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Charlotteans are good at finding the perfect balance between work and play. Once the clock strikes five, head to one of our top picks for Charlotte’s best happy hours. The round-up is sorted by neighborhood, making it easy for you to find your fit no matter where you are in the Queen City.
While NC law does not allow Happy Hour pricing on alcohol, many spots discount their eats during the “Happy Hours”, and many offer “All Day Drink Specials” as a work-around. We’ve listed those we found below, along with our favorite spots to relax and unwind.
PS For wine lovers looking for wine specials during the week, check out our half-priced wine lineup here.
EDITOR’S NOTE: We’ve done our best to scope out the correct info from the area’s various bars & restaurants, but plans change over time. If you are a Scoop reader or a business listed here and would like to make a correction, please email us at scoopitnews at gmail.com.
UPTOWN
Aura Rooftop
124 E Stonewall St.
The Scoop: Get away without actually getting away at Aura Rooftop bar and pool at the new JW Marriott Hotel in Uptown. While soaking in city views five stories high, sip on one of Aura’s signature botanical cocktails such as the Mirror Image (Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Mint, Lime) and Bird of Paradise (Dark Rum, Italian Apéritif, Pineapple, Lime, Vanilla). Take $3 off all food items while you’re at it, Monday through Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Be on the lookout for happenings at Aura Rooftop such as yoga and seasonal events here.
Caroline’s Oyster Bar
120 E Stonewall St.
The Scoop: New to Charlotte and also in JW Marriott Uptown is a sea to city concept, with a rotating selection of fresh oysters and seafood selections. Our picks for happy hour dishes include the Scallop Ceviche (Fresno, Red Onion, Citrus, Crispy Tortilla) and East Coast Oysters (Mignonette, Lemon, Cocktail Sauce) paired with a Sea Hound (Vodka, Agave, Fresh Grapefruit, Lemon, OBX Salt Rim) or their signature drink, Caroline’s Old Fashioned (Bourbon, Vanilla-Demerara, Black Walnut Bitters).
Dean’s Italian Steakhouse
128 E Stonewall St.
The Scoop: For an elegant surrounding, head to Dean’s Italian Steakhouse located in the new JW Marriott Uptown. Enjoy small plates like the Wagyu Bone Marrow (Brush Creek Ranch 100% Wagyu, tomato jam, horseradish gremolatta, grilled rustic bread) and the Baked Crab Cake (Jumbo lump blue crab, remoulade, lemon) while sipping on one of their signature drinks, such as Dean’s Manhattan (Rye, Vermouth, Transatlantic Bitters) or the Spiced Cucumber Margarita (Jalapeño-Infused Tequila, Blood Orange Liqueur, Cucumber, Agave, Fresh Lime).
Novelty House
123 E 5th St Suite 500
The Scoop: Spend your evening after work soaking up the city views at Novelty House, a new rooftop bar in Uptown. Enjoy craft cocktails, assorted champagnes, local beers, seltzers and more. If you’re looking for a spot to hang out on the weekend, they are open from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. on Saturdays, and 12 p.m. to sundown on Sundays. Pro tip: the floral wall is great for the perfect Insta shot.
Aria Tuscan Grill
100 N. Tryon St.
The Scoop: Happy hour doesn’t just have to be an hour long. At Aria Tuscan Grill, enjoy 7 for $7 Bar Bites every night, all night, at the bar.
Fahrenheit
222 S. Caldwell St.
The Scoop: Up on the 21st floor, Fahrenheit serves up small plates and crafted cocktails that rival the stunning city views. Watch the sunset while sipping on the Sweet Heat (Milagro Reposado Tequila, St. Germain, Pineapple and Lemon Juice, Agave Nectar, Jalapeño) or the Viva La Vida (Rosemary- Jalapeño infused Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Los Vecinos Mezcal, Lime Juice, Agave Nectar, Watermelon). Our picks for small plates include the ahi poke nachos (Tuna, Wontons, Pickled Red Onions, Jalapeños, Green Onions, Chili Aioli) and American Wagyu Short Rib Steamed Buns (Honey Crisp Apple and Celery Sunomono, Apple and Ginger Glaze, Cilantro. Yum.
