Best Charlotte Happy Hours by Neighborhood (2022)

One thing about Charlotteans ~ we know the importance of balancing work and play. So once the clock strikes five and happy hour starts calling your name, head to one of our top picks to indugle and let loose. P.S. we sorted this roundup by neighborhood, making it easy for you to find your fit no matter where you are in the Queen City.

NOTE: 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.

Featured:

Sea Level (Uptown)
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. Try the cornbread, signature cocktails, and beer and wine to accompany your oysters.

Merchant and Trade (Uptown)
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. Signature cocktails include the Pink Slip (ketel one vodka, ashwagandha, tangerine, hibiscus, rosehip, fresh lemon, peychaud’s bitters, prosecco) and Jungle Queen (brugal anejo rum, coconut, fresh grapefruit, lemon, demerara, butterfly pea flower tea, mint). Snack on a charcuterie board, bougie tots, hamachi ceviche, calamari, and more.

Mariposa (Uptown)
500 S Tryon St.

The Scoop: Wednesdays are all about burgers at this Uptown favorite; Mariposa is offering a new double-stack burger special only available at the bar. Choose from their lamb burger with sun dried tomato jam, smoked gouda, arugula, white onion, and tzatziki for only $18 single, $27 double, or their All American Burger with ground beef, cheddar cheese, 100 Gardens Bibb Lettuce, shaved white onion, and house-made mayo for only $16 single, $24 double.

Red Salt by David Burke (Uptown)
North Tower, 555 S McDowell St Tower

The Scoop: Nothing quite beats a good burger after a long days of work. Head to Red Salt by David Burke on Tuesdays for 5 – 5 – 5 night — where you can enjoy $5 Burger, $5 Beer + $5 Wine. The bar and lounge opens at 4 p.m.

Angeline’s (Uptown)
303 S Church St.

The Scoop: Whether you’re stopping in before dinner or making happy hour the main event, Angeline’s is a must in our book. Enjoy craft cocktails and small bites, including their late night menu, available 10-11 p.m. Our favorites include Buried Alive (Brugal Rum, Montenegro, cinnamon demerara, apple cider, lime) and Ferdinand’s Flower (Del Vida Mezcal, Cappelleti, St. Germaine, lime). Pair your drink with one of their delicious appetizers, such as the Whipped Ricotta (lavender honey, lemon oil, pistachio, house bread) and the Calamari Semolina (lemon chips, spring onion, pickled peppers, herb aioli).

Napa on Providence (Myers Park) & Napa at Kingsley (South Charlotte)
110 Perrin Pl & 1310 Broadcloth St, Fort Mill, SC

The Scoop: Popular daily happy hour specials earn Napa on Providence and Napa at Kingsley a well-deserved spot on our list. In the bar, enjoy food and drink specials Monday through Friday, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Click here for the menu at Napa on Providence, and here for Napa at Kingsley.

Village Tavern (SouthPark)
4201 Congress St.

The Scoop: Village Tavern has a large patio and daily drink specials that make for a great way to relax after work.

• Monday: $1 Off Draft Beers
• Tuesday: $2 Off Specialty Cocktails
• Wednesday: 1/2 Price Wines by the Glass
• Thursday: $2 Off Tavern Classics
• Friday: $2 Off Margaritas, Mojitos and Mules
• Saturday: $2 Off Martinis
• Sunday: $2 Off Bloody Mary’s, Mimosas and Screwdrivers

The Waterman Fish Bar (South End & LKN)
2729 South Blvd suite d (South End), 9615 Bailey Rd, Cornelius

The Scoop: Oyster Happy Hour is just one slurp away! Take advantage of $1.50 house oysters (typically the Sea Level Salts) weekdays from 2-7 p.m. Want the full experience? Wash it down with a Boat Drink or a glass of White. 

ACE No. 3
Belmont Village, Myers Park, Concord Mills

The Scoop: Sometimes, a quick burger and fries after work are all we need. Pair it with one of their delicious milkshakes for only $2.50 on weekdays from 2 – 4 p.m., part of their “Shake Break” milkshake happy hour. Available at all locations, both classic and seasonal flavors are included.

