Idlewild

Cocktail bar · NoDa

Idlewild

Cocktail bar · NoDa

2

424 E 36th St Unit 2, Charlotte, NC 28205

Photos

Idlewild by null
Idlewild by Kenty Chung
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null
Idlewild by null

Highlights

A casual, cozy cocktail bar with no menu and small bites. Accepting walk-in parties of 6 or less.  

Featured in Eater
Placeholder

424 E 36th St Unit 2, Charlotte, NC 28205 Get directions

idlewildbar.com

$$

Reserve

Information

Static Map

424 E 36th St Unit 2, Charlotte, NC 28205 Get directions

+1 704 572 8678
idlewildbar.com
idlewildbarclt

$$

Reserve

Features

payment credit card
Tap to pay
reservations

Last updated

Jul 12, 2025

Powered By

You might also like

Terms of Use • Privacy Policy • Cookie Policy
 © 2025 Postcard Technologies, Inc.
@eater

"Vince Chirico and the team behind chic Charlotte cocktail destination Idlewild (424 E 36th Street) announced a new project that might seem revolutionary in this social media-influenced age of bespoke cocktails and revered mixologists — a bar that’s really just a bar." - Timothy DePeugh

Charlotte’s Newest Bar, the Ugly, Opens on November 15 - Eater Carolinas
View Postcard for Idlewild
@eater

"No menu, no problem. Everything is on the table at Idlewild in NoDa. With no set menu to speak of, mixologists instead ask customers what they like (and dislike) to let their imaginations run wild. For example, pointing to a bottle of Pedro Ximenez sherry on the bar might lead to a riveting take on an Old Fashioned that is as dark and chic as the bar itself. For more space, food, and a set menu, visit sister cocktail bar Fairweather next door." - Timothy DePeugh, Nikki Miller-Ka

9 Standout Bars in Charlotte, North Carolina
View Postcard for Idlewild

Taylor

Google
The atmosphere mimics a prohibition era but with a new twist! You can be casual or dress up and you’ll still feel IN PLACE. You don’t order a drink. You tell them what you like and the bartenders make a craft cocktail. It’s a cool concept. However, one of my friends didn’t like his second drink. It was almost like the bartender made the same drinks each time for each person with just a different syrup flavor. We were looking for something completely different each time! Now, for me, I loved my first drink and ordered the exact one again! 🩷

Katie Hubicki

Google
Sitting at the bar and conversing directly with the bartenders made our night here even better. Because there's no published menu, the amount of drinks they have to keep in their heads to match customer requests is insane. Quality of the liquor is great and the ability of the bartenders is high. Also highly recommend popping next door to the ugly and picking up some of Liz's cookies to finish your night off.

Javaughn Spencer

Google
A Late-Night Gem with Personalized Cocktails Stopped by Idlewild for drinks after dinner, and it ended up being the perfect nightcap. One of the best parts? They're open late, which is a win when most other places are shutting down. We didn’t have a reservation and had to wait for a table, so I recommend booking ahead. That said, they have a separate bar where you can order a drink and a comfortable seating area while you wait. The vibe is chill and intimate ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying a low-key night out with your partner. One of the coolest parts of the experience was the custom drink approach. We told our server the flavors we liked, and she came back with spot-on recommendations. Every person in my group was raving about their cocktail. If you're looking for a laid-back spot with great drinks and thoughtful service, Idlewild is it. I'll be back.

Nick

Google
Most times when a menu has an option where the bartender asks you what you’re in the mood for and picks a drink, the results are all over the place. Even if the drink is well made, it might have missed the mark in terms of what you wanted. Not at Idlewild. Maybe it’s because it’s their whole shtick to not have a menu, but they are probably the best at it in the city. We ordered three cocktails, each we had basically never heard of, each fantastic and on the nose to match what we were craving with very limited instruction, things like “buttery” or “reminiscent of a Bloody Mary”. If you’re not good at ordering under pressure, I’d recommend brainstorming a bit before you get in. The waitstaff are very friendly, and the process of ordering is intimate (if you’re at the table, they might sit with you to make sure they understand the gist of what you’re craving). 5 stars, if you’re debating where to try cocktails in Charlotte, this should be top of the list for quality and unique experiences. The vibe, music, and lighting were great too. Not sure if they have any food. We didn’t ask.