Angeline’s
303 S Church St.
The Scoop: Whether you’re stopping in before dinner or making happy hour the main event, enjoy cocktails at Angeline’s, including Moonlight in Vermont (Rittenhouse Rye, Cocchi Di Torino Elderflower, Blueberry) and the After Hours (Vodka, Aperol, Montenegro, Fernet Branca, Strawberry, Lemon). Pair your drink with one of their delicious appetizers, such as the Whipped Ricotta (Lavender Honey, Lemon Oil, Pistachio, House Bread) and the mussels in a tomato saffron broth, with fregola, shaved fennel, calabrian aioli, and grilled bread.
Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails
1320 S Church St Suite 400
The Scoop: Head to Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails after work for a delicious happy hour that includes ceviche and charcuterie for small plates, and signature cocktails including the Curious Poses (Mezcal, grapefruit, ginger soda, jalapeno, cilantro, lime) and Genius Dawson (House infused blackberry-ginger bourbon, basil, lime, ginger beer).
Sophia’s Lounge
127 N Tryon St.
The Scoop: Happy hour at Sophia’s starts as soon as you walk in the door. You’re immediately transported to a sleek, sophisticated lounge where every detail works together to create an atmosphere that feels like an after-workday treat. Treat yourself to a crafted cocktail, such as the Alice in Wonderland ( Tito’s Vodka, fresh lemon juice, and wildberry vanilla cinnamon syrup), and the Anna Karenina (Malfy Gin, lavender bitters, fresh lemon juice, egg whites, and lavender syrup). For small plates to share, choose from the charcuterie plate (artisanal meats, honeycomb, fig jam and house-made pickles, cheese), crab cakes, or the Forbidden Veganball (forest mushroom, forbidden rice & vegetable balls with tomato gastrique).
Merchant and Trade
303 S Church St.
The Scoop: To take in Charlotte city views from above, head to Merchant and Trade for elevated bar bites in a chic rooftop setting. Popular cocktails include the Negroni Thyme (frozen cocktail. tanqueray gin, campari, sweet vermouth, blood orange, thyme, and bitters) and The Redeemer (leblon cachaca, passionfruit, habanero syrup, tasmanian pepperberry, lime juice). Snack on a charcuterie board, buffalo fried mushrooms, roasted lamb sliders, and more.
Mimosa Grill
327 S Tryon St.
The Scoop: A go-to for southern fare. Head over for happy hour to enjoy food and drinks at the beautifully appointed and cozy bar. Our favorites for cocktails include the Whiskey Smash (maker’s mark bourbon, muddled fresh mint and lemon, simple syrup, soda water) and the Moonside Sangria, a southern twist to the classic cocktail with apple pie infused Moonshine. For snacks, be sure to try their Baked Lobster Macaroni & Cheese or the Parmesan Truffle Fries, both perfect for sharing.
5Church Charlotte
127 N Tryon St.
The Scoop: Even before the dinner crowd fills in, 5Church is the place to be. Head to the bar for selections from their bar menu and a signature cocktail. Top picks include the Queen Elizabeth’s Lemon Drop (Absolut Citron, Triple Sec, lemon juice, rose water, and simple syrup) or the Rattlesnake (mezcal, muddled orange slices, agave, jalapeño, lime).
Que Onda Tacos + Tequila Uptown
333 W Trade St #101
The Scoop: What’s better than tacos and tequila? Food and drink specials. Head to Que Onda in Uptown for lunch starting at $9.95 Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Specials vary by location**
Weekly Specials:
- Tuesday: $2 Tacos, $3 All Drafts
- Wednesday: $4 Small Nachos | ADD Shred Chix, Ground Beef, Carnitas or Veggies ADD $2, $5 Lime Mojitos
- Thursday: $3 Off ALL Fajitas, $4 All Drafts, Half off Bottles of Wine
- Friday: $5 Large Gold Margarita 20 Ounces (Add on a Gold Tequila Shot to Marg for $3 | Add Flavors $1)
- Saturday: Entire Tequila Inventory is Half Off | Make it a Crafty Marg., $2 Off ACP Entrees, Brunch Menu Featuring $3 Mimosas
- Sunday: $2 Off All ACP Entrees, $4 All Draft Beers, Brunch Menu featuring $3 Mimosas
Graham St. Pub & Patio
400 S Graham St.
The Scoop: Whether you’re getting ready to head into a Panthers or Knights game or simply celebrating a Wednesday, Graham St. Pub & Patio has just the thing. With many options on shareable appetizers, beer, wine, and cocktails, you’re sure to find something to enjoy.