Fern, Flavors from the Garden (Dilworth)
1419 East Blvd Suite A

The Scoop: Looking for a vegan or vegetarian option for happy hour? Look no further than Fern, Flavors from the Garden, where healthy and flavorful eats are their speciality. To spice up your night, order the Chipotle Margarita with tequila, agave, lemon juice, and chipotle. You can’t go wrong with ordering any of their cocktails, either.

Happy Hours By the ‘Hood

Uptown

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
101 S Tryon St Suite 100

The Scoop: Happy hour so good, they had to come up with a new name for it. Head to Eddie V’s Sunday through Thursday, 4-6:30 p.m. for Eddie’s Hours, which includes a variety of teasers, appetizers, hand-shaken cocktails, and wine by the glass, all at happy hour prices.

Aura Rooftop
124 E Stonewall St.

The Scoop: Get away without actually getting away at Aura Rooftop bar and pool at the JW Marriott Hotel in Uptown. While soaking in city views five stories high, sip on one of Aura’s signature botanical cocktails such the Mirror Image (Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Mint, Lime) and Electress (Tequila, Orange Liqueur, Hibiscus, Lime, Blended with Ice). Take $3 off all food items while you’re at it, Monday through Wednesday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Check out happenings at Aura Rooftop here.

Caroline’s Oyster Bar
120 E Stonewall St.

The Scoop: This sea to city concept with a rotating selection of fresh oysters and seafood options make for the perfect spot to meet after work. Our picks for happy hour dishes include the East Coast Oysters (Mignonette, Lemon, Cocktail Sauce) and Spicy Tuna Tartare (Avocado, Crispy Rice Cakes, Yuzu Ponzu). Pair your apps with their signature drink, Caroline’s Old Fashioned (Bourbon, Vanilla-Demerara, Black Walnut Bitters), you won’t be disappointed.

Novelty House
123 E 5th St Suite 500

The Scoop: Spend your evening after work soaking up the city views at Novelty House where you can 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 until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Pro tip: the floral wall is great for the perfect Insta shot.

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 signature cocktails such as The Blue Lagoon (Captain Spiced Rum, RumChata, Blue Curacao, Pineapple juice, lime juice, and a purple orchid), and Orange Cream Dream (Absolut Vanilla Vodka, RumChata, house made orange marmalade, OJ, vanilla, ginger beer, and white chocolate. Our picks for small plates include the Chicken Satay Skewers with coconut peanut sauce and the American Wagyu Short Rib Steamed Buns (Honey Crisp Apple and Celery Sunomono, Apple and Ginger Glaze, Cilantro). Yum.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Uptown & SouthPark

The Scoop: Happy hour just got better all thanks to Ruth’s Chris. Both locations in Charlotte offer the Sizzle, Swizzle, Swirl Happy Hour, Monday through Friday, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. (available in the bar only). Happy hour pricing included below.

Weekly Specials:

• Seared Ahi Tuna $10 — english cucumber, mustard-beer sauce 
• Spicy Shrimp $11 — succulent fried shrimp in spicy cream sauce
• Steak Sandwich $10 — sliced filet, bearnaise sauce, garlic bread, french fries
• Ruth’s Prime Cheeseburger $10 — prime beef, choice of cheese, french fries
• Select Wines — 6 oz. $9 | Bottle $34
• Bottled & Draft Beers — ask your server for current selection & pricing

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 5 for $5 each Bar Bites, every night, beginning at the bar at 5 p.m.

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 daily happenings, 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
• Sunday: $2 Off All ACP Entrees, $4 All Draft Beers

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 lamb skewers 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 and light bites to finish the night.

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

South End

Canopy Cocktails & Garden
118 E Kingston Ave UNIT 10

The Scoop: New to the Queen City, Canopy Cocktails & Garden makes for a great spot to hang out after work. This cocktail lounge stays open late (we’re talking 2 a.m, Wednesday through Sunday), has a relaxed ambiance, and of course makes delicious craft cocktails that keep us coming back for more.

