Charlotte’s nightlife scene continues to grow. Murphy’s Kitchen & Tap opening soon in Third Ward
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Uptown doesn’t have enough bars. To add to that, Uptown doesn’t have enough bars that don’t charge a cover. That void of nightlife (Brevard Court aside) is especially clear in the most heavily growing area of town, Third Ward.
Well the world we know as Uptown is changing.
More and more mature drinking establishments are making their way uptown and next up this spring is Murphy’s Kitchen & Tap.
Located at Trade and Graham, this building has gone through a few changes — from Presto to Celebs. Now owner Mark Murphy is looking to make his stamp on Uptown and Third Ward.
/2024/01/06/1704563959321.jpg)
/2024/01/06/1704563959556.jpg)
Speaking with Mark helped me get a great sense of what to expect when this place opens this spring. “Gangs of New York” and “shotgun style” were thrown around to describe the vibe.
He told me to imagine being an Irish immigrant off the boat and stopping into a local pub for a pint. I love this.
Uptown has its share of Irish bars but where Murphy’s will stand out is in its execution. Aiming to celebrate the history of Irish-Americans the bar will be long and the décor will take a drinker back to the 1800s. The interiors are being done by legend Brent Baronofsky (whose credits include Terrace Café, Cowfish, Customshop and Good Food on Montford) and are sure to hit the mark in creating a perfect ambience.
For the food, Murphy’s is going for a comfort food vibe that’s easy eating whether it’s to-go or a full sit down experience.
Some menu items to look out for:
- Deviled scotch eggs
- Irish sausage hand-pie
- Shredded lamb sandwich
- Braised pork shoulder
As for the alcohol component, for beers expect to see domestics for sports fans, locals for craft fans and Irish staples for authenticity fans.
Cocktails will be limited but the craft menu items will take inspiration from 1800s recipes and modern twists.
Patios!
This location will have two patios, one on the ground by the entrance and a rooftop patio. Both will cater to drinkers and have high tops to set beers and cocktails down, rather than tables to eat at. Perfection.
Murphy’s isn’t going to be cutting corners and Mark told me he wants to invest in the customer as we invest in Murphy’s. I love this philosophy and think it will go far in serving the community.
The location is incredible with The Mint apartments directly next door, Circa Uptown down the street and the explosion of residents popping up in Third and Fourth Ward. This will serve as a neighborhood hang out as well as a weekend destination.
Look for a deeper look at this place as the insides get finished and they set an opening date.