Charlotte Happenings is your monthly guide to events and things to do in and around Charlotte, NC.
Issue link: http://charlottehappenings.epubxp.com/i/776370
DATE night By Emily Farrington Smith WHETHER IT'S FOR A FIRST DATE OR A BIG ANNIVERSARY WITH YOUR SOUL MATE, THE CITY IS IMBUED WITH SPECIAL THINGS TO DO FOR TWO. The best things in life—or at least in song—are built for two people: a bicycle, tea or tickets to paradise. Rework those ingredients to include two sets of borrowed bowling shoes, a platter of pierogis and a pair of beers to cheers, and you've nailed this month's date night. Located just southeast of Center City, the busy little pocket of Matthews hums. The quick drive means you'll need to hang on to the car, but, thankfully, the town's top spots are accessible and centrally located, making navigating your romantic escape a breeze. Treat your taste buds to a trek abroad, starting the night at Taste of Europe Polish Cuisine. Owned and operated by newlyweds Agata and Michal Przyk, who both grew up in Poland, Taste of Europe delivers authentic Eastern European cuisine and flavors that floor the palate. With rich stews and robust entrees, Taste of Europe is the perfect place to warm up on a chilly February night. Order the steamy potato pancakes followed by any of the authentic pierogi offerings or a polish sausage sandwich (cevapi). With filling and carefully crafted dishes, Taste of Europe is a refreshingly rewarding and unassuming spot for date night dinner. Get your fill before heading out for the evening's activity. Keep the good times rolling because AMF Carolina Lanes is just a quick jaunt around the corner from Taste of Europe. The lively spot, equipped with 56 lanes, an arcade, and billiards and pool, lends itself to the sort of relaxed feel only found at a bowling alley. Each location (there are three others sprinkled around Charlotte and nearby Gastonia, North Carolina) has its own nightly specials, like black-light bowling or discounts on shoe rentals. Fueled by pierogies, go ahead and lace up your shoes, grab a ball, and challenge your better half to a battle of strikes and spares. Loser buys the first round from the on-site bar/kitchen or at the next stop. Cozy Carolina Beer Temple is tucked in downtown Matthews and prides itself on only serving beers, ciders and meads produced by independent breweries. Since the spot operates as a store and bar, you can kick back with one of 16 constantly rotating brews on tap and shop a selection of more than 450 handpicked bottles. The lounge and bar area are homey, and the owners do an exceptional job of making everyone feel welcome. As a sweet ending to your date night, the staff may even recommend having a sweet crepe delivered from Royal Cafe & Creperie (located just a few doors down). Plus, they'll pour the perfect brew to complement your confections. For more date night ideas in Charlotte, visit charlottesgotalot.com • • • AMF LANES PHOTO BY MANNY HANDSOME CAROLINA BEER TEMPLE PHOTO BY MANNY HANDSOME TASTE OF EUROPE POLISH CUISINE PHOTO BY MANNY HANDSOME MATTHEWS charlottesgotalot.com 31