Where to Drink Beer with Your Dog in Charlotte
There’s nothing worse than watching your furry best friend longingly press their snout against the window as you depart for a day spent enjoying Charlotte’s booming beer scene.
6 Charlotte Cocktails You Can Make From Home
6 Charlotte Cocktails You Can Make From Home No bar, no problem. Whip up premium libations from your favorite spots all without leaving your kitchen. by Beth Castle “Putting Down Roots” from Bardo Bardo – “Putting Down Roots” Cocktail Drawing from a range of influences, everything from Spanish to Japanese, the eclectic restaurant aims to keep dishes and drinks on trend. Enter exhibit A: Putting Down Roots, a beet-ginger-mezcal concoction. Ingredients *Root Blend Preparation Idlewild – “Rougue One” Cocktail Idlewild, a no-menu craft cocktail bar, opened in the NoDa neighborhood in 2019 by Vince Chirico. Known for operating without a set drink menu, Idlewild is a stand-out when it comes to both classic and custom craft cocktails. Ingredients Preparation “Grassy Knoll” Cocktail from Haymaker Haymaker – “Grassy Knoll” Cocktail General manager Brad Grubb, who’s in charge of the restaurant’s beverage program, ensures drinks reflect chef William Dissen’s signature style: a down-to-earth, ingredient-driven menu. Take this Grassy Knoll cocktail, for instance. Here the classic gin-citrus-basil combination springs eternal, all thanks to flavorful ingredients straight from the garden. Ingredients Simple Syrup Preparation Rosemont – “Soccer Mom Special” Cocktail Like its sister establishments All American Pub and Whiskey Warehouse, Rosemont’s wheelhouse is, essentially, bar food. Yet what makes the South End restaurant stand out among its peers is its utterly over-the-top selection. Then there’s the drink menu, which is more tiki than taproom. Slushies, Long Island iced teas and these Capri Sun-style pouch drinks (called the Soccer Mom Special) offer a refreshing spin on late-night and pub fare. Ingredients for the Peach Ring Preparation Combine the whiskey, orange juice, sour mix and grenadine in a cocktail mixer. Pour the concoction over ice, and serve. Ingredients for the Transfusion Preparation “Cherry Lemon Sundrop Negroni” Slushie from Hello, Sailor Hello, Sailor – “Cherry Lemon Sundrop Negroni” Slushie Joe and Katy Kindred, owners of Kindred Restaurant in Davidson, have long beguiled Charlotteans with their culinary capabilities, which is why their sophomore effort, Hello, Sailor, opened in December 2017 amid such anticipation. Food & Wine magazine listed it as one of “The Most Exciting Restaurant Openings of 2017,” and on opening day, a line of hungry patrons trailed from the door to the parking lot. The bar stays true to the establishment’s vacation vibe with frozen and fruity cocktails like this one, the Cherry Lemon Sundrop Negroni Slushie. Blended in a slushie machine, the drink epitomizes Hello, Sailor—sweet, refreshing and here just in time for patio season. Ingredients Preparation Not Just Coffee – “The Vatican” Cocktail Who could believe in 2011, when Miracle and James Yoder opened Not Just Coffee, that the caffeine connoisseurs would within a few years helm one of Charlotte’s most recognized coffee brands? With a variety of locations in Charlotte, the Dilworth shop has been, by far, the largest leap for the brew masters; in addition to coffee, the shop dishes out breakfast, lunch and bar snacks, plus alcoholic beverages. Although java still brings in the morning rush, it’s craft cocktail recipes like this one that make us anticipate the days when there’s a Not Just Coffee—Dilworth edition—on every block. Ingredients Preparation
Unlocking the Secrets of Charlotte’s Speakeasies
Unlocking the Secrets of Charlotte’s Speakeasies Relive the revelry of the roaring 20s at one of these hidden watering holes. by Erin Breeden Apr 24, 2017 The Cellar at Duckworth’s What began as secret drinking establishments during the Prohibition years, speakeasies have now morphed into bars that feature just the right amount of nostalgia, inventive handcrafted cocktails and no fear of a police raid. In the past few years, the speakeasy concept has slowly gained steam in Charlotte, with no sign of slowing down. Here are five local favorites to try—that is, if you can find the entrances. Dot Dot Dot With one of Charlotte’s original mixologists at the helm, Dot Dot Dot is one of the most exciting additions to the Charlotte cocktail scene in recent years. Stefan Huebner, formerly of Heist Brewery, curates an innovative cocktail program while still paying homage to a bygone era. Bourbon drinks are the stars of the show—try a Truffle New York Sour, a concoction of bourbon, orange liqueur, truffle egg white, house sweet and sour, and port. Photo by Kyo H Nam Photography The Cellar at Duckworth’s Enter Duckworth’s in Uptown and descend the stairs into a different era, and a different bar. Leave the sports bar vibe behind for a more sophisticated, old-fashioned vibe. The Cellar at Duckworth’s features gastropub fare, an extensive list of beers, and a revolving list of seasonal signature cocktails. The space where the Cellar is located was originally built in 1912 and from the decor, the drinks, to the dress of the staff, it embraces the pre-prohibition era. The Cotton Room Named in honor of the open-air cotton marketplace that once existed in its home of Brevard Court, The Cotton Room combines a modern cocktail menu with the vibe of a bygone era. This southern-inspired joint features beers from the Carolinas, as well as local ingredients and liquors in their craft cocktails. Try the Bartender’s Alchemy, which combines Covington Vodka, St. Germain, lemon juice, honey syrup, apricot bitters and an edible flower. Backstage Lounge The newest kid on the speakeasy scene, Backstage Lounge has already garnered quite a buzz since opening in January. Tucked in the back of taco and tequila joint, SouthBound, access to Backstage is granted by picking up a phone that’s hidden behind a red curtain. The cocktail menu includes classic, signature and house barrel-aged. Try The Fizzy One, which features Method, strawberry vodka, passionfruit puree, egg white, house-made orgeat and yellow chartreuse. Room XIII From the outside, unassuming best describes Room XIII. Located below Emerson Joseph, the men’s grooming lounge on Tryon Street, you may walk right past Room XIII unless you know where to look. But indoors, poker, cocktails and cigars await. But take note: This isn’t a drop in establishment—advance reservations are required.
