Thirsty Beaver Saloon

https://carolinas.eater.com/maps/best-dive-bar-charlotte

391,113 Postcards · 10,988 Cities

9 Best Dive Bars in Charlotte, North Carolina | Eater Carolinas

"Famously, Mick Jagger visited (and blended right into) Thirsty Beaver. Also famously, a modern highrise apartment built itself around Thirsty Beaver and its tenacious presence, where neon Natural Light signs and bras (yes, bras) hang proudly along the walls. If these walls could talk — actually, they shouldn’t. Customers huddle around the pool table and Pac-Man in the back or on the rambunctious front patio. The live Americana bands on Sundays draw in the best of Charlotte’s eclectic crowds." - Kayleigh Ruller

https://carolinas.eater.com/2021/9/30/22702134/mick-jagger-charlotte-thirsty-beaver

391,113 Postcards · 10,988 Cities

Mick Jagger Photo at Legendary Charlotte Dive Bar the Thirsty Beaver | Eater Carolinas

"Tucked into Plaza Midwood in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Thirsty Beaver Saloon is an unpretentious, storied dive bar that has been a neighborhood fixture since 2008. I see it as a tiny spot for live music, cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon, and neighbors having conversations, and it even attracts the occasional international rock star — according to Mick Jagger’s Twitter account, he stood in front of the bar last night sipping a beer while other customers barely noticed. The place is well known for refusing to sell to developers building up the area and now sits dwarfed by massive apartment complexes, looking a bit like the house from the Pixar film Up." - Erin Perkins

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/weekend-guide-charlotte-north-carolina

41,178 Postcards · 5,521 Cities

The Weekend Guide: Public Art, Fried Chicken, and White Water Rafting in Charlotte

"To get a sense of the neighborhood’s energy, stroll past the Thirsty Beaver Saloon. The popular dive bar and music club refused to sell out to developers, so builders wrapped an apartment building around it."

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-bars-in-charlotte

41,178 Postcards · 5,521 Cities

15 Best Bars in Charlotte

"The Thirsty Beaver Saloon is a stalwart reminder of an earlier era of drinking. Completely engulfed by gleaming new apartments, the small, dimly lit dive is anything but fancy, with bras hanging from above the doorway, a few tables, a jukebox that sees a lot of use, vintage country-music posters, and neon beer signs. Head to the back and you’ll find a lounge with a pool table. If you’re looking for exposed brick, greenery, and craft cocktails, this isn’t your spot; instead, you’ll find simple, cheap drinks served in plastic cups." - Lauren Levine

https://www.cntraveler.com/bars/thirsty-beaver-saloon

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20,018 Postcards · 1,279 Cities

Beloved Plaza Midwood honky‑tonk that refused to sell to developers and became a city icon. Celebrated by Condé Nast Traveler and local writers; expect cheap drinks, a packed jukebox, and stories.

Best Bars in Charlotte (2025)

John D.

Google

The Thirsty Beaver is... officially one of my favorite bars that I've ever been to! The inside of the bar was so cool, it was like a 1940s combination of a diner and bar. They had so much cool memorabilia, from the pool tables, neon signs, chairs & tables, posters, jukebox, hand games, etc. The bartender and other patrons were so cool, welcoming, and easy to talk to as well. I had such a fun time talking to them for a few hours. Overall, as previously stated, Thirsty Beaver is one of my favorite bars that I've ever been to, and it almost makes me wish I lived in Charlotte so I could go more often. I can't recommend it highly enough!

Mark G.

Google

Visiting Charlotte, heard about the Thirsty Beaver. We went, we saw, we heard, we loved it! For us, it's the highest point of our five days stay in town

Rofa G.

Google

I don’t live in Charlotte, but when I stumbled upon a post about the Thirsty Beaver on Facebook, I was instantly intrigued. The history of this bar is so compelling that I thought, “I need to visit this place ASAP!” As soon as I had the chance to come to Charlotte, I made a beeline for the Thirsty Beaver, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! If you haven’t been yet, what are you waiting for? You need to visit it, period.

Zandi W.

Google

The most classic of classic dive bars. You get what you expect. Had a blast as per usual!

Bruce I.

