Known as the Queen City and home to the Nascar Hall of Fame, Charlotte attracts tourists from all over the country. From the upscale shopping centers of South Park to trendy neighborhoods like Plaza Midwood, one is spoiled for choice with bars and restaurants to frequent. We attempt to narrow that list down to the cream-of-the-crop, so lose the guide book and read on to discover the best cocktail bars in Charlotte.
Located in the historic Fourth Ward of Uptown Charlotte, Cowbell Burger and Whiskey Bar is surrounded by revitalized Victorian architecture and bustling shopping centers. Although the burgers at Cowbell are indeed fantastic, the real draw at this spot, in true Southern fashion, is the whiskey cocktail menu. Hand crafted whiskey cocktails from basic sours to rusty nails are available, as well as a wide range of spirits, beers, and barrel whiskies. Don’t miss the weekly promotions on Whiskey Wednesday with live music events.
In the Plaza Midwood area, characterized by an unusual mix of of historical 19th century bungalows and funky boutique shops, is Soul Gastrolounge. Much like its location, Soul is an eclectic spot that offers everything from sushi to tapas, not to mention excellent cocktails. The list changes seasonally and Soul often does specialty cocktails to promote local events. The Red Ribbon Mimosa was created for the annual Charlotte AIDSWalk, which includes vodka, pomegranate grenadine, pineapple juice, and Prosecco. As an added twist, cocktails are made in steel kegs and served directly on tap.
On the 21st floor of Skye Condos is Fahrenheit, a sleek and modern cocktail bar with stellar views of Uptown Charlotte. The bar is surrounded by elegant table seating, where chef Rocco Whalen serves upscale American cuisine. The outdoor terrace is complete with an herb garden and comfortable couch seating near linear fire pits. Southern-inspired cocktails such as the Peach Sweet Tea Mint Julep are available, as well as a considerable wine and beer list.
Halcyon is a unique farm-to-table restaurant and cocktail bar in the heart of the Uptown. The interior is clean and exuberant with white leather seating, an open kitchen, and modern artwork decorations. The mural on the far wall pictures birds in flight and the low hanging chandeliers are encased in wooden twigs resembling birds’ nests. Both the restaurant menu and the cocktail list are seasonal; mixologist Andrew Shook creates signature cocktails with fresh, house made ingredients. Come and enjoy creations like the Summer Char, made with gin and charred grapefruit muddled with fresh basil on Halcyon’s outdoor patio during the summer months.
Attached to the Dunhill Hotel is the Asbury, an elegant cocktail bar serving delicious food and drink with seasonal concentrations. The interior consists of wooden table seating across from white leather booths, polished deep blue walls, and local artwork. Refreshing summer cocktails such as the Green Thumb, made with Honeysuckle Vodka, cucumber and mint, are available alongside a considerable list of fine wines and microbrews. In addition to signature cocktails, there is also an elaborate bloody Mary bar that offers every add-on one could hope for in this brunch time favorite.