Triple C Brewing Company
Triple C Brewing Company If you want a beer with substance and a refreshing taste, Emmer Wheat is your beverage of choice. As a base beer, it’s a smooth tasting beverage with a little grit to it. It’s both rich in history – and rich in taste. Euchre Golden Ale2020 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Gold Medal Winner This 3.8 percent ABV Euchre is a light, easy drinking Golden Ale with a touch of liberty hops. It’s a crisp, refreshing beer that is perfect for an afternoon break with your canine companion or for a gathering of friends. Stinnes Helles Lager2020 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Gold Medal Winner This Munich Helles Lager is a beer of finesse, with delicate grainy malt notes and a whisper of the noble Mittelfrüh hops, that all together melds into a smooth and soft, yet subtly complex profile. Protagonist – Southend Brewery Protagonist Beer Neighborhood: South End, NoDa Sir Marcus- Southend Brewery2021 Great American Beer Festival, Silver Medal Winner This 4.1 percent ABV English ale is a light, fruity and toasty ale brewed using the parti-gyle method in order to celebrate English pub ales. Air is Beautiful2021 Great American Beer Festival, Gold Medal Winner This 5.6 percent ABV Brett Saison is rested on macerated Florida kumquats with a secondary fermentation with Brettanomyces bruxellensis yeast. Queen Charlotte2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Gold Medal Winner This royal brew is a traditional Pilsner base hopped in the kettle with Zuper Saazer and Montueka, giving it a crisp, clean and elegant taste — just like the Queen City. Suffolk Punch Brewing Neighborhood: LoSo Pulp Prescription- NEIPA2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Silver Medal Award Winner This hazy IPA is double dry hopped with Citra, Lemondrop, and Motueka hops that produce a taste of pulpy orange juice and tropical fruit. This hazy IPA has over six pounds of hops per barrel! Surette Saison2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Medal Award Winner This is a barrel-aged Sour Beer. Middle James Brewing Area: Pineville Highly Dramatic NEIPA2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Medal Award Winner This New England-style IPA is an evolving brew currently on Version 14. Each version is made with a slightly different variety of hops including Wai-iti, Rakau, Lotus, Amarillo, Citra and Kohatu hops which makes for a light-bodied, tart and dry IPA. Holy Bananas2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Medal Award Winner Now called Great Musa Hefeweizen, this 5.5 percent ABV is a great, refreshing beer with classic banana aroma and flavor from the Hefeweizen yeast strain used during fermentation. Eleven Lakes Brewing Area: Cornelius Apricot Habanero2021 Great American Beer Festival, Bronze Medal Winner This 5.2 percent ABV spicy wheat ale starts with the sweet taste of apricots and finishes with the assertive bite of habaneros; a perfect beer for some chips and salsa! Twenty-Six Acres Brewing Company Area: Concord Aislinn’s Amber2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Bronze Medal Winner This 6 percent ABV Amber was created with an elevated hop profile. The blend of Cascade, Citra and Nugget hops balance out the rich, sweet malts to provide a peppy finish to this smooth, toasty ale. Save at Local Breweries with the Charlotte Brewery Pass Buy Now Lower Left Brewing Co. Neighborhood: Airport 2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup – Brewery of the Year2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup – New Brewery of the Year Cemetery Gates2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup,Gold Medal Winner 2021 Great American Beer Festival, Bronze Medal Winner Black as midnight and smooth as silk, this Smoked Porter is brewed with applewood smoked malt, chocolate, black, and crystal malts with a touch of oats for a rich, decadent mouthfeel. The subtle smokiness isn’t overpowering, and melds harmoniously with the Robust Porter base. Three Hour Tour2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Gold Medal Winner This Blonde Ale with toasted coconut, vanilla and a special blend of malts tastes like liquid coconut cream pie; a tropical escape in a glass! Edge of Precipice2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Gold Medal Winner This 5 percent ABV dry hopped Pale Ale is crisp and crushable, with notes of citrus, tropical fruits, candied orange, and sweet pine. Juicy McJuiceFace2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Silver Medal Winner Low bitterness and tons of flaked oats provides a silky smooth body to support an obscene amount of Tropical American Hops in this New England/ Hazy IPA. https://www.instagram.com/p/CUNjkbapTKU/embed/?cr=1&v=8&wp=520&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.charlottesgotalot.com&rp=%2Farticles%2Feat-drink%2Fcharlottes-award-winning-craft-beers#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A1372.5%7D Wooden Robot Brewery Neighborhood: South End Réserve Dorée de Pêche ’182018 World Beer Cup, Gold Award Winner This sour golden ale was aged in French Oak Chardonnay barrels for three years before being refermented on local Carolina peaches. You’ll notice a unique balance of stone fruit and funky characteristics to complement the rich, fresh fruit notes. Save on your next CLT brewery adventure with our Brew Badge.
