The vibe was chill, the scenery was sexy, the vibe was everything and the drinks hit on everything!!! Definitely recommend for a chill Wednesday night!! read more

PARA - Smoked Makers Old Fashion - Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Nice decor inside and a very nice vibe. They did have some good music playing. It's very dimly lit inside so it's hard to see a bit if you're looking at the menu. There is also outside seating but it was chilly outside when I went. I think this place has alot of potential but they're just trying to hard to be an "upscale" spot. The menu items for food were confusing and the descriptions didn't match the items. I'd say the edamame was very good, I also tried their crab rangoons which I wouldn't suggest to order, the rangoons werw coated in a pretzel type bread and a weird cheese sauce. The drinks that we had were good and the bartender was nice. The old fashioned was well made but it was listed as a regular old fashioned and not a smoked old fashioned so I was surprised when it came out. Simple things weren't described. I'd only grab drinks here nect time and eat somewhere else. read more

PARA - Edamame - Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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Decided to come by and finally try this place after hearing so many great things. Definitely did not disappoint! They also have a parking lot, which was helpful, bc parking in south end can be a challenge. Joanna, our server was so friendly and warm. The hostess was very sweet as well. Didn't have a reservation but luckily was able to enjoy their patio which a nice since it was warm but rainy evening. It was somewhat busy for a Monday dinner, but seemed like everything was moving efficiently. We didn't have to wait long for our food which was a plus. Now for the food: we decided to try a few dishes, that's why I love tapas style dining. Sharing is caring!Small but decent size portions. We ordered the crab ragoon, Korean street corn, king crab, lobster toast and gnudi(Joanna's recommendation) every thing was spectacular. Tasty but leaves you wanting more lol the most surprising was the enudi and crab ragoon. I'm not a fan of goat cheese but this gnocchi(enudi) was amazing! The crab ragoon did not come in the traditional fried, crispy egg roll skin that I'm used to. It came in a small, somewhat fried bread bun. Unconventional, but still very good! This was my bfs fav. It's a bit on the pricey size, but well worth the quality of ingredients. Will definitely come back to enjoy the rest of their menu and course menu! read more

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Decided to visit to celebrate a friend's birthday. We both want to try the newest restaurant in town. I heard mixed reviews and thought it was a visit. The space was very small inside. They have a large covered patio. Reservation: Required. Walk-ins maybe available to sit at the bar. Parking: Valet parking is available. You can also try street parking or the deck about two blocks away Cocktail: Espresso Martini. I was not happy about the size of the martini glass (very small) but it was DELICIOUS. It was one of the BEST espresso martinis I ever had. I had to order two l. 5/5 Lamb chops: I ordered medium well. The lamb chops were over cooked. Very disappointing 2/5 Cheesesteak: was NOT good at all 1/5 Crab Rangoon: it was a soft dough with crab filling drizzled in honey. My mouth was so confused with the flavor. The outside tasted like a donut but the inside was seafood. Not a good combination of flavor in my opinion. Our waitress was knowledgeable about the menu and friendly. Overall, I loved the drinks but disliked the menu. I would not go back. read more

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We came during charlotte restaurant week ! I ordered the salmon Brussels sprouts and mashed potatoes potato's and crème brûlée cheesecake and crab Rangoon buns !! Soooo good! It was a 3 course meal and all of my options were amazing! Service and ambiance are always top tier read more

I have been wanting to try this place out for quite some time and glad I finally made it there. This place is a big reservation place. Doesn't seem like they take very many walk ins so be prepared to wait or be comfortable with bar seating. We got there without reservations around 6 and no one was at the bar, but within 20 mins it was completely packed. The service starting out was really good and the bartender was super attentive, but it got too busy for them to properly take care of all bar seats being filled. Ok, I know what you're thinking... can we skip to the good part... THE FOOD?! Sure, let's do it! The one thing you cannot miss is the Lamb Chops, holy cow they literally melted in your mouth and were bursting with flavor. My friends and I decided next time we would all be getting our own and not splitting they were that good!! (There were 3 to the order) The crab Rangoon was interestingly delightful. It was almost like a fried pastry, so not your typical crab Rangoon "shell", but let me tell you it did not disappoint! It was really good with a flavor to not be forgotten. (There were 3 to the order) The ravioli was good, but not amazing. Lots of ingredients packed in, but could have still used another step up in the spice/flavor as it was fairly bland. Still delicious, but not sure I have to have it again. (There were 4 to the order) The short rib dumplings were a little spicier than expected and the flavor was lacking, it was probably my least favorite thing on the menu we tried. I love short ribs but unfortunately I don't think I would recommend this to other short rib lovers, as there are other things on the menu that are better or worth the try instead. (There were 4 to the order) The wine menu was FABULOUS! Lots of great selection that any wine lover, regardless of your connoisseur level, would enjoy! I did not have any cocktails, but my friends did and they loved them. They were pretty too! All in all, I'll be back! Although some items are a little pricey for what you get compared to similar restaurants with the same vibe, I did like the experience and quality of food and drinks. However, I will be making a reservation! read more

