The Union

Hooligans FC was a blast! It was small and compact, but still packed a large punch of fun! I loved…read morethe all-wood interior, and the overall vibe gave a small taste of an Irish or European pub. I'd highly recommend stopping in!

Crazy good vibe! Great food, and good people! Come here to watch anything and eat/drink!read more

0.1 mi•South End, Dilworth

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The Brickyard

2.7(21 reviews)

I love this place so much, they have the coldest miller lites, the best cocktails, truly…read moreunbelievable.

This place has long been a southend staple back when it used to be called the Gin Mill. I used to…read morecome often for the rooftop, the music, and all of the fun games like buckhunter. It also helps that they have relatively cheap drinks. I came back in recently and while it was nice to be back for nostalgic reasons I think I've aged out which makes sense as it has always had a young crowd. It usually isn't very crowded during the day time with a couple devoted regulars posted up at the bar, but at night the line will often wrap around the block. It's a rowdy good time if you are looking for some late night fun.

Beer area

Bar area

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Thirsty Beaver Saloon

4.4(165 reviews)

2.1 mi•Plaza Midwood

I love, love, love a dive bar so the fact that the Thirsty Beaver has decline several multi-million…read moredollar real estate developer offers to buy their land makes me over the moon about them! Service and vibes have always been great. Seen great bands here, had awesome conversations, and just reading the wall signs is a treat but not for the sensitive. Affordable drinks and great vibes what else could you ask for!!!!!

A dive bar of dive bars, the Thirsty Beaver is the place to go for cheap beer and cheap drinks in…read morePlaza Midwood. It's quite the hangout complete with jukebox full of classic old tunes. Full of character and charm where you can hangout and no one cares. Yes, this is the spot where Mick Jagger popped in when the Rolling Stones tour passed through Charlotte and he was either not recognized or people truly didn't care. Parking is a serious PITA. We pregamed across the street at Moo & Brew, leaving the car there before coming here.

Inside the Thirsty Beaver, Charlotte

I love this. Screw you, development!

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Small Bar South End

4.0(1 review)

0.8 mi

Small Bar was a pretty fun bar, and a nice place to watch a football game or shoot a round of pool…read more Also, as the name suggests, the bar is pretty small, and you're packed in pretty tightly with the other patrons. I didn't get any food so I can't comment on that, but they didn't have a great selection of beers on draft, yet did have a few good options in a can. Overall, Small Bar was a fun place to stop in for a little while, and I might drop back in the next time I'm in the neighborhood.

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Hattie's Tap & Tavern

4.6(71 reviews)

3.4 mi•Plaza Midwood

We pop in for bingo (second Tuesday of the month) and always have a great time!…read more Parking can be a bit of a challenge, so I often find myself parking across the street, though I'm usually going at a busier time. The bar is divey, and you can find very cheap drinks, especially if you go for the daily specials. The bartenders are nice - beware that they do keep your card if you keep your tab open - and seem to know the regulars. In addition to monthly bingo, they seem to host drag events, have video games and board games available to play, as well as several TVs. Plus, dogs can go inside and out. The bar does not serve food, though usually there is a vendor there. Looking forward to next month!

Part neighborhood pub, part dive bar, Hattie's has a reputation as a hipster hang out (I don't mean…read morethat in a bad way but I know some may take it that way). There is no food but they have cheap drinks, old school games, a spacious patio, and they host cool events like bingo night. Their motto is "Mind your P's and Q's" which I found amusing. I have only been in a few times so I can comment on if their patrons typically adhere to this code of conduct! Overall I think it is worth checking out if you've never been and maybe it will grab you and you will want to become a regular. Me personally it's a little out of the way to become a regular haunt located in between Plaza and NoDa but not walking distance from either. Also it's not that the service was ever unfriendly but I just didn't feel like it was my vibe. Still a cool bar though and I can see why other enjoy it.

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Smokey Joe's Cafe

4.1(50 reviews)

3.1 mi•Elizabeth

One of the things that I love about this bar is you never know what you're going to get. You can…read moreshow up and the place be packed with a band playing or it could be just you and a few others. Bands are usually local and you might even know a member. The drinks are strong and cheap and there is a nice variety. I like going here before AND after a show at Ovens or a Checkers game. The ring game on the deck can keep (me) entertained for a hot minute and pool and darts is a nice competitive change. I also noticed this time there, that there is a photobooth next to the bar. I'll check that out the next time I'm there.

