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    Fonta Flora Brewery - Optimist Hall

    4.2 (51 reviews)
    ModerateBreweries
    Closed 11:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Fonta Flora Brewery - Optimist Hall Breweries Photos

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    Pinkies Up
    Tina S.

    I am not a beer drinker. I was only there for a class. I did order a hard cider called Pinkies Up. It was okay. Nice interior and probably a nice atmosphere for grabbing a brew. Note no food served but you can order from restaurants in Optimist Hall and pick it up. It's not for me.

    Optimist Hall
    Y C.

    Beautiful spot inside and outside of Optimist Hall. Lots of tables outside on both sides and they had a bit of a bazaar market outdoors. We sat indoors and grabbed a beer, the Table Stout and a cider, Botanist & Barrel. The bartender said the beer was better than a Guinness and it was good. They brew their own beer. Super cool spot to sit and chill.

    Derek T.

    Great Brewery, in a great location. Fonta Flora Brewery features everything you'd expect from your typical brewery experience. They have a solid menu of beers that hit all the main styles and even some newer / less common wine-style brews that I haven't seen before. The atmosphere is very chill, a large space with tons of room to roam around. They have a cool outside spot and are right inside of the Optimist Hall which has tons of food options making this an ideal beer spot. They also have board games! Anytime I'm near Optimist Hall for food we stop into Fonta Flora for a brew.

    3 year blend. Tart & funky next to the cutest Xmas tree
    Karem L.

    3 year blend. Quiet, peaceful and cozy little brewery. Great beer selection and quality.

    Rich W.

    Great location. Amazing beers. Even better people. Love coming here and grabbing food upstairs then eat it with a FF beer. Cool atmosphere. Smells like an old crayon factory. Love it.

    a flight of beers
    Christine C.

    Sadly we didn't enjoy the beers and the bartender/owner (I presume). He seemed cold and uninviting despite it being slow. The location is convenient to the food hall, but the brewery was dead in comparison to the food hall. Overall the beers and atmosphere were unenjoyable.

    Zara T.

    Super cute spot, got two beers, one was great and the other was so sour it was absolutely undrinkable. The vibe is nice, service was quick, they have indoor and outdoor seating (pet friendly). I'll definitely go back! Will steer clear of the sours though, even as a sour lover.

    Taylor B.

    Easy parking, good amount of grass and outdoor seating, some indoor seating. Dogs are allowed outside. Beer is very different. They specialize in sours and stouts. The brewery itself doesn't serve food, but there is a food hall upstairs with lots of options that you can bring to the brewery.

    a woman sitting at the bar
    Stephanie J.

    My friend and I stopped in to grab a beer and had a fun time. It was the Hop Beard (an IPA) for me and the What I Love (a Wild Ale) for her. I like that they offer interesting beers. If you are at Optimist Hall check out Fonta Flora.

    Razzmatazz Remix
    Asha E.

    Fonta Flora is a chill spot at Optimist Hall. I love that they have so many tables outside along the side of the building and the yard behind it. There is ample seating, covered with umbrellas, and some without, for all to enjoy. It's perfect if you want to social distance from other groups with those you came with. I like their menu. It's different to me, but not in a bad way. Their beers, ciders, etc. are unique and the service is great. Actually, the service is why they get 5 stars from me - staff were friendly, offered suggestions and made my first visit there wonderful. Optimist Hall is constantly criticized for being overpriced, but I think Fonta Flora is priced well for the size of the pours. I'd go back!

    Adam P.

    We've been to Optimist Hall on several occasions but finally ventured into Fonta Flora today -- man why did we wait so long. Instantly gripped by the vibe, music and the array of very interesting lagers, ales, stouts and slushees. Options are truly plentiful. Enjoy brews straight from the tap or choose from their selection of 4-packs in a heavily stocked fridge. Indoor space is limited and can be a bit cramped. Wasn't a fan of wrapping a table around columns (I get it), so we took the first opportunity to move to a normal table. Staff was helpful and answered all questions we had, even provided samples of their offerings to help narrow down our choices. I can say that we'll be making Fonta Flora a normal stop every visit to Optimist Hall going forward. Cheers!

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    3 months ago

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    Myra C.

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    10 months ago

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    11 months ago

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    7 months ago

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    1 year ago

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    10 months ago

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    1 year ago

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    Myra C.

