1. Cosmos Café
City: Ballantyne, NC
Category: Nightlife
Telephone: (704) 544-5268
Address: 8420 Rea Rd.
Description: When folks in Ballantyne (and south Charlotte) want a nightclub experience without driving into the city, they head over to Cosmos Café. An upscale tapas restaurant by day, Comos transforms into Ballantyne’s hottest dance venue on weekend nights. The place has a nice feel, with a custom-made circular bar and décor with an international flair.
2. D’Vine Wine Café
City: Ballantyne, NC
Category: Nightlife
Telephone: (704) 369-5050
Address: 14815 John J. Delaney Dr.
Description: This has become a hot spot in Ballantyne with 35 wines by the glass and about the same number of specialty beers. Live music is available several nights a week, including light jazz during wine dinners. The patio offers the only outdoor cushy couch seating in Ballantyne. A great place to meet Mr. Right.
3. Global Restaurant
City: Ballantyne, NC
Category: Restaurants
Telephone: (704) 248-0866
Address: 3520 Toringdon Way
Description: Technically, Global features international cuisine. However, founder and chef Bernard Brunet is French and the menu is heavily French influenced. For example, the pork tenderloin is created in the French style of sealing the meat in bags and submerging it in hot, but not boiling, water for a slow-cooked treat. Meanwhile, Creative Loafing has called the duck with French lentils one of the best dishes in the city. Brunet is careful to use local products whenever possible. Hours are 6 to 11 p.m. Mon through Sat. Reservations accepted.