Paid to Party

Here's to Charlotte's future

2009-11-13T10:00:00.002-05:00

Two years ago, I started this nightlife beat with excitement and trepidation. Was there really enough going on around town for me to write about? But Charlotte's booming entertainment scene kept me high-heeling it through uptown, Plaza Midwood, Lake Norman, Ballantyne and everywhere in between.

Today is my last day at the Observer. I've taken a job in Atlanta.

While my feet will thank me, I'll miss being able to watch the nightlife landscape in Charlotte continue to grow and evolve. Here's what I hope the future holds for the city's partygoers:

I hope some women step up to try their hands at the male-dominated nightlife industry. We need them to show that a good bar doesn't mean scantily clad bartenders or turning up the music as loud as it will go. Sometimes all it takes is a simple wooden bar, a few stools and some good beers on tap (see: The Flying Saucer, Thomas Street Tavern or Alexander Michael's).
I hope Charlotte embraces alternative lifestyles. This year has seen too many gay bars close (Velocity and the Eagle most recently; and the Garden & Gun Club went straight with its new Halo name), and they're often the ones to be setting the trends. Drag queen Roxy Moorecox is doing her part at Petra's, as is Dan Mauney with his popular Takeover Friday party, but we need more.
And while the N.C. Music Factory and the EpiCentre attract the biggest crowds, I hope local partygoers continue to support people like Eric Sprouse, owner of Dilworth Billiards, who greets customers (and their pets) warmly by name and makes his cozy pool hall feel like home. Or Tommy Timmins, owner of Madison's, Connolly's, The Attic and Tyber Creek, who lets others try gimmicks while he and his partners keep things simple and consistent. Or the Wilson brothers over at the Thirsty Beaver Saloon in Plaza Midwood, where they crack open a can of PBR for you before you even have a chance to grab a seat.

Those kinds of local people are the future of Charlotte. They will be the ones to carry on the small-town feel of this city, not the well-dressed doormen with earpieces charging you a $10 cover. We are not New York and we don't have to be.

Good luck, Charlotte. I'll be watching from afar.

This week's party picks

2009-11-11T12:00:00.000-05:00

Friday

Checkers Hat Trick

5 p.m. Corner of Fifth and College streets. $15 or 2 for $25. www.bandtastic.com.

Make a night out of the Checkers game with pre- and post-game parties courtesy of Elevate Lifestyle magazine. Ticket price includes a pre-party with beer and food (pizza from Libretto’s) at Buckhead Saloon, admission to the game and free entry into Buckhead for the (fingers crossed) post-victory celebration.

Saturday

Red White & Blues

8-11 p.m. Wachovia Atrium. $35 in advance; $40 at the door. www.redwhiteandbluescharlotte.com.

No, it’s not July, but the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation invites you to join its tri-colored themed party for an evening of charity and awareness. The all-inclusive party will feature local art, wine and beer selections, catered food, a silent auction and live music from U-Phonik. Proceeds go toward sending children with Crohn’s Disease and colitis to summer camp.

Sunday

Chili cookoff and block party

1-6 p.m. 1936 E. Seventh St. $20 entrance fee for amateurs; $40 for professionals. For more info, e-mail Richard Gruica at epicurious1972@hotmail.com.

Local foodies from Good Eats Charlotte and the Go Social Club present the first Chili Cookoff at Jackalope Jack’s. Test your skills against amateurs and professionals alike. Can’t take the heat? Sit back with a beer (or game of skeeball) and party with former Panthers like Dan Morgan at the joint tailgate block party.

Monday

World Series of Beer Pong

7-11 p.m. 301 E. Seventh St. $20 ($25 at the door) per player in advance. www.bpong.com/tour

The 2009 BPONG Tour is coming to Charlotte to find potential contestants for the World Series of Beer Pong. Lovers of the sloppy drinking game can test their drunken hand-eye coordination in the official satellite tournament at Dixie’s Tavern. The winners will qualify for entry to The World Series of Beer Pong V – to be held January 1-5 in Las Vegas – where they will compete against hundreds of teams for a chance to win $50,000.

A note to my readers

2009-11-09T15:31:00.000-05:00

I wanted to give you all a heads up that this will be my last week at the Observer. I've taken a job in Atlanta.

You can read my last column Friday online or in the CLT entertainment section.

I've appreciated all of the feedback this blog has generated, and I want to thank everyone for reading and keeping me on my toes. It's been a lot of fun and I'll miss meeting you guys out and about.

Beginning next week, entertainment editor Theoden Janes (who can be reached here) will take over the Party Picks column for CLT and CharlotteObserver.com, and both the section and the Web site will continue to offer all the best local entertainment news and event listings. You'll also still be able to find slideshows of local partyers on our Web site.

Bar brand expands across Tryon

2009-11-05T15:41:00.010-05:00

The unofficial kings of uptown's East Fifth Street are expanding their brand across Tryon Street. Tommy Timmins, Kevin Devin and Maynard Goble – owners of Madison’s, Connolly’s, The Attic and Southend’s Tyber Creek Pub – are branching their successful bar brand into a small-plates restaurant concept.

Dandelion Market is tentatively set to open in early December on West Fifth Street in the old Latorre’s Restaurant site.

The name comes from the marketplace by the same name in Dublin, Ireland, in the 1970s, and just as the original Dandelion Market served as a popular meeting place for friends, Timmins says he hopes Charlotte’s version becomes a similar destination.

“Residents and visitors alike need a central meeting place to eat, drink and socialize, so it’s our goal to provide it,” he says.

Chef Katie Formuzis, formerly of Washington, D.C., has crafted a menu of about 30 small plates including Aged Cheddar and Fat Tire Ale Fondue, served with grilled baguette slices and caramelized apples.

“It’s a straightforward menu with ingredients you can understand,” Timmins says. “We’re taking the intimidation out of it.”

Dandelion also plans for 75 percent of its food to be supplied by local farmers and for much of its beer selection to come from Carolina breweries.

Fans of the partners’ pubs will find a similar lively, party atmosphere at Dandelion, despite the addition of cuisine and servers. Two full bars – one downstairs and one up – will have 24 craft-style beers on tap, along with an affordable wine list (no bottle over $25).

“We’re still going to do what we do after dinner (served until 11),” Timmins says. “We’re not going to get away from what we’re good at, but this gives us another angle.”

So at a time when businesses are struggling to stay afloat, how do the guys manage to keep their bars hopping and add a restaurant to the mix?

“We do our best to make friends with our customers and take care of them,” Devin says. “That’s always No. 1 to us.”

And while opening a new business in any economy is always a risk, Timmins says the moderately priced menu (plates range from $4 to $15) is what uptown needs.

"We think that's going to give us a nice jump-start," he says. "People will be more apt to check us out not just only on special occasions."

This week's party picks

2009-11-04T16:36:00.001-05:00

Tonight

Mix at Six

5-9:30 p.m. Ballantyne Village. Free. www.mixatsixballantyne.com.

It's the last Mix at Six of the season. Head over to Ballantyne Village and enjoy live music in the courtyard from Josh Z & Company.

Thursday

7-11 p.m. Holiday Inn Center City. $60 for members; $75 for nonmembers (tax deductible). www.blackandwhitecharlotte.com.

It's already November and the season of giving has officially begun. The Young Affiliates of the Mint are among the first each year to kick off the fall holiday parties with their annual Black & White Gala. Live music from the Swingin' Richards, buffet, and free beer and wine. Black-tie optional.

Friday

Gallery crawl

6-9 p.m. Various locations throughout Southend. Free. www.historicsouthend.com.

Take a stroll through the crisp fall air and warm up with wine at some of Southend’s coziest art galleries and shops. A few new businesses in the booming area are joining the crawl, held the first Friday of every month.

Elevate Lounge on the Yacht

Registration at 6:30 p.m. at Loft 1523. 1523 Elizabeth Ave. $25. www.bandtastic.com.

It’s a three-hour tour of Lake Norman aboard the Ragin’ Party Yacht courtesy of Elevate Lifestyle. Tickets include pre- and post-parties with drink specials, free shots and beer on the bus to the marina and catered food and cash bar on the boat.

Beards BeCAUSE

7 p.m. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, 911 E. Morehead St. $5 donation. www.beardsbecause.com.

Check out the growers' halfway progress at this fun fundraiser's "5 O'Clock Shadow Party." Nearly 100 people have put down their razors or opened their wallets to help raise money for United Family Services Battered Women's Shelter. Live music from Finnegan Bell and Darnell Woodies.

Saturday

Pig Pickin’ Oyster Roast

2 p.m. 1101 Central Ave. $10. www.charlottecommonhouse.com.

Common House in Plaza Midwood hosts its first fall BBQ and oyster roast. Join the cornhole tournament ($30 per team; $500 cash prize) or just enjoy the food, local beer and live music from Simplified, the Loose Lugnuts, Hunter’s Travesty and the Paul Atkinson Band. Proceeds benefit Friendship Trays.

Halloween: The good, bad and overdone

2009-11-02T09:45:00.001-05:00

On a rainy, muggy night, thousands of costume-clad partygoers hit Charlotte bars on the first Halloween to fall on a Saturday in 11 years.

It was the culmination of a week of nightly costume parties that started a week before with the Gravedigger's Ball and ended Saturday with virtually every bar in town decking its walls with fake spider webs and orange and black streamers.

And because Oct. 31 was a Saturday this year, parties started early -- more than 1,200 people alone joined Rich and Bennett's Pub Crawl that started at 1 p.m. -- and lasted well into the night for those who were able to go the distance in packed, humid bars. (My aching feet forced me to throw in the towel at 11:30. I wasn't one of the brave few girls who risked who-knows-what by traipsing barefoot through beer-splattered bars.)

The Good:

A few people did their interpretation of recent pop-culture phenomenon Falcon Heene, aka Balloon Boy, but special props go to the guy who pasted a picture of Falcon on the balloon with the caption "Save Me."

One dedicated guy was a very convincing Teen Wolf -- easily the best makeup of the night, along with a group of Kiss lookalikes.

Two airline pilots got a lot of attention: one was a Northwest pilot who had a laptop strapped to him with a sign pointing toward Minneapolis, and the other was local hero Captain Sully, complete with goosefeathers and a deflated-looking goose atop his head.

A group of three guys dressed as plastic Army soldiers and stayed in character throughout the night. They were spotted around town posing for pictures in the classic stances made famous by the toys.

The Bad:

Not only has Halloween become the sluttiest night of the year (see: The Overdone, below), but it has also apparently become the night when men unleash their adolescent senses of humor. Seriously, guys, the giant penis costumes are just gross. Curiously, you never see any of them with dates.

On the opposite end of the in-your-face spectrum are the costumes that aren't immediately recognizable. If you don't know within seconds, it's not a successful costume. I saw way too many of those this weekend.

Football jerseys are just plain lazy. Period.

The Overdone:

I said it last year, and I'll say it again. The sexy insert-any-character/insect/animal-you-can-think-of-here has become entirely too predictable. They all just start to blend in after a while, taking the shock factor out of barely there skirts, fishnets and skimpy tops. (To see any of these said costumes, click on any album on LazyDay.com or CarolinaNightlife.com or check out this list of Dos and Don'ts to consider next year.)

Doctors. (See football jerseys above.)

While I liked this costume, I saw it a lot: guys dressed as the little boy from "Where the Wild Things Are" as the children's classic enjoys a pop-culture resurgence with the movie version of the book in theaters now. But, I have to give credit to any grown man willing to wear a footed onesie.

And, I'm including myself in the overdone category. I was one of many Lady Gagas spotted pants-less around town, although we all offered something different. Here's a pic of me and fellow Gagas.

For more pictures from Halloween, check out my Party Pix slideshow when it goes up Thursday afternoon on CharlotteObserver.com. For video from Saturday night, click here.

What's your take on Halloween 2009? Best/worst parties? Most overdone costumes? Post in comments below.

Hotties up for auction tonight

2009-10-29T15:41:00.000-04:00

Uptown Magazine has released its latest batch of "Uptown's Sexiest" and the honorees will be auctioning off some great packages tonight at Enso.

This year's sexy six are:

Susan Tran, former newscaster at WSOC (package includes a four-night/three-day trip for two to Bermuda).
Alessandra Ball, ballet dancer with N.C. Dance Theatre (package includes premium tickets to a number of different N.C. Dance Theatre performances)
Brad Beltrondo, managing partner at Suite (package includes various EpiCentre VIP cards, restaurant gift certificates, pampering at Modern Salon and a package at Palm Beach Tan)
Johnathan Cuevas, owner of Apostrophe Lounge (package includes Bobcats tickets, a VIP table at Apostrophe and various gift certificates to uptown and Southend hotspots)
Olivia Moore, leasing manager at Ashton Southend (package includes chauffeured limousine service, autographed Panthers memorabilia and a gift certificate to Neiman Marcus)
Jack Egbert, pitcher for the Charlotte Knights (package includes a 14-person suite at Knights Stadium, throwing out the first pitch and a tour of the clubhouse)

Tonight's party starts at 7 and will feature fire throwers and a drum circle courtesy of DrumStrong. Auction starts at 8. It's free to get in and proceeds from the auction benefit the Levine Children's Hospital.

Halloween 2009

2009-10-27T15:18:00.010-04:00

Halloween bashes are spooking Charlotte! Here's a list of events this weekend.

Friday

Glitterati Ball -- The Devil's Last Waltz: JStudio and Roxy Moorecox host this masquerade ball at the Visulite Theatre. Highlights include music by DJ Wiiz Kid and George Brazil, entertainment by Angela Lopez and the Queens of the Masquerade, the JStudio dancers, and Simone the Dollminatrix and her whipping booth. 9 p.m. 1615 Elizabeth Ave. Tickets are $5 in advance and $8 at the door (available at Common Market Southend, JStudio or by emailing glitteratiball@gmail.com).

Shiprocked! Snug Harbor hosts a Halloween Carnival with help from Scott Weaver's popular Shiprocked weekly party. Games, prizes, a drag show and costume contest. 1228 Gordon St. FREE. www.snugrock.com.

Takeover Friday: Watch The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Dammit Janet nightclub just north of NoDa. 7-10 p.m. 3746 N. Davidson St. $5. www.www.myspace.com/dammitjanetcharlotte.

Halloween Howler Bar Crawl: Presented by Bacardi and CarolinaNightlife.com. Six stops. Costumes mandatory. 6 p.m. registration at Dixie's. 301 E. Seventh St. $10 in advance; $20 day of. www.carolinanightlife.com.

Supernatural Halloween: Elevate celebrates with an after-work party at BlackFinn. 6 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. www.elevatecharlotte.com.

Ghostbusters Boo Bash: Breakfast Club's costume party. Also 1-2-3 night: $1 domestics, $2 imports, $3 mixed drinks. Take your picture with the ghostbusters' ambulance. 8 p.m. 225 N. Caldwell St. $7 for members; $8 for nonmembers. www.that80sclub.com.

Masquerade Party: Blue Restaurant is offering free entry to its Halloween party with dinner reservations. Costume prizes, drink and appetizer specials. Samba dance entertainment. 9:30 p.m. Corner of Fifth and College streets. Advance tickets $10; $15 at the door. www.bluecharlotte.com.

Thriller Costume Ball: Sponsor Parties presents this 25th annual party at Mez. Costumes preferred. 8 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. $5-$15. For more information, e-mail partyczar@yahoo.com.

Fox & Hound, Ballantyne: Halloween bash benefitting St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. Live music from The Holdouts. Costume contest and drink specials. 10 p.m. 15235 John J. Delaney Drive. $5 donation at the door.

Candy + Potter's Halloween Skate Jam: $500 best costume. Partygoers will attempt to break the Michael Jackson Thriller dance world record on roller skates. Free psychic readings from Mary Beth Wrenn and magic shows from Hannibal. 21 and up. Bar will be open. 11 p.m. Kate's Skate in Indian Trail, 14500 Independence Blvd. $12 tickets available online or at the door if available. www.candyandpotter.com.

Saturday, aka Halloween

Fangtasia: Alley Cat transforms itself into a vampire-friendly nightclub with cocktails inspired by HBO's "True Blood." Bartenders will be wearing costumes from the show and Crashbox will perform the show's theme song. $500 prize for best costume. Ages 18 and up. 9 p.m. 314 N. College St. $10 for ages 21 and up; $20 for those under 21. www.groovetickets.com.

CarnEVIL 2009: One of the biggest bashes every year, CarnEVIL is back at Amos' Southend. Highlights include a performance from La Petite Mort Burlesque, a zombie fashion show, a fire performance, and food and prizes. 8 p.m. 1423 S. Tryon St. $20 in advance; $25 at the door. www.amossouthend.com.

Black Hearts Ball: Pavilion at EpiCentre hosts the band JET. Ticket includes entry into Suite, Whisky River, BlackFinn and Strike City. Prizes for best costume. 7 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. $15 in advance. www.fullhouseconcerts.musictoday.com.

7 Deadly Sins: Suite's costume party. $1,000 prize. 9 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. $10 in advance. Tickets available at the club. www.suitecharlotte.com.

House of Horrors: BlackFinn's costume party. $500 and more in prizes. 9 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. www.blackfinncharlotte.com.

