Summer is the perfect time for date nights, drinks with friends, and eating great food. Check out these brand new hot spots in the Charlotte area for tasty food, refreshing cocktails, and electric atmospheres.
1.Kid Cashew
Dilworth (1608 East Blvd.)
This Mediterranean smokehouse is perfect for anyone craving a rustic atmosphere with mouthwatering meats and craft cocktails. The menu is full of grilled vegetables and wood-fired meats with Greek influence. The wine and beer lists are relatively brief, but their delicious signature cocktails include herbs like rosemary, cilantro, mint, and thyme.
2. Seoul Food Meat Co.
Southend/Uptown (1400 S. Church St.)
Despite what the name might suggest, this is NOT a traditional Korean restaurant. With heavy influences in the great south, this Korean barbeque restaurant combines American cuts of meat with traditional Korean flavors. The full bar includes Asian-inspired cocktails, but don’t worry – they’re stocked with local craft beer too.
3. Rusty Bucket Restaurant & Tavern
Southpark (4810 Ashley Park Ln.)
Rusty Bucket just recently opened in the Southpark area and it definitely tops the list of places to try (and try again). Although this is a chain, it is far from overdone or mediocre. With an extensive American-tavern style menu and plenty of beers, you’ll have the type of variety you need to keep coming back for more.
4. Pearlz Oyster Bar
Ballantyne (7804 Rea Rd. Suite A)
Are you in the mood for fresh seafood with a casual atmosphere? You’ve found your mark. Pearlz is a new spot in the StoneCrest at Piper Glen shopping center. Don’t worry, they don’t just serve oysters – the menu is full of seafood and low-country recipes like shrimp and grits, crab cakes, and burgers.
5. Ale’s University
North Charlotte/University Area (9601 N. Tryon St.)
If the name sounds familiar, you’re on the right track. The owner of the frequented Angry Ale’s sports bar on Montford Dr. has opened a second location just north of the city. Of course, this is the place to be for local craft and draught beers and football games on Sundays – but don’t forget about the burgers, tacos, and daily specials.