17 Rooftop Restaurants in Charlotte You Need to See to Believe

Charlotte is home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, the PNC Music Pavilion, an abundance of art and history museums, and several sites for outdoor adventures. But where can you turn when the charm of a wholesome day in the city has worn off and you’re in search of a good time? Look no further than these lively rooftop restaurants located in Charlotte with fun music, delicious food, and of course, stunning city views.

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1. Whiskey Warehouse

Rustic rooftop with whiskey-forward cocktails and an endless roster of local beer.

1221 The Plaza | Charlotte | whiskeywarehouse.com 

This rustic rooftop is the place to go if you want simple, solid food, drink, and views. Serving typical bar fare, as well as whiskey-forward cocktails and an endless roster of local beer, you’re not there for the food necessarily, but for a comfortable experience topped with stunning views of the city.

Be sure to grab their “Mule of the Month,” the Plantation Pineapple Mule and check their website for their daily specials - there’s a reason to head over to Whiskey Warehouse every night of the week!

As for the weekends, the staff makes way for DJs and live bands on Friday and Saturday nights. And on Sundays, Whiskey Warehouse takes on the role of the neighborhood spot for Sunday football!

“Went to brunch with my grandma and sister here. My sister was over the moon over $2 mimosas. The amount of food given was a lot and well worth the money. Waffles were to die for in my opinion. Absolutely loved this place.” - Yelp Review

You can purchase a GiftYa for Whiskey Warehouse here!

2. Merchant and Trade

Vibrant retreat with expertly crafted cocktails and delicious bar snacks.

303 S Church St | Charlotte | merchantandtrade.com 

Located on the 19th floor, this chic rooftop bar offers panoramic views of Uptown Charlotte you won’t find at any other rooftop restaurant. Being that Merchant + Trade is broken into four distinct zones – indoor bar, outdoor terrace, private terrace, and the lawn, it’s easy to determine what kind of experience you want the night to offer you.

Wherever you choose to spend your time at Merchant and Trade, you will find a carefully curated cocktail list made with North Carolina produced spirits as well as elevated bar bites.

Of their House Cocktails, we recommend Bog Days (espolon reposado, cranberry, lemon, honey, and buck spice ginger bitters) for the tequila lovers and Wake up Call (cold brew, demerara, bourbon, and Bailey's whipped cream) for those whose night is just getting started!

“Overall, the atmosphere is amazing. The views of the city are beautiful. Be prepared to wait in line then wait in line again at the elevator before being allowed to the rooftop. Be patient. The views are worth the wait!” - Yelp Review

You can purchase a GiftYa for Merchant and Trade here!

3. Nellie’s Southern Kitchen

Owned and operated by the Jonas family.

36 N Main St | Charlotte | nelliessouthernkitchen.com 

If you are a Jonas Brothers’ fan, run, don't walk to support their family-owned and operated restaurant honoring their great grandmother, Nellie. Kevin Jonas, Sr. thought it the best way to honor his grandmother’s warm nature and delicious cooking. Today, you can order the namesake Nellie’s Chicken and Dumplins among other Southern dishes.

We recommend getting the Basket of Biscuits to share with the table and the Chicken and Waffles to keep all to yourself.

Come Wednesday-Sunday night for live music starting at 6:30 pm or for Sunday brunch (which also features live music) from 10 am-3 pm.

“Loved the food here and all the Jonas brothers memorabilia!! The manager is very nice and the staff has great manners!! 10/10 recommended. Great place for some southern hospitality.” - Yelp Review

You can purchase a GiftYa for Nellie’s Southern Kitchen here!

4. RH Rooftop Restaurant Charlotte 

A skylit garden escape. 

6903 Phillips Place Ct | Charlotte | rh.com/charlotte/restaurant 

You don’t have to leave Charlotte to escape into this garden oasis complete with trickling fountains, trees, and chandeliers. Could you imagine a better spot for dinner drinks and pictures?

Experience the magic that is RH Rooftop for brunch, lunch, or dinner seven days a week. Be sure to try the Truffled Grilled Cheese served on artisan sourdough and treat yourself to a glass of white wine to wash it down with.

