While the pandemic certainly created new struggles for Charlotte families, there were silver linings. For instance, the number of new businesses started in North Carolinians in 2020 jumped 27% from 2019. According to a report in the Charlotte Observer, more than 127,000 new businesses opened during the pandemic. Many of them created by the economic demands of the pandemic.
As real estate agents, we know that new businesses opening is a positive sign of stability in a community. New businesses mean thriving neighborhoods and thriving neighborhoods make for great places to live.
5 Points Realty agents/brokers spend a lot of time in communities all around the Queen City and we get excited every time we notice a new business.
Here’s a shortlist of some places to check out, along with a few of our personal favorites.
Lulu’s Maryland Crab
Theirs is a story of overcoming in more ways than one . The pandemic was nothing compared to the personal struggles this couple has weathered. But they have been so successful they now plan to expand to a second location and we are here for it!
Roam and Dwell
This is a favorite of 5 Points Broker Cassee Cunningham. It’s a clothing, lifestyle store that is locally owned, sells fun architectural finds, and hand made items as well as stylish clothing the space is soo beautiful and well-curated and makes fantastic use of the space that it also shares with a hair salon. Cassee says, “It’s just smart and seems like a new wave of how small business is done.” QC Nerve wrote all about it!
Nave
Nave is where design meets architectural artifacts and textiles from across the world. Nave aims to become the Charlotte area’s primary resource for authentic decor and genuine craftwork. Broker/Realtor Michael Doney put Nave on his list of new favorites.
Charlotte Fit
After sitting around for a year, it’s good to know there is a new option for getting back in shape. Fitness trainer Taylor Calamese managed to get through a lot of COVID-19 delays to finally open her new studio last October. It includes personal training, group fitness and virtual coaching.
Now all of us here at 5 Points Realty appreciate a good spot for having a drink or meal with friends and family. Lucky for us, there were plenty of restaurant openings to check out even with so many having to close down amid lockdowns.
Summit Seltzer
Summit Seltzer is Charlotte’s first Seltzery. Heck, its first seltzery on the East Coast, too. They house ferment both hard and non-alcoholic seltzers, and use purees to flavor and condition them. It’s not like any seltzer you are used to. This is a true craft beverage, more like a brewery but for seltzer.
Cordial
Since its the weather is going to start warming up we should mention Cordial on 1824 Roxborough Road. It’s the first rooftop bar in SouthPark. Located on the top of the AC Hotel Charlotte SouthPark, its the perfect combo of uptown views with cocktails. The rooftop bar’s menu includes light international fare such as Caribbean Jerk Wings, Yuca Fries and Empanadas.
Want some more good news? 2021 is already off to a good start with MORE new businesses opening.
The Exchange at 36th
In February The Exchange opened beside the Blind Pig in Noda. This watering hole, market, eatery is just a one-minute walk from the NoDa Lynx Blue Line Station. Kevin Samuel, the Executive Chef at the popular Bistro La Bon runs the joint. Eventually it will be a place you can stock up on pantry essentials and grab a drink while you are there! The Exchange is open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and located at 451 E. 36th Street.
While we love these new businesses, they won’t keep us from frequenting our old favorites Like the Stringbean Market in Belmont.
5 Points Broker/Realtor Matt Edwards likes it so much he put it on his list even though they’ve been around awhile. They have a butcher shop and a great selection of wine and beer, all within the restaurant.
We say bring it on, Charlotte. There’s always room for more!