Google

A dive bar of dive bars, the Thirsty Beaver is the place to go for cheap beer and cheap drinks in Plaza Midwood. It's quite the hangout complete with jukebox full of classic old tunes. Full of character and charm where you can hangout and no one cares. Yes, this is the spot where Mick Jagger popped in when the Rolling Stones tour passed through Charlotte and he was either not recognized or people truly didn't care.

Joseph T.

Google

Hello, neighbor. Sometimes, when you’re walking through your neighborhood, you stumble upon a place that doesn’t look fancy… but oh, how it makes you feel. The Thirsty Beaver is one of those places. It’s a small bar with a big heart. The music is loud, the walls are full of stories, and the floor might be sticky—but that’s just the bar giving you a little hug from your shoes. Now, I don’t drink too often, but when I do, I like something friendly. I asked for a whiskey sour, and the bartender made it with such kindness and care, I almost cried into my coaster. The balance of sweet and sour reminded me of life itself. And oh my, the people here! Denim jackets, tattoos, laughter, and even a man who looked like he’d wrestled a jukebox once and lost. But everyone was kind. A young man offered me his barstool, and another told me I looked like someone who “gives good life advice.” That made me feel very special. The world can be loud and wild, neighbor—but in a place like this, surrounded by good folks and a great mixed drink, it’s nice to remember that we can all belong somewhere. I like you just the way you are, Thirsty Beaver.

Hadleigh P.

Google

the most punk bar in charlotte. if you’re in charlotte, you have to come by. this is a cornerstone of charlotte. 1000000/10

nima Y.

Google

Honest Bar always filled with good people

Liam H.

Yelp

Solid pour and an amazing jukebox.. From Mel Tillis to Warren Zevon to Pavement. Great dive in Plaza

Theresa F.

Yelp

Awesome dive bar! Our friends brought us here. Super chill spot for some relaxing beers and a good time. Awesome staff

James N.

Yelp

Five stars because I absolutely love a great dive bar and that's exactly what this is. Like many, I first heard of it after Mick Jagger posted a photo of himself having a beer outside. Inside it's a total honky tonk vibe done with authenticity. Lots of Waylon, Willie and Hank. The bartender (a big dude in a cutoff tshirt) looked like a bruiser but couldn't have been nicer. To top it off, the bar is a small old school square building wedged between a pair of modern apartment buildings. Couldn't be more perfect!

Lea L.

Yelp

If you wanna go to a dive bar in Midwood - here you are cheap cold blue moons, dog-friendly inside & super laid back in all the right ways.

Scott T.

Yelp

Absolutely a great place. I Highly recommend it as a place to relax and have some drinks. The staff is amazing. Great mix of people.

Leila R.

Yelp

This place is an institution, and one that needs to be supported for the simple fact that it has withstood the scurge of gentrification, and held its ground against the sterile yuppy condo, juice bar and yoga studio-ism that has plagued cities' culture and character under the guise of "progress". This place is the quintessential definition of "dive bar", and we wouldn't have it any other way. You want a cold beer, a shot of whatever, and a good convo w/the bartender while 20 of your closest "strangers who aren't yet friends" laugh the kind of laugh you only hear when people in a place are truly happy...that's what you come here for. The history, the stories, the memories that are about to be made after you cheers and tap the bar top; all that is wrapped up in an unkempt but loveable hole-in-the-wall facade snuggly defiant between two condo Goliaths in Plaza Midwood. If you ever wanted to see a Beaver lovingly flip the bird, then head on over! And, come thirsty! Cuz while the drinks are cheap, the history is so very rich!

Michelle F.

Yelp

Came out to see what I have been hearing about. Small bar holding its ground, surrounded behind by an apartment building but you can tell it didn't want to sell out! This rebel biker bar also has amazing antique bar decor all over the walls and a tradition of women tossing bras at the door posts! I actually saw a bride and groom walk in, with her throwing her bra up to join the others! Super hyped up spot with tonight's crowd being a mix with biker regulars, wedding guests, young folks and folks that walked over from the concert at Moo & Brew. I love the vibe and the cheep beer. It gave us an amazing place to kick our feet up and relax. It was loud so it's more a place for some pool, beer, & laughs.

Ashlei P.

Yelp

The perfect dive bar! Good music, good drinks, friendly bartenders and crowd. There is more space in the back with pool tables and also seating outside. I love that the business refused a buy out and now sits in the middle of a newly constructed apt building.