I really enjoyed stopping here for a drink at the end of the night. The bartenders were attentive…read moreand fast. There was a cover for the band playing but they were amazing and definitely worth it!

Pool Table

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Stage

Dom's Dive Bar

4.4(14 reviews)

2.0 mi•Sedgefield

From Goldie's to Dom's. This is the way. Lolol! Came here after a few hours at Goldie's so we…read morecould watch Argentina (boo!) vs one of the smaller countries. I was rooting for that smaller country. In fact...the entire bar was rooting for them . Anywho always fun at Dom's and my friends and I ended up making up this stupid drinking game with this alligator toy that was chained to one of the tables. Hahahaha we so dumb.

Popped into Dom's the other night thanks to Offline--because without it, I honestly don't think I…read morewould've known this place even existed. It's tucked away in a strip mall off South Boulevard next to Goldie's (a spot I know well), but Dom's definitely flies under the radar. We stopped in for drinks and apps and were pleasantly surprised. Solid happy hour specials, reasonably priced food, and exactly the kind of bar food you want late at night--no frills, satisfying, and hits the spot. The drink selection was decent, and with it being the holidays, they even had some festive cocktails. The one I ordered was actually really good. We didn't stay long since this was more of a pre-dinner pit stop, but it left a good impression. Casual, affordable, and easygoing--definitely a spot I'll be back to when I'm in the mood for a low-key neighborhood bar vibe.

Bar

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NoDa 101

3.8(91 reviews)

3.5 mi•NoDa

We visited NODA 101 on a Thursday night for some karaoke while in town for a conference. I fell in…read morelove with the vibes at this place. Everyone is so supportive and we had so much fun. The drinks were good and the karaoke was fun. My only comment is that it was a little crammed in there and hard to get around, but they definitely made the most of their space. The people in this place were so much fun and everyone was really friendly. I'd definitely go back again.

We came here on a Wednesday night and it was pretty busy by 11pm. Not sure if it was intentional…read morebut it seemed like it was R&B night which was amazing for me because I love R&B! The crowd was high energy, some people had amazing voices and the vibe was fun. Drinks were pretty affordable, and my only negative is that I wish I knew their house was El Toro I haven't had that in years and it gives me the worst hangover, once I asked the bartender I switched to another tequila lol. Idk what the other nights are like but I personally enjoyed the vibe of how Wednesdays nights. It is nice because you scan a QR code to search a song and get added to the queue. You can see where you are in line and what songs have been picked so you don't repeat someone else's. They have a small stage you sing on and everyone sings along to root you on!

Singer on stage at karaoke bar

Friends having fun singing along at karaoke bar

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White claw black cherry

The Blind Pig

3.3(143 reviews)

3.6 mi•NoDa

Nice cheap drinks, really nice bartenders. The vibe of the place is cool and the games are fun. Its…read morea pretty lowkey, fun place for hanging out. Definitely coming back

Will never go back. Bar was empty and watched a bartender scream and curse at a group to get out…read more Then to chase them all the way to the light rail station. Bartender also had an attitude with out group right when we walked in so not surprised to see him be a jerk to others.

Truly seltzer

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Games

Tommy's Pub

4.8(26 reviews)

4.0 mi

Tommy's Pub is a total hidden gem located in a shopping center along Eastway Drive! They are an…read moreIrish Pub and can pour a great Guinness to back it up. While I'm told they do have traditional Irish bands come in, they host a wide variety of events and musical acts from Punk Rock Night, to EDM DJs, to bingo nights, they welcome all sorts and find a wide variety of ways to have a good time! I came in on a weekend day after running some errands in the area and looking for a nice cool place to relax and have a beer. There was a good crowd of locals who all seemed to know one another as well as the bartender, but despite not being a regular I felt right at home. Both the bartenders and the patrons were very friendly and the atmosphere was enjoyable. I wish I lived closer because I could easily see myself becoming a regular. If you're looking for an unpretentious place to sit and enjoy some adult beverages then look no further.

Unpretentious little bar that is very welcoming and lots of interesting people…read more Love it!

Entrance

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New barback is the shizzle

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17 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Steve F.

