Despite the winter weather, some local bars plan to stay open this weekend.

Why it matters: An ice storm is expected to move through the Charlotte area from Saturday through early Monday, bringing a wintry mix that could cause power outages, according to WBTV meteorologists.

Driving the news: While some businesses may close due to the forecast, anyone dealing with cabin fever can still find a few spots open for a drink and a bite to eat.

• Several businesses — including Angry Ale's, Folia in South End, The Goodyear House in NoDa and Sip City in Plaza Midwood — plan to remain open for now.

Stat of play: Several weekend events have adjusted their schedules or been canceled altogether.

• The Hornets game against the Washington Wizards at Spectrum Center has been moved up to 12pm.
• Shows at Charlotte Comedy Theater have all been canceled for the weekend.
• The Charlotte Jewish Film Festival screening of "SWEDISHKAYT: YidLife Crisis in Stockholm" has been canceled for today.
• Charlotte Symphony's The Music of Motown has been moved up to 2pm.

The bottom line: Check a business's social media or website for the latest updates on hours and events before heading out for a drink, a meal or a show.

Mother of Dragons is a new game café and wine bar that recently opened in southeast Charlotte.

Why it matters: The café brings a coffee omakase experience to the local coffee scene, brewed in front of you and paired with small pastry bites that coffee aficionados can appreciate.

What to expect: In addition to the tasting service, the menu includes coffee with a list of rotating Latin American and African beans, tea and a wide selection of wine by the glass or bottle.

• Food options range from breakfast items like breakfast burritos and assorted pastries to sandwiches and charcuterie boards.

How it works: The space (at 1640 Sardis Road) is designed for playing a wide range of games, from classic board games to more advanced and two-player options, available in the café or brought from home.

• You can play in-store for free for two visits, or buy or rent a game to play at a reserved table or in a private room.

Take a look around

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R&B artist Summer Walker will perform at Spectrum Center on June 10.

Driving the news: The summer tour called the Still Finally Over It in May. On select dates, artists Odeal and Monaleo will be opening acts.

If you go: Presale ticket sales for Verizon and Citi holders run from Jan. 27 at 10am to Jan. 28 at 9:45am.

• General tickets will be available Jan. 29 at 10am.

Gotcha Matcha & Espresso has soft-opened a second Uptown location.

Why it matters: The locally owned brand, known for its creative matchas, got its start as a Charlotte pop-up in 2023 and now has two brick-and-mortar locations, both just steps away from each other in Uptown.

Catch up quick: The brand opened its first permanent spot in late 2024 inside a high-rise in Uptown's Third Ward (200 S. Tryon St.).

• The new spot is just down the street at 401 S. Tryon St, by The Green at Three Wells Fargo Center.

What to expect: Gotcha Matcha's full menu of matchas, refresher teas, espresso drinks, and pastries.

• Plus, a lineup of new additions, like a lemon pound cake matcha, Earl Grey matcha, Vietnamese iced coffee, and an ube bagel with ube cream cheese, owner Eric Hicklen tells Axios.

See inside the new spot