Bar 10   

The outrageously swanky Westin hotel chain calls its hotel lobby bars 'Bar 10,' and the Westin Charlotte's Bar 10 continues the chain's tradition of funky upscale elegance. This venue's eclectic atmosphere would work for a romantic night out, corporate cocktails or even an Uptown night out with friends. Located just off the gorgeous Westin lobby, Bar 10 offers a lush city view as well as a limited appetizer menu and a selection of exotic specialty martinis. Open nightly until 1AM, the bar sports a modern, sophisticated, European vibe -- no dozens of televisions here, just a snazzy wide-screen plasma TV much more in keeping with the chic venue's urbane water-feature atmosphere. Enjoy the view of Center City as you sip from your choice of a selection of wines, cocktails, single malts, small-batch bourbons, tequilas and microbrews. All Bar 10 patrons get three hours (max) of free hotel parking -- just be sure to have your bartender validate your ticket. -- Jennifer Saylor