"Walk into South End’s Blue Door — Charlotte’s latest, greatest secret — and you’ll be greeted in a moody vestibule, guided through the aforementioned blue door, and welcomed into this dark, intimate, time-warp of a bar. The illuminated backbar flatters the dialed-in cocktails with a glow, and a sleek grand piano sings in the corner against wavy blue wallpaper. Head bartender and creative director, Mike Guzmán, was recognized as one of the top bartenders globally in 2023. Sip Hot Peach Summer out of a coupe glass, with a jalapeno tincture and a roasted peach cordial, and you’ll get why. While it’s undoubtedly a drinks spot, the back room has a sweet private dining situation, too." - Kayleigh Ruller