November 15, 2011
Well, this is an interesting place. Business brought me to South Carolina (but flew into Charlotte) so after reading some reviews I made it a point to swing by here. Is it a bottle shop? A bar? A convenience store? Man, I don’t know, it’s like all of those wrapped in one. A very unique place. Oh, you can also get deli sandwiches here too (I did not try any of them) so throw that into the mix as well. I left very impressed with the bottle choices here. Also, they appeared to have quite few cool taps. Imports are well represented and it looks as if this place gets the bulk of the good stuff available in state. As a matter of fact, the selection is the best I’ve seen in Charlotte, although I did not stop by Brawleys on this visit. It wasn’t easy to find though, as it doesn’t look like much from the outside and parking is extremely limited. Where do people park once the few spots in front are taken? Looks like a fun place. Next time I’m in the area hopefully I get to hang out here a little longer.

October 7, 2011
Amazing vibe in this place, with lots of friendly characters. Beer guy Jason is very knowledgeable and helpful. You can drink beers here, either on tap or from the shelves or fridges. They had a better selection of Stillwater stuff than I can find in DC. One year old Bells Java Stout on draft. Definitely worth going well out of your way to visit.

November 9, 2010 [ Updated January 5, 2011 ]
Here it is: the beer Mecca of Charlotte. The ambiance is very Asheville, I couldn’t begin to imagine this place in uptown Charlotte. The beer selection is the best I’ve seen around these parts. There are two aisles stocked full of quality beer along with another row of coolers. One cooler is devoted to singles. I picked up a Highland beer I hadn’t seen elsewhere and some new Rogue stuff. Prices are right in line with the rest of NC. I also made use of the tap beer and had a pint of Olde Hickory Death by Hops. There are only 4 or 5 taps available, but they are of superior quality. Founders Canadian Breakfast was on the chalkboard as upcoming. Too bad I missed that one. Deli sandwiches are available, but I was saving room for my visit to Mac’s Speed Shop for some Carolina BBQ. The ambiance is inviting, different, and bustling without being overly crowded. If I’m ever in Charlotte again , this is a must stop.

September 16, 2010
Very funky place. Lots of uncommon beers. Frequent tastings and events with knowledgeable speakers. If they don’t have something they will help you find it.

February 14, 2010
The Common Market is a hidden gem in Charlotte. I can’t believe it wasn’t listed already! I’ve only frequented the Commonwealth location. The place is basically a convenience store with a bar in it. They only have about 4 or 5 taps, but always something good/rare on. The beer selection, though fairly limited is outstanding. It rivals Brawley’s in quality of selection. The place has a real "hole in the wall" kind of hippie feel to it. Asheville meets Chicago in a weird way. I like it. Great, rare beers and a busy vibe. A local Charlotte running club uses the place as a meetup before and after their runs so you get a diverse/fun crowd. Small/narrow store. Again, it’s a gem.

December 9, 2009
A Charlotte staple in the beer community. A true Charlotte original in Plaza-Midwood.

October 25, 2009
Please go in, spend some time, ask questions, and learn. The W. night pours are great, with fantastic local, regional, and national brewers reperesented.

April 11, 2009
I cannot believe this was never added to the list of places in Charlotte. This is easily one of the best locally owned and operated shops in the whole city. Tom has put together an excellent beer selections organized tastings with local beer clubs (wednesdays, which are free). With a great selections of coldbox singles and six packs and a warm shelf for overflow and rare beers. They have an on-premise license so you can buy and drink right there in the shop, or if you are a smoker take your beverage out on the patio and enjoy it there. Great people with an incredible deli, and a nice selection of wines as well as other novelties and trinkets that you have to see to believe. Right across the street from the Penguin in Plaza-Midwood.