Matt M.

Yelp

Best bar in Charlotte. The atmosphere is phenomenal. The alcohol prices are even better. Incredible little local hangout.

Pablo S.

Yelp

Best little honky tonk dive bar in town. Great drinks, great jukebox and well just great!

Aelia F.

Yelp

My husband and I have always appreciated the philosophy & history of this bar. We learned more about its story through conversations with the bartender at Tipsy Burro (the other bar also owned by the same brothers) in 2019 before this bar achieved its glossy fame especially after the Mick Jagger visit. We have memories of hanging out with some of our closest friends here. It is usually always packed now, so while we were on a walk last night, decided to stop by for a drink on a slow evening. It had been about 4-5 years since our last visit. From the beginning, the bartender seemed to have an air of superiority and treated us as if we did not belong to the "cool club". Perhaps because on a cold evening, we were wearing our puffers that probably made us look like "yuppies"? Seeing people in this dichotomy of the " sterile yuppy culture" or the "authentic dive-bar locals" is deeply problematic as it prevents people from seeing others as complex humans and getting to know them, and perpetuates stereotypes. So, my suggestion to you, The Thirsty Beaver community / owners, sticking it to the man is an admirable gesture and gentrification sucks, especially in the way that in happened here. I hope it doesn't eventually turn this bar into a cartoon of itself and a touristy fad.

Jim N.

Yelp

Great food reasonable prices on the food and the beer played a few rounds of pool excellent service excellent staff a great place to hang out if you are a biker or if you're not a biker

April H.

Yelp

Not going to lie, I only came here because of the stories I read and the pictures I've seen. Any place that can turn down developers deserves to be patronized. Luckily this bar seems to always be packed so hopefully that means it will continue to stick it out. The bar is super tiny but they do have a couple pool tables as well as outdoor seating. There is also a jukebox that will play your song selection after about 2,464 days. I thought this was a biker bar but when we went it seemed to be more of a country bar. Either way it was fun and I hope this bar continues to stay strong.

Hans B.

Yelp

If you live anywhere near Charlotte....and occasionally have a beer...you need to at least visit this place once! It's a small bar in the Plaza Midwood area.. situated literally between A section of residential apartments/condos as of the Thirsty beaver put their foot down and said "we are not moving" It's a small biker-esque bar with one bar a couple of pool tables and cheap beer( Along with full bar) There is a small outdoor patio and it has 70' vibe inside with a full decor of bras...yes I said bras! The staff and patrons are friendly!! See the pics and go check it out !!

Tommy S.

Yelp

An absolute classic. Great times had in a bar that makes you feel welcomed and included.

Hannah N.

Yelp

MY FAVORITE BAR IN CHARLOTTE. EVER. everyone is so nice and respectful and there's always live music and it's just the best. Definitely better than any bar you'll find in south end!

David C.

Yelp

Perfect Dive bar! Drinks are perfectly mixed in a timely fashion. Pool table in back. Great variety to the music. The clientele is diverse and friendly. This place the perfect dive bar! Bring Cash!

Abby L.

Yelp

The Beave. I finally made it in sober enough to remember my experience. This place I the greatest hole in the wall of all time. Awesome, bad ass, and cool. I like how they think and I like their style. Not willing to sell to big developers, this tiny bar is right in the middle of a huge new apartment complex. I'm glad they stood their ground!!! They have pool and a jukebox. The have bras hanging up everywhere, left behind by the many guests and visitors. If you like hole in the walls or a little fun, this is your place. You've got to try it, even just once!! But you'll want to go more.

Albert Y.

Yelp

Have to chime in on how great it was to visit this local bar in Plaza Midwood neighborhood of Charlotte. It was so fun, we had to visit twice during our recent trip. Everyone was very nice and happy to be there, and I don't just mean the customers. Brian and Jenny (and Jenny) were outstanding hosts, offering a nice selection of beers, whisky and shots to satisfy most any hankering. The Hee Haw on the bar T.V. brought back very happy memories. Tip: Look for parking in the public lot just about 20 feet east of the bar - or across the street. If you're on a bike, they have motorcycle parking directly in front. Cheers!

Jared D.