0

2

0

7 years ago

If I had to describe The Union in one word: WOW. And if I had 4 words they'd be "WOW this place great!" The quintessential American neighborhood bar. You know how the bar in the show Cheers is the place "where everybody knows your name"? Well the union... idk actually that's not the best way to describe the union but you do have to admit that Cheers was a good show. Anyway, The Union is a fitting name for this bar, because if I could I would enter into the legal institution of marriage with this establishment (you can't tho I checked). The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the products sold behind the bar. I went in one time looking for a drink but not really knowing what kind of drink I was looking to get. I'd been burned before so was understandably wary of getting taken to the cleaners by an opportunistic skeezeball bartender just looking to make a quick buck. But Ali patiently walked me though all of the options they offered and helped me find the right alcoholic beverage for me. That's service you can count on. When I reach for a cold one, I reach for The Union. The Union: catch the flavor. The popcorn is free and pretty good. read more

Jimmy A.

Elite 25

88

393

380

1 year ago

The Union is a fantastic dive bar in Charlotte that offers a fun atmosphere and a variety of games to keep you entertained. The vibes inside are really inviting, making it a great place to hang out with friends. The bartenders are solid and know how to craft a decent old fashioned, which is always a plus. It seems like the crowd is pretty lively too, contributing to the overall enjoyable experience. Plus, good service can make all the difference, and it sounds like they've got that covered as well. If you're in the mood for a laid-back night out, this spot might be worth checking out! read more

Lauren S.

147

4

1

7 years ago

I have come to The Union several times for service industry night, but never for a date. Jess and Jade were bartending when I arrived a little earlier than the person I was meeting. I let them know this was my first time meeting him and they told me to signal if I ever felt uncomfortable or needed anything. It was so nice to be able to rely on them. Great service and great support from both of these ladies. 12 for 10 would recommend!!! read more

Ryan B.

0

3

0

7 years ago

Awesome bar, great prices and always something on special, none better than half off monday( entire bar). The ladies and gents that tend bar always remember me when I come back, definitely a place to call the local bar for us new to the city. read more

Amanda M.

0

1

0

7 years ago

This bar has been my home for the past 3 years. You won't find any better staff at any local bar in southend. It's a great atmosphere, and where I've made all my best friends! read more

Dani P.

0

12

16

8 years ago

My go-to spot in south end!! Monday night half priced drinks, can't beat it. Great bartenders (shout out MARIE) and great staff all around. All inclusive and fun environment. read more

Meagan L.

192

1

0

7 years ago

I always have a great time here. The staff is always very friendly and good at recommending drinks. I definitely recommend it over other overrated and crowded bars nearby read more

BJ H.

0

14

4

4 years ago

Crazy aggressive bouncers attacking people in the bathroom. Watched them punch a guy in the face. Horrible and dangerous place.

Mathew M.

0

2

0

4 years ago

Could you tell your bouncers not to pull a knife out on my friend for tripping on one of them at 5pm on a Saturday? Thank you

Chris R.

152

2

0

8 years ago

Best Monday deals in town! Might find me half off too. Love nick penning and the staff is great especially MARIE!!!

Wendy M.

0

1

0

2 years ago

Amazing Service and Fun times!! Erik saved my friend and I from getting soaking wet in an unexpected sform.

Jacob E.

14

16

6

3 years ago

Terrible service, rude "bouncers" aka thugs. Would not recommend at all! Save your time and go elsewhere

Nick H.

0

4

0

7 years ago

Great atmosphere and music! Great service. Rose is a great bartender! Great selection of beer as well.

Jerrick C.

0

3

0

1 year ago

Police said the cameras don't work at this bar and would not investigate after asking them to do so

Sonia R.

90

1

0

8 years ago

My favorite neighborhood bar!! Always friendly and they have food trucks when you're feelin spicy

Marissa S.

0

1

0

7 years ago

Great drinks and atmosphere! Rose is the best bartender there! She makes an amazing margarita!

Hayden M.

0

2

0

7 years ago

Staff and owner are extremely rude

The Union - divebars - Updated August 2026

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Stopped by this bar while out for pride! It was a good vibe but it was packed. Drinks can be a bit…read morepricey but tasted good!

A great spot we didn't anticipate or plan for. Grady gets the award for most welcoming and being…read morethe best mixologist. A super secret squirrel spot that we are so happy to have found! Going to recommend to everyone traveling to the area!

