BLVD: Around town in November
October 31, 2024
What’s new on the dining scene in Charlotte, plus an uptown hotel makes the list for outstanding stays.
now open
Albertine, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant from Joe and Katy Kindred, is now open Wed.-Sun. in uptown. Healthy fast-casual spot Sweetgreen debuted its first North Carolina location in uptown at One Independence Center. Asheville’s Chop Shop Butchery opened its second location at 2820 Selwyn Ave. in Myers Park.
Photographs by Jennifer Chong, courtesy Sweetgreen Uptown Charlotte
Merchant & Trade set the standard for rooftop venues in Charlotte when it opened in 2017. Now, the 19th-floor bar and lounge at uptown’s Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel proves it’s still leading the way after unveiling a rainforest-inspired renovation with a softer, botanical aesthetic.
“Our vision was to enhance what was already a beloved spot by introducing design elements and experiences that align with the evolving preferences of our guests,” says Chris Baliles, director of restaurants, bars, and events at the Kimpton.
The faux “lawn” was replaced with wood flooring; new furnishings include rattan chairs, teak tables and neutral-toned sofas. Lush greenery and two new murals by Raleigh artist Gabriel Eng-Goetz add to the botanical vibe.
Merchant & Trade photographs by Houston Ray Photography
While the sprawling 4,500-square-foot space has a refreshed look, one thing hasn’t changed: the spectacular panoramic views of uptown and beyond.
Merchant & Trade is open 5 p.m.- midnight Tuesday-Friday, 2 p.m.-midnight on Saturday, and 2-10 p.m. on Sunday, with live DJs on the weekends. 303 Church St., merchantandtrade.com.
The Ivey’s Hotel in uptown was named to the Michelin Guide’s 2024 list of outstanding hotels. It’s one of five North Carolina hotels awarded a Michelin Key.
gone too soon
Girl Tribe closed its SouthPark store at Morrison. The South End store remains open. El Thrifty Social closed after five years at Optimist Hall. υIndonesian restaurant Nusa closed at the Arboretum.
