CharBar No. 7, Matthews

Don't read too much into the numeral in the name of CharBar No. 7—founder Tyler Hager chose it for the same reason Thomas Jefferson chose the name "America": he just liked the way it sounded. If you want a number that does matter, try 1,700. That's the degree at which the restaurant's broiler cooks every steak, burger, and piece of fish.

A closer look at the chefs shows them capping the signature CB7 burger in cole slaw and applewood-smoked bacon, grilling salmon with a bourbon glaze, or hand-making black bean patties for a meatless alternative. Patrons enjoy these and other entrees out in the main dining room or on a patio lounge complete with an oversized stone fireplace.

Amid exposed brick walls and beneath decorative antlers, bartenders serve more than 35 brews from around the globe, from the Smithwicks of Ireland to the OMB of Charlotte, NC. They also pour wines from a list that features a similar international flair. Each day promises a different drink special, maybe a craft beer or signature cocktail such as the Billionaire Margarita—a giant margarita glass filled with pure agave nectar and 100 percent Patron Silver Agave tequila.