These Charlotte restaurants will be closed on Election Day
Election Day is here.
Have you decided where to vote? If not, we’ve collected a list of prepared a 2020 election guide — and the swag at each. We’ve got a sample ballot, fun election facts and more to help you navigate the big day. And you can check out a 5Church with The Charlotte Observer’s voter guide.
One more thing you’ll want to plan: What’s for dinner on election night? Some Charlotte businesses are closing today to allow employees and patrons to vote for the future of the country.
We think that’s pretty rad, business owners supporting democracy, so we wanted to give them a shout out here and let you know how you can support them past Election Day:
5Church
127 N. Tryon St., #8
This modern American spot — part of the 5th Street Group — serves cuisine prepared by Chef Jamie Lynch, who competed on Bravo’s Top Chef.
“Nothing is more important to a democracy than having the right to vote, and 5th Street Group will try to make that privilege easier to exercise for those that we can,” said Patrick Whalen, CEO of 5th Street Group.
Support: Takeout or delivery via Uber Eats, Postmates or Toast
Know before you go: 5Church is currently closed for dine-in service due to COVID-19, but you can order for takeout or delivery.
Counter-
2200 Thrift Road
Counter-, led by chef Sam Hart, Counter-. This reservation-only space offers a theme 10-course tasting menu with a choice of non-alcoholic, standard or reserve wine pairings.
The restaurant that pushes the envelope on traditional dining will be closed on Nov. 3 to encourage voting.
“Your vote is your voice. Don’t be muted. Regardless of who, or what you stand for,” the Instagram post read. “The most important thing is that you register and vote. If you need [assistance in finding] your polling place or registering, we will be more than happy to help.”
Support: 6-10 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday
Know before you go: The restaurant has medical-grade air purifiers, and the staff will be wearing PPE. Limited seating is available due to COVID-19. If you’re not feeling well, contact the restaurant to reschedule your reservation.
The Dunavant
2322 Dunavant St., Suite 200
Known for its steak and bottomless fries, The Dunavant quickly became a date night staple upon opening last year. Now, it’s supporting the Charlotte community by closing on Election Day.
“Regardless of political leanings or affiliation, we believe it is the sacred duty of every single American to exercise their right to vote (or not). We believe that it should be a choice that each individual makes and that it should not be constrained or restricted by the risk of losing one’s job, or being monetarily penalized, for taking time off in order to exercise their basic freedoms, if they so choose,” the restaurant said in an official statement. “And so, in order to honor those who came before us — those who made it possible for each and every one of us to vote to elect our own leaders, regardless of gender, skin color, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic background — we have declared each and every election day to be a Dunavant company holiday for all members of staff.”
Support: 5-10 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. -2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. Sunday
Know before you go: Reservations can be made through OpenTable or at thedunavant.com. Walk-ins are accepted.
Sophia’s Lounge
127 N. Tryon St., Suite D
Nestled inside The Ivey’s Hotel on 5th Street in uptown, this culinary and cocktail destination space drips with European flair. Here, you’ll find velvet sofas, custom chandeliers and shareable plates.
To encourage its team members, patrons and community to exercise the right to vote, Sophia’s Lounge will be closed Nov. 3.
Support: 3-11 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. for brunch and 4-11 p.m. for dinner Saturday and Sunday
Know before you go: Masks are required for guests upon arrival and any time a guest is not seated. Reservations can be made via OpenTable.
If you’re a restaurant owner planning to close your Charlotte-area location for Election Day, email us details at charlottefive@charlottefive.com to be included in our coverage.
This story was originally published October 20, 2020 at 1:30 PM.
