There’s music, and then there’s live outdoor music. As we cozy up for fall, I’m sharing some local spots that feature live music atmospheres for a socially distant but real connection for relishing in the moment. Tracking down live music spots and even live music calendars around town can be difficult - especially during the pandemic. So, I’ve asked around and corralled a list of restaurants and bars offering live music for a short list. Live music is a great way to discover local musicians and support their art with generous tips at the venue. The musicians usually frequent local bar and restaurant gigs to share their passion outside of their 9-5, so it's a fun way to join together and enjoy the talent that they share. Spots with music playing over the speakers are always great, but there's a special ambiance about live music that creates a special experience.
Hangar Kitchen and Bar
Formerly the Slider House in Rock Hill (right off of Manchester Road), the Hangar has finally arrived! It opened earlier this fall with a brand new menu and an aviation theme. With cute outdoor seating options and heaters, I heard they offer live music on the weekends for a prime ambiance. The menu offers a little bit of everything from tacos to sushi and heavier meals like braised short rib and burgers.
Alpha Brewing Company
Live music is part of Alpha Brewing’s schedule every week! On Thursdays from 6-9pm, Saturdays from 4-7pm and a special Jazz afternoon on Sundays from 3-6pm. Alpha Brewing Company offers several locally brewed beers from cider to sour ale, Belgian-style, oatmeal stout and even hard seltzer. They also have patio seating available which is convenient for visiting with friends during Covid times.
Fiddlehead Fern Café
Although it’s uncertain what type of live music will be offered during times of social distancing, Fiddlehead Fern is typically a spot with frequent local live musicians present to set the mood. They're known for unique specialty lattes like the lavender Rose Garden Latte, Spiced Chocolate Latte or a Horchata Chai Latte. Fiddlehead also serves up fresh pressed juices, shrub sodas, delicious loaded toasts (try the tomato and goat cheese!) and soups and salads. Save room for a bakery treat!
9 Mile Garden
Highlighted in this post, 9 Mile is a new food truck garden delivering not only the best local eats and sips, but also plenty of fun. Watch their calendar for all sorts of entertainment from Comedy Nights to movie nights and trivia nights, too.
Barrio
Head to the Demun neighborhood in Clayton for a fantastic quaint corner spot serving up burgers and fries. Recently changed from a Mexican menu, Barrio now offers adult floats, Fitz’s sodas and traditional fare. Patio seating is available if you prefer to sit outside, but when seated indoors, their large windows open up for a true indoor/outdoor experience.