    Thanks Derek! We hope to see you again soon! Happy Holidays

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    1 year ago

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    Myra C.

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    1 year ago

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    Myra C.

    Thank you for coming in and enjoying the space. We love to have you !

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    7 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

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    4 years ago

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    4 years ago

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Great brews. Delicious stouts for me and IPAs for him. Wide selection of food choices from the food court upstairs

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    4 years ago

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    Myra C.

    Thank you, Jerry! We hope to see your friendly face again soon!

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    5 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    Fonta F.

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    4 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    4 years ago

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    3 years ago

    Cool vibe, and lots of beer choices, including barrel aged beers to go. I'd come back for lunch at the Hall then drinks at Fonta.

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    4 years ago

    Great atmosphere and solid selection of beers. A great spot to grab a quick drink with friends.

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    6 years ago

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    Fonta F.

    Thank you, Jackie! See you soon!

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Fonta Flora Brewery - Optimist Hall

    Review Highlights - Fonta Flora Brewery - Optimist Hall

    There's also a fairly large patio out front if you're still leery of COVID or just enjoy sitting in the heat and sun (yes I know several that are into it).

    Mentioned in 2 reviews

    Read more highlights

    The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery - Entrance to OMB's Beer Garden

    The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery

    4.0(875 reviews)
    4.5 mi
    $$

    I am glad this place was near my gate (D9) so I could grab breakfast, a coffee and work near an…read moreoutlet, while charging my devices. Standout server, Ashley, was fabulous and accommodated my request for iced coffee, even though it wasn't on the menu. Seeing her hustle and serve several tables, it was clear she goes out of her way to make customers happy. Loved her! Tables were clean and spacious and my breakfast sandwiches with egg, bacon and gouda was really tasty. It was a lot of food for one person, with the potatoes side too. A solid meal before flying home. I didn't try any of their brews because it was early and I was working...but next time!

    Discovered a great German style Biergarten when visiting Charlotte, The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery…read morewhere the staff are welcoming, attentive and knowledgeable on the beer and food selections. The German biers are some of the best I've tried. Both the Cooper altbier and Hornets Nest were excellent while their porter was a little too heavy for me. There's a full bar for the non beer drinkers . OMB features a huge selection of food items including German classics like pork schnitzel, wursts and the Bavarian or classic Jumbo pretzels. I'd recommend the sampler plate with the Jalapeño Cheddar Bratwurst as one choice ( you get three) and Jumbo Pretzel with Cooper Bier cheese & Düsseldorf mustard. The sides, such as their German potato salad, red cabbage and sauerkraut are very good. In addition theres a good selection of sandwiches, burgers, salads to choose from. The outside venue is amazing with ample outside seating featuring a fire pit, corn hole ( collect bags at the bar), children's playground and a water station for pets. Overall a great place to grab a beer and enjoy some authentic German style food at reasonable pricing. In addition OMB features private rooms for special events. One note parking could be problematic when it gets busy on weekends or special occasions but if you're willing to walk you'll find parking somewhere .

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    The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery - Copper Altbier with selections from our Brauhaus Menu

    Copper Altbier with selections from our Brauhaus Menu

    The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery - OMB's park-like Beer Garden

    OMB's park-like Beer Garden

    The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery - Captain Jack Pilsner with selections from our Brauhaus Menu

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    Captain Jack Pilsner with selections from our Brauhaus Menu

    Wooden Robot Brewery - @mastercard1842

    Wooden Robot Brewery

    4.5(428 reviews)
    2.1 miSouth End, Dilworth
    $$

    I love a place that lives their motto. "drink good beer, do good things"…read more The place: wide open with plenty of seating inside and out. I feel even if it's packed, there's still ample room to not feel like sardines. The food: delicious in all of their offerings. Fries were perfectly crisp and not oily. The hummus was well balanced and tasty. The beer: my initial only reason to visit. But tasting their offerings had me sold and ready to give them all my money. So here's why they live their motto. The cans we bought started leaking, we went back and asked if the leakage was a problem. They asked a few questions and profusely apologized and gave us two six packs of their beer with no charge. I tried to pay but they refused. They could have just said "sorry to hear" and sent us on our way but they made us whole. Plus, their code of conduct is awesome and should be a standard for all businesses. We're fans forever. Not only of their food and beer, but their values. Thank y'all so much!!