Yelp

Literally love this place. The general atmosphere is enjoyable and lively, with the drinks being reasonably priced (~$4 Coronas versus the $7 you'd spend over in uptown). The bar can get a little crowded, but it's a pretty small bar that is very popular. The staff are friendly and are very professional. They sometimes have live music which is crazy considering the size of this place, but the music has never been a letdown and always breaths life into an already lively place. If you're new to Charlotte check this place out.

Sar A.

Yelp

If you want to hang your bra on the ceiling, I can respect that - I'm not here to judge. But no matter how you roll, this quirky, vintage dive bar will always be a good nightcap stop. We came to the Beav on a weeknight and they happen to have a band that night - with no cover charge. The cozy character of the bar, the two pool tables and the awesome staff make it feel very homy. And did I mention drinks are cheap? Another wild night on the town... Five Yelps

InoR N.

Yelp

The best, everyone is nice. A single girl can walk in and be comfortable Meet lots of People there.

Peter D.

Yelp

Just so you guys don't think I'm biased, I want to be upfront about the fact that my girlfriend's friend's sister's girlfriend's cousin's boyfriend owns this joint. Seeing as how we're so close, I was able to buy a full round for six people with a $20. Wait a second...I'm being told that the prices at The Beav are just that awesome. That makes sense, because everything else is awesome as well. Let's run down the list: There's the kickass jukebox that is only topped by the live music they occasionally have (we heard the funkiest of blues bands that incited a dance party). Don't worry, you won't have to pay a cover, because everyone knows the Beaver is always uncovered. (Just tip the band.) There are the two pool tables in the back, and a PacMan for good measure. There are the PBR tallboys and the heavy, heavy pours from bartenders who're having a better time than anyone. There's the surprisingly clean bathroom, and the picnic tables outside where you'll find your new best friends sitting next to you. There's the striking decor with ads from yesteryear like Billy Dee repping Colt 45, and Burt Reynolds repping...paternity.There's the friendliest crowd of folks of all ages, including falldown drunken kids doing their best to hook you up with their female friends, and middle-aged men toasting, "To the Possum."* As far as I can tell, the only downside is that they'll play NASCAR over the Knicks playoff game. But the losers couldn't beat the Pacers anyway (to be fair, they were also up against the refs), so I guess it's just as well. ________________ *That's all I overheard, but it was pretty distinct.

Megan J.

Yelp

I love the Thirsty Beaver for everything that it is! It is a neighborhood spot with a come-as-you-are atmosphere and some damn good drink prices. Don't expect craft beer or $15 cocktails-- this is not the place for that. Charlotte is full of overpriced bars and this is a breath of fresh air. Bartenders are nice, drinks are good, and decor is on point. It is quirky and they have a pool table in the back. They have a patio out front too for drinking and smoking. Definitely check this place out!!

Molly W.

Yelp

Love this place. Super friendly bartender and cool vibe. Very tiny and it's always packed but there's a lot of places to sit which is nice and when it's nice out you can hang outside. Also two pool tables in the back.

Mike M.

Yelp

The dive bar of all five bars. Only took me 23 years in Charlotte to get here and it probably looks no different over those years so I didn't really miss anything right? Play some pool. Watch sports on a 22" tube tv, enjoy the Elvis corner and hang out with your pals. Must visit. Get a schlitz or a PBR.

Danny W.

Yelp

Whether you're a fan of dive bars or not, you have to appreciate a place like this. Even after developers threw a retirements sum of money at them they pulled a Wolf Of Wall Street and said "I'm not Fuckin' Leavin!" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TP3m22Kzu0k The Thirsty Beaver is tiny, smelly, and there's old bras lining the walls, but hopefully they'll be serving High Lifes here till the next set of developers come and try to strong arm them. The place is proof that some things can't be bought so if you've ever been fucked over by someone strictly because they had more money than you stop in, suck down a drink, and smile at this place's story.

Hugh H.

Yelp

Small bar pigeoned between large apartment/condos. Two pool tables in the rear room, small but cool bar up front, with a cool vibe.

Veronica M.

Yelp

Every minority I know who has been here has been stared down and darned near chased off.....and we are very adorable people. I even suggested to one friend that we try it again and it is clear that she has been burned more than once and is totally over it by the way she screamed "NO!!!" at me. If you look through my reviews, I'm not one to assume my race is a problem, but 4, 5, even 6 times is a bit hard to ignore. I saw the review calling this place diverse and am pleased that person had a good experience. I know what I experienced, though, as well as what my friends experienced. I am not one to give mean people what they want, so I won't say "stay away", but please be advised, if you look a certain way, you may not be welcome here.