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Went here for the first time during Queen's Feast. Immediately loved that they allowed you to swap dessert for a cocktail instead. The restaurant itself is intimate and the decor is very warm and cozy inside. I need to know who created the playlist because absolute great vibes. Now for the food - delicious. Honestly the jerk chicken bites might have been my favorite. The spicy rigatoni was definitely spicy and the short rib even had a little kick, but all was flavorful. My waitress was extremely friendly and made great recos. Read the menu fine print and love that they are offering to give you 15% off your next visit if you bring your restaurant week receipt. I will definitely be back to try out the full menu! read more

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My friend and I shared appetizers-the broccoli and spinach dip were amazing! The lobster roll not so much. Super kind and attentive service! read more

What can I say besides Para really surprised me . I honestly thought it was going to be just another beautiful restaurant with sub par food . Boy did they prove me wrong . They are located dead smack in the middle of south end area . They were previously Zepplin restaurant. We arrived right at 5pm of opening . Online we tried to book but they were totally booked up so we decided to chance it and sit at the bar . Our plan worked and we were in the building . It's super nice inside from the lights, plants inside and out , just the entire set up was plush . One of my favorite bartenders Yoshi bartends here so I knew we were in for a treat . Every cocktail she recommend was everything we asked for and more . They started us off with an amuse Bouche before some of our dishes came out . Which for those that may not know is a small complimentary appetizer offered before dinner . Every dish we ordered was absolutely divine. We looked mostly forward to the lobster shooters , just because I mean who all can say they had lobster shooters ? Well we can now lol . That was somewhat the hi lite of our night . Out of all the dishes we ordered I'm going to have to say the tuna crude, lobster toast , &. Lamb chops were my fav . Is this somewhere I'm absolutely crazy about ? No , but I would definitely come back for sure I feel like Para is more cocktail driven . So if you're Looking to step into somewhere nice for drinks and have dinner while there Para will take you there . Don't forget to go check out the cool mirrors before entering the bathrooms & the bathroom itself is clutch , for god sakes it's a black sleek toilet that makes you feel like royalty and the toilet paper should be 14 karat gold . Yup that's how I feel about that bathroom . Para passes the vibe , ambiance and more check so check them out asap if you can pull of a reservation due to them always being booked since opening date . read more

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Went for a friend's birthday and truly enjoyed this spot! To the decor\ ambiance, the music they were bumping and the food was spectacular. We went during restaurant week so there was a set menu. The group ordered a round of espresso martinis which were strong and tasty (thank you bartender). We started with the jerk chicken karate and crab Rangoon buns. Most of us ordered the salmon entree while another ordered the braised short rib which were both delicious. The salmon was moist and flavorful and the Brussels sprouts were sweet and crunchy. The braised short rib was saucy and very tender. The pistachio ricotta cake was a little to sweet for my liking but my friends throughly enjoyed it. Also shout out to our waitress Brianna who was an excellent and fun server! This may be one of my favorite spots in Charlotte and I will be back. read more

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Welp! Another one! Para is adorable, the food is delicious, the service we received from Ricky was fantastic. He was super knowledgeable of the menu and very attentive and nice. The interior is very swanky and has fun decor. I loved the food we ordered as well. We tried: -Lobster shooter: so good and just the right amount for a nice taste and currently $1 of it is going towards a charity, amazing! - Crab rangoon: this is a fav for me always and Para's version of it was very different. From texture to taste, but I still enjoyed it. - Cabbage Gratin: this was an interesting dish, it was good but not really my cup of tea. I actually like veggies and can live without cheese. So, I'd have preferred some regular sauteed cabbage. I know I'm crazy lol. Still good though. - Oddly, my FAV item was a complimentary amuse they were giving to all guests for their grand opening: "Tuna" Crudo, which is really watermelon crudo and DELICIOUS! I didn't have any cocktails, but they looked amazing and lots of folks were ordering up the bar. It was pretty dark in there for good pics lol. But great for atmosphere. Great service and amazing music LOL. I couldn't stop singing and dancing. Can't wait to go back. Welcome Para! read more