Monster Mash: The Guys with Ties host their annual party at a new venue this year, Strike City. $750 prize for best costume. Proceeds benefit Jacob's Ladder. 8 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. $10 at the door. www.guyswithtiescharlotte.com.

Thriller: The Forum will bring in a Michael Jackson impersonator (Kenny Wizz) for this party inspired by the late singer's famous video. Full stage show and a Thriller dance at midnight. $500 prize for best costume. 9 p.m. 300 N. College St. $20. www.wanttickets.com.

Halloween Pub Crawl: Rich and Bennett of St. Paddy's Day fame host this costume crawl around uptown. Hit all the parties at one price: Dixie's, Tilt, Phil's Tavern, Town Tavern, Alley Cat, Forum, The Attic/Madison's, Buckhead Saloon and the EpiCentre's Halloween concert at the Pavilion. Prizes for best individual and group costumes. Crawling starts at 1 p.m. at Dixie's. 301 E. Seventh St. $20 at one of three pre-registration parties; $25 online or $30 day of. More info at www.rockhouseevents.com.

Thriller: Whisky River is also hosting a party named for Michael Jackson's zombie-filled video. $500 prize for best costume. www.whiskyrivercharlotte.com.

Nightmare on Montford: Andrew Blair's restaurant, along with Paschal Promotions and CBAY present this costume party. $250 for best individual costume; $300 bar tab (for future use) for best group costume. Restaurant is offering a three-course dinner for $20 per person if you arrive early. Call for reservations. 8 p.m. 1600 Montford Drive. $5 cover includes one free draft beer while supplies last. www.andrewblairs.com.

Night of the Living Beards: Loft 1523 hosts this costume fundraiser for Beards BeCAUSE. All proceeds benefit United Family Services Shelter for Battered Women. Cash costume prizes, drink specials. 9 p.m. 1523 Elizabeth Ave. $10 cover for those in costumes and beards; $15 for everyone else. www.beardsbecause.com.

Rusty Rudder: Prizes and giveaways all night long at the biggest Halloween party on the lake. Simplified performs. $1,000 costume prize. 9 p.m. 20210 Henderson Road, Cornelius. NO COVER. www.therustyrudder.com.

Smokey Joe's Cafe: Halloween party featuring live music from Crisis and Donna Duncan. Prizes and giveaways. 9 p.m. 510 Briar Creek Road. $5 cover. 704-338-9380.

Dixie's Tavern: Dixie's tones things down for Halloween night with a free party. $2 Miller Lights. Time. 301 E. Seventh St. FREE. www.dixiescharlotte.com.

Snug Harbor: Bloody Hammer and the Poontanglers perform. 11 p.m. 1228 Gordon St. www.snugrock.com.

Soul Gastrolounge: FU Party with NYC's DJ Benji Candelario. Come dressed as the person you love to hate. $100 Soul gift certificate for best costume. 1500 1/2 Central Ave. No cover. www.soulgastrolounge.com or stay up to date via the pub's Facebook page.

Moorecox & Mamma's Costume Cabaret: Drag queen Roxy Moorecox and burlesque leader Big Mamma D host this costume party at Petra's Piano Bar. Live entertainment including burlesque, comedy and fire throwers. Ages 18 and up. 8 p.m. 1919 Commonwealth Ave. $8. www.bigmammasproductions.com.

Danse Macabre: Presented by SingleCell Productions at Dammit Janet nightclub. Live music from Mindless Faith, Angels on Acid, SOUL and more. Performances from all your Purgatory favorites, back together again. Ages 18 and up. 8 p.m. 3746 N. Davidson St. $20 in advance; $25 at the door. www.singlecell.us.

Boo Bash: Phil and Tony's costume party. DJ, no cover and costume prizes. 10 p.m. 2225 Matthews Township Parkway, Matthews. Free. www.philandtonys.com.

Thriller: Breakfast Club's sixth annual costume party, hosted by Bandy from 107.9 The Link's "Matt and Ramona Show." $500 costume contest. 8 p.m. 225 N. Caldwell St. $8 for members; $10 for nonmembers. www.that80sclub.com.

Naughty & Nice: Tilted Kilt hosts this new Halloween party. Come in either your naughtiest, nicest or funniest. $500 bar tab for best costume. Beer specials and music. 13230 Carowinds Blvd. www.tiltedkilt.com.

Angry Ale's: The Montford Drive hotspot moves its Halloween party outside to the parking lot. The Masonboro Boys perform live on the patio. Outside bars with flip cup, beer pong and cornhole. Specials include jello shots and Big A$$ Bud Light cans. Costume prizes include $250 bar tab for best individual costume, $400 bar tab for best group costume and $250 bar tab for sexiest costume. 1518 Montford Drive. No cover. www.angryales.com.

PlayDate: The Halloween-themed version of this popular monthly party. Fun games from poker to chess, Simon Says to Pac-Man. Food and drinks available for purchase. 9 p.m. Jillian's, 200 E. Bland St. $10. www.playdatecharlotte.com.

Dilworth Billiards: Halloween party featuring music from Haunted Travesty. Take a tour through the haunted medieval courtyard. Prizes for funniest outfit. 7 p.m. 300 E. Tremont Ave. www.dilworthbilliards.com.

Milestone Club: Come to this famous music club for its annual Halloween party featuring such local bands as Cement Stars, LA Tool and Die, Gaston County Swingers Club, Human Pippi Armstrong and Yes Professor. Bands will be dressing up as such iconic performers at INXS, Meatloaf, David Bowie and The Strokes and playing those bands' songs. 8 p.m. 3400 Tuckaseegee Road. $5 over 21; $7 under 21. www.themilestoneclub.com.

Heaven and Hell: First annual Halloween party at Hickory Tavern. Angels and demons will mingle for one night only. Food and drink specials, costume prizes and music from DJ Emilio Havana. $200 for best costume. $150 for best angel. $150 for best devil. 9 p.m. 2005 East Arbors Drive. www.thehickorytavern.com.

Zombie Stock 2009: Halo hosts its first Halloween party as part of its popular Marquee Saturdays. Slogan: "Where the dead will come to party like rockstars." $1,000 cash costume prize. 9 p.m. 820 Hamilton St. For more info, e-mail MarqueeSaturdays@haloclt.com.

Panthers help fight hunger

2009-10-20T11:46:00.001-04:00

Current and former Panthers players gathered at Bank of America Stadium on Monday night to help fight hunger.

Thomas Davis, Jeff King, Damione Lewis, Mike Rucker, Dan Morgan and Matt Moore were some of the guys on hand to mingle with guests at the annual Taste of the Panthers event, which featured food and wine from the area's top restaurants.

(My favorite dishes of the night: Ember Grille's Shrimp and Grits and Bonterra's Pork Belly with Cornbread.)

It was all part of a fundraiser for Second Harvest Food Bank of Metrolina as the organization works to keep up with increasing demand in an economy where donations are down. (Tickets for the Taste event, however, were up by more than double over last year's party.)

The Panthers did their part by auctioning off autographed memorabilia, jewelry from Perry's and a Harley Davidson that went to one very thrilled couple.

As holiday season quickly approaches, Taste of the Panthers offered some good reminders for others planning similar fundraising fetes:

Do have enough high-top tables for people to perch with their food. It's a good way to get people to socializing and takes the awkwardness out of eating standing up. (Ushers also swiftly cleared tables of trash to keep them clean and open to other partygoers.)
Don't keep the fluorescent lights on. It's never flattering and it takes away from the festive atmosphere.
Do book an appropriate band. The Carey Simms Trio provided a perfect mix of party tunes Monday at a decibel level that suited the event (read: people could actually hold a conversation, but still enjoy the music if they wanted to).

All in all, it was a good night for the Panthers to put aside their record and focus on raising money for an organization in need. Well done, guys.

This week's party picks

2009-10-06T16:46:00.007-04:00

Tonight

Tilted Comedy

7 p.m. 13230 Carowinds Blvd. Free. www.tiltedkilt.com/north_carolina.

Tilted Kilt kicks off a new free comedy night. Local comics such as Johnny Millwater will perform 45-minute sets.

Thursday

Aquavina Wine Festival

6-9 p.m. The Green on South Tryon St. $35. www.youngaffiliates.org.

The Young Affiliates of the Mint and Aquavina host this all-you-can-drink (and eat) wine festival. Live music, over 150 wines to sample and food vendors.

Friday

Hickory Oktoberfest

Friday, noon-11:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m.; Sunday noon-5 p.m. Downton Hickory. www.hickoryoktoberfest.com.

Charlotte’s Oktoberfest this weekend is sold out, but if you want your fall beer fix, you can gas up the car and head to Hickory. The three-day festival downtown will feature two beer gardens, food vendors, craft booths, three stages of live entertainment (polka to rock ‘n’ roll), and kid-friendly activities, too.

Saturday

Forum’s celebrates four years

10 p.m. 314 N. College St. $10. www.groovetickets.com.

Forum marks the four-year milestone with an anniversary party featuring DJ Craze. VIP hosted bar tab courtesy of Sugar Society from 10-11 p.m.

Chili Cookoff

Noon-10 p.m. MMR Racing parking lot, 1318-D Central Ave. $10. www.pmccookoff.com.

Plaza Midwood and the Chantilly neighborhoods hold their sixth annual chili cookoff with music from the Loose Lugnuts, Belmont Playboys, Time, Aqualads, Johnson Boys, and Nita Belk and the Swingin’ Soirees. All you can eat chili. See if last year’s chili winners can defend their title. Family friendly fun by day, adult party at night. Proceeds benefit Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte. The event is rain or shine.

Monday

Golf tourney

10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Buses depart from Tyber Creek Pub, 1933 South Blvd. $100 per person/$400 for a foursome. www.bestbarscharlotte.com.

Looking for a fun way to celebrate Columbus Day? Come play Best Bars Charlotte Columbus Day Golf Tournament to benefit cystic fibrosis. Entry fee includes greens fees, cart fees, range balls, breakfast, lunch and dinner, embroidered golf shirt, transportation to and from the course, prizes and all beverages.

Wednesday

Queen City Shootout

4:30 registration for tourney participants; doors open to public at 9:30 p.m. Whisky River, 210 E. Trade St. $250 for individual players; $10 cover for spectators. www.queencityshootout.com.

Test your poker skills against 2004 champion Gregory Raymer and other current and former sports celebs at the first Queen City Shootout charity poker tournament. Proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. For those who'd rather watch, bands Occasional Milkshake, Craving Melon and Blue Dogs will perform.

Sushi lounge, nightclub opening doors this weekend

2009-10-05T12:53:00.003-04:00

Step inside a new nightlife venue in Charlotte these days and you're likely to come face-to-face with at least one giant gold Buddha.

Dharma has one, as does Enso, and when Fiji Sushi Bar & Lounge and the adjoining Kashmir nightclub open this weekend, you won't be able to avoid running into one just like that drunken one night stand you're hopelessly trying to dodge.

Yes, Eastern influence is all the rage in Charlotte right now, and Fiji and Kashmir are the latest to join in the philosophical fun.

I got a preview of the two new venues this weekend. Fiji is in the former home of Feast and Kashmir is in the final resting place of Liv.

Let's start with Fiji.

The Crowd: Management says the restaurant will be heavily influenced by Charlotte's fashion scene. TVs will be tuned into fashion channels, not football. A removable catwalk is being built that will be used for such fashion shows as the one Jordano's is doing at this weekend's grand opening. Expect well-heeled young professionals to turn out for sushi and fashion.

The Scene: Lots of red and white furniture (possibly refurbished from Feast) and a logo eerily similar to the Enso circle displayed prominently around the EpiCentre restaurant. Gone is the huge bar in the middle of the restaurant. Instead a long sushi bar with a waterfall for a backdrop has been added off to the side with a smaller full-service bar tucked into the front corner.

Food and Drink: I sampled some of the sushi and my wimpy palate for raw fish was impressed. The restaurant's Peruvian chef has managed to update many of the usual stale rolls with new flavors. My favorite of the night: the Firecracker Roll. Crunchy, sweet and spicy. For cocktails, try one of the Johnny Love mixed drinks. The brand of vodka popular out west is making its Charlotte debut.

Now, let's head downstairs to Kashmir.

With the low ceilings and minimal lighting, it feels like you're walking into an illegal, underground speakeasy where you can hide in shadowy corners. The layout hasn't changed much from Liv: same bar, same lounge furniture and the same mirror that tricks people into thinking it's another room (sit and watch how many people run into it one night. It's entertaining). As one partygoer said: "It's basically like Liv, with a bunch of Asian decorations added to it."

One new addition is the Zen Lounge or as the club's Chandler Alan Beal says, "Charlotte's first true VIP room." To access the lounge, you'll need to be a VIP gold card member, which entitles you to:

Entry for yourself and three guests
Private VIP entrance and exit with security detail if requested
Complimentary valet parking
Complimentary coat check
Onsite massage therapists
Concierge services

In addition, a table inside the lounge will feature T1 Visions touchscreen technology where you can order food and drinks, reserve a hotel room, access the Internet and more. It's the first in Charlotte in a nightclub setting. T1 Tapas in Huntersville also uses the technology.

The Curse: Beal acknowledges the curse that has seemingly plagued that stretch of Fifth Street between Church and Tryon streets (its victims include Twist, Daddy's, Menage, Hom and Belle's BBQ). He's hoping the two new openings will revitalize the area. In fact, the theme for Kashmir's Halloween party is "Nightmare on 5th Street: Lift The Curse."

Do you think they can do it?

Double Door at the Lake back from dead?

2009-10-01T16:43:00.007-04:00

An interesting e-mail just hit my inbox: the Double Door Inn at Lake Norman is set to reopen with the original owners taking the helm again.

Blue Monday will be the first band to play in the new (old) space, which has been entirely renovated.

The party re-starts this Friday.

***UPDATE*** The Double Door will NOT be opening this weekend due to a problem with the ABC permit. Owners say they are working hard to fix the issue. I'll keep you updated on the rescheduled re-grand opening. ***UPDATE***

This week's party picks

2009-09-30T14:42:00.005-04:00

Here's the best of Charlotte nightlife this week:

Thursday

Project: Homebrew

8 p.m. 511 E. 36th St. Free (including copy of CD). www.neighborhoodtheatre.com.

Creative Loafing's music editor Jeff Hahne releases his latest Homebrew CD -- a compilation of local music. The release party at Neighborhood Theatre will feature a panel discussion on the local music scene and a concert featuring some of the acts who appear on the CD.

Friday

First Annual Bow-Wow Ball

10 p.m. 820 Hamilton St. $10 donation. www.projecthalo.net.

Support your furry friends at Charlotte’s first Bow-Wow Ball, a fundraiser for Project Halo. Morgan Fogarty and Brotha' Fred will broadcast Fox News Edge live from Halo at the N.C. Music Factory. A silent auction will feature items from Tiffany & Co., Harper’s, Palm Beach Tan, Pine Island Country Club and more. And you can bid on your favorite Fox broadcaster to be your celebrity dog washer for a day. All proceeds benefit the no-kill animal shelter and sanctuary.

Beards BeCAUSE

7 p.m. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, 911 E. Morehead St. $5 donation. www.beardsbecause.com.

Have superior facial-hair growing skills? Consider joining the two-month fundraising effort that is Beards BeCAUSE. The guys will kick off their growing season this weekend with their Clean Shaven Party. Live music from John Dungan, Pistoleros and Dr. Eu and Subdue’s. Beards BeCAUSE benefits United Family Services’ Shelter for Battered Women.

Saturday

Wine, arts and food festival

11-7 p.m. Symphony Park at SouthPark. $10-$20. www.uncorkthefun.com.

Taste hundreds of wines from North Carolina and sample gourmet foods while listening to music at Symphony Park during the Great Grapes festival. Art exhibits will also be on display to peruse over your glass of Malbec.

Sunday

Meet Liza, Reba and Madonna

8 p.m. and 10 p.m. 1919 Commonwealth Ave. $5. www.myspace.com/gigimonroe.

“Illusionist” (read: female impersonator) Gigi Monroe of Atlanta comes to Petra’s to display her amazing transformations into such icons as Liza Minelli, Madonna and Reba McIntyre. Petra’s resident drag queen Roxy Moorecox will be doing her own impersonations of Cyndi Lauper and Boy George.

Where to watch tonight's game

2009-09-28T13:46:00.002-04:00

Wanted to let you guys know about a couple of out-of-the-ordinary events going on in honor of tonight's matchup between the Panthers and the Cowboys:

WCNC will host a pregame special at Wild Wing Cafe at the EpiCentre tonight. WCNC's Greg Bailey and former Panther Mike Minter will be taping live before kickoff. The party starts at 7 and includes a wing-eating contest.

EpiCentre Theaters will be showing the game on one of the movie screens. Free admission; first come, first served. Prizes and giveaways. Specials include $2 Bud Lights and half-price wine; half-price chicken sliders. Cocktail waitresses will serve game-watchers in the theater.

Where will YOU watch?

This week's party picks

2009-09-24T14:00:00.000-04:00

Here's the best of Charlotte nightlife this weekend.

Saturday

PlayDate Charlotte

9 p.m. Tyvola Marriott, 5700 Westpark Drive. $10. www.playdatecharlotte.com.

