South End is a fabulous community in Charlotte.  Ah, food, fun and fitness – for you, your family and your four-legged pals!

Do you know of any fave places that aren’t mentioned here? If you do- please comment here and let me know.

Until next time –  ❤ Charlotte!

-Linda

(This article was posted originally on the Charlotte Agenda website by Rachel Brown on June 13, 2016. If you’d like to read this and other posts, please visit Rachel Brown by clicking here.)

The Historic South End area has incredible vibes. It’s full of all ages, from young post grads with new jobs, to couples that just retired from theirs. It’s thriving and full of life (oh and I forgot dogs… lots of dogs).

From Ballantyne, to University, then South Park, I have covered the map as a Charlotte resident. BUT, I’ve never loved living in an area much as I do South End. I moved a year ago and recently renewed my lease without any doubts at all.

A lot of people in town find their suburb and love it. You get comfortable to your grocery store, coffee shop, gym, bar, etc… Well, I have to admit this is how I am with mine. Why do I love it so much?

As a young and busy entrepreneur, I love being surrounded by so many movers and shakers. Living right along the light rail and walking distance to trendy coffee shops, restaurants, breweries/bars couldn’t be more convenient either.

There’s never a dull moment with local art, music, food trucks, outdoor yoga, and much more. With all the new, neat businesses that are being built everyday, it’s so cool to explore around here.

I love trying out new places and especially ones with solid food, fun, and fitness. There’s too many to name but here’s some to note.

Food

Mr. K’s: I’ve been a huge fan of this soft serve ice cream since I was little and it’s one not to miss. Their sundaes, friendly staff and old school Panthers posters make me feel right at home.

Phat Burrito: Another restaurant that’s popular and authentic to South End is Phat Burrito. The reggae feels and bar of homemade salsas can’t be topped.

Sauceman’s: As a Southerner and foodie, I’ve tried lots of BBQ and theirs is top notch. This West Blvd spot has mac & cheese and fried pickles you can’t miss.

Fun

Gin Mill: Gin Mill is laid back bar locals love. I enjoy going here when I want to go out for drinks, but not quite all the way to Uptown. They always have great bands and as you can see, the rooftop gets going when it’s nice.

Tyber Creek Pub: Tyber is an Irish pub that is fun to go out to both day and night. It has a huge patio with cornhole and is perfect for low-key weekend brunch drinks. They also often have some good live music here.

Wooden Robot Brewery: It’s the perfect walking distance from several of the South End apartment complexes. Wooden Robot always has a crowd and a delicious food truck parked outside. Not to mention, some of the best craft beer.

Sycamore, Triple C, and Unknown are others you can’t forget. The breweries even connect people beyond drinking. They help keep the community fit and work off all these good local food and drinks.

Fitness

Sycamore Brewing: There are a few run clubs in South End, but I know one of the biggest starts at Sycamore Brewing. Every Wednesday, tons of people and their dogs meet to run as a team, and then of course, enjoy a cold one.

Yoga classes are also popular at breweries. And for those more serious, one of the most loved yoga studios is located in South End.

Arrichion Yoga: I’ve only heard good things about Arrichion and have friends who go weekly. People rave about their hot yoga and Creative Loafing’s staff named it the “Best Place to Sweat It Out.”

Madabolic: This workout is “an interval based strength and endurance program.” It creates an intense environment and those who go are addicted. As well as Orange Theory, which recently opened close to Mac’s Speed Shop.