Zekeyahi Scott

Google
Unique experience! There isn't a drink menu, instead you tell your server/bartender your favorite spirit and/or what you generally drink and they will create customize drink based on your preference. The ambience provides an intimate setting for a date or just catching up while grabbing a few drinks with friends. Highly recommended, just be sure to make a reservation just in case.

Vernon Chittum

Google
Very cool spot. They had no menu so you get a really unique experience here. Top tier bartenders that you explain the types of drinks you like. They can either make known drinks or give them a few things you like and they will whip something up. This is a fun experience and the drinks are great. This is a very small and intimate bar so prepare accordingly. We were lucky enough to be able to walk right in.

Caitlin Zatroch

Google
The concept of a cocktail bar with no menu is fascinating and well-executed. Our waitress was attentive, asked thoughtful and specific questions, and chose cocktails for us that were completely divine. We got two cocktails each and both were things I likely would not have chosen off a menu, but enjoyed thoroughly. We ordered a charcuterie board as well to snack on. Cocktails were listed at $15, no matter what they brought you. This didn’t happen to us, but the man at the table next to ours didn’t like his drink. It was whisked away and replaced immediately with something he liked better. It has a moody, cool kids atmosphere and stellar service. We will definitely recommend Idlewild to all our friends and will certainly be back when we find our way back to Charlotte.

Jo Covington Nencetti

Google
Very nice atmosphere, we went early so it wasn't too crowded. Awesome cocktails. There is no menu, so you tell your server what type or style drink you want and they will creatively make something special for you.

Elizabeth B.

Yelp
From the moment you step inside, the ambiance exudes warmth and sophistication, with dim lighting and cozy seating inviting you to unwind and indulge in the experience. The concept of having bartenders craft drinks tailored to your preferences is nothing short of genius. It's like having your sommelier but for cocktails! What truly sets Idlewild apart is the level of expertise and creativity exhibited by the bartenders. They're not just pouring drinks; they're curating an experience, taking the time to understand your flavor preferences, mood, and even the occasion. Whether you're in the mood for something fruity and refreshing or bold and smoky, they have the perfect concoction up their sleeves. During my visit, I was blown away by the sheer artistry and innovation behind each drink. From the vibrant colors to the intricate garnishes, every detail was meticulously crafted to delight the senses. And the flavors? Divine. Each sip was a journey of discovery, revealing layers of complexity and balance that left me craving more. Beyond the drinks themselves, the service at Idlewild is top-notch. The bartenders are friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about their craft, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail aficionado or a curious novice, they're more than happy to guide you through the menu and offer recommendations tailored to your taste.

Liliana U.

Yelp
The best cocktails in the Carolinas. I've been to some phenomenal cocktail bars from LA to to major European cities and this one competes with! The imagination of these bartenders is top notch and that's part of the experience. You tell them the type of liquor and taste profile you want and they create something catered to you. Justin & Mason have served us multiple times and are incredible. We literally travel from Columbia to have an evening of amazing drinks. Great sun ambiance that is great for date night or an evening with friends! Thanks guys!

Ashley F.