Jinya Ramen Bar
601 S Tryon St.
The Scoop: Recently opened in Uptown, Jinya Ramen Bar is the perfect spot to hang after work. Choose from a variety of small plates, such as the Takoyaki – Octopus Ball, Spicy Tuna and Salmon Cones, or the KOBE Hamburger Steak to pair with one of a mocktail or two.
Sea Level
129 E 5th St.
The Scoop: A top pick for Uptown happy hours, Sea Level serves up $1.50 oysters from 2 – 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. To accompany your oysters, try the corn fritters, signature cocktails, and beer and wine.
Ink N Ivy
222 S Church St.
Weekly specials:
- Monday: $4 Sam Adams Draft and $5 Tito’s
- Tuesday: $4 Drafts
- Wednesday: 1/2 price GLASSES of wine
- Thursday: $6 specialty cocktails & $4 Truly
- Friday: $5 Wells and $4 Corona
- Saturday: $3 mimosas, $5 Bloody Marys, $3 Coors Light, $4 Dos Equis draft
- Sunday: $3 Bud Light bottles, $5 Bloody Marys, $3 mimosas, $15 House Brut bottles
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
650 E Stonewall St unit a
The Scoop: Choose from a variety of small plates inspired by Japanese BBQ for happy hour prices daily from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. We’re eyeing the Spicy Tuna Volcano (spicy tuna on crispy fried rice, drizzled with Japanese shoyu, BBQ sauce) and Fried Cheese Wontons (cream cheese and green onions in crispy wontons. Served with sweet chili sauce). Pair your appetizer with half priced beer, sake, spirits (shots only), and wine Monday through Thursday, all day.
Planning on going there with a group? Take advantage of their All You Can Eat Special in October. For a party of 5 or more, each person eats for only $36 (regularly $45) with 37 items available to choose from.
Bossy Beulah’s
2200 Freedom Dr.
The Scoop: Just outside of Uptown lies Bossy Beulah’s, home of chicken sandwiches with soul. For happy hour, get an order of the Bossy Bites (Hand-cut, hand-breaded bites made from Joyce Farms chicken breast), and sip on a seltzer. It’s the perfect way to end a long day.
SOUTH END
The Waterman Fish Bar
2729 South Blvd.
The Scoop: Head to Topside, The Waterman’s rooftop bar, to enjoy shareables, boat drinks, and $1.50 Oysters weekdays from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Hawkers
1930 Camden Rd.
The Scoop: Grab a spot at the indoor/outdoor bar and patio to enjoy your favorite noms, specialty cocktails, house wines, select Asian lagers, saké bombs and small plates, all at happy hour pricing on the food. Monday-Friday from 3-6 p.m.
Barcelona Wine Bar
101 W Worthington Ave. Ste. 110
The Scoop:
The scoop: There’s no better place to unwind than with Barcelona’s extensive wine list, cocktail options, tapas and build-your-own charcuterie. Open Monday through Friday at 4 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 12 p.m.
Suffolk Punch
2911 Griffith St.
Weekly Specials:
- Tuesday- Half off sangria and select bottles of wine
- Wednesday- All cocktails are $8
- Thursday & Sunday– Select $3 Suffolk Punch Brewing taps
Trolley Barn Fermentory
2104 South Blvd
The Scoop: The latest concept from the minds behind Legion Brewing, Trolley Barn Fermentory is South End’s latest food hall, brewery, and taproom. You can find everything from salads and pretzels to seafood and steaks at Trolley Barn, with many options for happy hour eats. Be sure to take a look at the beer, wine, and cocktail options they have when you go (we’re currently loving their Never Forgotten Porter with caramel and chocolate notes, perfect for a cozy ending to the day).