Be a kid again at this month’s PlayDate party. Games include Twister, Connect 4, Pac-Man and Wii Bowling – and don’t miss the always entertaining hula hoop contest.

Anniversary bash

4 p.m. 19712 One Norman Blvd., Cornelius. $5 donation. www.ontheroxx.com.

On the Roxx martini bar celebrates five years in Lake Norman this weekend with a block party. Free food for the first two hours, live music, a fashion show, silent auction, and of course great drinks. Proceeds benefit the Huntington’s Disease Society of America.

Gimme Shelter benefit

8-11 p.m. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, 911 E. Morehead St. $10. www.jinglebellball.com.

Help raise funds for this winter’s Jingle Bell Ball at the Gimme Shelter benefit concert. Underground Detour performs live at this fundraiser for United Family Services’ Shelter for Battered Women.

’70s party

9 p.m. Visulite Theatre, 1615 Elizabeth Ave. $10 in advance; $12 day of show. www.visulite.com.

Join Nasty Productions and metal band Iron Cordoba for "Funk You: A '70s Flashback of Peace, Freaks and Hair Grease." Prizes will be awarded in the SupaFly Guy and Foxy Mamma costume contest, and don't forget your platform dancing shoes for the Soul Train dance-off.

New to Charlotte?

2009-09-23T16:12:00.002-04:00

Come join me, Observer columnist Tommy Tomlinson and WCNC news anchor Sonja Gantt at the Levine Museum of the New South tomorrow evening.

Tommy, Sonja and I will be speaking as part of the museum's New South for the New Southerner series, and we'll be talking about why we chose to live in Charlotte as well as giving a sneak peek of the Observer's annual newcomers magazine, Living Here. I'll specifically be talking about what makes the city appealing to young professionals.

The evening starts at 5:30 p.m. It's $5 per person. Wine and food will be provided by Mert's.

Hope to see you there!

Film Fest parties, plus win tickets!

2009-09-23T13:28:00.007-04:00

The Fourth Annual Charlotte Film Festival is already under way, but it's not all about the movies. Just like SunDance (OK, maybe on an extremely small scale), it's about the after-parties, too.

Mingle with the directors and producers of this year's festival lineup at these receptions:

Thursday

Awards Celebration: After the awards are handed out, you can see the Best Documentary winner. 6 p.m. Whisky River. $25 (includes party and admission to screening).

Friday

VIP and Filmmaker Reception: Meet the filmmakers and watch "Amreeka." 5 p.m. BlackFinn Saloon. $25.

Saturday

After-party: Celebrate the end of the festival at Therapy Cafe. Show your ticket stub to join VIPs, filmmakers and volunteers for one complimentary martini and appetizers. 10 p.m.-midnight.

Win tickets!

I have two tickets to Friday night's screening of Michael Moore's "Capitalism" (9:15 at EpiCentre Theaters). Want 'em? First person to e-mail me gets them. ***UPDATE: Tickets gone. Thanks for playing!***

Live music Thursdays continue this fall

2009-09-22T14:03:00.004-04:00

For those of you mourning the end of Alive After Five this week, fear not: Whisky River is continuing the Thursday night live music tradition with a five-week concert series called "Rockin the River."

Jessie James and The Carter Twins open the series Oct. 1. Tickets are $15. Proceeds from the series benefit the Dale Jr. Foundation.

The rest of the schedule follows:

Oct. 8: Rehab, $15.

Oct. 15: Gavin DeGraw, $25.

Oct. 22: Blake Shelton following a live taping of QVC's race show with Junior, $25.

Oct. 29: Phil Vassar, $15.

Package deals are available for $75.

For more info, click here.

Stool Pigeons unveiling new look

2009-09-17T16:19:00.002-04:00

The uptown sports bar temporarily closed Monday and is tentatively set to reopen next Wednesday with a new look and a new owner.

Greensboro's Rick Buckner bought the bar from CSM Restaurant Services -- which owns other Stool Pigeons locations around North Carolina -- but plans to keep the name and a loose affiliation with its namesake bars, according to manager J.K. Savilla.

Savilla says renovations include a much-needed audio and visual overhaul to add HD programming and plasma TVs throughout.

(Thanks to Rob for the tip!)

New bar set to open in Brevard Court

2009-09-17T14:57:00.000-04:00

Courtyard Hooligans opens Friday, replacing the old George Herman's, which quietly closed in June.

The bar will be a European Soccer pub, serving up beers from all over the world, according to managing partner Kristian Pedersen.

The grand opening starts at 2 p.m. tomorrow and the party continues starting at 9:30 a.m. Saturday for the Arsenal game and even earlier on Sunday for the Manchester United vs. Manchester City game at 8:30 a.m. (No cover, but you do have to be a member. Sign up at the door.)

I give the guys props for coming up with a different concept than the rest of Charlotte's cookie-cutter sports bars, but I have to wonder whether there are enough soccer fans to sustain it.

What do you guys think?

Tonight's Alive After Five

2009-09-17T14:33:00.000-04:00

Due to the expected rain showers tonight, Alive After Five will be held inside Whisky River.

Pink Floydian Slip performs.

This week's party picks

2009-09-16T14:58:00.004-04:00

Here's the best of Charlotte nightlife this week.

Friday

Mint After 5

6 p.m. 220 N. Tryon St. Free for members; $15 for nonmembers. www.youngaffiliates.org.

Toast the end of summer at 2009’s final Mint After 5, the semi-regular rooftop party thrown by Young Affiliates of the Mint at the Mint Museum of Craft + Design as a way for nonmembers to check out the group. Enjoy drink specials, free food and live music by Jared Allan and Co.

Blues & Burritos

6-10 p.m. 330 S. Main St., Mooresville. Donations accepted. www.lakenormanlaw.com (click on events).

For the past eight years, Homesley, Goodman & Wingo has held a party outside its law firm to raise money for charity. This year’s event benefits HealthReach Community Clinic and the Mooresville Soup Kitchen. Bands include The Part-Time Blues Band and Pat “Mother Blues” Cohen.

Jazz benefit concert

6 p.m. Presto Bar & Grill, 445 W. Trade St. $10. www.shelterhealthservices.org.

Shelter Health Services, a free clinic for homeless women and children, hosts its annual benefit with jazz trumpeter Mark Rapp and Charlotte’s own Hipshack. A signed Panthers football will be up for auction and a raffle will be held.

Saturday

Halfway to St. Patty’s Day

3 p.m. Crawl starts at Stool Pigeons, 214 N. Church St. $10 in advance. www.rockhouseevents.com.

Countdown to St. Patrick’s Day with this yearly bar crawl hosted by the same guys who organize the nationally recognized Rich & Bennett’s St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl. Eleven hours, eight bars, free T-shirts and, of course, drink specials.

Next week

Keep your calendars open Thursday for the final Alive After Five of the summer. Charlotte's own Simplified will perform.

This week's party picks

2009-09-10T13:02:00.002-04:00

Here's what's going on in Charlotte nightlife this week.

Friday

Guns N’ Hoses

8 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. $5 donation. www.suitecharlotte.com

Help support the Charlotte firefighters and police officers at this special 97/11 tribute and fundraiser. A $5 donation at the door gets you two free drinks. All proceeds benefit the Charlotte Fire Department and the CMPD Fraternal Order of the Police.

Saturday

Fashion Week afterparty

10 p.m. 1820 South Blvd. $10. www.sunsetclubcharlotte.com.

Wear your hottest haute couture (or Forever 21 as the case may be) to Sunset Club as fashionistas celebrate the end of Charlotte’s second Fashion Week.

Poker tournament

4 p.m. 200 E. Bland St. $150 entry fee. www.thevistagroup.org.

Put on your p-p-p poker face for Speedway Children’s Charities. The group is hosting its second Charity Poker Tournament at Jillian’s, featuring free food, pool, ping pong and shuffleboard. Have some Texas Hold ‘Em skills? Play your hand at one of the nine tables and help raise money for a good cause.

Buck’s Backyard Bash

6 p.m. 400 Hermitage Road. $100. www.dukemansion.com.

The Duke Mansion wants you to get our your dancing shoes for its annual fundraiser to help preserve and protect the historic meeting place in Myers Park. Fun cover band Hot Sauce -- singing the best of the '70s, '80s and '90s -- will provide the groovy tunes.

Panthers parties kick off Friday

2009-09-10T10:18:00.000-04:00

Panthers parties begin in earnest this weekend with the first home game of the season (thankfully those preseason games were just practice). The blue-and-black celebrations start Friday and continue through Sunday’s 1 p.m. kickoff. Here’s a sampling:

Bud Light Prowl Party. The Panther Prowl is back at the EpiCentre for a second season. Head up to the Pavilion every Friday starting at 5 p.m. before a home game. This week, Bud Light is casting fans in a commercial for its weekly tailgate party that will be aired on the big screen at Bank of America stadium. Ladies, you’ll be competing in a Locker Room Challenge and men will face a skills competition. Must be 25 years or older and available for filming on Sunday at 9:30 a.m. The 20 selected for the commercial will get two tickets to Sunday’s game, entry into the Bud Light Tailgate (complimentary food and drinks at the corner of Mint and Morehead streets) and a Bud Light Panthers jersey. (210 E. Trade St.; www.pavilionatepicentre.com.)
Rally in the Alley (Cat). Stop by Alley Cat on Saturday and you could win Miller Lite suite passes to the Panthers home opener. Or try your luck at paper football in the Finger Flick Challenge. It’s all part of a new regular party – hosted by WFNZ’s The Hitman – at the uptown bar. Other highlights include live music by Crash Box, a flip-pong tournament, a performance by the Alley Cat dancers and a free wing buffet from 8-10 p.m. (314 N. College St.; www.thealleycat.com.)
Sunday Funday. Get to Stool Pigeons at 10 a.m. Sunday to pop the first $2 Bud Light of the season (hey, it’s five o’clock somewhere, right?), sample the new breakfast menu and get a prime table in front of the bar’s wall of TVs. You can also make a table reservation (for parties of six or more) by e-mailing Rich@RockHouseEvents.com. (214 N. Church St.; www.rockhouseevents.com)
WFNZ Dog House. A staple before Panthers home games is WFNZ’s Dog House that sits in the shadow of the stadium at Mint and Morehead streets. It’s open only on game days when the WFNZ on-air team broadcasts from the bar and fans use it as a tailgating/meeting/game-watching spot. Just added to the back patio is a patch of lush green grass painted to look like a football field where fans can play cornhole. Big Daddy’s is among the vendors grilling burgers and BBQ for tailgaters this season. The Dog House opens two hours before every home game and stays open as late as two hours after the game ends.

Not a Panthers fan?

Looking for a spot to watch football where Steve Smith jerseys won’t block your view? A number of area bars cater to Charlotte transplants from the north.

Catch Michael Vick’s return to the NFL at Eagles bar Steamers. (1513 Pierson Drive)
Hail to the Redskins at Picasso’s Dilworth location (1301 East Blvd.) or uptown at Whisky River. (210 E. Trade St., inside the EpiCentre).
Hooters in Concord reserves its indoor patio every week for the Cowboys Fan Club. (7702 Gateway Lane, Concord)
Twirl your Terrible Towel at Steelers bars Dixie’s Tavern (301 E. Seventh St.) or Hickory Tavern’s Providence Road location (11504 Providence Road).
Watch Eli Manning’s quest for a second Super Bowl at Giants bar O’Shea’s (8120 Ardrey Kell Road).
See if Tom Brady still has it this season at Patriots bar Beantown Tavern (130 Matthews Station St.).
Will T.O. catch the game-winning touchdown? Check him out at Bills bars Tavern on the Tracks (1411 S. Tryon St.) and Town Tavern (200 N. Tryon St.).

Know of others? Post them in comments below.

Dharma Lounge opens in South End

2009-09-03T12:05:00.001-04:00

After months of delays and a location change, Dharma Lounge opens its doors this weekend in South End. I got a first look at the place last night at its Friends & Family party.

I first wrote about Dharma just over a year ago, when plans called for it to be part of the Silos Subdistrict. Owner Eric Pliner, a former partner in Tonic, says those plans fell through when the developer lost his loan.

Now in its current location at Tryon and West Summit, Dharma adds to the growing lineup of nightlife options in South End, joining Apostrophe, Common Market, Gin Mill and Amos'. (And opening soon in the same block is a 5,700-square-foot dance club.)

The Scene: The lounge -- designed by Pliner's co-owner Lora Campbell -- is heavily influenced by the pair's background in Eastern philosophy. Decor is minimalist -- a lotus-blossom mural and a giant gold Buddha are the focal points, while the deep red walls fill in the rest. Day beds swathed in sheer red curtains and scattered with throw pillows serve as cozy places to rest your feet or cuddle up. An outdoor patio is enclosed with tall bamboo and that natural, organic feel also is reflected in the branch-like detail along the bar inside.

Bartenders are plentiful and drink prices are shockingly low -- a mixed drink cost me $4.50 in a town where $6-$8 is the norm.

Pliner says that was intentional and will remain so: "We all know what's going on with the economy," he says. "For longevity purposes and to get people to come in more than once or twice a week, we want to keep prices low."

And it's more than a bar -- Pliner plans to offer free detox yoga classes starting the weekend of Sept. 19. The classes, which will be open to all levels, will start at 1 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

The Crowd: A friendly, funky alternative bunch turned out last night -- decidedly not like the people you might find at the EpiCentre. "It won't be a downtown crowd," Pliner says. "We know this -- we're a neighborhood lounge." Curiously, the guy-to-girl ratio was extremely high at Friends & Family. I'll be interested to see if that evens out as more people hear about it. Among the partygoers last night were high-profile attorney Bill Diehl and local songwriter Stephen Warwick.

The Music: A house blend with a live singer accompanying the DJ, That Guy Smitty. Pliner says that the lounge isn't tied to one genre. "We're not going to have one theme," he says. "We'll go from house to electro to drum and bass, and even some retro dance."

The Details: Dharma's grand opening starts Friday with DJ Riddim King and Tredamit. Saturday, Dharma will welcome a surprise internationally known DJ. The party starts at 8 p.m. For more information, click here.

This week's party picks

2009-09-02T14:14:00.001-04:00

Here's the best of Charlotte nightlife this week.

Today

Mix at Six

5-9:30 p.m. Ballantyne Village. Free. www.mixatsixballantyne.com.

Check out Ballantyne's version of Alive After Five at the first of fall's Mix at Six series. Simplified performs.

Thursday

Steelers vs. Panthers

The Panthers take on Big Ben and the Steelers in this week's preseason game. If you're a Steelers fan, head to Dixie's to hang with the rest of your Terrible Towel twirling peeps. Panthers fans, check out the tailgate party in Brevard Court, featuring corn hole, beer pong, flip cup and prizes. (If you're looking for a permanent place to tailgate this season, consider joining the Friends of St. Jude tailgating group at Church and Second streets. You can sign up at Angry Ale's after the game Thursday. The $125 membership dues include free food and drinks and are tax deductible, directly benefitting St. Jude's.)

Thirsty Thursday

7:15 p.m. Knights Stadium, Fort Mill. $7-$13. www.charlotteknights.com.

The Knights kick off their final home stand tonight in Fort Mill which means only one Thirsty Thursday left in the season. Get out to Knights Stadium and enjoy $1 beers and $1 sodas.

Friday

RockHouse night

8 p.m. Corner of Fifth and College streets. www.rockhouseevents.com.

Start your long weekend off by knocking back a few cold ones courtesy of RockHouse Events. The professional partying company is buying two kegs at Buckhead Saloon. Just mention RockHouse at the door and you’re all set until supplies run out.

Saturday

Charlotte Music Festival

3 p.m. 400 W. Tremont Ave. $10. www.tremontmusichall.com.

Fifty bands are set to pack Tremont Music Hall for two days of metal this weekend. Among them: Lucky Five, Final Curse and Junior Doctor. One ticket grants you head-banging access to both days.

Sunday

Labor Day Luau

6 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. (in the EpiCentre). $5. www.howlatthemoon.com.

More than $500 in cash and prizes will be given away at Howl at the Moon’s holiday bash. Drink specials include $2.75 Coors Light, $6 Beach Bombs and $25 86-ounce Paradise Skyy buckets.

Wednesday

Race for the Cure Kickoff Party

5-9 p.m. Cans, 500 W. Fifth St. Free ($5 donation earns you a pink bracelet). www.komencharlotte.org.

The 2009 Race for the Cure is a little less than a month away and Charlotte's affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Foundation is working to build the buzz surrounding the big event. At next week's kickoff party hosted by radio personality Jacinda of 96.1 The Beat, guests can wear pink, make a donation and celebrate with friends. ($2 beers, $4 Red Bull vodkas and light appetizers will be served.)

Mix at Six back for fall

2009-09-01T10:38:00.004-04:00

Ballantyne Village's popular Wednesday after-work party returns this week for a fall run. Kicking off this year's second installment of Mix at Six is Simplified.

Bryan Paschal of Paschal Promotions, who also helps put on Alive After Five and this spring's Piedmont Town Center After Five, is hoping to add to the live music and drink specials formula by putting on fashion shows and art exhibits as well as doing promotions and giveaways among the participating restaurants.

