Max & Lola Bodega set to open by August 17 in South End’s Gold District

The casual, colorful spot joins an influx of activity on the block, including the recent opening of Bardo, a chef-driven small plates restaurant, and the forthcoming opening of Yume, an authentic sushi and ramen restaurant.

It’s located about a 5-minute walk from established destinations like Wooden Robot and Unknown Brewing.

Similar to other urban markets like Common Market and Rhino Market, Max & Lola is one part retail store, one part bar.

It features a wine room, charcuterie fridge, assorted provisions and a huge beer cooler. The bar is equipped with 16 taps, including 4 local beers and 4 wines, and they’ll have kombucha on tap in self-serve kegerators.

They’ll also be serving locally roasted Enderly Coffee — complete with a self-serve cold brew station stocked with a special Max & Lola brew.

And because the space is too small for an on-site kitchen, they’ve invested in their own permanent taco truck that’ll be parked next to the building. Nice touch.

They’ve preserved the old Gulflex signage from the building’s days as a mechanic shop, and the three roll-up garage doors will create an open indoor-outdoor environment.

There’s a mix of table and counter seating inside and tables with umbrellas on the front patio.

They’re also adding picnic tables on the side patio next to the taco truck and (my favorite) a backyard garden-style area with a fountain.

The building features eye-catching artwork from Rosalia Torres-Weiner that’ll make it a photo op destination.

There are two large murals outside, including interactive angel wings under the Charlotte skyline and a mine that pays homage to the history of the Gold District with a cameo from the owners’ dogs, Max and Lola.

Torres-Weiner also painted the bathroom doors inside, which are inspired by Mexican playing cards.

Max & Lola is located at 1501 S. Mint Street. As of August 6, they’re tying up loose ends and waiting on their ABC permit. Look for an opening once that’s secured.