Jonathan B.

Yelp

The quintessential dive bar among dive bars. My introduction to the night-time scene of Plaza Midwood happened here many years ago. When you roll up in one of those 10-person bar-cycles to a tiny hole-in the wall like this you know you're in for an experience. Motorcycles and leather-gilded bearded blokes line the outside of a building in a yellowish color that only appears from years of wear and dis-concern. Valspar doesn't make this color of paint. The muddy crush-and-run lot is appropriate. The sign seems to perpetually hang precariously over the door. When will those letters fall? Perhaps the opener always re-hangs it when they start the day. Every day. Inside you'll find a cacophony of furniture slapped together to accurately match the litany of strange wall-hangings. Who cares about a theme? The theme? No theme, just stuff. The bar is always full - usually with the riders and their honeys. Reach through and toss a few bucks on the counter for a PBR. Make it a tall-boy. Carry it to some open space - the tables will be full but chairs a-plenty in a variety of sizes and disrepair. Slap some change in the jukebox. Play something your father used to roll with in his 80s S10 pickup. Or what your mom liked to jive to on the record player. Even better when they cram a country-grunge band in here. It gets loud. The good loud. Visit the restrooms to get an idea for what move you might pull in the bedroom next time (with permission). Drop a stack of quarters on the edge of a pool table and kick back for a chat with one of the many regulars. I've met many a drunkard (no offense intended) that thought I was their best friend here. Frankly, everyone is best friends here. It's a dive. Intimate. But intimate with all.

Michael N.

Yelp

My Beaver is Thirsty. Where do I take him for liquid refreshment that dare I say, is cheap and ice cold like the Rockies? Okay, duh, I get it! The building is completely detached with empty lots all around and looks like that guy who refused to sell out to the big greedy corporate developer (or so I imagine). The rain didn't stop me from this beacon in the night, but the drunken patron who almost shattered my iliac crest until he realized I was six inches in front of his vehicle almost did. He looked frazzled, astonished and anxious, almost to the point of vomiting on his dashboard. With a resounding "WTF?!!!" and a gentle flick of the wrist which gracefully produced a fluttering bird, I trudged onward. The entry was tented, with smokers and drinkers alike huddled and chatting. A voice reached out and said "Hi! We're the welcome committee! Come on in!" So I did. If you're looking for a pint of freshly poured craft beer, turn around and exit from whence you came. If you want a Tecate tallboy for $3, pull up a stool, have a listen to George Jones on the juke and prepare to watch the Hee Haw crew pop up from the cornfield with some chicken fried zingers. Above the juke and to the right, just might be the man who started it all, a stuffed beaver quenching his thirst with a PBR. Just what is he thinking? "Why are they bras hanging everywhere?", "There's not enough country music on the jukebox", "Is the pool table open yet?" He is a mysterious beast. You can probably find your own answer, my friend, at the bottom of a bottle of tequila. If you close your eyes, you can almost hear the Texas roadhouse. Open them quickly and you will see a cross sectional microcosm that represents Charlotte; from blue collar to white collar, hipster to hippie. Regardless if you're local or just adventurous, grab a cold one and make some new friends.

Jeffrey R.

Yelp

Great survivor dive bar. Hasn't lost its identity. Good service and good drinks. Bartenders are happy and glad to be there. Just like the crowd.

Larry H.

Yelp

I wish I could like this place but the only thing cool about it is the story behind it.... the owners were offered 7 million to sell the place to a developer and they said NO so the developer built an entire apartment complex AROUND the bar. That's cool. Outside of that, the bartender had her back turned to the bar almost the entire time we were there. Like, literally letting people sit with empty beers for 10-15 mins at a time and it wasn't busy. Maybe 7 people at the bar. Maybe she was bored? The beer was warm.... and the old country musician theme just isn't my thing. I'd recommend to walk past it, but not go inside. It ruins the experience.

Laura P.

Yelp

Diviest of the dives. Do not come here thinking you can get a cocktail---this is not the place. Live music, deer heads with bras on them, and a fairly older crowd when we came. Very cheap drinks, and live music if you're lucky!

