A Charlotte restaurant calls it quits + what’s next for a local coffee chain

Charlotte’s food scene is always in flux, and this week saw the departure of two local businesses.

This week, I reported three restaurant closings — including a neighborhood bar + lounge and what’s to come for a Carolina-born chain of coffeehouses.

Catch up quick on what you missed:

Clutch Coffee Bar

Clutch Coffee Bar, a drive-thru chain headquartered in Mooresville, has closed and will undergo renovations before reopening as Dutch Bros Coffee shops.

The two parties reached an agreement, and Dutch Bros will acquire Clutch’s 17 drive-thru locations across the Carolinas.

The brand’s Charlotte-area stores include spots Indian Trail, Monroe and Rock Hill.

“This was not a decision made lightly — rather, it comes from a place of deep pride in what we’ve built together, and a belief that this next step will allow the culture, energy, and community-first spirit you helped create continue to grow on an even bigger stage,” Clutch co-founder Darren Spicer said in a message shared on the coffee chain’s website.

Red at 28th

Red at 28th, a multicultural bar, hookah and literary lounge in Dilworth, is officially closed.

The lounge’s last day in business was Thursday, Jan. 15, with owners citing a lack of support from some members of the community.

It relocated to the Dilworth neighborhood in 2021 and has had previous locations in University City and NoDa (both now closed).

“Our doors have always been open and welcoming to all with zero discrimination to race, sexual orientation, religion or beliefs,” management wrote in a message shared to Instagram. “Our efforts were heavy to bridge a segregated gap, but there has [sic] to be an honest effort from the other side.”

The owners teased plans for a new location, but the timing is unclear.