A few weeks ago, my good friend, Marcie and I took a quick trip to Belmont, NC. Located in Gaston County, and an easy 13 mile drive west of Charlotte, Belmont is showing up on people’s radar for the next up and coming small town.
The original settlement of the Belmont area dates back to the 1750s. About 150 years later, and after much growth in the textile industry, the area within a 1/4 mile radius from the intersection of Main Street and the town’s railroad was incorporated as the Town of Belmont.
Flash forward to 2021, and the sleepy Town of Belmont is stirring with an influx of owner-operated businesses located on, and one block off, Main Street. An inviting mix of breweries, specialty shops, antique malls, local markets, and restaurants offer something for just about anyone and any taste.
Belmont, NC: The String Bean
If you love a good vegetarian sandwich, visit The String Bean for a Caprese Sandwich. Oh, my and good gravy, this sandwich paired with a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc may be my Spirit food combo! Maybe shrimp and grits, or Chilean sea bass, speaks to you? They have it here, along with local brews and an extensive wine list. But, The String Bean is not just a restaurant with outdoor seating and fire pits, it is also home to a wine shop and in-house butcher shop featuring poultry, seafood, pork and beef options.
-
Butcher Shop -
Shrimp and Grits -
The String Bean Wine Shop
Belmont, NC: The Lodge Tavern and Tap
If you love bison and venison options, check out The Lodge Tavern and Tap. Now, I have to admit, I have been to The Lodge Tap and Tavern before, and the pimento cheese deviled eggs with candied bacon were so good the first time, I had to take Marcie back with me to explore the menu further. So we made a plan to “just stop by” for an adult beverage and some appetizers.
Because I have been here before, I can say, with confidence, if you’re looking for a great burger and brew, The Lodge Tap and Tavern has it. But, if you’re looking for something a little more elevated, I highly recommend their Southern Pear Martini made with Absolut Pear Vodka, ginger liqueur, simple syrup and lemon and lime juice shaken over ice and vesseled in a rimmed martini glass. It was (well, they were) delicious and paired beautifully with spinach artichoke dip, pimento cheese dip and fried pickles. Before you judge me for the ridiculous amount of food we ordered, remember I was doing this research for you!
Belmont, NC: The Everyday Market
The next morning, Marcie and I rounded out our trip in search of coffee and a quick bite to eat before heading back to Charlotte. We drove down Main Street and saw several cars parked outside The Everyday Market and decided to pay a visit. Upon opening the doors, we were greeted by a friendly, welcoming voice and the wonderful aroma of coffee and baked goods. We chatted with our barista and ordered coffee and tea, along with a breakfast bagel of egg, bacon, cheese on a fresh bagel and a slice of the spinach quiche.
-
Orange Cranberry Scones -
The Everyday Market -
Spinach Quiche
While we waited for our food to be warmed, we investigated their other offerings. Not only is this café in the most perfect spot in Belmont – right across from Stowe Park, it sells wine, cheese, pasta, olive oil, and some of the most beautiful scones, cookies, macaroons and baklava you have ever seen. Our entire visit to The Everyday Market was outstanding and I can’t wait to go back and purchase their orange scones and macaroons.
Belmont, NC: Stowe Park
With full bellies, we crossed over Main Street to take a stroll through Stowe Park in downtown Belmont, NC. This easy to navigate park invites its young visitors to play on the playground, run free and enjoy time outside. Paved walking areas beckon you to take a leisurely stroll or simply rest on a park bench and watch the world go by. In years past, the park hosted art walks, music and movies in the park, and festivals, including Boofest and Festival of Lights. My hope is in 2021 those outdoor events will make a return.
During our visit, Marcie and I did check out just some of the housing options in the Belmont area. I’m excited to see affordable apartments and townhomes being built while preserving some of Belmont’s textile and factory buildings from decades past. I’ve already been promised another visit to Belmont this Spring and I’m hoping to visit the Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, take a hike at Rocky Branch Park and visit the Belmont Historic District.
Planning your own quick trip to Belmont, NC? Want to know more about the Belmont area? Connect with me and let’s have a chat.
Whether you are relocating from around the world or from just around the corner, allow Natascha Honc to take the stress out of buying and selling real estate. As a Coldwell Banker Realty full-service real estate agent, Natascha has a vast, professional team ready to support you. The real estate market can be complicated, but with professionalism, patience, and respect, Natascha Honc will guide you every step of the way. Let’s connect today!