Yelp
Came by here on a Thursday evening with 3 friends and absolutely enjoyed my time! We were greeted and seated immediately in a super cute corner nook table with comfy seating. The ambiance and vibes are extremely high in this establishment and I genuinely enjoyed it here. The concept is dope because there is no menu. You tell your server what style drink you like and are in the mood for and they curate a cocktail for you on the spot, essentially! I wish I remembered what my actual drink was called because I absolutely loved it! I told our super nice server I was a bourbon gal, very spirit forward, didn't like sweet drinks and typically drink it straight. She came back with an excellent choice that I really liked! We sat and talked for maybe 90 mins and just enjoyed the environment so much. I told my boyfriend we HAVE to go back for a chill date night. Highly recommend. My one drawback is that the bathrooms are unisex, I guess. Like there are 2 bathrooms with 2 stalls inside each, I believe, I only went inside one. It was awkward waiting in line with multiple guys. Once one became available I walked in a locked the door thinking it was a single bathroom, I realized it wasn't but I kept the door locked because I genuinely didn't feel comfortable using the bathroom with strange men. I get it....but as a woman it's super uncomfortable. Next time I will have my friends or boyfriend just come with me to the bathroom. We also parked in the garage and paid about $8. Not too bad. Can't wait to go back!

Brittanie H.

Yelp
What a great little cocktail bar. The ambiance is romantic, hip, and great for a romantic date or night out with friends. The night we came, they had just moved out of the space where the Good Bad and the Ugly now reside and reopened in Fairweather's space. They were swamped, so we started drinking at the bar of Figo 36, where we had appetizers. We had to wait over an hour for our two seats at the bar only to discover that they weren't serving food, which I hope has changed by now. Thankfully, we had the appetizers, so we weren't pressed for food, though it would've been nice. The bartender was stoic, and they didn't have a menu at the time. So he asked what you liked and made something based on your preferences. For all his stoicism, he made a damn good cocktail, and I found myself throwing back what he called "Vinny's Margaritas" all night. It was a great experience despite the obstacles, and even though I live close by, I have yet to make it back, but I hope to soon.

Courtney S.

Yelp
Head's up - they just moved from the old location and are where the Fairweather used to be(right next door), so now they have double the amount of tables (went from 6 to 12). A reservation is highly recommended, especially on the weekends. They do have a same-day waitlist that you can get on and they'll call you if there's an available table or bar seating. This is my favorite craft cocktail place in Charlotte. I've never had a bad cocktail. You just tell the bartenders your flavor pallet and they will make a drink based on your taste. I absolutely loved the expat Ricky and the lions tail. Two of the best bourbon-based cocktails I've had yet. If you're a craft cocktail lover and are looking for an intimate place to go for a date night - this is the one! You really can't go wrong! Jacob is a wonderful mixologist!

Rose G.

Yelp
Love this place for the vibe it provides, though I have to suggest that they up their sparkling wine game. I know this is a cocktails place, but for those of us that don't drink cocktails/liquor, I would love if they got a better sparkling wine. Like, I only go there because friends want to go there and I "tolerate' their sparkling wine, but I'd love if I could actually enjoy their sparkling wine (especially for the cost). Like my sis and other friends absolutely love the drinks they get served when they describe what they like (refreshing vs. sweet vs. bitter vs. etc.), cocktail drinks that is. Unfortunately, I don't drink cocktail drinks because it doesn't sit well in my stomach, which is why I turn to sparkling wine. Service is def always friendly though, so I always give it 5 stars for service. Just make sure if you want to be there a specific night, at a specific time, you make a reservation beforehand, because they can fill up fast!

Monae S.

Yelp
This place was so dope!!! Shout out my friend for curating this experience for me. You know the place is dope when you don't particularly like your drink but still feel compelled to drop 5 stars. Let's talk atmosphere. It was dimly lit but in an intimate way. The seats were super comfy and swaggy. It was very modern but chic. The introduction and explanation as to how the place works had me on board from the beginning. So basically you describe what you like and the bartender makes you a drink to match your preferences. Now I said I didn't really like mixed drinks and my drink was super spirit forward l, it just didn't hit for me. No biggie, the bartender adjusted quickly and my next drink was a shot of very smooth whiskey. Overall, I loved this place. I want to go back and take shots. This is a must try if you're in the area.

Juliana D.

