The Fall transformation has begun. You can see the signs of the new season all over Charlotte, from the color of the leaves to the increase in plaid shirts and boots. It’s that time of year when cooler temps push out the sun-soaked carefree days of summer in favor of more structure and routines. Fall gives us a few glorious months to slow down before life speeds up at the Holidays. Everything gets a little cozier during Fall, from our clothes to our attitudes.
So we came up with a list of the five coziest spots in Charlotte to fuel your Fall vibes. While 92 new restaurants, bars and businesses have opened around Charlotte so far this year according to Axios, new isn’t always better. Our list includes some new and some old favorites that shouldn’t be missed.
FOR A LIMITED TIME
Backstage Lounge: Haunted by Black Lagoon Pop-Up This cobwebby and kitchy pop-up is new to the BackStage Lounge. Check out the Halloween-themed food and beverages at this Southend Speakeasy from Tuesday through Saturday until October 31st.
It’s got all the floating candles and boozy green and purple drinks you could want including some unique non-alcoholic options created by the women-led mixologist team.
FIREPITS ON THE ROOFTOP
Don’t count out Charlotte’s great rooftop spots this time of year. Firepits and heat warmers cozy up locations like the upscale Nuvole and the always fun Charlotte Beer Garden with an inviting vibe that screams Fall.
EVERYTHING IS COZIER WITH COFFEE
Charlotte is full of cozy coffee spots but one of the most Instagrammed spots in town are the comfy cushions that line the illuminated steps of Coco and the Director. You’ll find the coffee hangout tucked inside the Marriott Center City in the heart of Uptown. And since you are wearing baggier clothes now, go ahead and have one of their delicious pastries with a cup of the coffeehouse’s locally sourced blends.
KNOCK ONE BACK IN A COZY CABIN.
Open Tap Charlotte is as close to a cozy ski lodge vibe as you can get without heading to Boone or Banner Elk. This modern cabin-like spot has 64 beers on its open-pour tap wall! It’s open 7 days a week and has a rotating lineup of food trucks to complement the brew.
TABLE FOR TWO
Nothing says cozy like a table for two. The Cellar at Duckworth’s is a mix of gastropub fare with a tap list of specialty and rare beers and signature cocktails. The underground space was originally built in 1912 and has a prohibition-era feel with original brick walls and exposed ceiling joists. It’s nice without being pretentious and stuffy. Save that for New Year’s. It’s a little dark and a lot delicious.
CHARLOTTE ICON
Alexander Michael’s has been a part of Charlotte since the 1800’s! Originally opened as the Crowell-Berryhill Store, it’s been a paint store, laundromat, and gym over the decades. Now it serves up burgers, sandwiches and pasta. This Fourth Ward American Tavern looks like a house from the outside. It’s homey and cozy.
Charlotte’s not done adding new restaurants you might want to check out before the year ends. We love the new development because it means the neighborhoods around our fair city are thriving! We say bring it on!