This is the perfect spot to dine with friends from out of town or enjoy a light refreshing lunch with coworkers. Head over as soon as you can!

“This place is AMAZING!! The food, vibe, service, everything was just great! I have tried the lobster roll, bacon, mushroom medley, and broccolini and they were all delicious! Also, get the bellini champagne thing. Super yum!” - Yelp Review

5. Lincoln Street Kitchen and Cocktails

Small plates and innovative cocktails.

1320 S Church St | Charlotte | lincolnstreetkitchen.com 

Owners Alyson and Dan Davis designed Lincoln Street Kitchen and Cocktails to be local inside and out. Here you will find small plates inspired by the produce of the region and sourced from local farmers, as well as innovative cocktails featuring house made shrubs, sodas, barrel-aged cocktails, and a curated wine list. 

As for the atmosphere, you just have to see it. It carefully balances nature with modern, as evinced from the moss wall, lime washed brick, and walnut live edge bar.

On Tuesday, all bottles of wine are ½ off. And on Wednesday, each of the classic cocktails are $8! 

Do yourself a favor and order a side of Herbed Potato Wedges. They are “chef’s kiss!” 

“Cute little restaurant with great cocktails! I loved the My Sweet Summer cocktail! We also ordered the carrot cake, which was amazing! Service here was great as well! Everything was so good! I will definitely be back to try their dinner or brunch!” - Yelp Review

6. Cordial

A destination as well as an everyday spot boasting a Spanish-inspired menu.

1824 Roxborough Rd | Charlotte | cordialclt.com 

The word “cordial,” meaning both a stimulating drink and marked by warm and often hearty friendliness, perfectly encapsulates what you will find at Cordial. Here you will find inventive cocktails, small plates, and of course, stunning views. 

With a cocktail menu that changes with the seasons (and their mood!) you will never be bored. While it lasts, be sure to try the Pink G&T and the Mi Amorcito, Paloma.

As for the fare, their Spanish-inspired menu boasts tapas you can enjoy as an appetizer, dinner, or late-night snack. We recommend the Yuca Fries, served with Mojo and a Pink Sauce, as well as the Chicken Empanadas. But really, you can’t go wrong.

“I liked this bar! Came for my birthday in May and I appreciate that it's still a bit of a hidden gem. We were able to get seats and enjoy our night without being crowded or pushed out. Beautiful views and drinks!” - Yelp Review

7. Búho Bar

Sultry music and artfully crafted cocktails.

201 W Trade St | Charlotte | kesslercollection.com/bohemian-charlotte/dining

Journey to Argentina without leaving Charlotte at this elegant rooftop bar. Designed in the bohemian style, this spot captures the essence of the vibrant culture not only through the visual, but through the sound and taste as well thanks to sultry music and unique flavors.

Try the Búho itself, 15 Cold Distilled Cucumber Vodka, Twisted Alchemy Watermelon Juice, agave, and lemon. Or venture to try the Blushing Búho, 16 Roku ‘Suntory’ Japanese Gin, elderflower, grapefruit, lemon, and sparkling rose wine or the Machu Picchu, 15 Ketel One Botanical Cucumber & Mint Vodka, lime juice, fennel, and honey.

As for the tapas, get the Crab Fondido and the Cotija Street Corn Twisted Fries served with paprika aioli. 

“You MUST ORDER the Machu Picchu cocktail. First you eat the flower (yes, chew and swallow) then take a tiny bite of the honey comb and sip the drink. SO cool! Overall, this is my favorite rooftop bar in Charlotte.” - Yelp Review

8. Aura Rooftop

A cocktail bar where you will thoroughly enjoy everything they have!

124 E Stonewall Street | Uptown | aurarooftop.com

Are you looking for a place that has some of the best cocktails in all of Charlotte? If so, then you can’t miss out on Aura Rooftop where you can enjoy plenty of cocktails that are each very unique, and some delicious food as well. Enjoying the views of Charlotte is what you will enjoy most of all, but why not enjoy it with a cocktail in your hand too.