Yelp
Such a cool and unique place for cocktails. I recommend making a reservation because it's a pretty small place. There isn't a menu so you just tell them what you're in the mood for and they make a cool drink! Service was really great. They kept checking on us and refilling our waters. For my first drink, I asked for something dessert-y and he made a domenicana. It's like an espresso martini but with rum. It was amazing!! For my second drink, I asked for something with chocolate and he made a brandy alexander which had brandy and crème de cacao. It was really strong and tasted very Christmasy. I loved it! It was fun to see what they were going to bring out based on our requests. I also enjoyed trying everyone else's drinks! My cousin had a cafe con leche drink and it was amazing!! The presentation was also really cool for all the drinks!

Destiny H.

Yelp
This is hands down the best cocktail bar in Charlotte. It's amazing. First, make a reservation... this place is small but stays busy. So book the reservation. This is the perfect place for a date night, it's sexy, dimly lit and intimate. There is no menu here, the server asks what kind of flavors you like and liquor preference and they come up with something uniquely for you. So basically don't come in here with control issues lol The service is always amazing. & I highly recommend this spot. Just know, you're gonna drop some coins.

Monica L.

Yelp
This is a small location that definitely requires a reservation to get in, but if you like mixed drinks with an element of surprise, then this is totally worth it. You simply tell the waiter what kind of drink you might be feeling, like spirit-forward or 'something spicy', and they bring you something according to those guidelines. If you don't like it, they can make you something else. Prices are reasonable for everything being customized, and the vibes are dark, classy, and elegant. It's a cool place to take people on a night out, or even to have a little date night.

Julie S.

Yelp
Thoroughly enjoyed a girls night with a friend here. I was able to find a reservation the day of, but now I see why you really need to. It's very small space. We sat at the bar and bartender shared there's no menu and asked what we liked. We enjoyed watching our drinks being made. Once we were presented our drinks, the bartender shared the ingredients. The bartender checked in that we were satisfied with our drink and kept busy with the other customers. They do offer mocktails. So after a couple cocktails we opted for that and it was just delicious as the cocktail, so I highly recommend. The snacks offered include truffle butter popcorn and a charcuterie board. The popcorn was a very big portion, easy for sharing. The bartender was attentive and nailed our taste preferences. Thoroughly enjoyed each drink!

Elizabeth H.

Yelp
I came to Idlewild recently on a short trip to Charlotte and could not have been more impressed. The concept of the bar is amazing, the service is impeccable, and the bartenders go above and beyond to create a cocktail tailored to your liking. Coming from Washington, DC i have seen my fair share of upscale cocktail bars, but this one takes the cake. You tell your server/bartender what you enjoy in a cocktail (and you can be as vague or as specific as you like) and they create a cocktail based on your preferences. Not only did we enjoy specially crafted drinks during our time there, but the ambiance and vibe of the place create a cozy and warm atmosphere that everyone will enjoy. I had such a pleasant experience and will be stopping by again should I find myself back in Charlotte.

Byron D.

Yelp
Love this place.... Been here a few times now. They probably have the best cocktails in the city by far... plus their approach of not having a menu but asking your likes to make you a drink is very cool

Makaela P.

Yelp
If you're looking for a new cocktail lounge to hang out at then Idlewild is the place to be! As soon as you walk in, it immediately feels luxe, private, and also cozy at the same time. They don't have any menus as all of the cocktails are custom made based on your preferences. At first I was a bit worried but they killed it every time I ordered a new drink! Everyone in my party also said the same. We'll definitely be back for sure!

Heather Rose M.

Yelp
No-menu cocktail bar that serves to your preference. I went for the mint spin on an espresso martini and it was so delicious I had to try it twice. My friend went for something light and refreshing so she received a cucumber vodka concoction that was exactly what she asked for. The bartenders were friendly and welcoming! They let us try some liqueur off the shelf that they thought we would enjoy. Very romantic inside, low lit and great music. The only downside... it's pretty pricey! Well worth it, however. Come check this bar out! I would recommend getting a reservation instead of waiting the 2.5 hours to get a spot, the bar is not very big.