    What a cool place! The service was super friendly and the vibe was very cool…read more We ordered a flight, a FLVR! NA mango dragon fruit sour, hummus, and fries. My love was excited to get his fix of Good Morning Vietnam, a coffee-vanilla blonde ale, that was annoyingly delicious. He tried several others and was pleased with the offerings. I was so in love with the FLAVR sour that I just had some shipped to my house. The food offerings were delicious and came out fast. The fries were piping hot and perfectly salted. I couldn't stop going for them. The hummus was delicious and served with crunchy soft pita chips and cucumber slices. It was a perfect snack. We may have to go back one more time before we head back to Texas. And we did! We came back at noon for coffee and snacks during a lunch break. The coffee was perfect and the food was delicious! Glad we made it back within 24 hours.

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    Wooden Robot Brewery - Wooden Robot Brewery Taproom

    Wooden Robot Brewery Taproom

    Wooden Robot Brewery - Pops Leicht hit the spot

    Pops Leicht hit the spot

    Wooden Robot Brewery - Wooden Robot Brewery  Main Entrance

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    Wooden Robot Brewery Main Entrance

    Sycamore Brewing - New brewery!  Come check it out.  It used to be a mechanic shop.  Awesome brews.

    Sycamore Brewing

    4.0(424 reviews)
    2.6 miSouth End, Dilworth
    $$

    The food here is actually super good for a bar spot! I have tried the pizza, burger and blt and all…read moregreat, the fries are my favorite. When you sit down there is a QR code to order your food and they text you when it's ready. They have napkins, salt pepper, sauces and everything available to you when you go to pick up your food. I love how it's dog friendly. The beers come in 2 sizes and they have liquor drinks upstairs. They do not have everything though so be sure if you're looking for a certain drink you are aware. Love the live music as well.

    A gorgeous 2-story, open-spaced brewery located in Charlotte! I went on a late Saturday afternoon…read moreand this place was popping with college game day fans. Despite the crowd, it was quick to get drinks at any of their bars (under 5 min wait in line). Unfortunately, I also wanted food and that wait was extremely long. You can order food on their app or at one of the registers on the 1st floor. The cashier ringing me up quoted me 45 minutes before taking my order. It ended up being 70 minutes. I ordered a chicken Caesar wrap and it came with a side. I picked fries. They text you when the food is ready to be picked up. The wrap and fries were average and definitely not worth the wait. My friend got their pretzel sticks appetizer. Her food was delicious. All the employees were in good spirits! The brewery is indoors and outdoors with tables sprinkled throughout. After 20 minutes of searching, we found a table inside. I would try this place again simply for their pretzel sticks, but would make sure it's not during a busy game day if I'm super hungry.

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    Sycamore Brewing
    Sycamore Brewing - Touring the brews!

    Touring the brews!

    Sycamore Brewing - Incredible service, very nice owners & staff.  They say welcome!  Winchester Esb is wonderful, love the south mtn cream stout.

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    Incredible service, very nice owners & staff. They say welcome! Winchester Esb is wonderful, love the south mtn cream stout.

    Suffolk Punch Brewing - SouthPark

    Suffolk Punch Brewing - SouthPark

    4.2(167 reviews)
    5.6 miSouthPark
    $$

    Fantastic spot. I had some visitors in from Japan and they really wanted to go to the SouthPark…read moreMall to get some shopping done. We popped in here for a mid-shopping break. They have a pretty good variety of beers. I wish they had more dark beer options. We didn't get any food. But the setting is great. Wide open community type seating. Great breeze when the doors are all open. Nice little playground nearby for the kids. The service was fast and friendly. We got a few samples and our server even recommended some things to taste. Recommended!

    Someone finally capitalized on the brilliant idea of opening a brewery in SouthPark Mall, and the…read moreresults are so impressive you'll wonder why this wasn't a thing 5 years ago. Set in a fun, airy space next to the mall's outdoor plaza, Suffolk Punch serves up delicious beers, terrific cocktails and tasty grub that makes it a great destination for just about any occasion. In between mall errands, grab a table or a barstool and dive into a Hot Chicken Sammy or Pepperoni Flatbread, paired with a flavorful Joyride IPA, Daydream Lager or another brew from their extensive selection. The menu also has shareable apps, salads and burgers, along with a wide variety of wines and cocktails. Service has been excellent on all our visits, and there's ample seating inside and out. The huge covered patio can get a little steamy in the summer, but is a joy in cooler weather. And the younger kids can burn off their energy on the adjacent playground while you and your spouse tip back a few drinks. Suffolk Punch is the best addition to SouthPark in years, and will give even the most reluctant shopper a new reason to hit the mall.