Charlotte’s Award-Winning Craft Beers
Charlotte’s Award-Winning Craft Beers Brockwell2016 World Beer Cup, Bronze Award Winner Brockwell is a light bodied, yet flavorful Dark English Mild with subtle roasted toffee flavors, accentuated by a light carbonation. Hi-Wire Brewing Neighborhood: South End Café de Olla 20W502022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Award Winner This decadent imperial stout offers a delicate mix of blueberry, cinnamon, caramel, and roasted chocolate flavors. Legion Brewing – Photography by Kyo H. Nam Legion Brewing Company Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood, SouthPark Penguin Pilsner2020 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Silver Award Winner This flagship American Lager features US-grown Saaz hops lending it a mild, floral aroma. Sláinte2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Bronze Award Winner2021 Best of Craft Beer, Bronze Award Winner2018 World Beer Cup, Silver Award Winner A medium-bodied stout with a creamy mouthfeel, deep maltiness and a clean, dry finish. Roasted barley contributes strong coffee notes and a touch of cocoa. Lenny Boy Brewing Co. – Photography by Jamey Price Lenny Boy Brewing Co. Neighborhood: SouthEnd Spaghetti Handshake2023 World Beer Cup, Bronze Award Winner A simple Italian Pilsner with a touch of Hallertau Blanc and Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops for extra flavor. 10th Anniversary Sour2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Silver Award Winner A sour ale infused with raspberry and lime; the perfect drink for a 10-year celebration. Czech Please2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Honorable Mention A crisp, dry hopped Pilsner balanced with a clean, light flavor profile. Bock Street Boys2019 and 2015 Best of Craft Beer Awards, Bronze Award Winner This brew, named as a nod to one of the ‘90s most popular boy bands, is a malty German Doppelbock featuring bready and toasty flavors. Dat Pale Ale2019 Beer Army Awards, Gold Medal Winner2016 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Silver Medal Winner This pale ale is hopped with Simcoe, Azaca and Citra hops and fermented with Lenny Boy’s house ale yeast for a crisp, clean ale with a refreshingly bitter finish. Life In The South2019 and 2015 Best of Craft Beer Awards, Bronze Award Winner The addition of grits to this Southern staple lager defines the beer’s body and creates a crisp and easy to drink brew. Tangerine Dreamz2018 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Silver Medal Winner A Belgian Witbier infused with tangerines, chamomile, lactose and coriander, this is a creamy, fruit forward ale with a citrus finish. Middle James Brewing Neighborhood: Pineville Cosmic Curiosities2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Gold Award Winner A fruited sour ale offering strong peach flavors. Hops on One Leg2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Award Winner Brewed for the “Move for Jenn Foundation,” this hazy IPA offers a slightly tart and citric flavor. Some of the proceeds of this beer go to supporting the Foundation. Queen Medb2022 World Beer Cup, Silver Award Winner Named after Queen Medb, the wolf queen, this Irish Red Ale offers strong notes of caramel and biscuit. Model A Brewing Company Neighborhood: Fort Mill Speakeasy2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Silver Award Winner A refreshing and crisp golden lager. Springs Farm Strawberry Kolsch2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Gold Award Winner This Kolsch offers intense strawberry aromas and flavors. New Sarum Brewing Neighborhood: Salisbury The People’s Elbow2022 World Beer Cup, Gold Award Winner Brewed with coconut and lactose, this milkshake IPA offers herbal hop and tropical fruit flavors. NoDa Brewing Company Neighborhood: NoDa Hopsadaisical2023 U.S. Open Beer Championship,Bronze Medal Winner A smooth West Coast style IPA with a balanced hop profile from Mosaic and Simcoe hops. Hop Drop n’ Roll American IPA2021 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Gold Medal Winner2014 World Beer Cup, Gold Medal Winner This West Coast style IPA hits you with a ton of juicy hop flavor that shines out from a substantial and complex malt backbone. Coco Loco Robust Porter2021 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Medal Winner2012 Great American Beer Festival, Silver Medal Winner Accented with toasted coconut and cocoa nibs, this dark and full-bodied beer is a year-round offering and one of the first three beers NoDa Brewing ever made commercially. Gordgeous2020 and 2018 Great American Beer Festival, Gold Medal Winner Instead of using the usual pumpkin beer spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, NoDa Brewing uses real pumpkin puree, cardamom, cloves, allspice, brown sugar and ginger for a unique twist on this traditional fall beer style. Maibock2021 U.S. Open Beer Championship Bronze Medal Winner2020 Great American Beer Festival, Silver