Kelly A.

Yelp
This was such a cute experience! I enjoyed the dimly lit, sort of sultry ambiance lol. (By nighttime, the place is basically dark!) The "no menu" concept is really cool and is great indication that the bar staff are creative and innovative (and they were!). I asked for a whisky sour type drink and was surprised with the "BerryMore"...super tasty and refreshing! The bar staff was really chill and helpful. I would 100% recommend Idlewild for a night with friends or a cute little intimate date night!

Carrie J.

Yelp
Just perfection!! Great service - our waitress was so knowledgeable about cocktails. We loved the vibe - small, intimate space that was perfect for date night drinks before dinner.

Yadira S.

Yelp
We've been coming to Idlewild for years and never had a bad experience! We are constantly bringing friends or telling people about the speakeasy with no cocktail menu. The service is always amazing! I love the ability to call or text and be added to the waiting list. I would HIGHLY suggest making a reservation or calling/texting to be added to their waiting list especially on the weekends when they are busy. I love the vibe inside, seating at the bar is my favorite since you get to watch as the drinks are created. I love how intimate it is they offer no standing room everyone gets seated. All the ingredients are fresh and syrups are made in house! The concept of Idlewild is different than any other speakeasy in Charlotte. They have no cocktail menu; instead they ask if there's a liquor you prefer, likes/dislikes, any allergies. Sometimes just telling them a flavor or style of cocktail and they will come up with some incredible drinks! I can honestly say I have never had a bad or even average drink here. If you are visiting or live in Charlotte, I highly recommend coming to Idlewild, you will not regret it!

Judy S.

Yelp
Very satisfied with the service and cocktails. Drinks are crafted based on your palette and let me say they did NOT miss!!!. I will be a returning customer

Eric M.

Yelp
This is one of my go to cocktail spots, especially when I have out of town guests. Instead of a menu, you answer a few questions and receive a true custom cocktail. The service is always top notch and the servers and bartenders will ensure you have a cocktail you enjoy. The space is small, very quaint, and great for catching up with friends and date nights. I always forgot to write down the name of the cocktails so I can get it the next time in. The most unique cocktail I have had was a cross between and old fashion and dirty martini!

Britney S.

Yelp
Staff and team are great! Ambience is dim lighting and cozy seating, there are tea light candles and tables ooooh the whole place is a vibe. Idlewild is the first bar that I've gone to that does not have a cocktail menu and I am obsessed. Run don't walk to check out this cocktail bar!! Pro tip: sit at the bar ;)

Daisha G.

Yelp
This establishment is not welcoming. They do not encourage walk ins and are not polite when trying to get things resolved. Again not everyone is welcomed. They give unrealistic timeframes for waiting and will put your name on a waitlist even if they think they can't seat you. I won't be back to try again. I try not to go places where everyone is not welcome. Basic customer service includes giving the customer a simple apology for inconveniences a misunderstandings. none where given instead of it was more of. yes that happened and it will happen again because you're not welcomed. I hope all bars like this receive little to no customers. Would love more bars to come to this area that are upfront about policies and not be dependent on who you are. I was told only one party was allowed to wait at a time but there were more than 2 parties waiting at the time we were asked to leave. Really unprofessional behavior in my opinion. Thank you Vincent for proving how unprofessional you are. It may have been harsh to say I hope you receive little to no business but unfortunately the point still stands. You have little to no professionalism and little to no common courtesy. The same way you explained the situation earlier is the same way you commented just now. Confusing and short. I have no problem waiting. I just don't like when the standards change based on the person. Obviously you don't care about your potential customers and view them as headaches.. Thank you for making it easy to not come back.

Nikole R.