The fall Mix at Six series will run 5-9:30 p.m. every Wednesday through Oct. 28.

Here's the lineup:

Sept 2: Simplified

Sept. 9: Big Sam

Sept. 16: Josh Z and Company

Sept. 23: Coconut Grove

Sept. 30: Simplified

Oct. 7: Flashback-The Party Band

Oct. 14: First Call Kings

Oct. 21: The Remedy

Oct. 28: Simplified

Next week's party picks

2009-08-21T13:16:00.003-04:00

To my five faithful readers (Hi Mom!), I'll be off the blogosphere all next week as part of my mandatory furlough.

To help get you through this very difficult absence, I bring you my picks for nightlife next week. And if any of you check out the new Luna or Enso, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Keep me updated here. Regular posting will resume Aug. 31.

Aug. 28

Calling all SEC Alumni

5:30-7:30 p.m. Dixie's Tavern, 301 E. Seventh St. No cover. www.dixiescharlotte.com.

The 2009 football season kicks off next week and alums from Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, LSU, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, South Carolina, Tennessee and Vanderbilt are invited to shelve their rivalry for one night to celebrate their love of SEC sports. Free appetizers and drink specials provided. Wear your school gear.

Ballantyne Nightlife Crawl

6:30 p.m. Register uptown at Town Tavern, 200 N. Tryon St. $10. www.bandtastic.com.

Check out the best of the 'burbs on the second Ballantyne bar crawl. Cost includes transportation to and from each of the five locations (Town Tavern, City Tavern, On the Roxx, O'Shea's and a private party at LA East), ice cold beer on the bus and no covers.

Aug. 29

Three Olives launches new flavor

9 p.m. 820 Hamilton St. (inside the N.C. Music Factory). To get on the invite list, e-mail marqueesaturdays@haloclt.com.

Come test out the new Bubble O vodka at Halo's Martini Madness party. TheVelvetNights.com will host an open Three Olives bar from 9-11 p.m.

Joint anniversary celebration

9 p.m. 1440 S. Tryon St. No cover. www.thesolkitchen.com.

PopLife – the popular free weekly party brought to you by The Sol Kitchen and Creative Loafing – marks two years of packing any venue it's in. For the past year, that's been SouthEnd's Apostrophe Lounge, which will celebrate its first birthday at the Special Saturday edition of PopLife. DJ DR and DJ Frase – both PopLife regulars – will provide the music to keep the party going well into the night.

Late-night sushi coming to EpiCentre

2009-08-20T11:46:00.005-04:00

After a six-month lull in grand openings, the EpiCentre is preparing to unveil what’s sure to be the entertainment complex’s next hotspot. Enso Asian Bistro will fill a void currently felt uptown: a late-night sushi bar.

I got a sneak peek of Enso (say in-zoh) ahead of its opening next week* courtesy of co-owner Pete Lloyd, 38, a service industry veteran who’s been in the nightlife business since he was 23. (He’s currently the owner of Fire Island Grille in Myrtle Beach.)

Lloyd and partner Erez Sukarchi say they have painstakingly researched the country’s best sushi bars, studying everything from the food to the décor. Lloyd says Enso is inspired by places like Tao in Las Vegas, and Nobu and Buddakan in New York, where they met with chefs to discuss different food concepts.

“We want it to have a Vegas-type feel,” Lloyd says. “(The EpiCentre) has the sports bars and the nightclubs, but this is going to be an upbeat lounge. We like to call it ‘vibe dining.’”

The 8,000-square-foot space on the EpiCentre’s first level has been transformed into a sleek take on the Land of the Rising Sun. Bronzy reds are the color scheme throughout, reflected in sheer curtains around the bar and lining the floor-to-ceiling windows. Faux crocodile and snakeskin furniture give the place a luxurious feel. Asian-themed pieces are dotted throughout: two giant, marble fu dogs (a cross between a dragon and a lion) greet you as you enter; a Buddha sits behind the bar; a sumo wrestler watches over the lounge area; and black-and-white kung fu movies are projected onto a wall.

Patrons can choose to sit in the main dining area, at the 35-foot sushi bar, or the lounge-bar area where bar stools, booths and banquet seating are plentiful. Outdoor seating among bamboo plants accommodates another 50 people.

What sets Enso apart from other similar concepts is its location and its late service (sushi is served until 2 a.m.; regular menu items until midnight).

“No one else is doing this uptown right now,” says Bob Durkin of Bar Management Group, which manages much of the EpiCentre’s after-dark venues. “This is the one concept that people are most excited about.”

Both Lloyd and Durkin see it as a place where people will stop for dinner before a night out dancing or for a low key, late-night option.

I see the place becoming like the Nikko of uptown, where girls come dressed to kill in their cutest outfits and guys come to check them out.

*Enso is doing a soft opening this weekend ahead of its official grand opening that starts with an invite-only press party on Wednesday. Sign up for tickets to the VIP grand opening Thursday (7-9 p.m.) by clicking here.

This week's party picks

2009-08-19T14:37:00.001-04:00

Here's the best of Charlotte nightlife this week.

Friday

End of Summer booze cruise

6:45 p.m. 301 E. Seventh St. $20. www.rockhouseevents.com.

School’s back in session, the days are getting shorter and Labor Day is quickly approaching – as is fall. Celebrate (or mourn) the end of summer with a cruise on Lake Norman courtesy of RockHouse Events. Start the night with a free buffet at Dixie’s before boarding buses up to the Ragin’ Uptown Party Yacht.

Town Tavern opens

5 p.m. 200 N. Tryon St. Sign up for tickets and free membership at www.towntaverncharlotte.com.

Be one of the first to check out the new sports bar opening on North Tryon in Brick & Barrel’s old location. Warning to Panthers fans: It’s a Buffalo bar.

Saturday

Save Second Base

2 p.m. 115 E. Fifth St. $35 for teams of two; $65 for four. Send team name and player names to HelpSaveSecondBase@gmail.com.

Help raise money for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer by testing your drinking game skills in a “barcathalon.” Connolly’s will host a beer pong and cornhole tournament, Buckhead Saloon will run the Flip Cup portion of the evening, and awards will be handed out at Howl at the Moon. A prize also goes to the “breast”-dressed team, so get creative.

Lazy Day marks nine years

8-11 p.m. 314 N. College St. Print invitation for free entry at www.lazyday.com.

The nightlife Web site celebrates its ninth birthday of snapping photos of inebriated partygoers with – what else? – a party. Stop by Alley Cat and enjoy free Bud Light drafts on LazyDay.com’s tab (while supplies last) and watch out for the cameras.

Win tickets!

2009-08-19T14:00:00.000-04:00

I've got a bunch of free tickets to give away to Town Tavern's grand opening festivities this week.

I have three pairs for Thursday's VIP party and five pairs for Friday's grand opening.

In honor of the bar's Bills affiliation, the tickets will go to the first eight people to tell me what Terrell Owens and his assistants chanted on his VH1 reality show when they found out he was playing for Buffalo.

Good luck!

A new take on trivia night

2009-08-13T10:30:00.001-04:00

Tuesday is traditionally considered an off-night in the world of bars and clubs. Places that are open daily feverishly try different gimmicks to get partygoers in the door. Some succeed (Rusty Rudder, Whisky River and the Flying Saucer), but most fail miserably.

Relatively new to the tricky Tuesday is Petra's Piano Bar & Cabaret in Plaza Midwood, which holds a weekly trivia night hosted by funny drag queen Roxy Moorecox. Petra's was just voted last week as Best Gay/Lesbian Bar in Charlotte by Creative Loafing. And judging by the overflowing tables and standing-room-only status at this week's one-year anniversary party, Moorecox has done for the gay community what Whisky River has done for the under-21 crowd: A fun Tuesday night that packs the house.

In just one year, the bar has gone from hosting four teams for a total of 10 people to regularly bringing in 20 teams or more each week. (The record is 32 teams for Roxy's birthday a few months ago.)

What sets Tuesday Trivia at Petra's apart from other similar game nights is Moorecox herself. The larger-than-life drag queen plays the part of trivia hostess, cabaret singer and stand-up comic all at once, turning trivia night into an entertaining show.

Questions range from the biblical (What was the angel's name who visited Mary?) to literary (What current magician has the same name as a historic novel's character?), and this week included a Name That Tune round.

To break up the game, Moorecox leads singalongs ("Karma Chameleon" and "You Don't Own Me") and toasts (usually raunchy in nature), making a competitive event into a -- cheesy as it may sound -- community bonding experience.

The fun continues next week starting at 9 (team sign-up starts at 8:30). Roxy also leads the bar's karaoke nights on Wednesdays, and this Sunday she'll be performing a live cabaret at Petra's starting at 8 p.m. ($5 general admission).

This week's party picks

2009-08-12T14:12:00.009-04:00

Here's what's going on this weekend.

Friday

Irish Summer Festival

7 p.m. Friday at Connolly’s (115 E. Fifth St.). Saturday festival starts at noon at Third and Tryon streets. Free until 5 p.m. ($10 cover after 5). www.charlotteirishsummerfestival.com.

This year’s festival kicks off with a party at Connolly’s on Friday night before taking over the streets on Saturday with a block party. Activities will include live music from Irish and Celtic bands such as My Three Kilts and the Dublin City Ramblers, Irish dancers, bagpipers, a Highland games exhibition, and a world record attempt for the largest choreographed Irish dance.

Uptown Cooldown

5-7 p.m. 201 N. Tryon St. No cover. www.uptownclt.com.

Uptown magazine continues its budget-friendly bimonthly party this week. The latest stop will be at Nix, where partygoers can chill with Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka sno-cones, free appetizers and a few frames of Wii bowling.

Saturday

2009 Summer Collaborative

Noon-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 820 Hamilton St. $20. www.wearnuthing.com.

Emanicipated Logik, Nuthing Clothing and the N.C. Music Factory host a music festival this weekend, featuring 20 bands as well as artists and poets over two days. Featured acts will include the Lights, Fluorescent, Eyes of the Elders and Incognito Mosquito.

Alpha Luau

10 p.m. 911 E. Morehead St. $30. www.betanulambda.org.

The Alphas of Charlotte want you to breeze on down to The Big Chill this weekend for their annual luau. (Think Hawaiian-print dress and linen pants.) DJ Flemingo will provide the music and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served. Proceeds benefit the educational initiatives of the chapter throughout the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community.

Latorre's closing, nightclub moving

2009-08-12T12:34:00.001-04:00

After 10 years on Fifth Street, Latorre's Restaurant is closing.

Its last day of business will be Saturday, according to an e-mail this morning announcing the closing. The nightclub portion of Latorre's that regularly draws salsa lovers will move to the top floor of the old Hom complex next door.

The nightclub -- opening Aug. 21 -- joins Fiji Sushi Bar & Lounge and Kashmere to round out the multilevel space that closed in April.

No word on what will replace the restaurant.

Luna Lounge set to open

2009-08-11T14:40:00.000-04:00

Just got the details on Luna's grand opening next week. The sleek ultra lounge (from the same people who brought you Sunset Club and Kiss Lounge) is on North College Street, in the space once occupied by the ill-fated Coyote Ugly.

According to a Facebook invite:

"LUNA will unveil itself as Charlotte's premier party destination for those who enjoy their drinking, socializing and dancing all in one place. ... Featuring upscale service and buzzworthy events hosted by Rumba Productions, Mingleberry, KPG, Red Door (just to name a few), this venue strikes to the heart of the super spoiled socialite in all of us. But does this place really live up to the hype? Slap on your best runway model attire next week and decide for yourself."

The grand opening festivities run Aug. 21-22, from 8-10 p.m. Complimentary appetizers and cocktails (RSVP to krystie@lunacharlotte.com). Opens to the general public at 10 p.m.

Burlesque troupes taking off

2009-08-10T14:59:00.003-04:00

It’s 11 on a Friday night. In a dimly lit underground club, girls in stockings, garters and corsets mingle with customers before taking the stage. A smart-mouthed, chain-smoking announcer clad in shirtsleeves and a vest announces the performers to catcalls from the crowd – Mistress Colette, Cherry Von Bomb, Mademoiselle Kashka among them.

Photo courtesy of Shannon J Hager

But it’s not 19th-century Paris, and this isn’t the Moulin Rouge.

Instead, it’s 2009 and the art of burlesque is enjoying a resurgence in Charlotte, thanks to such local troupes as La Petite Mort Burlesque and Big Mamma’s House of Burlesque.

Deana Pendragon (affectionately known as Big Mamma D) started her group in 2006. She puts on a themed show bimonthly at Elizabeth’s Visulite Theatre, drawing a surprisingly female-heavy (and vocal) audience. This month’s theme was “Under the Big Tops,” complete with an act from Sideshow Bennie, a few tricks from Hannibal the Magician and a striptease from “Siamese twins.”

Although the Big Mamma’s girls do take off their heavily sequined and fringed costumes (made by Mamma D herself), there’s no nudity – just a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it flash of pastie-covered breasts. Instead, Pendragon’s show harkens to classic burlesque: There’s singing, sketch comedy and usually a few tongue-in-cheek stripteases (read: the Siamese twins above).

Mena Killough’s La Petite Mort is a little more risque, at times bordering on crass. Miss Mena’s girls – including Colette, Cherry and Kashka – perform monthly at Halo at the N.C. Music Factory. Pasties here are revealed for longer than just a flash, and dollar bills are thrown onstage.

Performances at their most recent show last month included a strange pas de deux between a naughty nurse and her mentally ill patient, and an equally jarring S&M-laced routine. (To be sure, there’s some classic burlesque mixed in: a cupcake-adorned “baker” stripped down to little more than an apron in a cute dance.)

One word of advice: Don’t go into these shows expecting a Dita Von Teese look-alike in a giant martini glass or a song-and-dance routine a la the Pussycat Dolls. Instead, it’s about classic burlesque that gives women of all shapes and sizes a feeling of empowerment.

Also, there are two rules to every burlesque show:

Applause is encouraged any time an article of clothing -- whether it be a shoe or a corset -- is removed.
No photos once the bras come off.

La Petite Mort Burlesque

Next show: Aug. 21 at 11 p.m. Halo (inside the N.C. Music Factory), 820 Hamilton St. $7. www.haloclt.com

Big Mamma's House of Burlesque

Next show: Oct. 10 at 8 p.m. Visulite Theatre, 1615 Elizabeth Ave. $12 in advance. www.visulite.com

This week's party picks

2009-08-05T15:49:00.001-04:00

Friday

BlackFinn’s first birthday

9 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. $5. www.blackfinncharlotte.com.

BlackFinn Saloon celebrates its first year of business with a birthday bash. Staff will be giving away prizes all night long, including hotel stays at the Omni and aloft, gift certificates to other EpiCentre venues, T-shirts and more. Checkers cheerleaders and the Bobcats Lady Cats will be guest bartending and mingling with partygoers, as well as former Panther Rod Smith.

Coldplay concert bus

5 p.m. Buckhead Saloon, corner of Fifth and College streets. $20. www.rockhouseevents.com.

Heading to Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre for the Coldplay concert? Let RockHouse Events cover your ride with a trip north on the Ragin’ Uptown Party Bus. Beers provided on the bus and drink specials will be available at Buckhead Saloon before and after the show.

Saturday

Free concert series

8 p.m. 210 E. Trade St. Free. www.pavilionatepicentre.com.

The EpiCentre wraps up its popular free summer concert series with a performance by the Pat McGee Band. Your concert wristband will get you free entry into Suite, Whisky River, BlackFinn and StrikeCity after the show.

Marquee Saturdays

10 p.m. 820 Hamilton St. (inside the N.C. Music Factory) $10. www.haloclt.com.

Funny what a little name change and a new party can do for a club. Saturday night at Halo (formerly the Garden & Gun Club) has quickly become the hot spot a mere month after kicking off its new Marquee Saturdays promotion. What to expect: wall-to-wall people, a few celeb sightings (Julius Peppers made an appearance a couple of weeks ago), an elaborate light show and fun dance music from DJ 208.

First look at Town Tavern

2009-08-04T17:19:00.001-04:00

Buffalo Bills fans, rejoice!

You now have a new spot to watch TO's hissy fits.

Just got the official news release on Town Tavern, the replacement for Brick & Barrel. New owner (and St. Bonaventure University alum) Andrew Reid is teaming up with Bar Management Company to make it a hotspot for former Buffalo residents.

The new tavern will be a two-story sports bar and casual hangout.

"Stop by and throw a game of darts, shoot some pool, or just knock back a few with your buddies," according to the news release. "Town Tavern is sure to have the fun Happy Hour vibe Charlotte is looking for."

The bar will be open daily from 3 p.m.-2 a.m. and the grand opening is set for Aug. 21. For more info and to get your free tickets to the party, click here.

Brick & Barrel has a replacement

2009-08-03T12:18:00.003-04:00

Just got word from the owners of 200 N. Tryon St. that they have a new tenant for the old Brick & Barrel space.

Town Tavern is tentatively set to open Aug. 21.

Details to come ...

Reinventing nightlife, one bar at a time

2009-07-30T12:32:00.003-04:00

Even in the recession, some brave entrepreneurs are taking chances, leasing failed bars and clubs and turning them into new concepts. In fact, two local men are making a business out of bar reinvention.

