VBGB (Very Big German Beer)

VBGB is like no other bar in Charlotte! It is designed for interaction and brings everyone together. VBGB stands for Very Big German Beer. The bar runs with the German theme with beers and food. The restaurant serves brats and pretzels, which have become a popular meal at VBGB. What’s interesting about the space to me is their decision to use long picnic tables inside and outside for seating.

Picnic tables force people to sit next to strangers and start up conversations. Whether you are eating or drinking, you are bound to meet some new people! The inside space is dedicated to the large bar, which can be reached from almost 360degrees, and their restaurant. The inside space smells great and is often loud with happy people. The walls are painted black with paintings of white trees growing from the floor. VBGB uses chandeliers and cool patio stringed-lighting to help set the mood. Even though the floors are finished with gloss over cement and the bar and chairs are made out of wood, the room feels comfortable and fun.

VBGB decided to create an outdoor patio that is extremely unique to Charlotte. Not only is it the largest patio in the city, it is filled with tailgating games and more picnic tables. People come to VBGB to socialize. The games out on the patio are placed on the outside perimeter against the fence. Seating takes up most of the room, but there is still plenty of standing room. In the center of the patio, VBGB built a mini stage that also acts as a huge chess board!

VBGB did a great job deciding how to use the space they were given. I love going there and having a good time. Everyone is friendly and shares the space. Every week, there is live music on the patio and a DJ on Saturday nights. Not only is this a bar and restaurant, but it turns into a small dance venue. Everything (except the bar) in VBGB can move so they can create more space for dancing or any other events they hold.

VBGB was also strategically placed in the NC Music Factory. It is an entire venue of bars, clubs, restaurants, and concert venues. VBGB pulls from a lively crowd and truly makes a mark at NC Music Factory.  They get so much business before and after concerts and are always packed on the weekends. People want new and interesting places to go and VBGB gives them that option!

Watch the VIDEO about VBGB to find out more!

All American Pub

The All American Pub really surprised me when I entered the newly opened space. The pub moved into an old rustic building that was built in the early 20th century. Previously, the space was used as club/ lounge, but now seats plenty of guests as a pub. What surprised me was their seating options for guests.

 

When you first walk in, you can sit at the bar on the right side, or you can turn left and sit in the main seating area. The bar ran along the entire wall of the building and gave guests plenty of space to order drinks. About 8ft from the bar were bar tables. Some people were choosing to sit at the bar tables to have more of a conversation with their friends instead of sitting shoulder to shoulder at the bar.

The main seating area is placed in front of multiple TVs and a large projection screen. There is no place you can’t see a TV. Guests have the option to sit at square tables or in booths, which are raised up from the floor level by one step. If you sit at a booth, then you are forced to watch your friend eat as opposed to sitting adjacent to them.

To the left of the main seating area, is a lounge that allows guests to sit on sofas and relax. The sofas are set up in 90 degree angles, which help increase interaction apposed to placing them face-to-face. The space also uses end tables and a rug to pull the room together. Behind both seating areas, are three large doors inviting guests to sit outside on a nice patio that overlooks the light rail. Sitting outside is a good option to escape the loud cheering over a game on TV.

Inside, the walls are old brick which connect to huge wooden beams on the ceiling. It creates a warm feeling that is inviting. I noticed towards the end of my visit, that I did not want to leave. We decided to leave our table and go sit in the lounge to finish watching the game.

The All American Pub can be found at 200 East Bland Street, Charlotte, NC 28203.