Charbar

03/15/08

Great concept but no Cheers

by ambraver at Citysearch

Great idea? turn the ailing family business into a cool modern bar. The merchandise (and the shoe shine stand) is still there with a cocktail lounge morphed onto it . The lighting and situation in the "historic district" of downtown gives it that Sam Spade feel. However, a Friday night, hardly any customers. Barely acknowledged by the bartender who was eating Chick Fil A with a small group standing behind the bar (looked like at least one was a family member as her picture was on the wall). Didn't feel as if we were crashing someone's party because they didn't seem to be having a good time. No drinks menu. Couldn't make a capirinha. Did turn out the single strongest vodka gimlet I've ever tasted. Rocket's game on tv (so much for destroying the cool vibe). Had to beg for a bar snack (got pretzels) as that drink on an empty stomach was throwing me for a loop. We didn't feel very welcome nor was there any scene to enjoy watching. Might as well just peek in the door to see the renovation (the two stars) and settle in on someone else's barstool.

11/08/06

Historic family-owned tailor shop makes a few adjustments to become a bustling Market Square lounge.

by Contributor at Citysearch

In Short
Operating downtown since the '30s, Duke of Hollywood Tailors (also known as the Char Bar after a recent renovation) is a tailor shop and bar selling custom-made suits and shirts alongside stiff martinis. A large bar shares space with the tailor's working counter. Framed newspaper clippings and photos behind the bar add to the nostalgic air. The crowd of young professionals, mainly from surrounding law-enforcement buildings, and friendly regulars are drawn by the vibrant atmosphere and personable service.

• Pros: Friendly staff

11/30/05

Unpretentious

by odoe at Citysearch

The title says it all. Not only great atmosphere, great staff, great drinks but a unique collection of patrons. All economic strati co-mingle without any attitude. The place feels like a home away from home. The big "W" is one of a kind. Order up an Apple Martini and get a shine.

09/24/04

me kind of place

by cindimiller at Citysearch

after work when you, need a drink and you want to go to a place that is laid back and great in everything go to Char Bar! Not only is the service great ladies, but the bartender Jeremy is a cutie. the prices are normal for the downtown scene and the location is away from all the "hip hop" kids on Main Street, so its #1 on my list of club/bars...

• Pros: drinks, music, peopl

02/20/03

Char Bar

by bohannon213 at Citysearch

This bar is my new favorite! My friends took me for my birthday and the staff took care of us. The drinks were strong, and even though they were a little on the expensive side, it was worth it. There was great music and people were singing. The overall atmosphere was great. The owner and manager were there hanging out with everyone, which I feel is rare, making sure everyone was enjoying themselves.

• Pros: Strong drinks, good music, intimate

12/16/02

Char has Personality Plus!

by slinkycat at Citysearch

This family owned nightspot used to be Duke of Hollywood Tailors. Now it houses Char Bar named after the owner's daughter. Everyone in the joint has primo personality. Couldn't ask for nicer patronage. Even if you go alone you will be fine as it is easy to make friends here.

• Pros: service, patrons, ambiance
• Cons: small wine list