Medal Winner This Maibock is a pale lager with the full-flavored breadiness of a Bock, but with less caramel sweetness and roast notes, balanced to perfection with German hops. CAVU2021 Great American Beer Festival, Bronze Medal Winner Cavu is a light-colored ale that presents itself with hints of tropical fruit and citrus from west coast hops, then finishes clean and bright… like a cool breeze on a summer day. Lager Days2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup, Bronze Medal Winner A crisp, easy-drinking lager with slight hints of hop flavor, this lager is the perfect balance of simple and complex. Pilot Brewing Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood Late Czech Out2023 U.S. Open Beer Championship,Silver Medal Winner A rich Czech lager with sweet, roasted notes and balanced by Noble hops for a clean and flavorful profile. Top Ten Breweries2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Rank 5 Pilot Brewing ranked 5th overall in the United States, taking home 4 additional awards in 2022 (3 of which were gold). Secret Santa Stout2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Gold Award Winner A full body imperial stout brewed with chocolate malt and Ugandan cocoa. Pub Ale2023 World Beer Cup, Silver Award Winner2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Gold Award Winner2021 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Gold Medal Winner An English Style Pale Ale that is perfectly balanced between malt and hops for an easy drinking session ale. Dunkles Bock2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Award Winner A dark, strong lager with malty and toasty qualities. Mimosa Gose2022 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Gold Award Winner A traditional gose infused with blood orange. Hazy Skies Hefeweizen2021 Great American Beer Festival, Bronze Medal Winner (Top 5 Most Entered Categories)2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship, Bronze Award Winner A pale, refreshing German wheat ale with a dry finish, fluffy mouthfeel, and banana-clove character
The Ultimate List of Craft Beer in Charlotte
The Ultimate List of Craft Beer in Charlotte Charlotte is booming with craft breweries, with new spots steadily on the horizon. Don’t know where to start when sipping your way across the Queen City? From pilsners and blondes to stouts and IPAs, these 20 must-try beers are perfect for any beer lover’s bucket list. by Rosa Sprinkle Charlotte Brewery Pass Looking to check some of these local brews off your list? Grab a Brew Badge to an easy way to save time and money while supporting local. MORE INFO Follow the NoDa Craft Beer Trail and make your way from one hotspot to another. START HERE Blue Blaze Brewing – Photography by Cody Hughes Yellow Blazer Kölsch Where to Order: Blue Blaze Brewing Co., Brew Badge participantNeighborhood: Wesley Heights With 5% ABV, Yellow Blazer Kölsch is both mild and sweet as malts balance nicely with a subdued spicy flavor from German hops. Universal Language Where to Order: Divine Barrel Brewing, Brew Badge participant; NoDa Craft Beer Trail stopNeighborhood: NoDa Universal Language, Divine Barrel’s flagship West Coast IPA, is hopped with Citra, Simcoe and Mosaic hops. With an ABV of 6.5%, this beer illustrates both the juicy and bitter nature of the hops, finding the perfect balance of these distinctive flavor profiles. Free Range Brewing at Camp North End – Photography by Robin Eve Therapy Session Where to Order: Free Range Brewing, Brew Badge participant; NoDa Craft Beer Trail stopNeighborhood: Villa Heights, Camp North End Champion of Charlotte Magazine’s 2022 Summer Sips Beer Bracket, this bright Hazy IPA refreshes with tropical and citrus flavors and 5.3% ABV. With a goal of “bringing local closer to home,” Free Range Brewing emphasizes local ingredients and is a must for all locavores. Lenny Boy Brewing Co. Citraphilia Where to Order: Lenny Boy Brewing Co., Brew Badge participantNeighborhood: South End With an ABV of 6.4%, this American IPA is made with majority Citra hops, blended with Amarillo and Ekuanot hops. It boasts a signature citrus flavor and aroma that earns high marks with craft beer lovers near and far. NoDa Brewing – Photography by Cody Hughes Hop Drop ‘N Roll Where to Order: NoDa Brewing Company, Brew Badge participant; NoDa Craft Beer Trail stopNeighborhood: NoDa This local-favorite IPA is packed with intense hop flavor and is made with five different varieties of hops, including Chinook, Warrior and Centennial, and a blend of multiple malts. One sip will make it clear why Hop, Drop ‘n Roll was a gold medal winner at the 2021 U.S. Open Beer Championship and 2014 Great American Beer Festival. Hazy Skies Hefeweizen Where to Order: Pilot Brewing, Brew Badge participantNeighborhood: Plaza Midwood Hazy Skies is a pale, refreshing German wheat ale brewed with three different types of wheat malt. A Bronze Medal Winner in both the 2021 Great American Beer Festival and the 