At Aura Rooftop, you need to try out some of their amazing small plates ranging from ahi tuna tacos, brisket sliders, grilled pineapple salsa, spicy tuna sushi rolls, and so much more. But don’t miss out on their drink menu, each with their own unique name, flavor, and more. Check out Aura Rooftop today!

"My drink was right on time also, this is a Great spot for date night or ladies link up with great photo ops! See below‼” - Yelp Review 

9. Rooftop 210

A cocktail restaurant that also has concerts and special events too!

210 E Trade Street | Uptown | facebook.com/rooftop210

There is really nothing better than enjoying Charlotte’s skyline while enjoying a cocktail or two. If you’re looking for the perfect place to do just this, then you need to stop by Rooftop 210 as soon as you can! Rooftop 210 is known for having some of the best food, cocktails, and entertainment with live concerts, and other special events being held here too.

Come to Rooftop 210 as soon as you can so you can enjoy a lot of amazing cocktails, dress casually, and get in with no cover charge whatsoever. You can enjoy the Charlotte nightlife and with a couple drinks to get your buzz on, so make sure to check out Rooftop 210 today!

“Bar was hopping, the service was great, & the view was incredible!  Looking forward to coming back soon!” - Yelp Review 

10. Fahrenheit Charlotte

Dive into some amazing New American dishes and cocktails served on an outdoor patio around fire pits!

222 S Caldwell Street | Uptown | chefroccowhalen.com

We know that you’re wanting to get out of the house and go to a bar that is extremely unique and one-of-a-kind in Charlotte, so why not head to Fahrenheit Charlotte right now! This restaurant is perfect in so many ways because the New American food is amazing, the cocktails are even better, and you can enjoy the Charlotte skyline by a fire pit too.

Check out Fahrenheit Charlotte right away where you can try out the American wagyu short rib steamed buns, seared ahi tuna, crispy tempura shrimp, seared pork tenderloin, and even their amazing slow braised American wagyu short ribs too. Don’t miss out on Fahrenheit Charlotte for their amazing food, drinks, and more!

“Very good selections. Everything we ordered from appetizer to main dish was excellent.” - Yelp Review 

11. Coin Bar

A poolside bar with city views is just what you need in Charlotte!

132 E Trade Street | Uptown | omnihotels.com

Located in the Omni Charlotte Hotel is Coin Bar, a super fun and hit cocktail bar that we know you will absolutely adore. Not only can you come and enjoy a cocktail or two, but you can also try out their amazing food options, as well as sit poolside and watch the day go by in the bustling city of Charlotte too.

Check out Coin Bar right now so you can try out charred mango hummus, crispy corn hush puppies, grilled chicken sandwiches, blackened mahi mahi tacos, and of course, you need to try out a drink or two from their incredible cocktail menu too. From the blueberry margarita, pina coladas, and so much more, we think that Coin Bar is the perfect place for you!

“The staff were all very nice and helpful. We really enjoyed the service. I loved watching movies while having a nice view of the tall buildings surrounding us!” - Yelp Review 

12. The Imperial

Craft cocktails, live music nights, a rooftop patio, and the amazing Charlotte skyline is perfect!

300 N College Street | Uptown | uptowncharlotte.com

What’s better than a night out with your friends or family getting cocktails, eating good food, listening to music, and just having a good time? We can’t think of anything better, so make sure to check out The Imperial as soon as you can! The Imperial is a fun bar where you can listen to all of Charlotte’s local musicians, or go to the rooftop for a DJ-filled night. 

The Imperial is the perfect place to go to when you’re craving some food and drinks, so make sure to try out their expansive list of cocktails, such as the dry ice drink, the cotton candy drink, the smokey drink, and so much more. There is nothing better than some live music, drinks, and food, so come to The Imperial today!

“Whenever I come back for a return weekend stay in Charlotte, I will DEFINITELY return to the Imperial. I'm claiming this place as one of my spots!” - Yelp Review

13. Nuvole Rooftop TwentyTwo

Dine with Your Head in the Clouds at Charlotte’s Highest Indoor-Outdoor Rooftop Lounge

220 E Trade St | Uptown | nuvole22.com

If you’re looking for a rooftop restaurant in Charlotte that will impress – whether it’s a working dinner, a family gathering, the first day, or the thousandth. Formerly required, groups under 15 no longer need to worry about making a reservation before heading Uptown in your best dress-to-impress attire.

