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West Charlotte’s bar scene is eclectic without being overbearing, intriguing without being over-the-top. It’s a great place to grab a cocktail you’ve never heard of or try a beer you can’t find anywhere else. Check out the 10 best bars West Charlotte has to offer to catch up with friends or just relax after a long, hard day.

Rum, Manhattan and Tequila Old Fashioned cocktails l

Pinky's Westside Grill

Bar, Pub, American, Vegetarian

Pinkys Westside Grill, Charlotte
Courtesy of The Pub at Gateway
Pinky’s is a Carolinian classic, combing the best of bar food with the ease of the bar atmosphere. With a casual, laid back vibe that practically inspires the offbeat décor and youthful crowds, come here for a lovely pairing of tacos and cocktails. The cocktail menu itself boasts six different sections, each containing a unique array of boozy beverages like the Castaway, made with mango vodka, and the Chocolate Covered Pretzel, made with Dekuyper hazelnut liquor. Almost every cocktail can also be made into a shooter, if you can handle it.

The Pub At Gateway

Bar, Market, Pub, Pub Grub

Stuffed Poblano Pepper at Dandelion Market
© Dion Hinchcliffe/Flickr
The Pub at Gateway has been attempting to perfect the West Charlotte bar scene since it opened in 2007, and its efforts have clearly paid off. Combining elements of classic pub décor (such as dark wood trimmings and stained concrete floors) with the modern amenities of granite bar tops and massive wall-mounted LCD TV screens, The Pub tends to attract large crowds every night. Tuesdays are Trivia Nights, with unbelievable drink specials, like $3.50 imports, to accompany the brain-pumping festivities.

Dandelion Market

For the quintessential cozy and intimate bar setting, head on over to Dandelion Market. With a full bar featuring 24 craft beers on draft and 25 selections on the wine list, you’ll be able to relax with the drink of your choosing without breaking the bank. The atmosphere is enhanced with by the friendly, happy to recommend the perfect small plate to go with your beverage.
Address and telephone number: 118 W 5th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202 +1 704-333-7989

Arcade Games

TILT on Trade

Because of its rich history and legacy of proprietors, TILT is a can’t miss cocktail experience. TILT was initially founded as The New York Café in 1906, and regular changing-of-hands and the transformations into different haberdasheries, the original structure hasn’t changed a bit. Named after the fact that there is a 13-inch height difference from front to back, TILT has now taken the form of a lively watering hole with a full bar, great food and, best of all, an array of all your favorite arcade games. The perfect place to host your next planned party.
Address and telephone number: 127 W Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202 +1 (704) 347-4870

Martini and Chocolatini

Morton’s The Steakhouse

A quick glance at the extensive Beer, Cocktails & Spirits menu on Morton’s website will show you just how much it does belong among the best bars in West Charlotte. With signature drink selections hand crafted by skilled bartenders, Morton’s offers top shelf options to complement the sizzling steaks and juicy sliders on their dinner menu. Come here for the unique Mortinis – martinis made with premium vodkas, gins, and liqueurs.

Address and telephone number: 227 W Trade St., Ste 150, Charlotte, NC 28202 +1 704-333-2602

Puckett’s Farm Equipment

Puckett’s Farm Equipment

No longer selling tractors and tillage equipment, Puckett’s Farm Equipment offers a distinctly Charlotte-esque hometown take on the live music atmosphere of uptown bars. Its name isn’t random, but tells the story of its development from struggling farm equipment dealership to thriving local bar. Mostly popular as a music venue, the cover charge goes straight to the musicians to foster an environment of support and friendship. The scheme works: people love Puckett’s for its down-to-earth atmosphere and beer-only bar, and it being a dusty hole-in-the-wall with old signage, draft beers and retro relics just adds to the charm.

Address and telephone number: 2740 W Sugar Creek Rd, Charlotte, NC 28262 +1 (704) 597-8230

Jackalope Jack’s

If you’re looking for a mix between laid back drinks and exciting entertainment, look no further than Jackalope Jack’s. Every Tuesday night they host Jackalopes Trivia, and every Friday and Saturday they host karaoke from 10pm until closing. While the weekends are packed with lively crowds looking to shake off the stresses of work, the weekdays are quieter and calmer – the perfect place to grab a beer during happy hour.

Address and telephone number: 1936 E 7th St, Charlotte, NC 2820 +1 (704) 347-1918

Epicenter

Whisky River

Whisky River’s proximity to the Charlotte Airport (and location inside the EpiCenter shopping mall) often makes it the go-to dining spot for travelers afflicted with two-hour layovers. But whether you’re about to hop on a plane or you’ve lived in West Charlotte your whole life, Whisky River is an unforgettable experience to be had. Be sure to spare a smile for their beloved bartenders; exceptionally friendly and accommodating, they never let your drinks go empty before asking if you’d like another round. Despite being a regular stop off for travelers, the atmosphere is surprisingly relaxed – exactly what the stressed out traveler needs.
Address and telephone number: 210E Trade Street A-208, Suite a-208, Charlotte, NC 28202 +1 704-749-1097

Gin tonic

The Gin Mill South End

Located on the South End, The Gin Mill is the preferred get together spot for the college-age crowd, boasting a relaxing rooftop patio and a music stage for live performances. Voted Favorite Neighborhood Bar in Southend by Elevate Lifestyle magazine, this bar does all it can to create the perfect atmosphere for chilling with your friends. With Specials offered every day of the week where beers are priced as low as two dollars, it’ll soon be top of your list too.

Address and telephone number: 1411 S Tryon St, Apt S, Charlotte, NC 28203 +1 704-373-0782

Apostrophe Lounge

Apostrophe Lounge is no ordinary nightclub or bar: it has proclaimed itself Charlotte’s ‘professional playground for urban sophisticates,’ where young professionals can unwind and mingle in a modern, sophisticated environment. Apostrophe Lounge is a relatively new addition to the Charlotte nightlife, having opened just four years ago, but it has already commanded the attention of Charlotte’s youth. Premium drink specials are offered each night, along with live DJs, smooth hookah, and an open dance floor.

Address and telephone number: 1440 S Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28203 +1 704-371-7079

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