Charlotte's bar scene has matured considerably over the past decade, driven by a growing craft brewery culture and a flood of restaurants into the South End and NoDa neighbourhoods. The LYNX light rail makes it practical to move between neighbourhoods in the evening without driving.
NoDa Brewing Company on North Davidson Street is one of the originals, known for its Chablis — a low-alcohol table beer — and the lively taproom attached. Sycamore Brewing in South End is another strong option, with a large patio and a beer garden that fills on weekends. For cocktails, the bar at Stagioni restaurant in South End and the Punch Room inside the Ritz-Carlton are the most polished options in the city. The South End corridor and NoDa both have enough bars within walking distance to spend an evening moving between them.