O-Ku
2000 South Blvd. Suite 510
The Scoop: Head over to O-Ku after work for half-price Sushi Rolls every Monday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
The Wine Loft
2201 South Blvd.
The Scoop: The Wine Loft lives up to its name with wine to fit your palate and plates perfect for sharing. Try the shareable Artisanal Cheese and Salumi Slate or the Lamb & Pork Meatballs appetizer, with Cinnamon-smoked raita and cilantro.
Weekly specials:
- Tuesday: Wine tasting for $10. Full bottles discounted $24-$30
- Wednesday: Wine-Flight Wednesday: $24 Wine Flights with complimentary appetizer 4 p.m. -11 p.m.
- Thursday: 25%-50% off Bottles Night from 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.
SouthBound
2433 South Blvd.
Weekly specials:
- Sunday: $6 Southbound Rita, $5 Tequila Sunrise shot, $25 Mimosa pitcher
- Monday: $5 Mango Marg, $25 Mango Marg pitcher, $4 Modela Negro draft, $3 Modelo can
- Tuesday: $25 Southbound Rita pitcher, $10 Horseshoe Tequila flight, $5 Hornitos shot, $4 Pacifico draft, $3 Modelo can
Big Ben British Restaurant & Pub
2000 South Blvd.
Weekly specials:
- Monday: $6 Appetizers, $6 Beer Cocktails, $2 off all Vodka
- Tuesday: Kids eat free, $8 All Mules, half off all gin
- Wednesday: $8 burger & a side, Half price bottles of wine, $6 U Call It, $5.25 Spaten
- Thursday: $12.95 all british entrees, Half price specialty cocktails, $4 well drinks
- Friday: $5.50 Guinness & Magners, $6 Red Bull & Vodka
- Saturday & Sunday: $4 bloody marys and mimosas, $15 mimosa carafes
Seoul Food Meat Company
1400 S Church St A
The Scoop: Happy hour is everyday at Seoul Food Meat Company with their build your own mimosa board. $25 will get you one bottle of champagne, 4 different juices and a fruit board, offered all day everyday.
NODA
Optimist Hall
1115 N Brevard St.
The Scoop: With a variety of food and drink options, Optimist Hall is an ideal spot for happy hour of any kind. Get a spread of everything from dumplings and empanadas to chicken sandwiches, and order a cocktail from Spindle Bar, or a brew from Fonta Flora. Sit on the top balacony and enjoy your smorgasbord.
Billy Sunday
1115 N Brevard St UNIT 1
The Scoop: Happy hour is filled with curated cocktails and spirits at Billy Sunday. Our top picks include their signature cocktails A Nice Pear ( gin, lemon, rosemary, sparkling wine, pear sorbet) and Online Shopper (bourbonm passionfruit, tiki spice, grapefruit, lime). Don’t forget to order small bites made from Ava Pizzeria such as deviled eggs or gnocchi to accompany your drinks.
Idlewild
424 East 36th St.
The Scoop: A cozy cocktail bar perfect for escaping after work. Drinks, snacks, and good times served from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. every day.
Rosie’s Coffee & Wine Garden
940 N Davidson St.
Weekly Specials:
- Wednesday: Half off select bottles of wine
- Thursday: $12 Flights
- Sunday: $5 Mimosas
MYERS PARK & MONTFORD
Rocksalt
512 Brandywine Rd Ste 500
The Scoop: Perfectly situated along the greenway, yet conveniently accessible behind Park Road Shopping Center, ROCKSALT is a go-to happy hour spot for seafood lovers. Their Half-Price Oysters ($1.25) Happy Hour happens each Tuesday through Friday from 4 – 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from opening to 6 p.m.
Weekly Specials:
- Tuesday: Half price bottles of wine
- Wednesday: BOGO Oysters all day and $5 drafts
- Thursday: $10 dessert cocktails
- Saturday: $7 Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas on Saturday (now open 12pm – 10pm)
- Sunday: $7 Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas
Selwyn Avenue Pub
2801 Selwyn Ave
The Scoop: This neighborhood go-to has a healthy happy hour following. After work, head over for one of their famous transfusions that are $7 every day.