2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship, this beer has a fluffy mouthfeel, banana-clove character and dry finish. NÜPTIAL Where to Order: Traust Brewing Co., Brew Badge participantArea: Mount Holly This rich, dark and smooth brew is a double Imperial stout brewed for Traust’s brewer to use as a wedding toast. It has an almost-decadent big-bodied flavor and is a great addition to Mount Holly’s budding beer scene. Suffolk Punch Pulp Prescription Where to Order: Suffolk Punch Brewing, Brew Badge participantNeighborhood: South End To feature the flavors of pulpy orange juice and tropical fruit, this 7% ABV 2020 U.S. Beer Open winner is double dry hopped with Citra, Lemondrop, and Motueka hops and is a refreshing brew to be enjoyed in the lush taproom or on the light-rail-trail-adjacent patio. Triple C Brewing Company Baby Maker Where to Order: Triple C Brewing Company, Brew Badge participantNeighborhood: LoSo With an 8.5% ABV, this double IPA packs a punch. Containing massive amounts of Amarillo, Azacca, Cascade and Glacier hops in three different dry hop additions, the 2020 Great American Beer Festival Silver Medal winner has an intense fruitiness and spicy grapefruit hop aromas. Its rich amber color that complements its bold malt flavors. Get a free Craft Beer Passport – earn points & redeem prizes when you visit Charlotte breweries. GET A FREE PASSPORT Belgian Dubbel Where to Order: Sugar Creek Brewing CompanyNeighborhood: LoSo Brewed in traditional Belgian style, this Dubbel boasts complex flavors of plum, raisin, clove, cherry, brown sugar and caramel, with a warm boozy finish. As one of only 19 Master Cicerones in the world, Sugar Creek co-founder Joe Vogelbacher has helped create a 7.6% ABV brew that is winning awards and pushing boundaries. It most recently won Silver at the 2021 U.S. Open Beer Championship and gold in the U.S. Open Beer Championship, Best-of Craft Beer Awards and Beer Army Wars in 2018. Olde Mecklenburg Brewery Copper Where to Order: The Olde Mecklenburg BreweryNeighborhood: LoSo OMB’s Copper is the brewery’s flagship and a Charlotte staple. The German amber ale is brewed only with the sacred four ingredients of water, malt, hops and yeast, then stored at cold temperatures for several weeks. The result is a refreshing ale/lager hybrid that is clean and refreshing, with hints of graham cracker, toffee and caramel. Salud Cerveceria and Beer Shop – Photography by Cody Hughes Del Patio Where to Order: Salud Cerveceria, NoDa Craft Beer Trail stopNeighborhood: NoDa Del Patio is a light and refreshing Mexican style lager made with flaked corn and is an easy drink pairing perfectly with a pizza from Salud’s wood-fired oven. Glow Where to Order: Midnight Mulligan BrewingNeighborhood: Wesley Heights Glow is a light-bodied golden ale with peach and tropical fruit undertones and tasting notes of honeysuckle and melon. It’s a refreshing ale from Midnight Mulligan, a recent addition to the craft brewing scene. Birdsong Brewing – Photography by Justin Gollmer Jalapeno Pale Ale Where to Order: Birdsong Brewing Co., NoDa Craft Beer Trail stopNeighborhood: Optimist Park Fresh jalapeño peppers are hand-chopped and added to Birdsong’s Free Will Pale Ale, creating a spiced beer with a crisp flavor. By removing the seeds, the flavor and aroma of the jalapeño peppers are preserved without adding heat to the herbed brew. It’s been a perennial favorite since it was first introduced by the NoDa-area brewery in 2011 and received an Honorable Mention at the 2021 North Carolina Brewers Cup. Petty Thieves Brewing – Photography by Cody Hughes Joyride Where to Order: Petty Thieves Brewing Co.Neighborhood: North End Joyride is a
Just Opened – September 2023
Just Opened – September 2023 Happy fall, y’all. There’s a crispness to the air each morning that’s motivating people in the Queen City to get out and explore. Celebrate by heading to one of these newly opened businesses in Charlotte. Eat & Drink Bumblebee Creamery Area: Belmont, N.C.Hours: Sunday & Tuesday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Closed Monday. The owners of Heirloom have been busy crafting all kinds of flavors for their new gelato shop. Selections will rotate, and there are vegan and dairy-free options, too. Be sure to try your choice in a homemade waffle cone. Other options include plain or dipped in chocolate and with or without sprinkles. Cali Colombian Neighborhood: South CharlotteHours: Daily, 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Get your fix of authentic Colombian food for breakfast, lunch or dinner at this new spot on South Boulevard. The menu includes freshly baked bread and desserts, plus arepas, empanadas, fresh juices and Colombian coffee. Guests are welcome to stay for dine-in service or order at the counter to-go. Catalina Kitchen + Bar Neighborhood: ElizabethHours: Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. NFL legend Mike Ditka’s restaurant group has opened its first North Carolina restaurant here in Charlotte. At Catalina, you’ll find coastal, Southern-inspired dishes ranging from big salads and sandwiches to a 40-day wet-aged ribeye and buttermilk fried chicken. Soon, the restaurant will offer weekend brunch and a “social hour” menu of small plates and drinks from 3-6 p.m. Chapter 6 Neighborhood: South EndHours: Monday-Friday, 4 p.m.