There's a reason why dinner and a movie have long been the classic pairing for a romantic evening. Sharing a warm plate of food and then cuddling up in a darkened theater is satisfying. Many modern moviegoers are making that equation even simpler, taking in dinner and drinks during the movie. At the Ballantyne Village Theater (14815 John J. Delaney Dr.), nosh on gourmet concessions such as spicy tuna sushi rolls and drink a Blue Moon brew while you take in a flick. Or, pop into the newly minted Epicentre Theater (210 E. Trade St.), which serves cocktails along with appetizers and entrées from Mez restaurant. Truffle oil French fries during the film? Yes, please.
getting centered
In its intimate loft studio, Sangati Yoga & Massage (2201 Park Rd., 704-334-3221, sangati.net) offers a Meditation and Philosophy course ($75). Highlights include slow breathing and the option of a postclass massage ($80/hour). Charlotte Yoga's (1730 E. Woodlawn Rd., 704-665-9003, charlotteyoga.com) Long Slow Deep ($16) features a stream of soothing stretch poses, while Yoga Oasis (2400 Park Rd., 704-334-7104, bikramyogacharlotte.com) offers totally centering Yin classes ($16/class). Poses are held for five minutes to emphasize stillness, ensuring a peaceful class.
an old record player
Why does Van Morrison's Astral Weeks or all those old Johnny Cash LPs sound so much better on vinyl? Hearing a needle drop against a record recalls another era when things moved slower, a comfort you sometimes can't get anymore. Indulge in a little nostalgia at Lunchbox Records (1419 Central Ave., 704-331-0788).
In its intimate loft studio, Sangati Yoga & Massage (2201 Park Rd., 704-334-3221, sangati.net) offers a Meditation and Philosophy course ($75). Highlights include slow breathing and the option of a postclass massage ($80/hour). Charlotte Yoga's (1730 E. Woodlawn Rd., 704-665-9003, charlotteyoga.com) Long Slow Deep ($16) features a stream of soothing stretch poses, while Yoga Oasis (2400 Park Rd., 704-334-7104, bikramyogacharlotte.com) offers totally centering Yin classes ($16/class). Poses are held for five minutes to emphasize stillness, ensuring a peaceful class.
