Referred to as the "Queen City," Charlotte is North Carolina's largest metropolitan area. Originally called Charlottestown, the city was named Charlotte in 1762 in honor of Queen Charlotte Sophia of Britain. Charlotte lies within the Southern Piedmont of North Carolina, and with the continued growth this beloved city has seen in 2010, the hotels and fine dining that are available are truly fit for a queen.
Located within 18 miles of downtown Charlotte, this Forbes four-star hotel and lodge is known for its Southern hospitality. The Ballantyne offers a fitness facility with daily wellness classes, golf, tennis, salon, and spa. Complimentary valet parking, pool and fitness area access, and golf club rental are included. In addition, The Ballantyne features Gallery Restaurant, also a Forbes four-star establishment. Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Gallery Restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine.
The Ballantyne
10000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway
Charlotte, NC 28277
704-248-4000
theballantyne.com
A luxury hotel with dramatic skyline views, The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte is located within walking distance of many entertainment options in the heart of uptown. With an eco-focused commitment, The Ritz-Carlton, Charlotte is the first LEED Gold-certified hotel for greater Charlotte and also for The Ritz-Carlton. Amenities include a penthouse spa and wellness center, aqua lounge with swimming pool, and sauna. The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte is also home to Bistro Laurent Tourondel, a restaurant that redefines the steakhouse with its classic French techniques and modern decor.
The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte
201 East Trade St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-547-2244
ritzcarlton.com
Located in the uptown financial district, The Westin is a luxury hotel and home to Ember Grille, a modern American grill featuring a contemporary design with an open kitchen and patio. Hotel amenities include heated lap pool and sauna. The Westin Hotel also offers suites, and in-room bodywork services are available by appointment.
The Westin Charlotte
601 South College St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-375-2600
starwoodhotels.com
With dozens of awards to its credit, Blue Restaurant's awards include the 2009/2010 Open Table Award, boasting "Best Ambiance," "Best Service," and "Best Overall." An uptown restaurant offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu and live jazz music every Wednesday through Saturday, Blue Restaurant and Bar is considered a favorite city-center restaurant for fine dining.
Blue Restaurant and Bar
Th Hearst Tower
Corner of 5th and College St.
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-927-2583
bluerestaurantandbar.com
Carpe Diem has been considered a top restaurant by Zagat since 2005. Featuring fine dining in an art nouveau-style interior, Carpe Diem has been serving guests since 1989. Influenced by the tropical flavors of Miami, Carpe Diem encourages guests to "seize the moment" and enjoy its version of "new American" cuisine.
Carpe Diem
1535 Elizabeth Ave.
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-377-7976
carpdiemrestaurant.com
Chef owned and operated, The Fig Tree Restaurant is located in the historic Lucas House, a 1913 Bungalow in Charlotte's Elizabeth neighborhood. With an award-winning international wine list and seasonal French and Italian influenced cuisine, The Fig Tree Restaurant is known for its fine dining and convenience to uptown hotels.
The Fig Tree Restaurant
1601 East 7th St.
Charlotte, NC 28204
704-332-3322
charlottefigtree.com