Charlotte, NC – Merchant & Trade invites guests to experience their new cocktail menu inspired by and shows a deep appreciation for Charlotte and the state of North Carolina.
The theme of the menu is the North Carolina state motto, Esse Quam Videri , or to be rather than to seem, and each cocktail is rooted in authenticity and inspired by the stories, streets, and flavors of Charlotte and beyond.
The menu was created collaboratively by five members of the talented Merchant & Trade bar team: Cecelia Crook (Lead Bartender), Dylan Lapinski (Lead Bartender/Bar Supervisor), Crystal Ridgeway, Khalil Orr, and Justice King. Each bartender contributed original cocktails and thoughtful details, drawing inspiration from their own connections to Charlotte and the Carolinas. From native botanicals and North Carolina-grown produce to references spanning streetcar routes, sports history, and fast food culture, every cocktail on this list was designed to celebrate the place Merchant & Trade can call home.
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The Greenway – $18
Inspired by Charlotte’s extensive greenway system, this vibrant green cocktail features fresh tomatillos, parsley, and mint.-
La Gritona Reposado Tequila, 400 Conejos Mezcal, Tomatillo, Lime, Parsley, Mint, Topo Chico.
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Muscadine Bloodlines – $16
A sangria-style cocktail crafted with North Carolina muscadine wine. This drink nods to the Southeast’s rich agricultural traditions and the multigenerational families who have cultivated vineyards and farmland across the region for decades.-
Red Muscadine Wine, Citadelle Gin, Grenadine, Lime, Fever Tree Tonic.
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Kudzu Fields Forever – $19
This bright, citrus-forward lemon drop is made with Japanese vodka, strawberry, and yuzu. Its name references North Carolina’s abundant strawberry fields and the invasive yet iconic Kudzu vine — a Japanese arrowroot plant that famously blankets much of the state’s rural landscape.-
Strawberry infused Haku Vodka, Yuzu, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Lemon.
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Sugaw Creek Cookout – $17
A playful riff on a watermelon milkshake, this cocktail pays homage to North Carolina’s beloved fast-food chain, Cook Out. The name references “Sugaw Creek,” the original spelling of Sugar Creek Road, where one of Charlotte’s most popular Cook Out locations sits along with Sugaw Creek Park, a popular spot for community gatherings. It also honors the Sugaree (Sugaw) Tribe, the original residents of this region, blending nostalgia with cultural recognition.-
Bajan 1966 Rum, Appleton Estate Signature Rum, Novo Fogo Cachaca, Watermelon, Vanilla, Lime, Heavy Cream.
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Nada Thang at Eastland – $17
This cocktail draws inspiration from East Charlotte’s now-defunct Eastland Mall, once a local landmark and home to the East Coast’s first indoor mall food court. The drink celebrates the eclectic flavors of the Eastside’s vibrant food truck scene and culinary businesses.-
Teremana Reposado Tequila, Mango, Chamoy, Tajin, Orange, Lime.
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Copperhead – $20
The boldest drink on the menu, this spirit-forward cocktail is named after the venomous Copperhead snake, native to North Carolina.-
Wild Turkey 101, Rittenhouse Rye, Glenfiddich Project XX Scotch, Demerara, Hickory Syrup, Campari, Angostura.
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Raise Hell, Praise Dale – $19
A tribute to North Carolina native and NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt. This cocktail features Cheerwine, the iconic cherry soda made in the Rowan–Cabarrus region where Earnhardt was born and raised.-
Cheerwine Cordial, Hennessy Vs Cognac, Lillet Rogue, Pimm’s No. 1, Cherry bitters.
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Bobcat Territory – $10
A non-alcoholic cocktail made with lion’s mane honey, this drink honors the North Carolina bobcat — a native wildcat species — and references Charlotte’s former NBA team, the Bobcats. The name also ties in with the cocktail’s use of functional mushrooms, making it both thematic and wellness-forward.-
Lion’s Mane Mushroom Honey, Hibiscus Tea, Giffard Elderflower NA, Lemon.
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The Gold Line – $10
Bright and golden in hue, this zero-proof cocktail features Lenny Boy Ginger Kombucha (brewed in Charlotte), Dromme Awake functional spirit, turmeric, pineapple, and lime. The drink’s name references Charlotte’s Gold Line streetcar, which connects several of the city’s historic neighborhoods.-
Lenny Boy Ginger Kombucha, Dromme Awake NA Functional Spirit, Tumeric, Pineapple, Lime.
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This menu is available now and ready for guests to enjoy.