Yelp
Always a delicious drink - no matter your taste buds. If you get something you don't like they will definitely remake it. They take your preferences and make you a "special". I like they also take into consideration whatever is in season. Always a go to

Maddie H.

Yelp
My boyfriend and I came here for a date night and it was just wonderful. The vibes are so chill yet intimate because of the dim lighting and they keep some ingredients in potion-looking bottles which makes it feel a little magical. The bartender was so knowledgeable and kind, and clearly was very good at what he did. He was able to get us both the perfect drink from just a small description. I would absolutely come here again!

Lina B.

Yelp
I used to really love this place. Not sure what happened to the bathrooms, but they are now "anything goes". Stalls don't lock, either. Just not a safe feeling if you're a woman. And I was in there while a guy was getting harassed by a woman while he was trying to use the urinal. Not a good look.

Ashlei P.

Yelp
One of the best cocktail bars in Charlotte. I highly recommend a reservation on weekends. However, Monday's and Tuesday's are pretty quiet. Ambiance is perfect for date night or even a night out with friends. They do not offer food on their menu, but they are perfectly placed in NODA where there are several food options. Fairweather, their sister location, is next door. Be sure to check them out as well.

Natalie P.

Yelp
Came after hearing some friends talking about this "custom cocktail experience." We had our choice of sitting at the bar or a two person table. There are only a couple booths large enough to accommodate parties larger than 2-3 people. Our waitress asked us what we like/don't like, and from there, curated our custom cocktails. I had an old fashioned with a twist, this time made with some Jamaican rum which had a nice malt after taste. My husband a smokey scotch drink. The drinks looked great and presented well. The taste was good, but in the case of my cocktail, I'm not convinced I couldn't replicate this at home. My husbands Smokey cocktail was more unique. Each drink was $14. A reservation is recommended and easy to make on Resy. There is a $10/person cancellation fee if you cancel less than 4 hours in advance of your reservation. You will likely have to pay for parking at this shopping center as well, so definitely try to carpool!

Nicholas J.

Yelp
A really wonderful experience. The staff was engaging and well educated. I can't even express how hard they all worked to take care of the customers. It was actually suggested as a place to go by a bar tender on the other side of town.

Myron M.

Yelp
The server was extremely rude and rushed us out of the establishment, as the only people of color at the bar to be told there is a waitlist and to be cognizant of that when no other patrons were asked the same was extremely disappointing. After ordering several rounds of drinks and having patronized this bar before and through the pandemic was hurtful, do better the server pictured was extremely rude and dismissive when I expressed my concerns

Mateo M.

Yelp
A very interesting concept! No drink menu, you just tell them what you like and the vibe you're feeling, and they craft a drink that fits. I was a little skeptical at first, but our server/bartender for what I asked was almost too perfect. I was feeling like a refreshing drink, with a citrus vibe, but with a smokey finish. They fit it perfectly with a penicillin; ginger beer, lime and scotch, hitting everything I asked for. You will almost assuredly need a reservation here, as seating is limited and it seems pretty popular. For me it's a one and done. The concept is really cool, but it's basically located under a newer apartment building, and almost feels more like the entrance to that building than an actual bar. It's a place to come perhaps for a special occasion or for a novelty, but it's not a place I would recommend as a regular establishment to frequent.

Iwona A.

Yelp
We didn't have a reservation so we just sat at the bar. As someone who isn't that familiar with different types of drinks, I just told the bartender elements of what I would like and she whipped up a delicious drink. The ambiance was great and I would come again. There is more private seating areas as well.

Karla F.