Alan Beal and Jose Morales own Bar Concepts Incorporated, a company dedicated to helping struggling nightlife venues boost marketing, update their spaces and get partygoers in the door.

“There are so many places that are stressed by the economy right now,” Beal says. “Sometimes all they need is a second pair of eyes.”

Within 24 hours of launching BCI’s Web site this spring, Beal says he had two new clients.

Beal and Morales’ latest project is at the Indochine Grill in the EpiCentre. It started out as a Vietnamese restaurant with Japanese and French influences. But the owners quickly realized that without a bar component, EpiCentre visitors were bypassing it.

Beal says BCI is helping add a bar, update the interior and turn it into an Asian fusion restaurant with tapas and a lounge-like feel.

“The décor looked too much like a standard Chinese buffet chain,” he says.

After a soft opening on Wednesday, Indochine is set to officially reopen next week.

Also on Beal’s project list this month: the old Hom nightclub multilevel complex. Plans include opening a Fiji Sushi Bar & Lounge (in the old Feast space) and Kashmere, an upscale “progressive nightclub” downstairs (where Liv used to be).

He expects to open both venues in August and sees a new entertainment district brewing along Fifth Street between Church and Tryon streets.

"With Basil open, Fiji and Kashmere coming, and the development going on at Ivey's, there are going to be a lot of choices for destination spots," he says. "You'll have the EpiCentre, the N.C. Music Factory and now the Fifth Street corridor."

This week's Party Picks

2009-07-29T15:07:00.002-04:00

Friday

Nightlife crawl

Registration starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Corner Pub, 335 N. Graham St. $10. www.bandtastic.com.

Elevate Lifestyle’s monthly bar crawl will stop at five bars off the beaten track (read: they’re not at the EpiCentre). Stops include the Corner Pub, Stool Pigeon’s, Jackalope Jack’s, Loft 1523 and Halo.

Saturday

Big Mamma’s House of Burlesque

8 p.m. Visulite Theatre, 1615 Elizabeth Ave. $12 in advance; $15 after 9 p.m. www.visulite.com.

Big Mamma and her troupe of dancers are back and under the big top for this month’s circus-themed burlesque show. Hannibal the Magician will open the show. Don’t miss the pogo dancer or the hula hoop girl.

Concert for a Cause

8 p.m. The Alley Cat, 314 N. College St. $10. www.guyswithtiescharlotte.com.

The Guys with Ties are teaming up with Classroom Central to give back to teachers at low-income schools. Concert for a Cause will feature The Sometime Favorites. Proceeds benefit Classroom Central, which provides much-needed school supplies to teachers.

Bags for Wags

2 p.m. 1225 Central Ave. $40 per team. E-mail littlepagej@mvalaw.com to register.

The Thirsty Beaver hosts a cornhole tournament in honor of our four-legged friends. Grab a teammate and register for this Humane Society fundraiser. Beer specials and BBQ will be offered and custom cornhole boards will be up for auction.

Lucky 1,800 see Mraz unplugged

2009-07-29T12:57:00.001-04:00

Concertgoers who attended the Jason Mraz show at the Uptown Amphitheatre are still drying out this morning after being caught in the epic thunderstorms that rumbled through Charlotte last night.

(Bet Live Nation is wishing they built a roof over the stage now.)

An early afternoon rain shower and an odd no-blanket rule at the amphitheater tipped off some to the crazy night that was about to ensue.

Instead of a laid back summer concert under the stars, fans were running for shelter to their cars and under tents and concessions stands as the skies opened up around 7:30, cutting opener K'naan's set short.

The mood was light though -- fans huddled together and sang some of Mraz's songs to keep spirits up, according to concertgoers.

Around 8:30, crews started packing up equipment from the stage and curious fans wondered what was going on.

People using Twitter exchanged rapid fire messages throughout the night about what to do -- and the lucky ones following @Jason_Mraz and @ncmusicfactory got the scoop first.

Mraz tweeted: "Acoustic set will happen inside. Our full stage set-up got soaked. Is inoperable for now. I don't think everyone will fit in though."

Genevieve Jooste, who follows the N.C. Music Factory on Twitter, heard directly from the complex via the social networking site saying the concert was moving inside to the smaller venue, The Fillmore. She was last in line to get in when the rain came pouring down again, causing everyone to run for the door.

Jooste, who originally held lawn tickets, says the two-hour acoustic set Mraz played was well worth the long night spent in soaked clothes.

"I have to give (Live Nation and the Music Factory) huge props because they put the stage together so quickly," she said this morning. "It was unbelievable. We were five feet from the stage. It was one of the best concerts I've been to."

Others were not so lucky. Only 1,800 people were allowed into the Fillmore and 5,000 originally had tickets.

One concertgoer e-mailed this morning, "So the person on the lawn that paid $15 for his or her seat got a front-row seat to see Jason Mraz while the person that had center stage three rows back went home because he can't run as fast. (A refund) doesn't make up for (Live Nation's) poor judgment and terrible decision to move a sold-out show of 5,000 people into a venue that holds 2,000 with no thought or planning."

Live Nation announced this morning that Mraz will return to Charlotte on Sept. 10 due to last night's storms. For those unable to attend the rescheduled show, refunds will be offered. See details here.

I have a few questions in to the local Live Nation spokeswoman about the decision. I'll update when I hear back from her.

Looking for a happy hour?

2009-07-24T15:00:00.001-04:00

A new website aims to make your social calendar search a little easier. Its motto? "Eat Cheap. Drink Cheap. Be Happy."

On Charlotte Happy Hour, partygoers can filter by date and neighborhood to find various bars and restaurants offering specials on the cheap.

Among the neighborhoods listed: South Park, UNCC, Elizabeth/Midwood, NoDa, Ballantyne, South End, Huntersville, Dilworth and Lake Norman.

Don't see your favorite special or bar on the list? There's a button to add them.

Happy hunting!

"Mojitos and Stilettos" starts tonight

2009-07-22T14:27:00.004-04:00

Ladies, add this new Wednesday after-work party to your calendars.

Carolina Nightlife, along with Bacardi and Heels.com, is throwing a weekly event series at Chima's sleek upstairs lounge.

"Mojitos and Stilettos" will feature $6 mojitos, half-price South American wines and $1.95 appetizers.

Added bonus for shoe addicts: Heels.com will be giving away each week a gift certificate for a high-end pair of stilettos to one lucky lady.

Stop by Chima tonight from 5-9:30 p.m.

Charlotte party hits the Travel Channel

2009-07-21T12:55:00.003-04:00

For those of you who participated in Rich and Bennett's St. Patrick's Day Pub Crawl in March, this week could be your moment in the spotlight.

Film crews from the Travel Channel's "Extreme" series captured the annual raucous party in March and crawl organizer Rich Saner just received word that the episode about extreme wild parties will air at 8 p.m. tomorrow (Wednesday, July 22).

See the full list of parties being featured here.

Don't forget to set your DVR.

Cosmos bartender among country's best

2009-07-15T18:11:00.003-04:00

The gin was flowing last night at Loft 1523 as Bombay Sapphire and GQ Magazine stopped in Charlotte on their search to find the country's Most Inspired Bartender.

Charlotte is one of 40 cities on the search, and 11 handpicked bartenders from local watering holes competed in last night's most-inspired martini contest.

I had the lucky job of judging, along with Bombay Sapphire's global brand ambassador Merlin Griffiths (who proved to be an encyclopedia of information about the history of gin, the latest trends in cocktails and his favorite places to party), Cantina 1511's mixologist Nicole Sharpe and fellow nightlife columnist Brittney Cason from Creative Loafing.

One thing that set this bartending competition apart from others I've judged: a trip to Las Vegas and a mention in GQ was on the line.

The guys (sadly, no female bartenders) really brought out all the tricks including edible flowers, Brazilian sugar cane sticks, rose water, fried basil, elderberry, crystallized ginger and fresh kiwis. Some of the bartenders had been preparing ingredients as early as two weeks before the competition.

Contestants David Eddings (from left), Stefan Huebner, Brandon Rood, Chris Peavy and Jason Astephen

Considering that my only previous experience with gin was a requisite gin and tonic here and there, tasting last night's concoctions was like an explosion of flavors. Only 11 points separated first and last place, giving you an idea of how hard the guys worked.

But Stefan Huebner's "The Queen Charlotte" was so tasty that it prompted an expletive from Griffiths ("That was &*%$ing fantastic") and equally effusive praise from the rest of the judges.

Merlin Griffiths (from left), Nicole Sharpe, Me, Stefan Huebner and Brittney Cason

His winning cocktail consisted of Bombay Sapphire, Campari, Prosecco, peach bitters, simple syrup, orange juice and a candied sugar twist for garnish. He called it a new twist on a classic '40s cocktail called the French 75.

Huebner's winning cocktail: The Queen Charlotte

Huebner will go on to compete against his fellow Top 40 in Las Vegas over Labor Day weekend and will be featured in the "Man of the Year" issue of GQ magazine, on newsstands in December.

His first thought when he won? "There goes all my gambling money."

He praised his competitors Wednesday as he nursed his celebratory hangover: "I was really excited to win because everybody brought it last night. Everybody's cocktails looked great."

You can find Huebner and his yummy cocktails (his cantaloupe martini won at Bar Wars 2008) at the new Cosmos in Ballantyne.

Congrats, and good luck in Vegas!

Tilted Kilt is another revealing restaurant

2009-07-15T13:36:00.002-04:00

Good news, guys! Your options for breast-aurants just grew (pun intended).

Tilted Kilt, a sports pub, opened this week in the Steele Creek area. And, judging from the name, I'm sure you've guessed the female servers wait tables dressed in skimpy plaid kilts, matching push-up bras and crop tops. As a male co-worker said, "Is this a dream?"

It's the first of five such pubs opening in the Charlotte area in the next two years thanks to Ben Thorman, who bought the franchise rights for the Charlotte market after visiting a Tilted Kilt in Green Bay, Wis. He's looking at the Lake Wylie, Lake Norman, Matthews and University City areas for his other locations.

And while the girls must be able to fit the suggestive costume in the initial interview, Thorman insists personality is just as important as showing some skin.

"The costume is just a gimmick to get people in the door," he says. "After your second visit, the costume will be secondary and it'll feel like any other restaurant."

With 24 beers on tap and 30 flat-panel TVs located throughout the big, open space, people will be likely to stay for the sports and guy-friendly atmosphere.

Decor is pretty pub standard: lots of wood, green walls, a pool table and arcade games, and Irish-, Scottish-, British-friendly knick-knacks from bagpipes to soccer jerseys.

"We are a tongue-in-cheek, poke-fun-at-everyone, Irish, Scottish, English, American pub," Thorman says. "We don't try to be authentic, but we want that local watering hole feel."

That fun atmosphere is displayed in the limericks painted on the walls ("Nudge, nudge, wink, wink, say no more") and in the menu (sample item: Fat Bastard Meatloaf). Entrees range from $8.99-$14.99.

Tilted Kilt is open for lunch and dinner daily. 13230 Carowinds Blvd.

Check out these new parties tonight

2009-07-10T15:08:00.002-04:00

A couple of new after-work parties start tonight:

Madison's bar kicks off Fundraising Fridays, a weekly event dedicated to benefitting local nonprofits hurt by budget cuts. The after-work socials, which will run for eight weeks, will offer $2 Bud Light and $4 wine specials. Tonight's party will benefit Community Health Services, which provides preventative health care to children and adults with limited means. Other organizations will include King's Kitchen (July 17), Opera Carolina (July 24) and Mecklenburg County Boy Scouts of America (July 31). Nonprofits who would like to be considered for one of the August spots should contact Peter Gilchrist by e-mailing him here. 6-9 p.m. 115 E. Fifth St. $10 donation. www.madisonsbar.com.

Uptown Magazine is also starting its own Friday social this week called the Uptown Cooldown. The bi-monthly party will travel the second and fourth Fridays of the month to different hotspots around town. Tonight, partygoers can slurp up Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka sno-cones at Apostrophe Lounge. Next one will be July 24 at LaVecchia's. Tonight's party starts at 5 p.m. 1440 S. Tryon St. Free. www.uptownclt.com.

Do you play Bunco?

2009-07-09T15:28:00.000-04:00

I'm looking for women in the University City area who attend regular Bunco parties.

I'm working on a story about the tradition -- and what really goes on at these kid-free gatherings -- for University City magazine.

Interested in being interviewed? E-mail me here or call 704-358-5207.

Thanks!

Names they are a-changing

2009-07-08T16:02:00.003-04:00

There's more shakeup in nightlife news this week with a couple of uptown venues changing ownership and names.

Rustic Martini (a cute spot, but in nowheresville on North Tryon) has been sold to Jason Roy. New name is Club Urban Affair. Grand opening: July 18.

In an e-mail to patrons last week, Rustic Martini owner Carlos Combs wrote, "It brings me great pleasure to have met many friends and hosted so many great events for you here in Charlotte. I thank you for always keeping it 'grown and sexy' and wish you and the future establishment as much success and happiness I have been blessed with."

He went on to add that he'll be opening another venue in 2010.

And Amnesia (otherwise known as V Lounge, V on 4th, etc.) has changed names yet again. It's now Bentley's RSVP, on the corner of Fourth and Poplar streets.

Thriller Thursday at EpiCentre

2009-07-08T15:35:00.000-04:00

I've got more details about tomorrow's Alive After Five: The Michael Jackson edition.

Fresh off the heels of Tuesday's memorial, the folks over at AA5 are turning this Thursday's party into a massive tribute to the King of Pop.

Who's Bad, the Michael Jackson tribute band, will perform and they've also compiled a video dedicated to Jackson that will be aired on a big screen behind the main Bud Light stage upstairs. The music from Who's Bad will be piped through speakers all over the EpiCentre, including the courtyard. And in between sets, a DJ will be spinning all of the MJ favorites.

Staff members will be dressed in Jackson attire. The girls will be wearing fedoras, white tank tops, black suspenders, black shorts and a glove. The guys will wear black pants and red dress shirts.

And for the first time at AA5, you can purchase all-inclusive tickets that grant you access to a VIP viewing area, refreshments and free admission to EpiCentre bars and clubs. To buy tickets, click here.

Another uptown bar closing its doors

2009-07-07T16:11:00.000-04:00

At 2 p.m. today, Brick & Barrel opened its doors for the last time. The tiny speakeasy on North Tryon will close tonight after six years.

On its Facebook page today, the bar posted this message:

"Today is our last day open. We are gonna miss you guys. Come say bye to the staff you love. We need you guys to come drink the bar dry. Cheers to you, Brick & the amazing family it has created. See you soon!!"

Rumors of the bar's closing have swirled since the EpiCentre's first nightlife venue, Whisky River, opened over a year ago, but partner Larry Parks says the reasons behind the closing have nothing to do with the EpiCentre or the economy.

"We can't come to terms with our landlord on a new lease," Parks says. "He (Garry Bhojwani of Binaco Investments) wants $15,000 a month and I'm not willing to pay that."

Parks says the bar has paid $10,000 a month the past six years on the small space. The upstairs bar is about 1,400 square feet.

"We'll resurface and reopen somewhere," he says. "We'll sit the bad economy out and decide what to do."

In the meantime, Parks says Bhojwani has been contacted by a number of different bars looking to strike a deal on the newly vacant space.

Live Nation offers all-inclusive lawn tickets

2009-07-07T15:42:00.002-04:00

After a slew of successful "No Service Fee Wednesdays," Live Nation is expanding its popular ticket promotion this week.

"Over the last five Wednesdays, music fans have saved millions of dollars on concert tickets at LiveNation.com," Live Nation president Michael Rapino said in a news release. "Now fans have asked that we take it one step further and give a truly all-in price."

Starting at 12:01 tonight, concertgoers can buy lawn tickets at a flat rate to such shows as Blink 182, Crue Fest, Incubus, Alan Jackson and Def Leppard. Also included in the $29.99 ticket: parking and other fees, as well as a hot dog and soda.

The offer, which is good on all lawn seats at Live Nation-ticketed amphitheaters, will run for 24 hours.

For tickets, click here.

Free concerts and no covers

2009-06-30T15:30:00.001-04:00

I'm heading out of town for the July 4th holiday this weekend, so things will be pretty quiet -- but before I go, I wanted to bring a couple of noteworthy free concerts to your attention.

Next Thursday's Alive After Five features Who's Bad, a Michael Jackson tribute band. Sparkly gloves not required for entry, but highly recommended.

Also at the EpiCentre: Vanilla Ice (yes, really) performs July 11 as part of the complex's summer concert series. Sing it with me: "Doo doo doo d-d-doo doo ..."

And speaking of free, a reader asked me to compile a list of all the uptown bars that don't charge a cover on the weekends. Here's what I found (let me know if I missed any):

Brick & Barrel
Cans
Fox & Hound
Therapy
PJ's
Cosmos
Wild Wing Cafe
Stool Pigeons
Corner Pub
The Pub at Gateway
Cedar Street Tavern
Picasso's
Dixie's Tavern

Michael Jackson tribute night

2009-06-26T15:06:00.002-04:00

The Forum will host a special "Ode to MJ" tonight starting at 11 p.m.

