fivedays

Central Ave, unfortunately, can't get away from the ghetto parts. It's trying real hard to move up in the world but not quite making it. Nevertheless, taking a drive down Central can be very rewarding. Who doesn't love Lulu's, that amazing French Bistro (the weekend brunch is fantastic if you can crowd your way in between all the queens having mimosas) and Zada Jane's is a great first date spot. Just don't walk home after dark!

While the initial blocks of Camden as you drive out of uptown look like there is nothing of interest ahead, a quick zip over the hill reveals a cluster of great shops and good food. The Bee Man Candle has really good stuff, as does American Apparel. However, the real good stuff is at the end of the road by the rail stop . . .Pike's. The malts are amazing and the patio dining is THE place to spend a warm afternoon. They are also really pet friendly if you want to bring your dog. I am not sure how the neighborhood will change when they get the condos all completed, but I hope the laid-back vibe stays the same!

East Boulevard is one of the few streets in Charlotte that has it all. Food, shopping, entertainment AND parking? Okay, so the on-street parking is not perfect, but that is what the lot at the Harris Teeter is for--parking in while you shop! Starting with Thai Taste and going all the way down to Big Daddy's Burgers, East is a smorgasboard of yummy treats. Watch out after dark at the Kinko's--there was a shooting there last year that was kind of sketch . . .but after a few margaritas at 1511 Cantina you won't care. Get the guac on the patio and watch the traffic--just be sure you have a ride home as their portions on the drinks are generous!

Sharon Pkwy is a great little short street connecting residential and shopping areas in South Charlotte. It can be a much faster way to get from the Morrison shops to the Mall than taking Sharon or Colony, although you do have to watch out for the occasional Vespa rider. Also watch the light as if you run it you will almost certainly hit the oncoming traffic--I've never seen it deserted except for late at night.

Lloyd Church Road in South Charlotte is part of the Morrison complex just across from the South Park Mall. Home to the new Swoozie's, Arooji's, and several classy clothing boutiques, exploring Lloyd Church is a pleasant way to spend the afternoon. New stores, including a big box book store, are opening all the time, so the area updates frequently. Outdoor parking is plentiful, but outdoor tables at the restaurants are limited.

Governor Morrison is a short street in South Charlotte that is home to one of the best grocery stores in Charlotte. No, NOT TRADER JOES! It's Earthfare, a local version of Whole Foods. The wine and cheese section is amazing, and the staff at the cheese deli are really helpful and knowledgeable. Also, Earthfare has a great selection of organic produce. The prices for some of the veg can be high, but the quality makes it worth the trip.

Settlers Lane is a short, curved street in the 4th Ward with a minature dog park just before the intersection with 9th St. The shady environment and limited number of cars zooming through make it a great place to walk your dog. The people in the neighborhood are really friendly too. It's best to walk there though as street parking is a problem. The "Friends of the Fourth Ward" have made the rules really strict for the street parking, so if you can walk Fido over as opposed to driving that is best.

North Graham is an interesting stretch of road. Beginning in Uptown Charlotte, you have some pretty nice homes and businesses, including the swanky soon-to-be completed Garrison at Graham. But cross the 277 line and suddenly you are in sketchy territory. Sure, you can pull off on Atando for some yummy burgers at Rainbow Grill, but otherwise pulling over anywhere will land you in a Family Dollar or an abandoned warehouse. So best stay inside the beltway!

9th St in the 4th Ward Uptown is an adorable little short street. It dead-ends with some of the finest examples of vintage Victorian in all of uptown--the Christmas tour in this area is amazing! Equally amazing is the quality of the food at Alexander Michaels, better known as Al Mike's to the locals. It may look like just another house on the block, but the beer selection and entrees are in a world all their own. Get the London Broil or the What It Is, and unwind in the heart of uptown.

Arysley Town Boulevard is one of the cutest places to spend an evening in Charlotte. Start with dinner at the amazing Saffron (best Indian food in the city, if not the state) and then wander up the street to the theatre. The Charleston style homes look great after dark, and it's only a short walk to the movies. The theatre is new and it's usually not crowded. If you get out of the movie early, head back down to Wild Wings for a drinks. All told, while street parking can be a pain, it's worth the hassle for a great night out.