Yelp
I love Idlewild and their unique concept. In a land full of basic, cookie cutter cocktail bars, Idlewild provides some respite from the pumpkin spiced lattes of the booze world. I've been twice now and I have to say, it's the best cocktail bar I've ever been to - and this is compared to cocktail bars in DC, NYC, Phoenix, etc. So, it bums me out to see bad reviews from people who don't understand the concept of what they're trying to do. Here are some digestible pro tips so you're not disappointed and find yourself writing a poor review for a small business: - this is a VERY small, intimate bar. There are only a handful of tables which are meant to accommodate parties bigger than 2 but less than 6. The bar seats accommodate parties of 2, are reserved seats, and are NOT meant to be waiting areas until a table opens. - make a reservation. For the love of all that's righteous and holy, make a reservation. They CAN take walk-ins if they're able (I was a walk-in my first time) but on weekends, chances are slim. It's also unlikely you can increase your party size and this is just due to the lack of space and coordination of reservations on the books. - if you're a walk-in waiting or early to your reservation, take the VERY SHORT jaunt across the parking lot to Wooden Robot and have some of their amazing beer until your seat opens. It's really simple. Idlewild will text you when your table is ready! - reservations have a time limit so that other reservations can be accommodated later in the evening. This isn't atypical of restaurants/bars these days and is noted when you make the reservation on Resy - membership of $1/year is required by NC law; not by Idlewild. I don't get it either but if you go anywhere in Charlotte, they're likely charging membership fees and many are a lot more than $1 (looking at you, Vintage) - there is no menu. The concept is, you tell the bartenders what you like and they make it for you. The more you know what you do or don't like, the higher the chances are that you'll get a unique, amazing cocktail. I hate sweet cocktails, love creamy and spicy, and I got something different and amazing each time. Dont like drinks with a ton of ice? No problem - just tell them. Where else can you get a concoction using coconut milk and cucumber? If you want a martini or Old Fashioned, you may wanna try a regular bar - this is NoDa, not South End. Both times, I saw diversity in both patrons and staff which is something I really love about NoDa. Staff have always been kind to me and other patrons around me so I never detected any discrimination. In summary, and in defense of this thesis, the goal of Idlewild (from what I've read and experienced) is to provide a tailored cocktail experience in a very intimate environment so that their talented bartenders can focus on crafting Karla-specific cocktails instead of slapping rum and Coke together. Does this sound appealing? Then make a resy, catch a buzz in 2 hours, and don't cancel last minute. If you're looking to bro down with Chad, Brad, and Kyle and reminisce about your Sig Ep days while slamming Jäegerbombs, skip this place and go to....literally any bar in South End.

Luke F.

Yelp
Incredibly rude and arrogant owner named Vincent. A bar trying way too hard to be cool and exclusive that falls well short of being either. Lots of other cocktail bars to try before this place. Save your money The below response is what you can expect from Vinnie. Name calling and jumping to conclusions rather than hospitality or class.

Suzy A.

Yelp
Greattt ambience & even better service. It's real intimate even when there's a little crowd because of the vibe. The menu is nice it's more appertivos & tasting foods I think to pair with their drink menu. I also really enjoyed their wine collection

Vee A.

Yelp
I used to like this place but they have fired many great staff members. They have also made the bathrooms unisex. That would be fine but there is no privacy for women. They need to get rid of the gaps to make a true unisex bathroom.

Dave C.

Yelp
Cool vibe, have a reso as walk-ins are tough. Drink was amazing - had a great time trying new Bevs.

Alicia R.

Yelp
I'd love to give Idlewild more stars. Sat right at the bar and the bartenders were super knowledgeable. Since there is no menu I do recommended coming here if you have an idea of what you like to drink. They create drinks based on your preference, and they did not disappoint. Ended up ordering 4 drinks in total and each one was spot on for what I thought I wanted. My first drink I asked for something fresh and light (think lime and cucumber) and my drink was super refreshing. I can't wait to come back and try their sister location fairweather!

Ashley N.