Christina B.

Yelp

Total dive bar that is worth checking out! Crowd can be rough but always a great time! A total PM gem!

Kyle R.

Yelp

Fantastic hole-in- the-wall bar. Been here several times over the years. So glad they survived COVID-19 and have reopened.

Rose L.

Yelp

If this place wasn't emitting the most divey, dirty, raunchy bar feel so terribly, it would probably be a one star stop. What turns such a hole in the wall joint like this that you'd never EVER take your grandmother, into one of the best bars in Midtown Plaza? Could it be the piles of bras hanging on the walls, the fabric covering the ceiling or the biggest PBR's you've ever seen (for $3!)?! Lord if I truly know, but dang, this place MAKES you want to party. I really can't describe The Thirsty Beaver any more then I already have, because you've really just got to check it out for yourself. There's a complete mix of people, locals and tourists alike, and we even saw a wedding party ending their night here [congrats...whoever you were!]. The Thirsty Beaver is the best worst bar I've ever been to and I highly recommend you give it a shot!

Kevin F.

Yelp

Is your beaver thirsty? There's no dive-ier uhhh place better to quench that thirst than TTB! Grab yourself a PBR and pull up a stump to the old school jukebox and slip into honky tonk heaven. There's no draft beer. It's a dive. There's no tap soda. It's a dive. Pick your favorite non-crafty beer or liquor (mixed with can soda), pay the cheap prices (cash preferred) and take in the scenery! It's a dive. It's awesome to see the place flanked by high dollar residential units. They ain't giving in... Stay strong beaver! Take a dive into Plaza Midwood's Thirsty Beaver today!!!

Alicia N.

Yelp

I'm so glad this place hasn't been swallowed up by the generic monstrosities that are taking over plaza midwood. This little bar is has its own character and a welcoming atmosphere. People of all ages and walks of life can go to have a great time. They had a live band when we went, which was really good too. Dancing is strongly advised

Jen M.

Yelp

This place is my Cheers. I recently moved into the apartments above - and around - this small orange building known as the Thirsty Beaver (if you want a good laugh, read the articles about the landowners refusing to sell their land to the property developers.) Myself and several others in the complex see this as an accidental amenity. Nestled in between the buildings, Thirsty Beaver stands tall like a finger wag to the never-ending development around it within Plaza Midwood. There are motorcycles parked out front, and the most eclectic mix of patrons inside. Everyone is welcome and everyone is treated like family. Waylon and Willie blast from the jukebox, and the beer menu is small, but has everything you need (and it's all cheap). Don't expect frilly or fancy cocktails - you come here to drink longneck bottles and shoot pool with friends. Recently they threw a huge bash on Christmas night, complete with a live band (that the two owners happen to be in), and the place was packed well into the night. It was some of the most fun I've had at a bar in years. I can't say enough great things about TTB. It just makes me feel happy, even when I walk past it during the day while walking my dogs. Trust me - come check it out!

Kevin N.

Yelp

I didn't realize straightaway that a 'big one' PBR in these parts was some sort of giant 24 oz beery monstrosity. Temper that, North Carolina - we out of towners only manage to handle what we can. What I discovered outside of that idea was not much short of brilliant. Sketchy and brilliant. Both, in a giant salt shaker of 'yes please.' The jukebox had something in the neighborhood of a 600 songs queued up, and I'm sure they were fine ones, but by the time I wrapped up that PBR and teetered off into the night, I was the beneficiary of some prime Southern hospitality. See ya later Thirsty Beaver, and and thanks for the chuckles.

Amy R.

Yelp

Thirsty Beaver is your perfect neighborhood honkytonk bar. The crowd is friendly. The music is loud. And the PBR is cheap. It's also smoke-free, a rare find in the neighborhood (though there are smoking areas outside). The bar is owned by two brothers, and they've decorated the spot with "Dukes of Hazzard" lunchboxes, old records and other memorabilia from their childhood. Be sure to catch the owners' honkytonk band, the Loose Lugnuts, which often plays to a rowdy crowd of friends and Plaza Midwood regulars. The Beaver has two pool tables, but the back room is much too cramped for any serious playing. A word of warning: The bartenders don't have much experience making complicated drinks. Stick with beer or basics like rum and coke. The parking situation needs some work. The adjacent gravel lot is way too tiny and people end up parking across busy Central Street. So walk or bike there if you can.