-close; Saturday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. & 4 p.m.-close. The Dressler family added a sixth restaurant to its local lineup, including Fin & Fino and Dressler’s. Chapter 6 features Western Mediterranean dishes with inspiration from places like Spain, Tunisia, France and Italy. Tackle the menu by filling up on small plates or go for shareable large plates that feed two to four people. The restaurant will also offer “The Treatment,” a chef-guided tasting tour of the menu, for a fixed price per person. Coquette Neighborhood: UptownHours: Tuesday-Thursday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. & 5-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. & 5-10 p.m.; Closed Monday. Feast like the French all day long at this beautiful new Uptown café from the owner of Mariposa. In the morning, you’ll find French pastries and coffee plus lunch at midday. Later, enjoy full dinner service and drinks. The bar opens at 11 a.m. daily, and brunch is offered on the weekends starting Sept. 23. Frothy Beard Brewing Company Neighborhood: South EndHours: Monday & Wednesday-Thursday, 3-10 p.m.; Friday, 3-11 p.m.; Saturday, noon-11 p.m.; Sunday, noon-10 p.m.; Closed Tuesday. A Charleston-based brewery, Frothy Beard is the perfect spot for beers before or after Panthers games, as the brewery is located just blocks from the stadium. Food trucks are on rotation for now, but a kitchen serving pizza and burgers is coming soon. Gotcha Matcha & Espresso Neighborhood: South EndHours: Monday-Tuesday, 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Wednesday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.; Closed Sunday. Gotcha Matcha is operating as a pop-up for only 90 days inside The Coterie Concept. The menu contains a variety of matcha-based drinks made with oat milk, plus pandan and ube cinnamon rolls. Need a caffeine boost in the evening? The menu is 10% off Monday and Tuesday at 6 p.m. Lebowski’s Grill and Pub Neighborhood: DilworthHours: Tuesday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Monday & Thursday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-1 a.m. This Charlotte staple, known for its wings and Beef on Weck sandwich, is now under Reid’s Fine Foods’ ownership. After briefly closing, Lebowski’s has re-opened with a revamped menu and interior. If you’re a Buffalo Bills fan, you’ll find that this is still the place to be on game day. Milk Cha-Cha Neighborhood: South EndHours: Daily, 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Find just the drink for you at this new Milk Cha-Cha location. From black tea, ube and fresh fruit tea to the popular brown sugar swirl, you’ll find something you love in no time. Feel free to adjust your sugar levels and change up the milk type, too. Muraya Neighborhood: South EndHours: Sunday-Wednesday, 4-11 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Dive into Colombian cuisine with a twist at this new spot. Co-owner Manny Pérez Ochoa, who is also part of El Puro and Havana Carolina, and his wife, Carolina Maury, hired Colombian chef Mariana Arango to execute their vision. Take a seat in the dining room, at the bar or in the lounge and enjoy tapas, entrées, sushi and craft cocktails. Pizza Baby Neighborhood: Wesley HeightsHours: Monday-Tuesday, 5-9 p.m.; Wednesday-Thursday, 5-10 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5-11 p.m.; Sunday, noon-9 p.m. This “baby” was born out of necessity when the owners of Flour Shop were forced to pivot during the COVID shutdown. Now, they’re serving their “Americana” pizza at a permanent location, with another in Elizabeth on the way. Expect chewy, textured crust with delicious toppings for your pizza, or choose from a selection of small plates. Summit Coffee Neighborhood: BallantyneHours: Monday-Wednesday, 6:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday-Friday, 6:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. The Davidson-born coffee shop now has 11 locations across the area thanks to this new Ballantyne opening. Get your caffeine fix via a hot or iced coffee, as well as matcha, chai and other teas. Don’t forget to check out the seasonal specials and pastries, too. The Office Craft Bar & Kitchen Neighborhood: BallantyneHours: Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-midnight; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Taste a wide variety of family-friendly favorites at the second location of The Office Craft Bar & Kitchen. Like the one in Indian Land, the StoneCrest Shopping Center location offers burgers, wings, salads and larger entrées, plus plenty of space for group gatherings and game-day viewing.
