Jaunted

The EpiCentre sits at the site of the city’s old convention center, but honestly, we only knew this place existed due to the aloft hotel that recently opened on top of the whole thing. We don't think they're doing the best job advertising it; there’s no website and a Saturday night didn’t seem to bring out the masses—maybe they need to use Twitter. Charlotte is trying its best to get people to live and play in the same place that they work, so the party people might have been elsewhere in the city during our trip.

This destination attraction meets outdoor mall already holds restaurants, bars, shopping, and a an upscale bowling alley—Strike City—that looks very similar to the Lucky Strike Lanes that we’ve seen before. People must love bowling, since it was the only place that was packed.

The joint's largest tenants are the restaurants and lounges. Mez is looking to draw the town’s foodies from elsewhere in the city with the promise of stunning atmosphere and an eclectic menu. They’ve even grabbed a chef from Miami—a place known for cool. Another anchor, Whisky River, sounds like a great place embarrass yourself. Owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr., the place offers all kinds of drinks, a mix of rock and country tunes, and of course, mechanical bull riding. We recommend that you attend the monthly Bikini and Boots evening, that's the next time we'll be there.

Of course there’s some of the usual offerings as well. There’s a drug store, a chain restaurant focused on the cuisine of wings, and an ice cream place. Shockingly, we did not spot any Starbucks, but one can’t be far behind. There were a lot of vacant storefronts with signs promoting what was to come soon. Construction looks to be complete, so we’re eager to see how this place fills up in the future or at least after a Bobcats game.

Related Stories:
·Mez Charlotte [Official Site]
·Whisky River [Official Site]
·Strike City [Official Site]
·Attractions coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: kjb]