Summer Sips
Nothing defines summer relaxation more than that coveted after-5 moment when you can dive into an ice-cold, fruity concoction. Bartenders around town are getting creative with their warm-weather blends, and we’ve found the city’s most refreshing drinks to help you—and the summer — wind down.
The Hidden Hibiscus
$10, Mez There’s no better way to toast the end of summer than with Champagne and flowers, and Mez has combined these celebratory musts, dousing a fragrant hibiscus flower in simple syrup and Champagne. Enjoy the festive drink on a breezy night under the city’s lights. 210 E. Trade St., 704-971-2400
Chipotle Peach Margarita
$10.50, The Deck The Deck’s smoked chipotle peppers are the key to this frothy alcoholic dream. Fresh peach purée, sour mix, and Herradura Anejo Tequila make this frozen delight perfect for adding a kick to your summer time happy hour while you relax with friends on the restaurant’s sunny rooftop deck. 1514 East Blvd.,704-332-9292
Southern Tea
$12, BLT Steak Southerners have always loved sitting on patios, sipping sweet tea. With a few modern upgrades, including white peach purée, lemon juice, peach schnapps, and Firefly vodka, BLT Steak has transformed a tall glass of tradition into an on-the-rocks revolution. 110 N. College St., 704-972-4380
Grape Crush
$10, M5 With one of the most knockout patios in Charlotte for cooling off while chilling out, M5 is the perfect host to serve up this fabulous fruit concoction. Cîroc grape vodka is poured over ice and mixed with crushed grapes and lime juice. A straightforward recipe for a simply delicious drink. 4310 Sharon Rd., 704-909-5500
Sea Dog Blueberry Wheat Ale
$4, The Liberty On a muggy, too-hot-to-move August afternoon, beer isn’t always a top choice for taking the edge off triple-digit temperatures. But Sea Dog’s crisp, just-sweet-enough brew has all the refreshing effects of a cold cocktail sans the gag-reflex-triggering sweetness of other fruity beers. 1812 South Blvd., 704-332-8830
Raspberry Mojito
$9, Cantina 1511 This Dilworth favorite uses fresh mint, lime juice, simple syrup, crushed raspberries, and Bacardi white rum to turn a classic kick-back cocktail into the perfect answer for all your summer cravings. And once you order some chili-laced queso (and trust us, you will), you’ll want to keep this icy elixir close. 1511 East Blvd., 704-343-0155