Yelp
Okay, I was skeptical prior to coming here because my friend and I actually had to wait over an hour to get a seat BUT I will say I definitely was a fan. The tables are far enough away that you can't quite hear the conversation of the people next to you, but it's a very open concept so you can see the entire place. The inside is fairly small, but dark and cozy feeling. The candlelight gave a mysterious and intimate ambiance, but it also highlighted each table, and sometimes it gave me the feeling that I was very vulnerable... kind of like I was on display? Not something I was really prepared for, but it was fine. Would be a great place for a date, or to get to know your friends better! Though, I would definitely recommend having an idea of what you're looking for in a drink prior to coming.

Patti M.

Yelp
I am appalled at the comments the business owner of Idlewild made on my review. This was very unprofessional and quite frankly very immature. Instead of trying to do service recovery, he tried to be insulting. That just goes to show how bad this place really is. I will make sure that I notify all my friends and family to avoid this place, as well as all of my work colleagues. This is not just poor customer service, but shows your character and integrity. The way the world is today you would think that people would try to be a little more compassionate and kind to others and not be so childish. This is your business and reputation, obviously you don't care how you treat others.

Kristen M.

Yelp
Everyone has been raving about this place and their specialty drinks. I honestly was a little underwhelmed by my drink and the atmosphere. It sucks paying $16 for a cocktail that has more ice than liquid in it. I only got about 3 sips until it was just a huge block of ice. Great service though! I would consider trying again

Enid G.

Yelp
I've been here three times & I love the dim ambiance. It's small but perfect for a quick date night! Bartender recommended the drink on the pic which were so good I had 3 that night lol wish I remember the name. Cocktails are pricey but that's what u get when quality is served!

hadley s.

Yelp
We try to make time to come here once every few weeks for a date or with friends! The ambience, service, and cocktails are unmatched in this area! Last night was no exception. Excellent bar.

Kat T.

Yelp
Fresh ingredients and great liquor. This cocktail bar is my favorite place to take guests that come in from out of town. The atmosphere is great and every custom drink I've had has blown me away. The drinks are a bit pricy but totally worth it when combined with the full experience. I recommend getting a seat at the bar to watch the bartenders do their thing.

Arra A.

Yelp
I met a group of friends here, the ambiance was great, our waiter was super friendly and provided the best service. I also had probably the best mocktail I have ever had. Definitely recommend!

Alexandra W.

Yelp
I mean, what can I say that hasn't been said?! I was practically running to my computer to write this review. We finally checked out Idlewild after making a reservation almost 3 weeks in advance, and I'm so glad we did. The space is mid-century modern and airy. I love that they don't have a cocktail menu and can make anything for you. As people have mentioned, the space is small, so certainly making a reservation in advance is a must. We headed next door for a few small plates to their sister concept. Charlotte needs more bars like this!

Rayelle C.

Yelp
Amazing experience Beautiful place Great service Nice people Drinks were so good! Shoutout to Tyler the Bartender !!!

Maddie K.

Yelp
I had a much better experience this time than I did when they first opened. Staff was super friendly and accommodating. The cocktails were very unique and definitely worth the price. I was impressed with the creativity of the drinks by the bartenders. The only thing I wish they had was more seating and a bigger food menu. Would love to come with a bigger group next time but the inside is very small. However, I do love the vibe a lot and I can't wait to go back!

Zekeyahi S.

Yelp
Unique experience! There isn't a drink menu, instead you tell your server/bartender your favorite spirit and/or what you generally drink and they will create customize drink based on your preference. The ambience provides an intimate setting for a date or just catching up while grabbing a few drinks with friends. Highly recommended, just be sure to make a reservation just in case.

Sophia N.

Yelp
This place has a nice atmosphere and wonderful staff. They don't have a menu and instead ask for your preferences and surprise you with a drink that matches. I was hoping that they would have a little more fun with it and make something non-traditional, but my drink was pretty typical. Still tasted good but would go back more for the atmosphere than the drinks.

Maria R.

Yelp
Absolute best! From service to drinks, this little spot is a most go. No drink menu, tell them your favorite flavors & they will surprise you with authentic flavors & beautiful garnish to top your drink. (Hand crafted) Perfect for a late night drink.