Red@28th - Bar & Grills in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

Respectable food, eclectic atmosphere, and nice staff. Upon entering, the first thing you'll notice is a lounge area filled with a multitude of books to read and purchase (if desired). Across from that is the bar area that is in the same place as it was when operated by People's Market (previous venue). At the bar area it appears you can order drinks along with hookah items, though we went for lunch so we didn't try either of these options so I can't speak to them. When walking towards the back of the restaurant, they have a blast from the past with some old school retro video games and some sweet video game paraphernalia on the walls (see images attached). They also appears to have kept the same area that People's Market had in the back when ordering food, but note that this is only where food comes out and is not where you would go to order food like it was with People's Market. Instead, you can sit down at a table and be served individually by the wait staff. The staff was friendly, helpful, and attentive, but I can't really speak to how they would have been when busy since we went right after it opened so we were one of the few in the restaurant at the time. The food is standard american food with some different options from the standard (like both a Philly Cheesesteak and a NY Cheesesteak). I ordered the Philly Cheesesteak while my colleagues ordered the grilled chicken sandwich and the chicken tenders. All the food was what you'd expect it to be and of decent quality. It wasn't necessarily what you'd get in Philly as a Philly Cheesesteak, but I only expect that from a few Charlotte based restaurants so I wasn't expecting that (especially since my dad's family is from Philly so I am rather particular in a quality Philly Cheesesteak). That said, the meat was juicy and well seasoned. The cheese and veggies were also well done with the correct combination of cheese to veggies (for a standard Cheesesteak), and the quality of ingredients and seasoning overall was respectable. My colleagues both started their food was what was expected, nothing more, but nothing less from a chicken tenders and as grilled chicken sandwich. The fries aren't my favorite, simply because crinkle cut fries aren't my preference since I prefer a thinner, crispier fry, but the seasoning of the fries was well done. The left side of the restaurant had a completely separate area separated by glass (which used to be fully open when owned by People's Market), but they did a good job of updating it and making it appear comfortable. We decided to eat on a retro couch in the front of the restaurant by the windows, which I found to be rather nice and unique, similar to the eclectic seating at an Amelie's Bakery. The hookah bar is not really my thing, but I'm sure for others is a great option. The alcoholic beverages also appear to be popular but again, being that it was lunch, I unfortunately can't share any opinions about either. That said, if you want a unique experience with live music (at night supposedly), or a live poetry reading, while smoking some hookah, getting some drinks and eating some decent food, then this would be a place worth considering.

First night out in a while and Slim made our experience a great one! From the amazing customer service over the phone to the time we arrived. She was very personable! The music was great and the food was even better. I recommend reds as an amazing option.

This was our Happy Hour spot of choice on a Friday afternoon after work. There was plenty of available seating when we arrived. Our server greeted us promptly and took our food and drink orders. The portion sizes are generous. The brussel sprouts were definitely the star of the night. We ended up staying for about 5 hours, ordering drinks throughout the night. Things were going great until it was time for our server to leave for the evening. She checked us out and specifically stated that the tip was not included on the bill. However, when we received our receipts, there was an 18% service charge that was added, even though we only had 4 people in our group. All of us had left an additional tip, not knowing the service fee was charged. By the time we realized it, our server was gone for the evening. She also did not assign another server to us even though we were still planning to order. We let the manager know and she immediately worked to make it right. Our service for the remainder of the evening was impeccable. The music was good, although the volume was a little low on the side where we were sitting. I would definitely plan to return in the future....although I will keep a much closer eye on my bill. Pro-tip: Plan time for parking. There is a free lot nearby but it is pretty small..

Perfect hookah spot where the music, wide screen TVs, games, and drinks are good. Champagne bottles are flowing but it’s shots that made the day. Special during the week. Be prepared to spend $$$$ for a good time. Seating is tricky so plan ahead. Bar seating, tables, some outdoor seating.