Napa on Providence
110 Perrin Pl.
The Scoop: A popular daily happy hour special earns Napa on Providence a well-deserved spot on our list. In the bar, enjoy food and drink specials priced from $5-7 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
STEELE CREEK
Piedmont Social House
2135 Ayrsley Town Blvd.
The Scoop: Piedmont Social House is a Steele Creek happy hour destination not only for the food and drinks, but for the games and bowling too. Be on the lookout for gameday and monthly specials (this month, $2 of every Chicken Breast Sandwich sold will benefit Carolina Breast Friends) by visiting their Instagram page.
37 Sol (Steele Creek)
8724 Outlets Blvd.
The Scoop: Over by the Premium Outlets, 37 Sol serves us shareable plates and a variety of fresh margarita flavors. Try the steak skewers to start (grilled tenderloin, chimichurri), or the tuna lollipops (sushi grade tuna, tortilla crusted, flash fried rare. ginger sauce, spicy ponzu). For margs, we recommend the Perfect Margarita (Lunazul Reposado, fresh lime juice, organic agave nectar, plus a grand mariner floater) and their Kitchen Karma special, the Prickly Pear Margarita (Lunazul Silver, cointreau, fresh prickly pear, lime juice, organic agave, lime salt rim). For every Kitchen Karma item purchased from Sep. 20th through Oct. 31st. they will donate $1 to Carolina Breast Friends.
PLAZA MIDWOOD
Whiskey Warehouse
1221 The Plaza
The Scoop: Enjoy the picture-perfect rooftop city view, plus delicious starters and daily drink specials.
Weekly specials:
- Monday: $3.50 Sam Adams Seasonal Draft and $5 George Dickel Lemonade
- Tuesday: $6 Classic Cocktails and $3 Mich Ultra
- Wednesday: $4 Drafts and $3 Sparkling Rose
- Thursday: 1/2 price glasses and bottles of wine and $3 Truly Cans
- Friday: $4 Corona & Corona Light and $6 Remix Classics
- Saturday: $3 Mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary Bar, $3 Miller Lite and $4 Dos Equis Draft
- Sunday: $3 Mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary Bar, $3 Bud Light
Emmy Squared
1508 Central Ave.
The Scoop: New to the Charlotte, Emmy Squared is a great place to stop after work if you’re wanting pizza, shareable appetizers, and brews. Try the Eggplant Parm (Japanese eggplant, burrata, sauce, mozzarella, Calabrian chilies, basil) or the Crispy Chicken Crunchers (sriracha Crystal glaze, scallion, ranch). Pair it with popular cocktails such as the Hibiscus Tequila Punch (Tequila Blanco, Hibiscus and Jalapeno Syrup, Lime Juice) or the Mule Kick (Vodka, Honey Syrup, Lime Juice, Fresh Ginger, Mint Sprig).
DILWORTH
Fat Cat Burgers + Bakeshop
2410 Park Road
The Scoop: A reimagined concept and menu of the former Fran’s Filling Station, Fat Cat Burgers + Bakeshop is a great place to unwind. Snack on bacon-wrapped tater tots or a trio of shareable sliders while you sip on a local drafted beer.
Inizio Pizza Napoletana Dilworth
2230 Park Rd
The Scoop: Stop in for $3.50 drafts every Wednesday.
Dilworth Tasting Room
300 East Tremont Ave.
The Scoop: Whether toasting on the lush garden patio or from inside the beautifully appointed tasting room, this neighborhood favorite has all the making of a perfect happy hour, from weekly specials to sharable plates and wine retail options to continue celebrating at home.
Weekly Specials:
- Tuesday: Flight Night featuring three glasses of red or white, plus a complementary cheese and charcuterie plate created by Chef Jon.
- Thursdays: Half price select bottles of Cabernet and Pinot Noir.