Uniquely Charlotte Craft Beers
Uniquely Charlotte Craft Beers The number of Charlotte-area breweries keeps on climbing. Whether you’re using the Charlotte Brew Badge to get in your rounds or following the NoDa Craft Beer Trail, there are a myriad of ways to explore the local beer scene. by Liz Logan With so many CLT beers brewed, some breweries pay homage with beers specific to the city, its neighborhoods, outdoor spaces or Charlotte’s pro-sports scene. Here are 20 brews to help you show your Queen City Pride, from year-round goodness and seasonal brews to seltzer and cider. Birdsong Brewing Co. 704 Beer The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery Charlotte’s current longest-standing brewery, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery, has crafted this hazy wheat ale with Loral and Mandarina Bavaria hops, perfect for biergarten sipping, the name as an ode to the QC’s area code. Style: Hazy Wheat Ale | IBU: 25 | ABV: 5.6% | Year-round | Cans Available All Knight Long Birdsong Brewing Co. The Charlotte Knights, Charlotte’s Minor League Baseball team and Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, played their first game at Uptown’s Truist Field in 2014. This ballpark brew, with Pilsner and Munich malts and Fuggle and Cascade hops, among others, rounds out the flavor profile of this blonde ale and is a homerun for sports lovers. Style: Blonde Ale | IBU: 15 | ABV: 4.5% | Seasonal | Cans Available Camp Beer Free Range Brewing Free Range Brewing’s 2020 opening at Camp North End came with much fanfare as they became the 76-acre destination’s sole brewery. To commemorate their Camp North End taproom and bar, the brains behind the brews created Camp Beer, an easy-sipping lager perfect for a day at Camp. Style: American Light Lager | ABV: 4% | Year-round | Cans Available Blue Blaze Brewing Carolina Thread Trail Pale Ale Blue Blaze Brewing A brewery known for its love of all-things hiking, it’s only fitting for Blue Blaze Brewing to have a beer dedicated to the Carolina Thread Trail, a network of North Carolina trails and greenways with an access point to the Stewart Creek Greenway trail just outside the West side taproom. Light in color and crisp on the finish, this ale is a perfect post-hike refresher. Style: Pale Ale | IBU: 42 | ABV: 4.5% | Year-round | Cans Available Cheerwine Ale NoDa Brewing Company Made with the Carolina-born cherry soft drink, NoDa Brewing’s Cheerwine Ale provides the perfect blend of wheat notes with the subtleness of cherries. The collaboration of these two iconic area beverage companies ensures drinkers can cheers to an approachable beer infused with a true taste of the Carolinas. Style: Wheat Beer | IBU: 18 | ABV: 5.2% | Year-round | Cans Available Sugar Creek Brewing CLT Epiphany Sugar Creek Brewing Company This malty German wheat beer is part of Sugar Creek’s Bottle Reserve series, brewed by one of the only 19 Master Cicerones in the world. Using 100% N.C. wheat and barley, this bottle-conditioned brew produces aromas of caramel and dark fruit, with the yeast profile of banana and clove. Style: Weizenbock | IBU: 15 | ABV: 6% | Limited Release | 750 mL bottles available Eastside Sun Blonde Vaulted Oak Brewing The beloved Eastside sun graces the can of this crisp, clean blonde ale. Vaulted Oak Brewing shows their neighborhood pride and commitment to keeping the character of East Charlotte alive at one of MoRa’s only breweries. Malts from Carolina Malt House make for a mild bitterness in this classic-style ale.
30 Things to Do this Winter in Charlotte
30 Things to Do this Winter in Charlotte Charlotte’s mild weather and array of activities make the city an ideal destination for a winter getaway. Discover the whimsy of winter in the Queen City at these memorable events and seasonal activities. Season-Long Activities Camp North End Explore Camp North End Create your own adventure at Camp North End this winter season! Bundle up by the heaters and fire pits after enjoying the first-ever ice skating rink at Camp North Pole, seven days a week from Nov. 22 to Jan. 7, 2024. Plus, enjoy hot drinks and tasty treats from 16 food and drink spots, 12 shops and art collectives, and more than 50 murals, all connected by 76 acres of cozy outdoor space to explore. Attend a Winter Concert Concert venues in Charlotte are still jamming in the winter months, with national headliners like Doja Cat, Tool and Gladys Knight making their way to the Queen City. Catch these performances, along with local and regional acts, on stages across the city this season. Read about more live music acts coming to Charlotte in the winter concert guide. Go Ice Skating Glide across the ice, and maybe try a few jumps and spins, at Truist Field, Camp North End and the U.S. National Whitewater Center. Truist Field is transformed into an NHL-sized rink during the Light the Knights Festival. Head to the all-new ice skating rink near Ford Factory at Camp North End. Take to the ice at one of the four skating areas at the Whitewater Center for a free skate or adult pond hockey league. Go Beyond the Red Carpet at The Mint Museum The Mint Museum Uptown’s newest exhibition is “Beyond the Red Carpet: Iconic Awards and Artistic Collaborations,” an immersive installation that spotlights the artistic and artisanal aspects of some of the most celebrated awards like the American Music Award and iconic Golden Globe. This exhibition is on display from Dec. 2-Feb. 18, 2024. Watch the Charlotte Checkers Battle on the Ice The Charlotte Checkers season is in full swing in winter, as the minor-league team takes on competitors in the American Hockey League. Browse the Checkers’ schedule to find out what home-game promotions are happening, like themed jerseys and discounted ticket nights, at