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. Take advantage of their happy hour pricing on food and spirits, plus half off beers and baos, Monday-Thursday from 3-6 p.m.

Suffolk Punch
2911 Griffith St.

The Scoop: Enjoy $3 beer every Thursday and Sunday at this Charlotte favorite.

O-Ku
2000 South Blvd. Suite 510

The Scoop: Head over to O-Ku after work for half-price Sushi Rolls every Monday and Wednesday, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Charlotte Beer Garden
1300 S Tryon St.

The Scoop: With 436 beers on tap, beer garden bites, and cocktail and wine offerings, it’s hard to miss Charlotte Beer Garden when planning your post work outing. Cozy up on their heated patio or head up to the third floor for stunning city views.

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 charcuterie slates or the Lamb & Pork Meatballs appetizer, with Cinnamon-smoked raita and cilantro.

Weekly specials: 

• Tuesday: Half-priced bottles from 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.
• Wednesday: $20 wine flights, 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.
• Thursday: 20% Off our select wines from the Reserve List, 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.

SouthBound
2433 South Blvd.

Weekly specials:

• Sunday: $6 Southbound Rita, $5 Tequila Sunrise shot, $25 Mimosa pitcher
• Monday: $6 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:
**$6 appetizers from 3 – 6 p.m. on weekdays

• Monday: $12 Salads, $5 Pints
• Tuesday: $10 Taco Platters, $7 Tequila
• Wednesday: $7 Whiskey, $10 Flatbreads, $8 Burgers and a side
• Thursday: $5 English Beer, $14 British Entrée
• Friday: $13 Famous Big Ben Fish & Chips, 1/2 price bottles of wine, Kids eat free
• Saturday & Sunday: $4 Mimosas, $5 Bloody Marys, $18 Carafes, $30 Mimosa Flight

SouthPark

Bulla Gastrobar
4310 Sharon Rd w01

The Scoop: Enjoy daily drink specials and a special tapa menu available at the bar only, Monday through Sunday from 5 – 7 p.m.

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar
4310 Sharon Rd

The Scoop: Take half off Cowfish Martinis every Tuesday, along with half off bottles of wine on Wednesdays.

Mizu
3100 Apex Dr 9th Floor

The Scoop: Mizu brings a different take on seafood, inspired by the wood-fired Robata grills of Japan. Head over for happy hour Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 5 – 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 charred octopus (charred spanish octopus, blistered tomatoes, grilled artichoke, kalamata olives, champagne vinaigrette) and deviled eggs with honey and pistachio candied bacon. Your happy hour continues with half price wines by the glass on Wednesday, and half price bottles of wine Saturday.

NoDa

Optimist Hall
1115 N Brevard St.

The Scoop: With so many food and drink options, Optimist Hall is an ideal spot to hang out for happy hour. Grab a variety of dishes ranging from dumplings to empanadas, pizza to tacos, and much more. After you’ve chosen what to devour, head to Spingle Bar for a cocktail, and grab a spot on the top balcony for ultimate views of the city.

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.

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.

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.

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: $4 Sam Adams Seasonal Draft and $5 George Dickel Lemonade
• Tuesday: $6 Classic Cocktails and $3.50 Mich Ultra bottle
• Wednesday: $4 Drafts and $3 Sparkling Rose
• Thursday: 1/2 price glasses and bottles of wine and $4 Truly and White Claws
• Friday: $4 Corona & Corona Light and $6 Remix Classics
• Saturday: $3 Mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary Bar, and $3 Miller Lite
• Sunday: $3 Mimosas, $5 Bloody Mary Bar, $3 Bud Light

Dilworth

Kid Cashew
1608 East Blvd.

The Scoop: Cozy up to the bar and enjoy daily specials at this Mediterranean favorite.

Weekly specials:

• Monday: $7 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 $5 Bloody Marys

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.