Every opportunity I can, I venture to spots where my dog can join me for happy hour. It’s often paired with long walks from our current apartment in uptown Charlotte, too – an attempt to get some outdoor physical activity in first, with a beer stop in between.
One of the parts I love so much about this city – and the south overall – is the pet-friendly culture. There’s so many great spots that I could probably create my own guidebook from it (hmm..future writing idea?), but for now let me just highlight a few of my favorites –
Birdsong Brewery: Noda neighborhood
This brewery holds a special place in my heart. It was my relaxing escape – to send out a few more emails and finish up my work – after working nearby in the Belmont neighborhood of Charlotte at a loud construction site (a brewery and taproom-in-planning I opened as General Manager) in late 2016/early 2017. We moved out of Charlotte in 2019 but when we returned in 2022, it was one of the first breweries I couldn’t wait to revisit. Presently, I head there at least once a week with my dog Barley to enjoy a beer and get some work done. Dogs are welcome both inside and outside the taproom; Birdsong is a welcoming, laid-back taproom with a wonderful crew of people. Free peanuts – the peanut cracking plays a dual role in keeping you both occupied and thirsty – usually a food truck, and some awesome, consistent beer, of which my go-to is the Rewind Lager.
The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery: Lower South End neighborhood
After moving to the state of North Carolina in 2015, the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery (OMB) was one of the first breweries that my husband and I ever visited in Charlotte. It gave us something we never expected to experience in the U.S.- a feeling of being transported to Germany, relaxing at a biergarten in Munich; we loved sipping on a Hornets Nest Hefeweizen while reminiscing about our travels, and life abroad during the period we lived in the UK for two years. While admittedly I may be a little biased at recommending this – my husband now works here – I also truly love it for its authentic German ambience, and equally consistent, high-quality beers. Oh, and the dog factor! The 8-acre outside biergarten means you lots of open space to enjoy a beer and not feel packed in amongst other people, kids, or dogs.
Bloom & Bottle: Belmont neighborhood
Bloom & Bottle describes their business as a “friendly neighborhood bottle shop and floral workshop.” They carry lots of craft beer on tap, as well as wine and prosecco, and a bottle/can selection of both alcohol and non-alcoholic beers. Dogs are welcome outside on a small back patio, as well as inside, so it’s also a great rainy day option. There are two dog beds set up along a wall by a window – where you’ll often be greeted by the owners’ two friendly dogs – and next to it a big shared dog bowl. The welcoming display of flower centerpieces along with the fresh flowers for purchase in the back of the shop make this place a memorable environment and pleasant night-out.
The Hop Shop: Plaza Midwood neighborhood
With a great selection of European beers – the Belgian styles and German styles are my favorites – as well as its pet-friendly vibe, I can easily spend hours here enjoying their beer selection and playing cards or board games with my friends. It’s a long, narrow establishment, but it has separate couch areas and tables in the front, and even a swinging chair inside, that allow you to make each area your own and relax.
Town Brewing Company: Wesley Heights neighborhood
Town Brewing’s easy outside ordering window and spacious outdoor setup – large picnic tables everywhere – is also very dog-friendly. It’s also a short walk from the Wesley Heights and Irwin Creek Greenway system, and a beautiful 2+ mile walk for me from uptown, past the Bank of America stadium and along the pedestrian and biking trails.
Their menu of flatbreads and sandwiches are easy, delicious food options that pair well with the solid beer choices.
Charlotte’s pet-friendly culture is amazing, and as may be obvious by now, the destinations I frequent regularly revolve around my dog Barley, whose always by my side.
I hope this post provides all those living in Charlotte like me with some new ideas for your next happy hour with your dog.