The 7 Best Cocktail Bars in Charlotte

Charlotte is quickly becoming a city known for its cocktails. With new bars popping up all the time, it can be hard to know where to start.

If you’re looking for the best of the best, check out these hot spots below. Each one offers something unique and special, so you’re sure to find the perfect spot for your next night out.

1. Soul Gastrolounge

Soul Gastrolounge is located in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood of Charlotte, North Carolina. The neighborhood is known for its mixture of antique 19th-century bungalows and trendy boutique businesses. Soul Gastrolounge reflects this diversity, serving everything from sushi and tapas to superb cocktails.

The menu changes seasonally, and the restaurant frequently creates specialized cocktails to celebrate local events. For example, the Red Ribbon Mimosa was invented for the annual Charlotte AIDSWalk. This cocktail comprises vodka, pomegranate grenadine, pineapple juice, and Prosecco.

Cocktails are produced in steel kegs and served from a tap at the bar. The decor of Soul Gastrolounge is also eclectic, with mismatched furniture, vintage chandeliers, and local art on the walls.

2. Fahrenheit

Fahrenheit, a sleek and modern cocktail bar, is located on the 21st level of Skye Condos in Uptown Charlotte. The bar offers outstanding views of the city skyline, and Chef Rocco Whalen delivers sophisticated American cuisine from the bar.

The outdoor patio features an herb garden, comfortable couch seating, and linear fire pits, and the extensive wine and beer list include Southern-inspired cocktails like the Peach Sweet Tea Mint Julep.

Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or a romantic evening with stunning views, Fahrenheit is the perfect spot.

3. Halcyon Flavors from the Earth

Halcyon is a one-of-a-kind farm-to-table restaurant and cocktail bar located in the heart of Uptown. The clean and lively interior features white leather seating, an open kitchen, and modern art décor.

The low-hanging chandeliers are enclosed in wooden twigs that resemble birds’ nests, while the mural on the far wall depicts birds in flight.

The restaurant’s cuisine and cocktail selection are seasonal, with specialty cocktails created by mixologist Andrew Shook using fresh, house-made ingredients. Savor cocktails like the Summer Char, which is prepared with gin and charred grapefruit juice during the summer.

Or enjoy seasonal dishes like pan-seared scallops with summer squash and snap peas. No matter what time of year you visit Halcyon, you’re sure to enjoy a unique dining experience.

4. The Asbury at the Dunhill Hotel

Asbury is an exquisite cocktail bar next to the Dunhill Hotel, serving delicious food and drink with seasonal concentrations.

The decor features polished deep blue walls, local artwork, and wooden table seating across from white leather booths.

Along with a large selection of great wines and microbrews, the Green Thumb, a refreshing summer drink created with Honeysuckle Vodka, cucumber, and mint, is offered.

In addition to specialty drinks, there is an enormous bloody Mary bar with every possible component of this brunchtime staple.

The Asbury offers a unique and sophisticated dining experience, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a romantic dinner or celebrate a special event, Asbury is sure to impress.

5. Stoke Charlotte

Stoke Charlotte is the perfect spot for a night out on the town. The elegant dining space and bar serve up handcrafted cocktails that will please.

The drink menu includes stirred, shaken, poured, and pressed cocktails, while the culinary menu includes sharable items such as pretzel brioche with whipped butter (a must), roasted shishito peppers, and rice grits.

The atmosphere is chic and sophisticated, making it the perfect place to enjoy a drink with friends or a romantic dinner for two.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting for a date night or a lively scene for a night out with friends, Stoke Charlotte is sure to exceed your expectations.

6. 204 North Kitchen & Cocktails

204 North Kitchen & Cocktails is a unique dining experience in the heart of Charlotte.

The restored 1928 edifice with Edison lighting and a metal and glass chandelier dangling from the second story creates a sophisticated and comfortable atmosphere.

The menu features a variety of signature cocktails and an extensive selection of wine and beer. The food is just as noteworthy, focusing on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

So whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a fun night with friends, 204 North Kitchen & Cocktails is a perfect choice.

7. Cowbell

In Charlotte’s historic Fourth Ward, Cowbell Burger and Whiskey Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious burger and a craft cocktail. This is a must-go for whiskey lovers alike.

The restaurant is surrounded by refurbished Victorian grandeur and vibrant shopping areas, making it the perfect spot for a night out.

The burgers at Cowbell are excellent, but the real draw is the whiskey cocktail menu. A vast choice of spirits, beers and barrel whiskies are offered, and handcrafted whiskey cocktails range from basic sours to rusty nails.

Also, don’t miss Whiskey Wednesday, which features live music every week. Whether you’re looking for a casual dinner spot or a lively bar scene, Cowbell Burger and Whiskey Bar is the perfect place to be.

Final Note

The Charlotte area has no shortage of great cocktail bars, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings.

Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated dining experience or a fun night out with friends, there’s sure to be a cocktail bar that’s perfect for you. So next time you’re in town, be sure to check out one (or all) of these great spots.

Charlotte Unlimited

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