12 Best Dive Bars in Charlotte

“Smokey Joe's is a casual bar with great music. Drink prices are reasonable. All the staff are excellent and welcoming. Cozy, unpretentious place with outside seating for smokers. Love that multiple generations are represented in the clientele.“

“We visited Charlotte for the Nascar Roval race and we were lucky enough to find this bar. We flew over from Dublin, and believe me Dublin has some good bars however this was one of the top bars I ever visited. Great value beer, full of friendly folk, great music and brilliant atmosphere. You guys from Charlotte are blessed to have this bar and a great backstory.“

“very chill vibe, laid back and accepting“

“This place is the best, has it all and great food too! Our families favorite if you haven’t you have to try it.“

“This place was pretty cool. It was quiet and had free pool. Not too many people but the one's there we're obviously regulars. The people were friendly and the staff was on point with drinks. Never knew this place existed, and I grew up around that area. The location alone is worth going. This is one of them in the cut kind of of bars you have to know somebody to know about it“

“Great local music. Eclectic group“

“great bar, great bar tenders, EXCELLENT karaoke!“

“I was in the Charlotte area visiting the day ater Hurricane Helene and a lot of restaurants had power outages but I was so hungry after a long flight looking for something tasty at 10:00 p.m. Tavern 51 had pretty good reviews and I'm glad I checked the place out because the food was delicious! The bartender was friendly and gave helpful menu recommendations. They have different sauces and dry rubs for the chicken wings. Their shrimp fried rice was fresh and tasty! Great spot to hit up when you need some late night deliciousness. A bit pricey but it was worth it to to me since the food was good.“

“Super fun bar, lots of games to keep you engaged if you’re interested, or if you just want to catch up with friends, also really nice. Drinks are priced well and there’s a nice outdoor space in the back. Doesn’t ever feel crowded and good vibes.“

“Super cool place and super sweet bartenders! Great for newbies to Charlotte!!! ❤️❤️❤️“

“Super fun place! Great vibes Sunday through Wednesday but if you’re looking for fun on the weekends I’d find another place to go. The Bartender who works Thursday-Saturday is short tempered and slaps customers based on who he doesn’t feel tipped enough. Management supports his behaviors as well which definitely puts a damper on how fun the bar is otherwise. Definitely stop by for a few songs during the week though! And don’t forget to tip the super amazing DJs and wonderful security!“

“I’ve been to many bars in Charlotte and The Brickyard is by far one of the best establishments I’ve visited. The bartenders are friendly, very attentive, and make delicious drinks. I’ve met the owner a few times and he’s very friendly. Nice guy, family man, and a veteran! I’d give this place 10 stars if I could. Get TO THE YARD as soon as possible!“