As you put together your summer sit and sip patio list, don’t forget these five old-school spots with OG swagger. From lakeside chilling, prime people watching perches in NoDa and places your dog is going to love, this list will have you and your crew chilling on some of the best open spaces in and around Charlotte.
Cheers to summer!
Dilworth Tasting Room
Photo Courtesy of Dilworth Tasting Room
Address: 300 E Tremont Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 4-10 p.m.; Friday, 4-11 p.m.; Saturday 1-11 p.m.
Vibe: If you like a koi pond with your patio sitting (and who doesn’t?), head to this gem in beautiful Dilworth. Venture to the brick patio and find the perfect spot under large trees, soak up the shade and say hello to the fish. DTR’s interior is all about class with a lively bar and plenty of comfortable chairs and couches complete with tableside service if the weather calls for passing storms.
Pro Tip: Celebrate Tuesday with a free cheese plate with purchase.
Carolina Beer Temple
Photo Courtesy of Carolina Beer Temple
Address: 195 N. Trade St, Matthews, NC 28105
Hours: Monday, 3-9 p.m.; Tuesday and Wednesday, 2-9 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday, Noon-10 p.m.; Sunday, Noon-8 p.m.
Vibe: With a large outdoor space perched above a bustling sidewalk, wide side area with tables and chairs and backyard seating with picnic tables, you are sure to find a spot – even on a cloudless sunny day. This hot spot specializes in craft beer made in North Carolina as well as a smaller wine selection. Purchase a scoop of a salty snack for $1 or grab dinner from the rotating food truck parked out front. Two and four-legged children welcome!
Pro Tip: Extend your night and head next door to The Temple’s Edge – a comic bookstore and collectables gift shop with gaming tables where you can rent or bring your favorite game to play while enjoying a beverage!
Hello, Sailor
Photo Courtesy of Hello, Sailor
Address: 20210 Henderson Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Vibe: For gorgeous Carolina days when you need a million dollar view but are a little short on cash, an afternoon on a prime patio spot at Hello, Sailor in Lake Norman is the next best thing. Start with a hot order of hush puppies and a cool drink, then treat your followers to a sunset pic.
Pro Tip: Park your boat right outside the restaurant if you prefer to leave the car at home.
Village Tavern
Photo Courtesy of Village Tavern
Address: 4201 Congress Street, Charlotte, NC 28209
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 4-9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.(Brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m.); Sunday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. (Brunch 10 a.m.-3 p.m.)
Vibe: Wide open spaces await at this South Park staple with an equally large menu. Keep this one in your back pocket when the weather hits 75 degrees and perfect. This find can accommodate small or large groups so plan your next friends night out, book club or family gathering here. Brunch is available Saturday and Sunday till 3 p.m. so you can start – or end – your weekend whenever you and the crew are ready.
Pro Tip: Start here, then head across the street to Reid’s Fine Food for an afternoon of patio hopping.
The Goodyear House
Address: 3032 N Davidson St, Charlotte, NC 28205
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 4-10pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-10pm and Sunday 10am-9pm.
Vibe: Nestled in the heart of NoDa, The Goodyear House offers a unique dining experience that combines rustic charm with modern culinary flair. The restaurant’s warm ambiance is enhanced by its stunning patio and bar, shaded by a 150-year-old Holly tree – perfect for enjoying a meal with friends and family under the Carolina sky!
Ready, set, patio!