Kid Cashew
1608 East Blvd.
The Scoop: Cozy up to the bar and enjoy $6 small plates and spreads from 3-6 p.m. every weekday.
Weekly specials:
- Monday: $6 Martinis and Mules
- Tuesday: Half off wine bottles
- Wednesday: Half off brown liquors (Whiskey, Boubon and Scotch)
- Thursday: $6 craft cocktails
- Saturday and Sunday Brunch: $3 Mimosas and $6 Bloody Marys
ELIZABETH
The Stanley
1961 East 7th St.
The Scoop: Stop in to enjoy cocktails and small plates on the ever-evolving menu crafted and curated by James Beard Nominated Chef Paul Verica.
The Crunkleton
1957 E 7th St.
The Scoop: A go-to for cocktails and bites, The Crunkleton offers beverage options for everyone plus $1 oysters on Monday. Every Tuesday is “Tomahawk Tuesdays” which means half off their 42 oz Tomahawk Ribeye steak (originally $150). Serves 2-4 and comes a la cart to be paired with any of their amazing sides and apps. Hours are Monday through Thursday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. (kitchen closed 2:30 – 4 p.m.) and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (kitchen closed 2:30 – 4 p.m.).
SOUTHPARK
Bulla Gastrobar
4310 Sharon Rd w01
The Scoop: Happy hour has its own name at SouthPark newcomer Bulla Gastrobar. Bulla Hour offers guests a special tapa menu available at the bar Monday – Sunday from 5 – 7 p.m.
Dilworth Tasting Room South Park
4905 Ashley Park Ln Suite J
The Scoop: Enjoy live jazz music at the bar area every other Wednesday, at DTR’s newest location in South Park, along with weekly wine specials.
Weekly Specials:
- Tuesday: Flight Night featuring three glasses of red or white, plus a complementary cheese and charcuterie plate created by Chef Jon.
- Thursdays: Half price select bottles of Cabernet and Pinot Noir.
Village Tavern
4201 Congress St.
The Scoop: A long-time favorite of ours, Village Tavern has a large patio and daily drink specials that make for a great way to relax after work.
- Monday: $2 Off Draft Beers
- Tuesday: $2 Off Taco’s, $2 Off Specialty Cocktails
- Wednesday: 1/2 Price Wines by the Glass
- Thursday: $2 Off Pizza’s, $2 Off Storied Classic Cocktails
- Friday: $2 Off Margaritas, Mojitos and Mules
- Saturday: $2 Off Martinis
- Sunday: $2 Off Bloody Mary’s, Mimosas and Screwdrivers
Mizu
3100 Apex Dr 9th Floor
The Scoop: Recently opened in SouthPark, Mizu brings a different take on seafood, inspired by the wood-fired Robata grills of Japan. Head over for happy hour Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m. where you can enjoy snackable food like oysters and a Hamachi Tartare. Full happy hour menu can be found here.
Reid’s Fine Foods SouthPark
4331 Barclay Downs Dr.
The Scoop: The patio at Reid’s Fine Foods SouthPark is calling your name with plenty of sharable options. Our picks include the deviled eggs with honey and pistachio candied bacon, calamari fries with Thai chili sauce and a sweet soy drizzle, and pretzel bites made with OMB Copper. View the full dinner menu after 5 here. Your happy hour continues with half price glasses of wine on Wednesday, $10 charcuterie boards on Thursday, and live music on select nights.
Peppervine
4620 Piedmont Row Dr Suite 170B
The Scoop: Hidden in SouthPark, Peppervine offers delicious weekly specials, small plates and a worldy wine list. Enjoy a wine happy hour every Wednesday where you can take off half the price on select bottles.
SOUTH CHARLOTTE & BALLANTYNE
Civetta
7828-E Rea Road
The Scoop: Head to this South Charlotte hotspot to enjoy drinks specials and appetizers including fried calamari, bruschetta, and steamed mussels.
Weekly specials:
- Tuesday: $5 Peroni
- Wednesday: $6 House red or house white wine
- Thursday: $7 Sparkling white peach sangrias
- Friday: $5 Select craft beer
- Saturday: $7 Rosé all day