Classic Michael Jackson and Jackson 5 tracks will be woven into the club's usual lineup of top 40 dance hits, as well as a couple of solid blocks of time devoted to nothing but the music from the best years of the King of Pop.

Want to go? Admission is $10 or free when you text FORUM to 25827 (you must text before 7 p.m.).

Know of other places dedicating their music to Jackson? Post them in comments below.

Uptown sports dive closes

2009-06-25T16:57:00.001-04:00

George Herman's, a sports bar tucked into the charming Brevard Court, closed its doors within the past two weeks.

The closing comes just about a month after the bar expanded, adding a separate room off the lower level previously occupied by another tenant.

The bar's owner couldn't be reached for comment this afternoon, and the phone number at the bar has been disconnected.

Therapy's new look

2009-06-23T12:20:00.001-04:00

Therapy Cafe reopened last week and its bigger look now matches its famous double martinis.

The new Therapy is easily triple the size of its original location -- it and Rock Bottom are now the only businesses along the block of Tryon from Seventh to Eighth streets after Therapy took over spaces that previously housed an art gallery and Lola's.

The new look is spacious and modern, yet cozy. The deep reds and browns have been replaced with cool blues and greens and lots of candlelight. Seating includes a mix of big booths and hightop tables and ample seating at the long main bar. A private room is also available to rent for receptions, business meetings and parties.

Much like the bar, the menu has expanded, too. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are now served, and the fare goes beyond sandwiches thanks to the full kitchen chefs have to work with (left over from Lola's).

Owner Jason Stone has incorporated food into the new menu that comes fresh from his local organic farm. Entrees include pasta pomodoro, smothered pork chops, shrimp and grits, and a New York strip ($12-$21).

The only thing that hasn't changed is the martini lineup -- and those are still half-price on Wednesday nights (normally $12), the bar's most popular night.

For reals, bro?

2009-06-19T16:39:00.005-04:00

A friend passed this along to me today and I couldn't resist sharing with my hair-gel hating, anti-Ed Hardy readers. It's a clip from MTV's new show "Is She Really Going Out With Him?" inspired by this popular website.

The commentary is pretty spot on (and the content resembles more than a few scenes I witness weekly on the party scene). Enjoy, or cringe.

Is She Really Going Out With Him? - MTV Shows

Forum updates its Roof Garden

2009-06-19T15:16:00.001-04:00

It was one of my favorite rooftop hangouts already, but Forum has made some improvements to its Roof Garden and will unveil the new look this weekend -- just in time for Sunday's Summer Solstice.

The club has added new greenery, upgraded its lighting and changed the color scheme. Check out the new look with me on Saturday night. Rain isn't in the forecast, so no excuses.

DJ Ben Hamilton will be spinning sultry Miami-inspired house music with a live percussionist, and bartenders will be serving up Brazilian caipirinhas.

The party is open to the public after 11 p.m. Hope to see some of you guys there!

Whisky's celeb-filled birthday bash

2009-06-18T14:35:00.004-04:00

Whisky River was decked in balloons and streamers Wednesday night and bartenders passed out birthday cake to mark the bar's one-year anniversary at an exclusive party filled with local celebrities.

Whisky owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. was there to celebrate the occasion, along with fellow NASCAR drivers Denny Hamlin, Dave Stremme and Reed Sorenson.

A number of Carolina Panthers also partied hidden from the crowd in the VIP section, including Julius Peppers, Dante Rosario and Jon Beason.

And city leaders also turned out: Mayor Pat McCrory gave a toast proclaiming Whisky River as "the best bar in Charlotte and the best in the Southeast." (Ha.) City councilmen John Lassiter and Andy Dulin (who was heavily promoting his Twitter -- or as he calls it, Tweeter -- page) were also in attendance.

But it was the party's musical guest that had everyone talking: country singer and "Dancing with the Stars" pro Julianne Hough, who performed a 45-minute set with full band, dedicating one song to boyfriend (and fellow country singer) Chuck Wicks and playing a new song for the first time. She also played a couple of covers: Sheryl Crow's "Steve McQueen" and Pat Benatar's "Hit Me with Your Best Shot."

Her upbeat, feel-good performance showed why she was recently named Best New Artist at the Academy of Country Music Awards in April.

Win Julianne Hough tickets!

2009-06-17T10:00:00.005-04:00

Update: Tickets gone.

Whisky River celebrates its one-year anniversary with a special performance by country cutie and "Dancing with the Stars" pro Julianne Hough.

It's invitation only, but I've got a pair of tickets for one lucky reader. (Note: You must be able to pick up the tickets from the Observer today.)

The first person to e-mail me the names of her two partners with whom she won "Dancing with the Stars" gets the tickets. Please include a daytime phone number.

Price gouging at the concessions stand

2009-06-15T16:47:00.000-04:00

I touched on this briefly in my story covering the opening of the Uptown Amphitheatre on Saturday night, but I need to vent my personal disgust a little bit more.

The price-gouging going on at various concerts and sporting events is out of control.

I was hoping that prices at the new venue would be lower than those at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, since it's smaller (5,000 vs. Verizon's 18,000) and the bands aren't as high-profile.

Nope: Beers ranged from $8-$11 on Saturday night. Sodas and waters were just as ridiculously priced -- $5 for a bottle of Coke or a 24-ounce fountain drink and $4 for a bottle of Dasani water. (My $5 fountain drink was filled three-quarters of the way with big chunks of ice. I got maybe 10 sips of actual soda from it.)

The fact that these guys have tip buckets at their $9 beer stands is almost comical. Almost.

And it's not just Live Nation venues either (although their prices appear to be the highest). Beers at Bobcats games or Time Warner Cable Arena concerts will cost you around $8.75; Bank of America Stadium charges between $6.50 and $8.

How can these places charge such outrageous prices with a straight face, especially in this economy?

It's not like they're taking a loss on ticket sales -- especially when they're adding on up to $17 in service fees (Read Observer reporter Andrew Dunn's story about service fees here) -- and then making it up at the concessions stands. They're making money on both sides.

It takes the fun out of going to such events, knowing how much more it's going to cost you on top of what you've already paid just to get in the door. My wallet feels for the chivalrous guys out there who took dates to Saturday's concert and picked up the tab. (For an interesting look at dating during the recession, click here.)

Some say the solution is simple: "Get hammered before you go." I say you shouldn't have to do that, especially if you plan on driving.

Others say "Who cares? It's the same everywhere else. Accept it."

You should be able to go to a concert, enjoy a nice summer night with a cold beer under the stars -- for a reasonable price. Heck, I'd be happy with a $5 beer at this rate.

G&G Club changes its name

2009-06-12T14:28:00.002-04:00

(I've updated this entry to reflect that the settlement amount reached by the two sides was confidential and far less than previously reported.)

And in more N.C. Music Factory news, there's been a name shakeup at the former Garden & Gun Club.

The house-music-focused dance club has been in the midst of a trademark-infringement lawsuit filed by South Carolina-based Garden & Gun Magazine nearly a year ago.

The two sides settled about six months ago in a confidential agreement and the club's name officially changed to Halo this week.

The club will celebrate its new name tonight with Global Fever 4, featuring New York's DJ Nicknakis and Charlotte's DJ Kosta X.

Uptown Amphitheatre/Fillmore set to open

2009-06-12T10:26:00.002-04:00

Photo courtesy of Robert Lahser -- rlahser@charlotteobserver.com

The N.C. Music Factory takes a big step this weekend in its attempt to turn the northwest edge of uptown into one of Charlotte's most vibrant entertainment districts.

The Uptown Amphitheatre opens tomorrow with headliners The Fray. Folk-rocker Corey Smith opens The Fillmore Charlotte next Friday. Both new venues are operated by Live Nation under a long-term deal.

I got a sneak peek of the places and previewed them for today's paper. Click here to read.

For photos, click here.

For video, click here.

And if you missed it last Sunday, check out my story about how the N.C. Music Factory went from being an ambitious vision to a reality.

Poolside chic at the Ballantyne Hotel

2009-06-10T09:08:00.002-04:00

The Ballantyne Hotel is starting a weekly party inspired by the chic gatherings often hosted poolside at South Beach hotels like the Delano.

The new Thursday night party, which kicks off this week, coincides with the unveiling of the luxury hotel's new outdoor pool (about half the size of an Olympic-length pool) located just off the spa.

Guests can mingle on the pool deck overlooking the golf course or lounge on the cushy chaises while DJ Lotta Noize provides the music from the second level terrace. Two bars will serve cocktails and the pool menu will be available until 10 p.m.

The party, which is open to the public, starts at 6 p.m. and runs through Sept. 3. (If sunbathing is more your thing, the pool is also available to members of the public for a $50 daily fee or it's free to use with a spa service.)

How do you hold your drink?

2009-06-04T13:15:00.001-04:00

Think about the last time you were out at a bar with friends. Now, think about what you were drinking and how you were holding your glass: Casually? Daintily? Firmly?

A new study by psychologist Glenn Wilson for Australian bar chain Walkabout Bars says the way you hold your drink reveals much about your personality. He studied the body language of 500 partyers and divided them into eight personality types.

According to Wilson, the eight types are:

The Flirt: Usually a woman, who holds her glass with dainty, splayed fingers and uses it in a provocative way. She may position it over her cleavage so as to draw attention to her attributes or peer over the rim to make eye contact when taking a sip. She may "tease" the rim of the glass with her finger, perhaps dipping it into the drink and sucking it dry.
The Gossip: This (mainly female) drinker tends to cluster in all-female groups talking about other people, and can be critical. She holds a wine glass by the bowl and uses it to gesticulate and make points in conversation. She is inclined to lean over her drink, in towards others so as to speak confidentially.
The Fun-lover: This type of drinker may be a man or a woman, who drinks to be sociable and values togetherness. A convivial individual, he/she enjoys being with their friends, and likes a laugh. Swigs taken from bottled drinks are short, so they don't miss out on chipping in with the conversation. The bottle is held loosely at its shoulder for ease.
The Wallflower: This is a shy individual who holds the glass protectively, not letting go, as though afraid somebody will take it away. Palms are kept hidden and the glass is used as a social crutch – the drink is never quite finished, with a mouthful left in case of emergency. It may be drunk through a straw, which is fidgeted with, and used to stir the drink between sips.
The Ice-queen: This is a mainly female type whose natural style is cold and defensive. She drinks from a wine glass, or a short glass, which is held firmly in a barrier position across the body so as to deter intimate approaches.
The Playboy: This man is the active, self-confident, Don Juan-type seducer. He uses his (usually long) glass or bottle as a phallic prop, playing with it suggestively.
The Jack the Lad: This "peacock" is conscious of his image and will drink a bottled beer, or cider. Inclined to be confident and arrogant, he can be territorial in his gestures, spreading himself over as much space as possible, for example, pushing the glass well away from himself and leaning back in his chair.
The Browbeater: This pugnacious type is again mostly male. He prefers large glasses, or bottles, which he uses as symbolic weapons, firmly grasped, and gesticulating in a threatening, "in the face" kind of way. Something of a know-it-all, he comes across as slightly hostile, even if only through verbal argument, or jokes targeted at others.

I fall into -- interestingly enough -- The Wallflower category. I grasp my drink with both hands and swirl my straw. But as the night goes on and more drinks are consumed, I quickly become the Fun-lover. Funny how that happens.

Where do you guys stand? Do you use body language to determine whether or not to approach someone?

More free summer concerts

2009-06-03T12:52:00.002-04:00

The EpiCentre isn't the only place hosting free concerts this summer -- you can also get your free-music fix at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

In addition to its popular Thursday night Subaru River Jam, the USNWC is starting a Saturday event as well. The Summer Saturdays Concert Series starts this weekend and runs through July. Free entry, but parking is $5. The concerts run from 6-9 p.m.

Here's a preliminary lineup:

June 6: Jeff Luckadoo
June 13: Greg Lilley
June 20: Dixie Electric Company
June 27: Tom Rucker
July 11: The Brubakers
July 18: Scott Smith
Aug. 1: Nita B & The Swingin' Soiree
Aug. 8: The Operators
Aug. 15: The Matt Hatfield Group

Also starting this weekend is the Marshall Park Music Festival, a Sunday jazz fest that runs through the end of the month. From 1-7 p.m. each week you can hear live music from four different bands including such acts as Thom Crumpton and Jared Allen.

Free summer concert series coming to EpiCentre

2009-06-02T15:16:00.001-04:00

The EpiCentre is offering its own economic stimulus package in the form of a free summer concert series every Saturday starting June 13.

Josh Kelley and Ryan Cabrera will kick things off at the Pavilion next week at 7 p.m.

The series -- in conjunction with Full House Productions and Kiss 95.1 -- is a way of thanking Charlotte for its support, said Bob Durkin of BMG, which runs much of the entertainment venues at the uptown complex.

"With this economy being what it is and with all the good things that have happened at the EpiCentre, it's really perfect timing to thank everybody for embracing (us)," he told me Tuesday.

The series will run for 10 weeks and will feature such national recording artists as Tinted Windows, Vanessa Carlton and Kevin Rudolf.

"People just do not want to pay $50 to see a show in these or any economic times," Thom Perez of Full House Productions said in a news release. "And now they don't have to."

Concertgoers will also get free admission to Suite, BlackFinn, StrikeCity and Whisky River when they show their wristbands.

A limited number of VIP Access Passes will be given out over the air on Kiss 95.1.

Update on Therapy

2009-06-02T12:49:00.005-04:00

After closing in February for an extensive expansion and remodel, Therapy is set to reopen this month.

The martini bar-restaurant's reopening is set for June 10, which is an invite-only party to meet the case of Phantom of the Opera. (Sign up here.)

The official grand reopening party will be held June 12.

Win tickets to VIP party at '70s club

2009-06-02T11:39:00.000-04:00

The disco balls are hanging and the resin is drying on the record-covered bar at Dammit Janet, the new '70s club opening up Friday in NoDa.

If you want to get a sneak peek of the club, I've got five pairs of tickets to give away to Thursday's pre-opening VIP party, catered by KC of Fat City.

Just post your favorite disco dance tune in comments below then e-mail me your comment.

First five get 'em.

(UPDATE: Tickets gone. Thanks for playing.)

Ri Ra owners anxious to reopen

2009-05-29T15:05:00.003-04:00

Less than a week after a fire caused about $1 million in damage at Ri Ra, its owners are working hard to repair the Irish pub and reopen as soon as possible.

"Fortunately nobody was hurt and once over the initial shock, we were happy to realize that the beautiful, original 19th century Victorian Dublin bar in the middle of the pub was undamaged in the fire," owner David Kelly told me Thursday.

He and his co-owner Ciaran Sheehan plan to restore the pub to exactly as it was before the accident.

They're hoping it -- along with the popular sandwich bar on Hearst Plaza -- will reopen later this summer.

For updates on the bar's grand reopening party, follow Ri Ra on Twitter.

Suite unveils new look for first birthday

2009-05-27T15:50:00.002-04:00

Suite is gearing up for its one-year anniversary bash on Friday and putting the final touches on a three-month remodeling job to freshen up the EpiCentre hotspot.

Among the changes, staff has:

Added new furniture inside and out.
Installed new carpet and a fresh coat of paint.
Added landscaping to the patio.
Applied a faux stain to the patio, making the concrete appear more like wood.
Added a woven metal wall treatment to the Hardwood Suite.
Resurfaced the main bar and installed a lucite lighting scheme.

The renovations are to ensure that the club "stays fresh and lives up to all the things people have come to expect," says Thom Perez of Full House Productions. "We're never going to let it get stale. You won't come here five or six years down the road and expect to see the same thing. It's a place that needs to constantly evolve and stay on the cutting edge."

MTV personality Brody Jenner was set to host Friday's party, but due to a filming conflict with "The Hills," he had to cancel this week. (Apparently, the cast is being sent on a trip somewhere. More proof that the reality show isn't, well, real.)

But Perez says the party was never really about Jenner: "It's about unveiling the renovations and putting on a huge great party and celebrating our first year."

The party starts at 9 p.m. Get there early to avoid long lines. Advance tickets are available at the club.

'70s club set to open in NoDa

2009-05-22T14:46:00.002-04:00

Jeff Lowery has a simple message for partygoers wondering what his new Dammit Janet club is all about:

"We want to be the opposite of EpiCentre."

The new '70s dance club -- think more David Bowie than David Cassidy -- officially opens June 5 on North Davidson in the space once occupied by Eclipse.

Longtime Charlotteans might remember Lowery as the former owner of the Milestone, the '80s club Pterodactyl and most recently of Jeff's Bucket Shop on Montford.

He's been out of the club scene for awhile, but thought the dance club addition to the NoDa neighborhood would be a good fit.

He says he's tired of the cookie-cutter clubs uptown ("I'm not into dressing up and taking yourself so seriously"), the one-word names and the monotonous beat of techno music. ("It just sounds like you listened to same song all night.")

Instead, expect to hear a mix of '70s music from classic rock and disco to Motown and P-Funk.

And he's not ruling out throwing in some old Pterodactyl '80s playlists in there either. He kept records of songs he played at the old club on Freedom and Morehead and says, "You can walk in and hear an exact playlist from 1989."