Julia S.

Yelp

If not my favorite, then one of my favorite bars in Charlotte. No, the selection of beers isn't great, and the bar isn't stocked with every libation under the sun... but I've always had a rad night here, always had a great bartender, and have always learned something about country music listening to that jukebox. Bloody marys are the drink to get here, if you aren't keeping it cheap and sticking to tallboys. There are coozies here to borrow if you left yours at home. Two full-sized pay to play pool tables occupy the back room, and often the front hosts a live show by either the owner's band or someone equally "back country" and talented. Eclectic, interesting crowd most every night. A very easy place to drink.

Wayne P.

Yelp

The bartender was a nice guy. Had a good chill time and enjoyed a game.of pool. Cheapest beer in town and there were some other fun characters drinking here as well.

Sammy J.

Yelp

If you love a friendly biker bar this is the place for you. Although with the name Thirsty Beaver you think they would come up with a better tag line (as soon as I remember it I will post it). The first time I went there I felt like I belonged which it hard to find. The staff was friendly along with the regulars. They have an old fashion jukebox filled with oldies. Which I'm pretty sure I played Johhny Cash non stop and still didn't get kicked out. The back room has two pool tables, with some wild decor. There is a second bathroom in the pool room but please, don't go in if you are afraid of clowns ;) If you haven't been here definitely give it a shot, it's worth the trip.

Michael E.

Yelp

In reply to larry s. review.........I think my picture at the door would be a nice addition to the place vs. the circa 1969 pictures on the wall. And just so all you folks know.......ordering PBR here doesn't make you fit it..........ever. Locals rule...everyone else...as per larry.s it seems.....drools. But don't let those types of folks deter you from having fun at this bar as it like a lot of life experiences involving alcohol.......hope you remember...or perhaps not...the next morning. *wink*

Brent D.

Yelp

Although I don't go as often as I'd like...this place is a great dive get away. I love that it's survived the growing pains and it looks great snuggled in its little corner!!

Lindsay W.

Yelp

If you are looking for craft beer and cocktails, this is not your place. This isn't a bad thing though...it is what it is. My fiance and I went over here the other night after wanting to go for a while. I expected it to be packed on a Saturday night, but there weren't too many people in there. The perfect amount of people, in fact. The bartenders were attentive and nice. Drinks mainly consist of domestic cans, PBR tall boys, and well liquor. I appreciate how inexpensive everything is. The place is small and "divey" (if you can still call it that). The light is dim and there are tons of interesting knick knacks on the walls. There is even pool in the back if your heart desires. Overall, this place is great for what it is. A neighborhood bar with cheap drinks and a nice place to chill. I believe I will be back with friends when we want to avoid crowds and just want life's simple pleasures. Lastly, thank you Thirsty Beaver for remaining strong in your spot with all the development around you. You have my business for this, along with other reasons listed above.

Damon S.

Yelp

======= SHE'S A MAN-EATER, WATCH OUT BOY ======= Overpriced. Odd crowd. Plenty of thirsty beavers there. Trust me. You can positively get laid. Cougars on the prowl. Plenty of skanks but people are friendly, though the regulars will give you creepy stares on arrival. The alcohol selection is garbage. No parking. If they actually had a real bar at competitive Charlotte prices, it'd be a much cooler place, and they really need to freshen the place up. It's not nasty and I don't mind the decor, it just needs to look like they care more..I would write more but my feet stink and I can't concentrate.

https://carolinas.eater.com/maps/best-dive-bar-charlotte

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https://carolinas.eater.com/2021/9/30/22702134/mick-jagger-charlotte-thirsty-beaver

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Mick Jagger Photo at Legendary Charlotte Dive Bar the Thirsty Beaver | Eater Carolinas

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/weekend-guide-charlotte-north-carolina

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https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-bars-in-charlotte

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https://www.cntraveler.com/bars/thirsty-beaver-saloon

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Beloved Plaza Midwood honky‑tonk that refused to sell to developers and became a city icon. Celebrated by Condé Nast Traveler and local writers; expect cheap drinks, a packed jukebox, and stories.

Best Bars in Charlotte (2025)