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    Suffolk Punch Brewing - SouthPark
    Suffolk Punch Brewing - SouthPark - Truffled Hand Cut Fries IG: @Kay.Aye

    Truffled Hand Cut Fries IG: @Kay.Aye

    Suffolk Punch Brewing - SouthPark - Rose-berry mule mocktail

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    Rose-berry mule mocktail

    Gilde Brewery - The Dark Hen

    Gilde Brewery

    4.0(126 reviews)
    3.9 mi
    $$

    Visited this past Saturday and was absolutely floored. First, the hospitality was amazing. E had…read morethe attention of the bartender, or server and the taproom manager. They could not have been more attentive and accommodating. The beer is S-tier good. Both the selections brewed on site and the ones imported from Hanover. They had 3 different Bocks on. I love German styles, but malty is my wheelhouse and they had it more than covered. The Eisbock and Weizenbock were particularly amazing, but I drank around the board and didn't find a stinker. The food, which was largely trad Deustch dishes, was equally fantastic. They have few American dishes for less daring palates. On the same weekend, i hit nearly every other brewery in Loso and Gastonia. Gilde wins by a large margin in terms of beer and food quality. The next best classic Euro themed brewery in NC is Lesser Known in Greensboro. If you like German and Czech styles, these 2 have you covered. I plan to return to Gilde at the end of this month for their 500 year anniversary party. To the German leadership team, thanks for taking a chance on NC. The team over here is doing an amazing job.

    Updated Review (2026):…read more We've been coming to Gilde since they opened their doors in 2022. When we first began coming, they served delicious authentic German food. Unfortunately, they've changed their menu a dozen times and have removed our favorites from the menu (the original braised pork (they changed it over time, but the original was amazing) and the goulash) :( They have slowly evolved their menu into bar food to cater to the party-going crowd as their street has become more trafficked -- which now means a greater likelihood of having to succumb to the paid parking garage. We're big fans of their beers and did a brewery tour & tasting when Gilde was at its peak. Their beers are the reason I at least give them 2 stars: the pale wheat and red rooster are especially delicious. We even spent our NYE 2025 there and did the stein-holding competition. We've tried new things on the menu, desperate to give them more tries... but we keep ending up disappointed. For example, the steak sandwich is not a steak sandwich, but rather a kebab. We've driven the 40 min drive to go there and show up and then they are closed for a private event (with no notice on their social media). We have also brought friends there and have waited an hour for a server. Last Mother's Day, we showed up for dinner at 7:45 p.m (sure, that's a tad late.. but we left our home at 7) and were told the kitchen was already closed. This Mother's Day, we waited 45 minutes, with no updates or warnings, to be seen by a server. When we tried to place our order, we were told that we couldn't yet place our food order and that we had to order drinks separately because their kitchen was slammed. I'm no expert, but why not still accept customer's orders and speed up the kitchen by bulk-cooking? Can't multiple brats be made at once? Or larger portions of sauerkraut or bacon? Also, only a third of the tables were taken.. so that sounds like some poor kitchen capacity. When we were finally served our food (still took awhile even after putting in the food order), they had served my husbands meal 10 min before mine and then I was served mine.. and it turns out they still had forgotten about our daughter's French toast and had to START it. The disorganization or perhaps just lack of effort/care has gotten ridiculous. So disappointed at the way our favorite restaurant went downhill!

    Photos
    Gilde Brewery - Leberkäse Sliders: Seared leberkäse sliders topped with sauerkraut, pickles, and mustard cream. Served with mini-Kaiser rolls.

    Leberkäse Sliders: Seared leberkäse sliders topped with sauerkraut, pickles, and mustard cream. Served with mini-Kaiser rolls.

    Gilde Brewery - Pork Ragu Langos

    Pork Ragu Langos

    Gilde Brewery - Backfish: Bier battered pollock served with remoulade sauce, pan-seared potatoes, marinated greens, and lemon.

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    Backfish: Bier battered pollock served with remoulade sauce, pan-seared potatoes, marinated greens, and lemon.

    Fonta Flora Brewery - Optimist Hall - breweries - Updated May 2026

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