And keeping with the '70s theme, Lowery promises '70s prices: $1.50 domestics and $2 imports all day every day.

Details: 3746 N. Davidson St. Capacity: about 500. Smoking allowed until ban takes effect. Open Tuesday-Sunday until 2 a.m.

(Update: Based on feedback, Lowery plans to make most of the club non-smoking while reserving a small area for smokers.)

NV Lounge changes ownership

2009-05-22T14:04:00.000-04:00

Over the past few months, NV Lounge has been going through some big changes: owners Paul Yates and Robert Shelton sold the Lake Norman nightclub in January to Eric Harwood and Suzette Richards of Southern California.

Since then, Harwood and Richards have gradually been renovating the club and preparing to rename it.

As they approach the end of their remodeling work, the club will be closed next week and will reopen June 4 as Synergy Nightclub.

According to promotions manager Lindsay Ferguson, the club has added a huge chandelier to the main room, changed its color scheme, refinished the bar and dance floor, added separate VIP areas upstairs and also created a window from the main club overlooking Sidebar, the smaller lounge (formerly a sports bar-type space) in back.

Ferguson says the club will host a variety of ages with a variety of party nights:

Thursday night will be country night, hosted and DJed by WSOC's Big Sexy.
Friday night will be 18 and up Fantasy Fridays with such theme nights as Tiki Parties and Four Season parties.
Saturday will be 21 and up dance nights.
And Sunday will be the club's Service Industry Night with Pub Pong tourneys.

Former owner Yates says his main reason for selling was a desire to move back to Miami. He and Shelton are pursuing other markets as well. Shelton, along with Angela Swett, is reopening XO, a tapas restaurant and wine bar, this weekend on Bethel Church Road.

Soul melds food and music

2009-05-14T16:55:00.005-04:00

(Photos courtesy of Balthazar Photo)

On the heels of opening a second Cosmos in Ballantyne, DJ/chef/nightlife pioneer Andy Kastanas, along with James Fedele, is tackling another new concept -- this time in Plaza-Midwood.

Soul Gastrolounge opened last week on the corner of Pecan and Central avenues. It's in the heart of P-M, but blink and you'll miss it. Subtle signage and a second-floor location keeps it relatively hidden. To that end, it could become one of the best-kept secrets in the neighborhood.

Inside, it's a cozy space with a rustic feel -- "old world pub meets Halston's penthouse," according to a press release announcing the opening.

The decor -- the vision of musician/DJ/jack-of-all-trades Scott Weaver -- includes dark hardwood floors, exposed brick walls, a wood-beamed ceiling and paintings from local artist Duy Huynh. Outdoor seating on the balcony offers a view of the skyline and the busy corner of Pecan and Central.

For Kastanas, Soul is the perfect blend of his two loves: food and music. On Wednesday night, he was back in the gastrolounge's small kitchen, helping Johnson & Wales-trained Patty Greene keep up with the dinner rush. And you'll often find him and co-owner Fedele in the DJ booth, spinning soulful house.

"I wanted to create something that satisfied both parts of me," he says. "It's not about eating and walking out and it's not a bar you come to just to get drunk."

Instead, he says, it's about social interaction. He hopes foodies and music lovers alike will sit back, relax with a cocktail and listen to the DJ while sharing sushi and small plates of Asian-inspired cuisine with their friends.

In addition to Kastanas and Fedele, such local DJs as That Guy Smitty, Scott Weaver, Jah-Sun Rising and Johnnie Davis will also be on the wheels, usually starting around 10 p.m. The music-restaurant -- as Kastanas likes to call it -- will be smoke-free until around 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends.

Perhaps more than anything, Kastanas and Fedele are hoping to add to the already vibrant neighborhood.

"There's already of lot of culture and a lot of things going on here," Kastanas says of Plaza-Midwood. "We're hoping this new addition will only enhance (it)."

To see video of Soul, click here. Look for a food review in next Friday's CLT.

Martini mixer

2009-05-13T15:28:00.001-04:00

The EpiCentre, along with Elevate and Kiss 95.1, hosted its first MartiniFest last night on its rooftop Pavilion, providing tastings of dozens of different drinks from area bars and restaurants.

For $25, partygoers were given 10 martini tickets and five beer tickets and were told at the door, "If you run out, just come back for more."

My kind of party.

I got there around 7:30 and some partygoers had already nicknamed it SloppyFest, thanks to the tiny, shot-like cups in which some of the martinis were served.

One guy had been there since 5 (even though it didn't officially start until 6) and was keeping track of his martini intake by holding on to his cups. He was seen later in the night balancing a stack of 10 Dixie cups.

But for the most part, people seemed to be enjoying good drinks and good weather without the insane crowds of Alive After Five.

My favorite drink of the night? Loft 1523's Orange and Mango concoction.

Proceeds from the event benefitted the American Cancer Society.

To see video from last night, click here.

Cosmos opens in Ballantyne

2009-05-12T16:25:00.001-04:00

Ballantyne got a much-needed addition to its nightlife scene last week with the opening of Cosmos Café – a sister location to the original uptown hot spot. Suburbanites who have been looking for an alternative to Ballantyne Village's Villa Antonio or the nearby On the Roxx, now have a new place to relax with a drink and enjoy a late-night meal.

The Scene: Cosmos owners Andy Kastanas and Gus Georgoulias are well known for raising the bar for uptown nightlife – and it seems they're aiming to do the same in Ballantyne. The new Cosmos' décor – the vision of Boris Tomic, who also designed the uptown location, Forum and Alley Cat – is striking.

In keeping with the cosmos theme, a lighted panel along the ceiling is meant to represent a comet striking a planet. An elaborate centerpiece of jutting spikes and red drapery is the resulting explosion. Take a closer look at the large circular bar – the focal point of the restaurant – and you'll notice a resemblance to the rings of Saturn.

Rich reds and coppers also add to the fiery atmosphere – an interesting juxtaposition to the restaurant's outside appearance: a farmhouse, thanks to its location in the new development The Village at Robinson Farm.

For now, managers say, the focus will be on the food rather than the bar. Entrees such as steak au poivres and lobster crab cakes range in price from $17.95-$27.95. But lovers of the uptown location's extensive martini list won't be disappointed either – it's all intact here ($8-$12) and managers are hoping to start drink promotions soon.

The Crowd: Because of its suburban location, expect a mostly over-35 clientele. GM Ahmad Mohammad hopes it will be a nightlife destination for nearby residents who come for dinner and stay for drinks at the bar or outside on the patio.

The Music: A mix of house and pop music, with a DJ spinning Friday and Saturday nights.

The Details: Open until 2 a.m. six days a week (1 a.m. on Sundays). 8420 Rea Road. 704-544-5268. www.cosmoscafe.com.

Subaru River Jam starts tonight

2009-05-07T13:22:00.001-04:00

The Subaru River Jam concert series kicks off tonight at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

The free weekly event, held every Thursday, runs from 7-10 p.m. through October. It's a family-friendly party (and dogs are welcome, too) held on the River's Edge patio overlooking the rapids.

Here's the schedule for the rest of the summer:

May

May 7 – Masonboro Boys (Rock-A-Billy/Bluegrass)
May 14 – Mick & the Ultras (Blues/Rock)
May 21 – Roadside Attraction (Rock-n-Roll)
May 28 – Ten Toes Up (Blues/Rock)

JUNE

June 4 – Thom Crumpton Trio (Blues)
June 11 – Thirsty Horses (Rock/Covers)
June 18 – Truckstop Preachers (Honky-Tonk)
June 25 – Orange Crush (Alternative 80’s)

JULY

July 2 – Dub Axxess (Reggae)
July 9 – Heywire (Rock/Americana/Funk)
July 16 – Thom Crumpton Trio (Blues)
July 23 – The Holdouts (Rock-n-Roll)
July 30 – Matt & Jon Acoustic Duo (Rock-n-Roll)

August

Aug. 6 – The Alan Barrington Band
Aug. 13 – The New Relics (Pop/Country)
Aug. 20 – Thirsty Horses (Rock/Covers)
Aug. 27 – Orange Crush (Alternative 80’s)

September

Sept. 3 – Carolina Gator Gumbo (Cajun/Creole)
Sept. 10 – Gael Warning (Rock/Folk)
Sept. 17 – Green Vegas
Sept. 24 –Alan & Dave

October

Oct. 1 – Square Roots

Speed Street concert lineup released

2009-05-06T16:58:00.002-04:00

Headlining this year's Food Lion Speed Street festival (May 21-23) uptown will be Clint Black, Gavin DeGraw, Lifehouse, Jason Aldean, Rodney Atkins and Bel Biv Devoe.

Miller Lite Stage (Eighth and Brevard streets)

Thursday, May 21: Jason Aldean at 9:30 p.m.
Friday, May 22: Lifehouse at 9:15 p.m.
Saturday, May 23: Gavin DeGraw at 9:30 p.m.

Coca-Cola Stage (Trade and Tryon streets)

Thursday: Bel Biv Devoe at 9 p.m.
Friday: Rodney Atkins at 9:15 p.m.
Saturday: Clint Black at 9:15 p.m.

For a full schedule of artists performing on the two stages, click here.

Also race-related, O.A.R. will perform a FREE concert next Wednesday (May 13) to coincide with the Sprint All-Star Race. The performance is part of NASCAR Rev'd Up, a six-hour event that will feature driver appearances, show cars and interactive displays. (4-10 p.m. Third and Mint streets).

Rain delay

2009-05-06T15:44:00.003-04:00

Tonight's Piedmont Town Center After Five has been canceled because of the weather.

Magic Margaritas

2009-05-05T15:30:00.002-04:00

In honor of Cinco de Mayo, I'm sharing an old Aarthun family recipe for margaritas. We call them magic because it only takes one to get that warm and fuzzy feeling -- they've helped get us through many a family reunion.

Aunt Debi's Magic Margaritas

In a two glass shaker (16 – 24 oz size)

1. Fill half of shaker with ice
2. Pour 2 shots of Silver Patron Tequila into shaker
3. Pour 2 shots of Cointreau (citrus liqueur) into shaker
4. Finish off the shaker with Pre-mixed Lasco Lime Mix and Water (if you cannot find Lasco Lime Mix -- found in liquor supply stores -- use Bacardi Lime-aide frozen and add water). With both lime mixes you may want to add a bit of sugar or sweetener to take the bite of tartness out of the drink.
5. Salt the rim of drinking glasses (optional) with lime.
6. Add 1-2 pieces of lime to glasses.
7. Shake up and pour over ice.

*You can also add Grand Marnier for a bit of a kick. Also, a great summer twist is to leave the shaker with room to add 1 inch of Cranberry juice. The Magic Margs become Cosmoritas (no need to salt the rim for those).

Grand openings galore

2009-05-05T14:03:00.001-04:00

After a quiet winter, spring is bringing out some new spots to party.

Soul Gastrolounge, the much-anticipated Plaza-Midwood hangout, officially opens to the public tomorrow at 5 p.m. The music- and food-focused lounge is the brainchild of Charlotte nightlife pioneer Andy Kastanas and James Fedele. Don't miss the views of uptown from the upstairs balcony.
Cosmos Cafe (also part of the Kastanas brand) is opening a second location in Ballantyne tomorrow at 8420 Rea Road. I'm stopping in for its Friends & Family party tonight and will post a review tomorrow.
Uptown's Therapy Cafe is set to reopen late this month after undergoing a significant expansion. I'll keep you updated on the grand reopening party details.
Brazwell's on Montford Drive (aka the old Press Box) opened last week.
If you've been to Alive After Five at EpiCentre, you've already seen the new open-air rooftop bar, Penthouse. The casual hangout, in conjunction with the Pavilion, will host such upcoming events as Martini Fest (May 12), SpeedCentre later this month and a Fourth of July celebration.
Crave Dessert Bar opened uptown (behind Cans) in late March and now that it has all the kinks worked out, it's celebrating with a grand opening party Friday starting at 6 p.m.
D'Vine Wine Cafe opened last month in Ballantyne Village. Highlights include a full service cafe, private tasting room and retail wine shop.

Also on the horizon:

Luna Lounge (from the people who brought you Sunset Club and KISS Lounge) in the old Coyote Ugly spot on College Street. Opening TBA.
Enso, an upscale Asian bistro and sushi bar, at the EpiCentre. Opening TBA.
N.C. Music Factory is gearing up for a big spring/summer concert season with the opening of its boutique outdoor amphitheater and its Fillmore music venue.

Tyber celebrates 10 years (win tickets!)

2009-05-01T12:29:00.004-04:00

From the Observer vault: Tommy Timmins works behind the bar at Tyber Creek circa 2001.

Local bar owner Tommy Timmins is a rare success story in the fickle nightlife market of Charlotte. As flashy new bars and clubs come and go, his neighborhood pubs, in good times and in bad, continue to draw a steady crowd of regulars.

Tommy's first Charlotte venture, Tyber Creek Pub, is celebrating a milestone this weekend -- 10 years in SouthEnd in a location where four other places had previously failed.

Now Tyber is thriving, and with the subsequent openings of Connolly's, Madison's and The Attic, Tommy and his partners have become the kings of Fifth Street.

He credits Tyber's success to its neighborhood-pub theme.

"We pride ourselves on having a good solid foundation and just being something for everybody," he says. "It's not always going to be the trendiest, it's not always going to be new and shiny, but you always know what you're going to get."

Fans of Tyber Creek can celebrate with Tommy tomorrow starting at noon with live music, cornhole and great drink specials. The Jerry Garcia Band will close out the night. I have a bunch of tickets to give away to lucky readers. Five pairs will go to the first five people to e-mail me the story behind how Tommy and his partners came up with the name Tyber Creek. Get 'em in by 4:30 today.

Update: Tickets gone. The correct answer: One of Tommy's original partners used to work as a police officer in the Irish community of Washington, D.C., known as Tiber Creek. Tommy and his partners (all New York-area natives) wanted to get away from the traditional Irish pub-sounding names so prevalent in their hometowns.

You can read my full profile of Tommy and Tyber in tomorrow's Observer.

Deals of the week

2009-04-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

This week's best beer and drink bargains all coincide with major events:

UNC Charlotte students who are pulling all-nighters to prepare for final exams can take a night off from the library and head to Buck Wild for cheap drinking: 50-cent domestic bottles; $1 imports; $2 well drinks. This Friday-only promotion runs through the summer.
In honor of the announcement that Cosmos Cafe is opening a second location in Ballantyne next week, thought it might be a good reminder that the bar-restaurant's delicious martinis are always half-price on Wednesdays (regularly priced $7-$10).
And with Cinco de Mayo coming up on Tuesday, La Paz is throwing a huge fiesta: $25 all you can drink with tons of drink specials and live music. Can't make it next week? Stop in on any Monday or Tuesday and enjoy $2 margaritas.

Perfect summer cocktail

2009-04-23T09:00:00.002-04:00

Temperatures for this weekend are forecast to be well into the 80s and a new cocktail recipe I made last night for a dinner party is the perfect way to cool down.

Sgroppino (a traditional Venetian after-dinner cocktail)

Makes 2 servings

4 scoops lemon sorbet (I used sherbet)

2 ounces chilled vodka, citrus vodka or limoncello (Italian lemon liqueur)

2 ounces Prosecco or other sparkling wine or champagne

2 sprigs fresh mint

Blend lemon sorbet on low speed and pour in vodka or lemon liqueur in a slow stream. Add Prosecco or champagne. Pour into chilled martini glasses and serve garnished with a sprig of mint.

(Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray)

What's your favorite warm-weather treat?

Mixing it up in Ballantyne

2009-04-22T14:01:00.001-04:00

Speaking of after-work parties, Ballantyne Village kicks off its weekly Mix at Six series tonight.

Drink specials provided by Village Bistro, D'Vine Wine Cafe, Jade Asian Fusion & Sushi, Dilworth Coffee and Outland Cigars.

Live music from Simplified out on the plaza from 6-9:30 p.m.

Here's the rest of the schedule for the next few Wednesdays:

April 29: Coconut Grove
May 6: Moonshine Racers
May 13: S&D Specialty
May 20: Simplified
May 27: Coconut Grove

Here's the lineup for PTC After Five

2009-04-22T12:16:00.002-04:00

SouthPark's new Wednesday night after-work party starts on a Friday this year (May 1) for all the Quail Hollow Championship fans. On May 6, it resumes its weekly Wednesday schedule.

Here's the schedule for the all new Piedmont Town Center After Five:

May 1 – Surprise artist/Ticketed event from 7-11 p.m. (Tickets are free and you can get them from event sponsors. A full list of sponsors is available here.)

May 6 – The Embers, 5-9 p.m.

May 13 – Band of Oz, 5-9 p.m.

May 20 – Breakfast Club, 5-9 p.m.

May 27 – Liquid Pleasure, 5-9 p.m.

June 3 – Too Much Sylvia, 5-9 p.m.

June 10 – Dave Mathews Tribute Band, 5-9 p.m.

June 17 – The Backbeat, 5-9 p.m.

June 24 – Black & Blue, 5-9 p.m.

Bartenders battle it out for charity

2009-04-21T14:40:00.005-04:00

The best of Charlotte's bartenders came out from behind their bars Monday night to raise money for AIDS Walk Charlotte.

