Charlotte Breweries: Sip Your Way Through The Best Spots In Town
Craving a cold one in the Queen City? Charlotte, North Carolina, is experiencing a brewery boom, transforming itself into a haven for craft beer enthusiasts.
The burgeoning beer scene in Charlotte, NC, has become a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and welcoming atmospheres. From traditional lagers to experimental sours, the breweries scattered across the city offer a unique experience for every palate. The 2024 Charlotte brewery guide highlights over 70 locations, providing valuable information about neighborhoods, food options, food trucks, and even dog-friendly establishments. For those seeking a quintessential brewery experience, a visit to Charlotte is a must, and the choices are as varied as they are exciting.
Charlotte's breweries have become integral to the city's social and cultural fabric. They're not just places to drink beer; they are community hubs where people gather, share stories, and celebrate the art of brewing. One can easily spend an entire day exploring the breweries in different neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. From the bustling South End to the artistic heart of NoDa (North Davidson), the city's brewing scene offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every taste and preference.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Breweries in Charlotte | Over 50 |
| Popular Beer Styles | IPAs, Sours, Ales, Stouts |
| Neighborhoods with Breweries | Uptown, Downtown, South End, NoDa, Wesley Heights |
| Dog-Friendly Options | Available at many locations. |
| Food Options | Variety, including food trucks, kids menus, and German cuisine |
| Breweries with Kids Menu | OMB |
| Notable Beer Types | Pumking Imperial Ale, Golden Monkey, Good Morning Vietnam, What He's Having |
| Special Features | Rooftop bars, Bike & Brews Tours |
For those seeking a traditional experience, Charlotte has breweries that focus on classic brewing methods, offering a taste of familiar favorites. Conversely, those with a more adventurous palate will find a plethora of breweries dedicated to innovation, experimenting with unique ingredients and pushing the boundaries of beer styles. Whether you're in the mood for a traditional lager, a complex IPA, or a tart sour, the city's breweries have something to satisfy every taste. This commitment to diversity has transformed Charlotte into a destination for beer lovers from all walks of life.
One standout example is Gilde's Charlotte brewery, a German establishment offering both traditional German beers and modern interpretations. This brewery's presence highlights the city's ability to embrace international influences while staying true to the craft brewing spirit. The brewery scene here caters to families as well. One of the best family-friendly breweries is OMB, which opens early at 11 a.m. and offers a dedicated kids menu. This makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed afternoon where the whole family can enjoy a meal and some quality time. The brewery also offers German food, such as bratwurst and pretzels, making it a great place for a complete dining experience.
Wooden Robot Brewery is another name that frequently pops up in discussions about Charlotte's best breweries. Known for its innovative and experimental beers, Wooden Robot has earned a reputation for crafting unique brews with unique ingredients. The brewery's presence in two of Charlotte's prime locations, one in NoDa and the other in South End, makes its offerings easily accessible. Whether its their "Good Morning Vietnam" or "What Hes Having" brews, Wooden Robot is a must-visit for those interested in discovering the cutting edge of craft beer.
The breweries themselves offer a variety of atmospheres, too. From the sleek, modern taprooms to more rustic, industrial spaces, each brewery cultivates a unique environment. Some breweries provide expansive outdoor patios perfect for enjoying a beer on a sunny day, while others offer cozy indoor spaces ideal for cooler weather. The recent opening of a massive brewery in Loso (Lower South End), which is a collaboration between Southern Tier Brewing and Victory Brewing Company, is indicative of the city's brewery growth and the trend towards bigger, more accommodating spaces. This location has three patio spaces, a taproom, and 120 taps to choose from, proving the brewery has an impressive selection of offerings, including popular beers such as Pumking Imperial Ale and Golden Monkey.
For those planning a pub crawl, the city's breweries provide an excellent starting point for a beer-fueled adventure. The concentration of breweries in areas like the South End and NoDa makes it easy to hop from one location to another, sampling a wide variety of brews along the way. "Find your next sipping spot in these 15 best breweries in Charlotte, NC," many publications offer guides and lists. Many of these guides provide detailed information about each brewery, from its location and hours of operation to its specific beer offerings and food options. Some publications will also offer things-to-do reviews with Tripadvisor data, helping visitors make informed choices. Furthermore, for beer enthusiasts wanting to explore Charlotte's brewery scene in an engaging way, they can take a bike tour through the South End neighborhood, offered by Charlotte NC Tours, where they can cycle their way from brewery to brewery.
If you are looking for German beers, you will have a lot of options, and you can drink authentic German beers, brewed onsite and eat delicious German food like bratwurst, pretzels, and schnitzel! It's not just about the beer; the citys breweries often serve delicious food. Some offer full menus, others provide food trucks, and some even have partnerships with local restaurants. The combination of exceptional beer and high-quality food makes the breweries even more appealing, transforming them into ideal destinations for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
The Common Market, for example, has become a local favorite. This eclectic and artsy space doesnt necessarily feel like a brewery, especially during Latin nights or when the espresso machine is running. However, once you start to sip on one of their beers, you are reminded how good it is. This further illustrates the diversity of Charlotte's beer scene. Its a place where traditional breweries sit alongside more unconventional establishments, creating a rich and varied landscape.
Charlotte's brewery scene isn't just for established businesses. The city continues to welcome new breweries and bars, further enriching its beer culture. Axios has been tracking over 100 new openings in the past year, which only underscores the continuous growth of the city's beer landscape. According to the publication, theyve narrowed down the list to the top 10 new breweries and bars.
Matt McKenzie has covered Charlottes beer scene for a while. He consulted with local beer experts, bottle shop owners, and bartenders to compile his list of the 50 best beers in the city. Whether you are a local or just visiting, the sheer number of breweries to choose from can be overwhelming. However, with a little exploration, you can discover that the citys breweries offer an unforgettable blend of hops and cuisine. From the innovative brews of Wooden Robot to the traditional offerings of Gilde, Charlottes beer scene has something to offer every beer enthusiast. The breweries are everywhere our airport, the mall, inside food halls, and in nearly every neighborhood. And finally, you can't come to Charlotte without visiting one of our breweries.
This surge in breweries has created a competitive environment. Competition is spurring innovation. Breweries are constantly striving to produce better beers and offer exceptional experiences. This dynamic environment leads to a constant flow of new beers, events, and attractions. Breweries are also contributing to local economies. They're creating jobs, supporting local farmers, and attracting tourists to the area. In turn, that helps drive economic growth and create vibrant, thriving communities. The breweries have truly become the heart of Charlottes social scene, fostering a sense of community and creating welcoming spaces for everyone. And the best part? The best breweries in Charlotte are making a strong push for the Queen City to steal the coveted designation of "beer city, America" currently held by its NC mountain rival.
In the end, Charlottes brewery scene is a celebration of craft, community, and the simple joy of sharing a well-made beer. Its an experience that brings people together, fosters a sense of community, and provides a glimpse into the vibrant culture of this dynamic city. As the brewery landscape continues to grow and evolve, Charlotte is sure to become a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts worldwide, further solidifying its place as a true beer city.
