandeliers set the right ambiance for kicking back and forgetting about your daily life. Apart from a wide range of cocktails, beer and wines, you can get yourself a plate of Smoked Shrimp, Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes or Charcuterie Board from the menu.