If you don't like chains and you want to hang out with the locals here are some tips. 

Uptown Charlotte - Historic 4th Ward

Alexander Michaels is a local restaurant and tavern located in the quiet Historic 4th Ward.  They are a sports bar to some and a great family restaurant to others.  Get off the main streets of Charlotte, enjoy the beautiful historic 4th Ward!

Wesley Heights

Finally Wesley Heights has 2 great restaurants.  For a more formal evening check-out Savor.  If you want to wear your jeans and flip flops head down the street to Pinky's restaurant.  Good news.....if you are staying in uptown Charlotte you can walk along one of Charlotte's Greenways enroute to the neighborhood.

Southend

Southend is home to some great galleries and some really funky hang-outs.  For an evening of music check-out Amos' or Tremont Music Hall.  To enjoy a beer or bottle of wine with the locals be sure to spend an evening at the Common Market on Camden.  For a more formal evening select from the Liberty or Pewter Rose restaurant.  Southend is also home to the best Barbeque restaurant in town, Mac's Speedshop.