Smokey Joe's Cafe

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(50 reviews)

One of the things that I love about this bar is you never know what you're going to get. You can…read moreshow up and the place be packed with a band playing or it could be just you and a few others. Bands are usually local and you might even know a member. The drinks are strong and cheap and there is a nice variety. I like going here before AND after a show at Ovens or a Checkers game. The ring game on the deck can keep (me) entertained for a hot minute and pool and darts is a nice competitive change. I also noticed this time there, that there is a photobooth next to the bar. I'll check that out the next time I'm there.

I really enjoyed stopping here for a drink at the end of the night. The bartenders were attentive…read moreand fast. There was a cover for the band playing but they were amazing and definitely worth it!

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Fantastic service with a gorgeous view of the uptown skyline. The menu has a great selection of…read morecocktails and a wide variety of super cute tiki glassware! There is an occasional DJ, but even without this is a great place to hang out and easily spend the entire evening.

awesome, attentive bartender and unique vibe! Asked for an off menu item (piña colada) and got one…read moreof the best I've ever had!

Coin Bar

3.6

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The views are good. I love the giant screens showing four different things…read more The music is good. The food is pretty decent. The chicken sandwich is fantastic. The drinks were watered down. I tried four different drinks, but unfortunately, I tasted no liquor. On top of that, they forgot our drinks twice. I had a blackberry mojito, a summer spritzer, Rays for Days, and a margarita. There is covered seating if you buy a section for the day.

Drinks awesome. Vibe awesome. The service from Alley, Myyonna, & Will are goat quality! Idk why…read morethis place has a 3.5 star should be a 5 star with the value that's been offered.

Blue Door

4.2

(27 reviews)

I came here by coincidence and it became one of my Charlotte favorites…read more The staff was incredibly attentive, they gave us an appetitive drink or however you wanna call them and free popcorn. The cocktail menu changes every 6 months and this time it was famous pirates of history themed. Cocktails themselves were incredible. During the week sometimes they have live music and I'm planning to go back for that!!!! Loved it!

3.5/5 stars. Went back to Blue Door to give it another chance with the new menu... it's still my…read moreleast favorite cocktail bar in all of charlotte. The menu this time is theme park theme... again, a fun concept but not well executed. Pretty overwhelming, especially with the bartenders explaining the menu to us twice with the same spiel there is too much to look at it makes it difficult to pay attention to the drinks. I really did not love my drink (starbreaker?) you could only taste the lychee The bartenders not a vibe, it was not that comfortable to sit at the bar. They now serve food, hotdogs... which do NOT match the vibe at all, so that was interesting that their only food (other than the free popcorn) is not hot dogs..

Tilt

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(102 reviews)

This place very much served its purpose. We stopped in for a last stop on a night out before…read morereturning to the hotel across the street. The bartenders were nice & efficient. We enjoyed playing Jenga here. Drinks options were pretty standard. A DJ started playing halfway through our time there so I imagine it gets quite feisty there, so definitely worth popping in if you're in the area. If you're not looking for a more divey place to end/continue your night, probably not the spot for you but I think if you know what it is it's a nice option.

Walked into tilt on Thursday afternoon & had the pleasure to have been attended by Michael Dean. He…read morewas friendly, welcoming and very engaged in our attendance. Drinks were good and fairly priced. I will say that the only thing better then the drink was his hospitality. Thank you Michael! We will be back!

Courtyard Hooligans

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Hooligans FC was a blast! It was small and compact, but still packed a large punch of fun! I loved…read morethe all-wood interior, and the overall vibe gave a small taste of an Irish or European pub. I'd highly recommend stopping in!

Crazy good vibe! Great food, and good people! Come here to watch anything and eat/drink!read more

Connolly's On Fifth

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(123 reviews)

Cool vibe. Small place (upstairs closed) but definitely an Irish vibe: lighting, bartenders, music,…read morebar, etc. One of the bartenders told me the beers were $3 but found out later they were $5. He seemed cool but gotta go with a 4 due to that. Regardless, I definitely recommend this place before peak hours if you want a chill vibe where you can hear each other talk and enjoy some Irish music you will almost never hear anywhere else. It's dim in here so just a heads-up if that's not your vibe. I like dim so no big deal for me. Recommended. The peak-hour crowded vibe in a small space with one bathroom isn't for me.

Cold Cole dropped multiple beers on me and my team to keep us up to date and on time. If I had to…read moresuggest ask for him. If you can't the bar tenders were professional and ready for any ask. Thank you Connolly's! King of this Queen City!

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