Order a shareable spread as an appetizer – like the Break Bread rustic bread platter or the rosemary parmesan fries – and then take your choice of the best dinner plate options on land and sea. But save room for dessert – the tuxedo bombs and fried cheesecake both get rave reviews. 

“This rooftop has an AMAZING view of the city. Depending on which side you sit at, you get different views. This is definitely a nice photo op location. It felt very relaxing just sitting down and staring out to the city. ” –Yelp Review

14. Novelty House 

Taking the Energy of the 5th Street District Vertical Since 2020

123 E Fifth St | Uptown | noveltyhouseclt.com

Open for lunch and dinner, the Novelty House is a high-energy rooftop cocktail bar that attracts locals and tourists alike. Sit amongst beautiful blooms as you take in dazzling views of the Queen City skyline. Guests are asked to keep their attire upscale and classy to match the vibe of the bar, but sports attire is acceptable on home game days for Charlotte’s sports teams.

“this place was so fun! the entire rooftop is covered in flowers, so it's perfect for photos and generally has good vibes. ” - Yelp Review

15. Hestia

Awaken Your Senses with Bold Flavors and Beautiful Views

14819 Ballantyne Village Way | Ballantyne | hestiarooftop.com

Hestia is where rooftop bars and trendy Japanese fusion restaurants collide. Using premium ingredients, Hestia will transform anything you order – whether it’s one of their carefully crafted cocktails or one of their sophisticated entrees. Open for dinner service and Sunday brunch, you’ll want to reserve a table in advance if you plan on dining high above the bustling Ballantyne food scene.

Whether you sample the fresh sushi or enjoy a grilled seafood plate, you’re sure to leave satisfied.

“This is one of the hidden gems Japanese restaurants in Charlotte, if you like authentic Japanese nigiri and omakase. Great service from sushi bar.” – Yelp Review

16. Link & Pin

The Rustic Gastropub that Pulled in OpenTable’s Diners Choice Award in 2023 

Text a Link & Pin gift card

155 New Bern St | Southside Park | linkandpin.com

Inspired by the historic railroads that connected Columbia to Charlotte via Charlotte’s South End, “Link & Pin” gets its name from old railroad terminology. The elegant restaurant will transport you back in time, but the menu steps boldly into the future. The chef-driven options strive to make high-end cuisine approachable. 

Enjoy a mouthwatering charcuterie spread or a tomahawk bone-in ribeye cooked to perfection – and don’t forget a few sides for the table. The lobster mac and cheese is highly rated.

“LOVE this spot. Gorgeous decor... felt like stepping back in time. I will say the drinks are pricey.I expect those prices when I also have a rooftop view. Our service was good too. Loved their outdoor seating as well. Great date spot- will return!” – Yelp Review

Text a Link & Pin gift card

17. Mizu

Ancient Live-Fire Japanese Flavor Meet Southern Dining Traditions Atop the Hyatt Centric

3100 Apex Dr | SouthPark  | mizu.restaurant

Located on the 9th floor of the Hyatt Centric in SouthPark, Mizu brings the tradition of Japanese live-fire cooking right here to Charlotte. The kitchen features its own authentic Robata grill, so this is the closest you can get to having a meal in Japan without leaving North Carolina.

Mizu’s seafood-focused menu features plates that are wood-fired, chilled, and raw, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. We recommend the Robata-grilled chicken Yaki-Tori as well as the Lemon Drop Maki Rolls. 

“The rooftop view is unmatched! We made it in to see the sunset. The decor was beautiful, the vibes and ambiance were great! Also it's in a very nice part of town.” – Yelp Review

That’s it for Charlotte’s Top Rooftop Restaurants.

With so many incredible rooftop restaurants to choose from in Charlotte, we think that you should come see one of our fourteen favorites in the area. Take a night out to relax, enjoy some drinks, food, music, and the Charlotte skyline views!

Is there a rooftop restaurant that you love, but we didn’t mention? Let us know in the comments below!