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The Workman's Friend

The Workman's Friend, 1531 Central Ave, Charlotte

4.7
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.7 out of 5 (46 Ratings)
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1.8 miles PNC Music Pavilion
About The Workman's Friend
The Spotlight on The Workman's Friend

Classic Irish Pub Vibes in the Heart of Charlotte

The Workman's Friend is a cozy, authentic Irish pub tucked into the bustling Plaza Midwood neighborhood, just minutes from Charlotte’s top music venues. With its warm wood interiors, exposed brick, and vintage decor, it delivers all the charm of a Dublin watering hole—no passport required. Whether you're grabbing a pint or settling in for hearty Irish fare, this spot offers a laid-back yet lively atmosphere that’s perfect for easing into a night of live music.

Why Concert-goers love it

Location is key, and The Workman’s Friend is conveniently close to several popular concert venues, making it an ideal pre-show meet-up spot. The service is known for being fast and friendly, so you won’t be watching the clock while waiting for your food. The ambient buzz of the crowd adds to the pre-concert excitement, and the outdoor patio is a hit when the weather’s nice. There’s also a solid drink selection and hearty dishes that’ll keep you satisfied through the encore.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a lively spot to gather before the show
  • Solo travelers wanting a welcoming place to grab a pint and a bite
  • Couples starting a romantic music-filled evening
  • Fans who love a bustling pub atmosphere with energy and character
  • Budget-conscious concert-goers who appreciate good value and generous portions

What People Say

Reviewers rave about the authentic Irish food, especially the fish and chips and shepherd’s pie. The pub’s Guinness pour gets frequent praise, and many visitors mention the friendly staff and inviting ambiance. The outdoor seating is popular, and the inside stays cozy even when the crowd builds. Locals and tourists alike highlight the pub as a “must-stop” in Plaza Midwood, especially before a night out.

Areas for Improvement

It can get a bit crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends or around big events, so seating may require a short wait. Some reviewers noted that the noise level can make conversation tricky—but hey, that's part of the lively pub charm.

The Bottom Line

With its welcoming vibe, good food, and prime location, The Workman's Friend is a top pick for concert-goers looking to kick off their night with a bit of Irish hospitality.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Irish
Opening Hours
Mon-Thu 3:00 pm-2:00 am
Fri 11:00 am-2:00 am
Sat, Sun 10:00 am-2:00 am

The Workman's Friend Customer Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

The Workman's Friend is #195 of 2940 things to do in Charlotte

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: keithper4mer, Charlotte, North Carolina
Fri 15 Nov, 2024
l We weren't sure what to expect when we just happened to be in the area, but we were looking for something different. After reading a few reviews, we decided to give The Workman's Friend a try—and...

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5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: skipp658, Charlotte, North Carolina
Sat 20 Jan, 2024
l Was at a afternoon birthday social with friends. The seating area was full, but we had a reserved area for 20.. chit chat and drinks and appetizers till the birthday host arrived. Wait staff was...

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4 of 5 stars4 out of 5
By: RJB1215, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Wed 13 Sep, 2023
l My partner took me to Workman’s Friend and so glad he did. I enjoyed the casual vibe and bar like atmosphere. The food was so delicious too, the fried okra and oysters were tasty as well as the Irish...

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The Workman's Friend 1531 Central Ave, Charlotte