The dog days of summer are upon us, and they’re lingering. Just when we thought it might be fun to try to sit outside at a restaurant, we realized that it’s still way too humid and sticky to eat a piping hot plate of pasta comfortably outdoors. But that doesn’t mean we’re not going to go out to eat! One of the best things about Charlotte is the city’s seemingly endless restaurant options for delicious dishes and unbeatable ambiance.
Although we love a patio just as much as the next restaurant-goer, we’re cutting our losses here and waiting just a bit longer to take to the great outdoors for mealtime. While we wait out the summer sizzle, we are looking at the best restaurants in Charlotte that have bright and airy interiors, making it feel like we’re enjoying the outdoors when we’re really feeling the brisk coolness of AC. See what we did there?
You don’t have to sweat it out in the summer heat to get a gorgeous view of the outdoors while you dine. Just snag a table at one of these bright Charlotte restaurants, and the view is included with your meal.
Vivace
If you’ve got a hankering for some amazing Italian food this summer, stop on over at VIVACE at the Metropolitan development in Midtown. They serve brunch on Sundays, which would be a lovely time to soak in the bright atmosphere as you sip your mimosa and indulge in the Quiche Fiorentino. Mangia!
Halycon
One word: Views. Since it’s located in the Mint Museum Uptown, HALCYON FLAVORS FROM THE EARTHÂ is a no-brainer when it comes to breathtaking views and a tasty cuisine to match. You won’t find farm-fresh ingredients and sweeping Charlotte skyline sights elsewhere.
Fahrenheit
You probably know FAHRENHEIT for its Instagram-worthy rooftop digs, but you should be happy to know that the interior is equally as cool. You can enjoy the rooftop’s perks via the large windows while you dine in comfort at this bar and restaurant perched on top of the Skye Condos.
Corkbuzz
There’s never a wrong time for a glass of wine, and that’s why CORKBUZZ makes our list for one the best places to relax in the AC while still feeling summery. Is there really any other way to bask in the late summertime than with a light Pinot Grigio and a charcuterie board? Didn’t think so.
BLT Steak
Last but not least, for those times you’re feeling a little bit fancy, the contemporary and chic BLT STEAK at the Ritz-Carlton should be your destination. Generous lighting and ample windows negate any ideas that this spot might be sleepy, so forget about that food coma nap you had planned.