Alley Cat hosted Bar Wars 2009, a cocktail competition that pitted our area's master mixologists against each other in the categories of Best Martini, Shot, Three Olives Cocktail and Red Bull Cocktail.

I, along with five other judges (Brittney Cason of Creative Loafing, Joey Hewell of JStudio and Uptown Magazine, Steve Caldwell of Elevate Lifestyle, Breezekat from the Ace & TJ Show, and drag queen Roxy C. Moorecox), had the tastebud-testing job of rating dozens of drinks on a "Yuck-to-Awesome" scale. (and yes, the drinks that came later in the night seemed to skew higher on the judges' ballots -- coincidence?)

I've got to give a couple of the guys (where were the female bartenders this year? Only two competed) credit for their creativity: Zack from Philosopher's Stone made a spicy, curry-infused martini with shrimp as a garnish, and Lenny from Loft 1523 decorated his blue-hued "Duck in a Pond" with a bright yellow Peep.

The big winners for the night:

Bryan from Apostrophe for his Cantaloupe Martini.
Tim from Cosmos Cafe for his Cherry Tootsie Pop shot.
Zach from Philosopher's Stone for his Three Olives cocktail called -- ahem -- Sex on Your Face.
J.T. from Thomas Street Tavern for his Brasco Red Bull cocktail. (A fellow judge and I had a hard time deciding this one. Red Bull cocktails inevitably all taste like Red Bull.)
Suite's Todd Bayley blew the crowd (and the competition) away with his high-flying tricks in the flair competition.
And the staff at Forum deserves special recognition for raising the most money.

All told, Bar Wars 2009 raised more than $6,000 for AIDS Walk Charlotte. Want to participate in the two-mile walk through uptown's Fourth Ward? It's May 2. For more information, click here.

To see video from the competition, click here.

Purgatory's last stand

2009-04-20T10:41:00.001-04:00

"It's like an S&M Renaissance festival."

That was my friend minutes after arriving at the last Purgatory party.

(This is Deirdre McGruder, co-author of the We Can Relate blog and a guest speaker here to tell you about the final Purgatory at Amos' Southend. Saturday night was packed with events and Sarah couldn't make it.)

Back to the Ren fest comment: it wasn't meant to be derogatory toward S&M or Renaissance festival aficionadoes, there were just obvious similarities. People who embrace a concept wholeheartedly and go for it on the outfits. Tables with stuff for sale. Games (although in the case of Purgatory, the "games" were a lot more ... intense.)

Downstairs there was a stage for bands and performance artists; when we arrived, there was a band clad in Viking helmets playing death metal. There were tables along the sides with stuff ranging from jewelry to sex toys and DVDs. Near the back was an open space where two guys took turns tying up willing females in Japanese rope bondage, then swinging them from a chain. (I wondered how the women kept from barfing and/or passing out from the blood rush to their heads. ) A constant stream of onlookers watched.

Upstairs is open at Amos', so you can gaze down on all the action below. Along the sides were S&M stations with skilled "punishers" for whipping, paddling, caning, shocking (literally) and tickling (I thought it was a massage station, but closer inspection proved me wrong). Outside people talked and smoked and a tent with techno music drew dancers.

The place was packed with attendants in various stages of undress. A lot of women were in see-through mesh tops or topless altogether, with electrical tape criss-crossed over their nipples (I suspect legalities prevented them from baring all). I saw a couple chicks in thong panties, little "X"es of tape ... and that's it. Another woman wore a thong covered by a "skirt" a mere inch or so long and a bikini top -- the better to show off her pregnant belly. Men were less willing to show skin, but there were a few standouts, like the guy with the equivalent of a hairnet over his genitals and not much else.

Besides with standard fetish gear (corsets, cuffs, chains), I found the outfits broke down into five cinematic categories. There were the "Mad Max" people, clad in mismatched, apocalyptic getups, with clunky boots and dreads. Then there were the "Conan the Barbarian" people, strutting around in fake fur pelts and fuzzy legwarmers or slave-girl fabric scraps. The "Hellraiser" people wore disturbing full-face masks with spikes and such. The "Matrix" folks swirled around in long black coats. The "Underworld" contingent sported lots of shiny black latex and dark makeup.

At one point I was standing next to a chick in a tight, short dress who danced wildly. I smiled when she glanced over at me. She leaned in to shout, "Isn't this the best people-watching ever?" Indeed. Because ultimately, what Purgatory boiled down to was a place to see and be seen -- a place where you could wear whatever you like and do whatever you want. The crowd was super-accepting and super-diverse when it came to ages, body types and fetish preferences. I wouldn't say it was a place for those into hardcore S&M; it seemed like most attendees were young dabblers who liked to dress up and be provocative. Nothing wrong with that.

Actually, there was nothing wrong with any of it -- and I think that was the goal of Purgatory during its eight years in Charlotte. It's leaving a hole in the city's party scene, that's for sure.

First PlayDate sells out

2009-04-20T09:40:00.003-04:00

Judging by the line wrapped around The Big Chill on Saturday night, Charlotte's first PlayDate was a huge success.

Inside, more than 600 adults channeled their inner child with games of Checkers, Connect Four, Jenga, Cranium, Taboo, Operation and so on. Basically, any game you can think of, the organizers had -- including Pac-Man on a tiny old-school TV and Wii bowling on a giant projection screen.

PlayDate started in Atlanta in 2005 and has since spread to more than a dozen cities nationwide, including Austin, Seattle and Nashville, attracting as many as 800 partygoers each month.

Charlotte organizers Shenan Robinson and Latrina Harris of Unique Affairs wanted to offer an alternative to Charlotte's usual bar/club scene. A mix of couples, singles and groups of friends turned out for the unique event.

And despite the kid-oriented games being played, there's definitely an adult twist to them. Hula-hoop contests pitted hip-shaking women against each other while Beyonce provided the soundtrack. (Who knew people could still hula-hoop past the age of 8?) Commentary full of sexual innuendo followed a giant game of Twister on the dance floor as participants found themselves in more than one compromising position.

It was all light-hearted fun with a great crowd of people who couldn't keep the smiles off their faces about being a kid (well, cocktail-drinking kids) again.

May's PlayDate is still TBA, but no doubt Robinson and Harris will be looking for a bigger venue thanks to Saturday's sell-out crowd. I'll keep you updated.

To see video from Saturday night, click here.

Download the Bad Decision Blocker

2009-04-17T17:03:00.001-04:00

Users of Apple's iPhone know of the phone's amazing capabilities -- and thanks to the never-ending stream of commercials, non-users have an idea of what it can do, too. (I've documented my undying love for my iPhone here.)

One application those commercials won't tell you about? The Bad Decision Blocker.

Everyone's been there: out late, one Sweet Tea vodka too many and before you know it, you're calling your gym crush or ex-girlfriend at 2 a.m.

The recently released Bad Decision Blocker saves you from your post-party drunk-dialing shame by allowing you to block yourself from calling or texting selected contacts for a pre-determined period of time.

Gmail offers its users a similar function called Mail Goggles. Before you send a late-night e-mail, you must answer a few math problems correctly.

Who needs self-control when 21st-century technology does it for you?

Farewell, Wachovia Plaza

2009-04-17T14:04:00.002-04:00

First sign Alive After Five is back: girls in sundresses are spotted walking shoeless around uptown as early as 8 p.m. (Ladies, for a refresher on my dressing do's and don'ts for AA5, click here.)

Wachovia Plaza was filled to the sidewalks last night with a couple thousand young professionals standing shoulder-to-shoulder to celebrate the after-work party's eight-year run on South Tryon.

Next week, it moves permanently to the EpiCentre.

But for one last time, Liquid Pleasure got the plaza party started with a little Montell Jordan (nothing brings back the tortured memories of middle school like "This is How We Do It" or is that just me?), the infectious "Cupid Shuffle" and summer singalong favorite "Brown-Eyed Girl."

Next Thursday inevitably will be packed for the EpiCentre's first Alive After Five. To avoid the long lines for drink tickets, buy them online ahead of time. Tickets are $2 each. Beer is two tickets; wine is two or three; mixed drinks, three to four.

Local mag names best of Charlotte nightlife

2009-04-17T13:02:00.001-04:00

Charlotte Magazine released its Best of the Best awards this week, naming winners in categories ranging from best pizza to best service.

Here are the mag's picks for the best nightlife (my picks are in parentheses, but for the most part I think they got it right):

Best Reason to go to the EpiCentre: Howl at the Moon (Howl at the Moon)
Best Lounge: Tutto Mondo (Tutto Mondo)
Best New Bar: Mez (Mez)
Best Place to Chill: Ed's Tavern (The Thirsty Beaver)
Best Live Music Venue: Neighborhood Theatre (Visulite)
Best Dance Venue: Suite (Suite)
Best Place for After-Dinner Drinks: Chima (Blue Restaurant)
Best Outdoor Patio: Selwyn Pub (Loft 1523)
Best Wine Bar: Dolce Vita (Yn Cafe)

For a full list of winners and to see readers' picks, click here.

Now, what the magazine left out was a category for best bartender. Luckily, AIDS Walk Charlotte has our city's master mixologists covered with Bar Wars 2009. Stop by your favorite participating bar this weekend and with a $1 donation to AIDS Walk Charlotte, you can cast your vote for your favorite bartender in a variety of categories, including hottest, fastest and funniest bartender.

On Monday night, a panel of celebrity judges (Breezekat from the Ace & TJ Show, Brittney Cason from Creative Loafing, Joey Hewell from Uptown Magazine, Steve Caldwell of Elevate, drag queen Roxy C. Moorecox and yours truly) will sample concoctions in the tastiest cocktail competition. Added bonus: cutie Chad Rock from Kiss 95.1 will host.

And you won't want to miss the flair competition at the end of the night when bartenders will attempt to defy gravity by tossing bottles a la Tom Cruise in "Cocktail."

It all starts at 9 p.m. Monday at Alley Cat. Hope to see you there!

Deals of the week

2009-04-15T16:13:00.002-04:00

In honor of Charlotte Beer Week, I bring you a sampling of the best beer deals going on around town:

After Alive After Five on Thursday, head over to The Attic for 100 Pint night, courtesy of RockHouse Events. The first 100 pints of beer are free -- just mention RockHouse at the door.
In honor of the "Beer Wars" nationwide event on Thursday, the Flying Saucer is hosting a pre- and post-premiere party. Reps from local distributors and breweries will be on hand, as well as the founder of Pints for Prostates. No cost to party, and it's only $5 to ride the party bus to Concord Mills for the movie screening (free beer on the bus!).
And speaking of the Saucer, I checked out the University City bar's popular trivia night for the first time Tuesday. It was a full house (and I heard it wasn't even as crowded as usual) of UNCC students and young professionals. No cost to play and first-, second- and third-place finishers win $50, $30 and $20 gift certificates respectively.
Big Daddy's Burger Bar is hosting a special Sweetwater Pint Night on Monday. Buy a pint and keep the glass for only $3.

Gov't Mule set to play new Fillmore club

2009-04-13T17:00:00.001-04:00

The new Fillmore at the N.C. Music Factory has its first confirmed act: Gov't Mule, on July 24.

Though the venue is scheduled to open in June, the Southern rock band today became the first to officially be booked at the 2,000-seat music venue. Live Nation expects to host about 80 shows a year at the Fillmore, which will be styled in the tradition of the original San Francisco location.

According to the press release:

"The new Fillmore will feature the iconic music venue’s trademark décor, including red oak hardwood floors, red painted interior, vintage posters of legendary live music performances, magnificent chandeliers throughout, state-of-the-art lighting and sound, as well as, stadium style tiers that create great sight lines from anywhere in the venue, a VIP area and more."

Tickets to the Gov't Mule show go on sale April 18 at 10 a.m. at livenation.com, select Blockbuster stores or charge by phone at 877-598-8698.

Hom closed (again)

2009-04-13T09:59:00.001-04:00

OK guys, I know you're fed up with reading about the drama over at Hom, and trust me, I'm sick of writing about it. But it looks like this could be the last update for a while for those who still care.

After reopening as an "upscale, urban club" last weekend, the club was closed again this weekend.

New employees were apparently blindsided about the decision not to reopen in an e-mail sent on behalf of owner Stefan Latorre.

Even managers seem unsure of the future of the club -- one told me on Saturday, "I really have no idea what's going on ... but at this point I don't expect it to be open anymore."

Deals of the week

2009-04-08T15:26:00.005-04:00

Taste of the Nation is a week away and I've got a special deal for my dear readers. From now until 5 p.m. Monday you can mention Paid to Party and get your tickets for $40 (regular price is $60). You can either buy and pick up your tickets directly from Second Harvest Food Bank Metrolina at 500-B Spratt St. (to eliminate mail time/or will-call pickup) or you can call 704-376-1785. (This offer is not available online.)

And, if you factor in the 14 gift certificates (average price $10) to area restaurants that you get in the event's program, you've already made your money back (and then some). All proceeds benefit Second Harvest Food Bank, Community Food Rescue and Community Culinary School of Charlotte.

The best deals this week come courtesy of the Charlotte Knights, who open their 2009 season tomorrow.

All-You-Can-Eat Mondays: At every Monday night game there will be an all-you-can-eat-section. Cost is $19 for adults and $14 for children (3-12). Promotion includes a general admission ticket along with all-you-can-eat hot dogs, popcorn, nachos, peanuts and small sodas.
Bi-Lo Two-for Tuesday: Buy one ticket and get another free for any Tuesday game when you present your Bi-Lo Bonus Card to the Knights ticket office.
Harris Teeter VIC Card Wednesdays and Ball Park Franks Dollar Hot Dog Nights: Fans can buy one ticket and receive another ticket free with their Harris Teeter VIC card at the Knights ticket office. Once inside the stadium, hot dogs are just $1.
Friday Fun Pass: Print out a Friday Fun Pass and receive: two general admission tickets, two hot dogs and two Blue Bunny Ice Cream Cones for $10.

This week's hot tip:

Several area clubs offer free entry via text message. For Tempo's Flirtatious Fridays hosted by CharlotteVibe.com, you can text TEMPO to 95495. Forum offers a similar text promotion for its popular college night on Wednesdays. Check your favorite venues' websites for similar offers.

A tasty southern treat

2009-04-02T16:43:00.004-04:00

For its first time catering Taste of the New South, Pinehurst Resort put out a spread that won't soon be forgotten among Levine Museum members and guests.

The annual fundraiser for the museum was held last night, and despite the steep ticket prices ($85 for members, $100 for nonmembers), about 500 people turned out to sample the best of Southern cuisine.

I've heard from past Taste visitors that Wednesday's event was one of the best parties in recent years.

For those of you who haven't been, each year a regional resort or inn invades the museum and through decorations, floral arrangements and cuisine (and wine, lots of wine) showcases its style.

Food tables were posted throughout the museum and rooms had different resort themes: Weddings, Golf, Spa, etc.

In the weddings room, faux wedding cakes dripping in crystal were the centerpiece of the main food station where chefs prepared such delectable treats as foie gras, day boat scallops and crawfish bisque.

In the "golf academy," lounge seating and candles ringed a food station serving up oysters on the half-shell, seafood martinis, pulled pork with warm brie cheese and mini kobe beef burgers.

And upstairs, Pinehurst's aestheticians showed off their skills, giving free chair and hand massages to partygoers.

By the end of the night, large groups went in search of the dessert room where mini trifles were beautifully displayed around a chocolate sculpture and bouquets of fresh flowers.

All told more than 30 dishes -- from bite-size hors d'oeuvres to ceviche shooters to a chocolate fondue fountain -- stuffed partygoers silly.

I heard that the Biltmore raised the bar for the event in 2007 -- I think Pinehurst just took the title from them.

The Fray headlining new uptown amphitheatre

2009-04-01T17:11:00.002-04:00

After years in the making, the N.C. Music Factory will finally be hosting live music acts this spring.

Live Nation announced Wednesday that The Fray will be playing the first concert June 13 in the new outdoor boutique amphitheater at the entertainment complex. Tickets go on sale Friday.

The Uptown Amphitheatre at the Music Factory will have a capacity of 5,000.

Also opening in June (date to be determined): a Fillmore music venue with a capacity of 2,000. The Fillmore opener has not been announced.

Live Nation will exclusively book both venues -- about 25 shows annually at the outdoor amphitheater; 80 shows annually at the Fillmore.

From the Live Nation press release:

"The Uptown Amphitheatre is situated in a beautiful outdoor setting with soaring views of the Charlotte skyline, elevated lawn seating, traditional outdoor seating, premium box seats with food and beverage service, and an indoor VIP area with private restrooms, private bar and views of the stage. The concession area has a 'bourbon street' feel with multiple permanent restrooms with pedestal sinks, full length mirrors and private stalls."

For more information, visit www.livenation.com.

(Another) update on Hom

2009-04-01T16:02:00.003-04:00

Promoters can't get their you-know-what together over at the new Hom. After postponing the grand reopening last Friday to this Friday, the club has again postponed it until Saturday.

You follow?

So, Hom reopens Saturday with DJ Dice (Redman's DJ) and DJ Magic from Power 98.

At least they're giving more than same-day's notice this time.

All this postponing makes for a bad omen.