Bojangles Coliseum. Charlotte Hornets Cheer on the Charlotte Hornets The Charlotte Hornets take center court at Spectrum Center throughout the winter season. This season, the No. 2 pick from the 2023 NBA draft, Brandon Miller, joins LaMelo Ball and this budding Hornets team. Mark your calendar for the Anniversary Night games that feature special jerseys, player honors and freebies for fans. Drink and Dine on a Heated Rooftop Don’t let the cooler temperatures stop you from enjoying Charlotte’s rooftop bars and restaurants. Aura Rooftop is outfitted with a heated canopy through the end of February, while Merchant & Trade boasts standing heaters so you can stay warm while sipping cocktails overlooking Uptown. Toast to the Season with a Winter Beer Charlotte breweries are trading pumpkin beers for full-body stouts, dark lagers, red ales and more. The winter season brings the return of NoDa Brewing’s Hoppy Holidays IPA, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery’s Yule Bock and Birdsong Brewing’s Mexicali Stout. Get a Charlotte Brewery Pass to save money as you explore the Queen City’s beer scene. Revamp Your Wardrobe at a Local Boutique Start 2024 off with a refreshed wardrobe. Browse the racks at a thrift store or trendy boutique for new pieces that fit your style. Find apparel, jewelry, sneakers and more at local shops and boutiques in Charlotte. December Events & Activities Bank of America Stadium – Photography by Myles Gelbach Watch Teams Compete at the ACC Football Championship The undefeated Florida State Seminoles take on the Louisville Cardinals in the ACC Football Championship at Bank of America Stadium. Kickoff is at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 2, but weekend events include Fan Fest on Friday and Saturday that features tailgate games, photo opportunities with mascots and giveaways. Celebrate the Holiday Season in Charlotte The Queen City sparkles a little brighter during the holiday season. From dazzling light displays at Carowinds’ WinterFest and Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens’ Holidays at the Garden to parades on land and on the water, check out these 30 ways to celebrate the holidays in Charlotte. See a Holiday Show ‘Tis the season for merry performances and holiday sing-alongs. Throughout December, family-friendly holiday shows take center stage at venues across Charlotte. “The Nutcracker” is a holiday tradition, and Charlotte Ballet presents this whimsical show from Dec. 8-23. Undeck the Hall at NASCAR Hall of Fame Get Your Holiday Shopping Done Charlotte has the stores that will help you cross everyone off your holiday gift list. Get to know the Charlotte shopping scene, from traditional and outlet malls to shopping centers throughout the city. This Queen City Gift Guide can help you find the perfect local gift or experience for someone in your life. Celebrate Basketball Culture at the Jumpman Invitational The Jumpman Invitational features men’s and women’s basketball match ups between Florida vs. Michigan and UNC vs. Oklahoma at Spectrum Center. The men’s games are Tuesday, Dec. 19, while the women tipoff on Wednesday, Dec. 20. Undeck the Hall at the NASCAR Hall of Fame The day after Christmas, Tuesday, Dec. 26, visit the NASCAR Hall of Fame to “Undeck” the Hall. This holiday tradition allows fans to pick a racing-themed gift from under one of the decorated trees. In previous years, lucky fans have walked away with signed memorabilia, racing tickets, autographed T-shirts and diecast cars.
Neighborhood Explorer: Uptown
Neighborhood Explorer: Uptown Named for its geographic positioning, the district’s center is at the intersection of Trade and Tryon streets, which once served as a Native American trading path. Along with glistening skyscrapers, up-and-coming developments, cathedrals, historic landmarks and four grid-like wards, both residents and visitors alike, have walkable access to it all – from delicious eateries to contemporary museums. Eat & Drink La Belle Helene Uptown’s dining scene spans the spectrum of cuisine. La Belle Helene, by Top Chef alumn Jamie Lynch, features French fare, with sister restaurant Church & Union featuring thoughtful dishes alongside a daily prix-fixe menu. For classic American dishes, stop in long-standing Alexander Michael’s, or more fine dining, stroll to Fourth Ward for McNinch House Restaurant or Poplar Tapas Wine & Spirits, each housed in one of the many historic homes lining Church, Poplar and Pine Streets. Geno D’s Pizza at The Market at 7th Street For multi-option destinations, head to one of Charlotte’s central food hubs that have something for everyone: The Market at 7th Street with favorite’s like Geno D’s Pizza, or Brevard Court/Latta Arcade, featuring Day & Night Cereal Bar for a nostalgic take on childhood favorites. Later in 2023, Monarch Market, a new food hall concept, will find a home in Uptown’s center: One Independence Center at Trade and Tryon Streets. Aura Rooftop at JW Marriott Take in rooftop views from Búho Bar, Merchant & Trade, Aura and Farhenheit. Sip craft beer at D9 Brewing, Uptown’s only craft brewery, or grab a beer at Rhino Market & Deli. Stop in one of Uptown’s Not Just Coffee or Night Swim Coffee locations for locally roasted coffee and espresso, the perfect in-hand drink for exploring all Uptown has to offer. Play Knights game at Truist Field Catch the Carolina Panthers (NFL) and Charlotte FC (MLS) take on rivals at Bank of America Stadium and watch the field be transformed in the off-season and bye-weeks for concerts. Root for the Charlotte Knights (MiLB) at Truist Field, complete with an impressive skyline view. Get on your feet in the Spectrum Center as you cheer on the Charlotte Hornets (NBA) or sing along to big-name music acts.
