Charlotte is much bigger than I imagined. In the spectrum of major southern cities, it shares the stage with powerhouse performers like Nashville, New Orleans, and Atlanta, but you’d be surprised what this big little city has to offer. I recently traveled down to the Queen City with a wily crew of influencers, editors, and publicists to attend the opening of Tabor, the handsome new menswear store from Charlotte’s sweetheart (and just the absolute sweetest) Laura Vinroot Poole.
Tabor is the type of store any style-conscious guy would want to shop at. The clean lines and GQ-approved merchandising will draw you in, but it’s the friendly staff and impeccable selection that will keep you shopping for hours. To celebrate the opening of Tabor, I wanted to put together a mini “Charlotte City Guide” of things to see, do, and eat in the Hornet’s Nest.
NASCAR Race + NASCAR Hall of Fame
400 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28202
Let’s be honest, no trip to Charlotte would be complete without seeing a NASCAR race or at least visiting NASCAR Hall of Fame. It’s like the holiest of temples in Charlotte!
2820 Selwyn Ave, Charlotte, NC 28209
Run by an L.A. transplant who brought that West Coast’s breakfast obsession with her, Little Spoon is a spot not to be missed. The menu is a rollercoaster of favorites with a twist, like Cinnamon Toast Brulee or Bison Meatballs. You’ll certainly never leave Little Spoon hungry!
Thirsty Beaver Saloon
1225 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204
A staple in the Charlotte nightlife scene, the Thirsty Beaver is a dive bar in its truest form. Come as you are and throw back a few of your favorite beers while taking in the mind-boggling décor (bras hang from the ceiling… I’ll leave it at that) – but don’t forget to request a song from the jukebox!
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
1626 E Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Quick, delicious, and filling… you’ll hear no argument from me when it comes to naming Bad Daddy’s as one of the best burger spots in Charlotte. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, don’t miss out on their signature milkshakes. It’ll, quite literally, be the cherry on top of an amazing meal.
421 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
For any guy, this is THE shop to visit while in Charlotte. I picked up a few stellar pieces from Alex Mill and Mark McNairy before taking a stroll around the selection of art books, international magazines, and vinyl records!
1218 Charlottetowne Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204
The Double Door Inn is just a gem. One of the oldest venues in Charlotte, it hosts an array of touring shows, weekly features, and live album recordings from all genres.