Bottle shop and market with local focus to open in revitalized Plaza Midwood building

Why it matters: The business shines a spotlight on local and regional products. It’s the newest family- and dog-friendly hang-out spot in the growing Plaza Midwood-Elizabeth area.

• It’s housed in a 1937 building that’s been vacant since at least 2015. The Nichols Company purchased the property in 2022 and renovated the space, Queen City Nerve reported.

What to expect: “Anything related to sipping a drink,” owner Yazan Humaideh tells me, from draft beers to cocktail mixers. Customers can stop in for a draft beer or wine by the glass. Three taps are dedicated to Lower Left Brewing Co., one of the owner’s favorite spots, while the other three are rotating.

• You’ll also find carefully selected regional and local wines, plus gifting options.
• Fridges around the shop keep craft beers, kombuchas, sodas, energy drinks and other specialty beverages chill.
• Shoppers can browse charcuterie boards, home decor, customizable mugs and tumblers, party supplies, Charlotte-themed apparel and plants by Grounded Plant Services.

What’s more: Sip City also sells gourmet foods like cheeses and bakery items.

We tried: The Lemontation, a sour from Lower Left Brewing Co.

• Among the desserts, the owner’s mother, a Syrian woman, has baked a pistachio puff pastry that’s bound to be a hit.

Zoom in: Humaideh moved to the U.S. from Syria in 2010 when he was 16 — just before the Syrian civil war started. He climbed the corporate ladder, starting as a bag boy at a grocery store, then as a food and beverage coordinator for Target.

• In his prior roles, also at Harris Teeter and Publix, he says he gained an understanding of how to sell at a good price.
• Beers at Sip City start at $3.99 for a 12-ounce. A 5-ounce wine starts at $4.99.

Of note: Parking is scarce, but customers who walk, ride share, bike or use another transportation method besides a car get a 5% discount.

Details: Sip City is open 2pm to 12pm, Sunday–Thursday and 12pm to 2am Friday and Saturday.

• It’s located at 917 Central Ave.