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Food was great ! Service was awesome ! The ambiance was magnificent! ANYWAYS everything was amazing me and bf use to go there before they had closed down for a little bit so this was our first visit back since they opened . Overall it was good until my bf told me that when we first came in the man at the door told the bartender to watch out for us cause " people who tends to seat at the bar by the door always walk out " and I felt like that was profiling because why would you think that ? Maybe because we were dressed to impressed? We were in hoodies, I don't know but that was just so rude for him to say that about us . Anyways that was the problem and I'm pissed my bf didn't tell me until we had left the restaurant cause I would've just walked out ! How rude of the staff to say that about a costumer ? Just because of where they're seating at . So stop profiling paying customers . read more

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I have only been here once & late night, but will definitely be back for more! Visited last weekend on a LATE Saturday night with my 3 girl friends. We were on the lookout for a place that would serve us espresso martinis and could not find a place that was open past midnight. Alas, we came across Para that was open until 2 AM. One of my friends has dined here before, so she vouched for it. We sat at the bar and were attended to by the bartender almost immediately. We ordered 3 espresso martinis & let me tell you...probably one of the BEST espresso martinis I have ever had in my life. I don't like other martinis (haven't tried that many) solely because they taste like straight alcohol and TBH, I can't handle that anymore at this age. I like my drinks to taste good even if that means a little simple syrup is added to them. This espresso martini was so smooth, that I wanted to drink another. But, it was my night cap, and I honestly had enough. But, I absolutely cannot wait to visit Para again, this time for a sit down meal, however, I have no doubts that it will blow my mind. Recommend 100%! read more

The food is fabulous! Generous portions. The fried dumplings are amazing. I had the spicy basil with shrimp. It's authentic. The service is great and the price is right. read more

I had to try the Crab Rangoon because it's not your typical but was still delicious. This version is a crab bun vs crispy wonton. Very good and filling for a small plate. I also ordered the Short Rib Dumplings. Would definitely get again. Between the two plates, I left feeling full. You absolutely MUST get the Japanese Shaved Ice in the cold brew flavor. Tasted just like Tiramisu. Never Lychee Go was a lychee version of a Moscow Mule. The decor is a definite upgrade from Zeppelin's - RIP. My only dislikes were the Lobster Shooter which had good flavor but it was small and came with only "a tease" of lobster. The food was good but I can't help but feel like Charlotte doesn't need anymore small plate restaurants. Smaller plates for the same big plate price. read more

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Pretty restaurant, presentation was great. I enjoyed the short rib although I couldn't place the spices and the drinks and appetizer were just ok. Not sure if I would return. read more

PARA - Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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Decided to join a few friends on Sunday for dinner. This just so happened to be the last night of Queens Feast Restaurant Week. The server was extremely nice however he did let us know if one person wanted the restaurant week menu we would all have to order off that menu. However we could add additional apps. I was pretty disappointed with that seeing as my choice should not be forced due to someone else. None the less the service was amazing and the food was spot on. I enjoyed the atmosphere and ambiance of the restaurant. And amazing place for a girls night out or date night vibe. read more

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I've been wanting to try Para since they opened, and finally got the chance while celebrating a friend's birthday on a Monday night. Ambience: Located in South End on Tremont (which is very busy), next to Bang Bang Burgers. While small on the inside, this place is A WHOLE VIBE. From the lush garden inspired exterior to the dimly lit dining bar area, the sexy, upscale tone is set from the moment you walk in. The service: It was packed, especially for a Monday night, but we were seated rather quickly. The service is top notch. Our server and Yosh (the resident mixologist) were very attentive. The goods: The food and drinks here take it to another level! The menu is small, but the options are amazing. Everything from dumplings to lamb chops. Potions are small, almost tapas style. So keep that in mind. We ordered lamb chops, short rib dumplings, lobster toast and crab ragoons. Everything was fantastic. The lamb was well seasoned and tender. The dumplings were hearty. The lobster toast was absolutely beautiful, and delicious. And the ragoons were unique. Almost like a fried doughnut, stuffed with crab. The main reason we visited was for the cocktails. Yosh is the best mixologist in Charlotte. She is so skilled at creating unique flavor profiles with stunning presentations. My friends opted for wine, while I had the Para old fashioned (which she smoked table side), and the Make it crane (garnished with a beautiful origami crane). We can not wait to come back, sit at the bar and soak in the vibe. I may have found my new spot! read more

PARA - Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Definitely does not live up to the hype! We went to celebrate my birthday, which I put on the reservation. Neither the hostess, nor our server, acknowledged my birthday. And the food?...definitely not good! The calamari was very bland and under-seasoned. It didn't even taste like it had salt on it. The short rib dumplings were soggy from sitting in a broth. I thought they would be dry. We also ordered the wings, and the lemon pepper ones were very dry. We left very underwhelmed and unsatisfied. Disappointing, especially for a birthday celebration! read more

Last minute date night and it was 100% worth it. We made an online reservation in the morning and it was quick and simple. Showed up about 15 minutes late but there were plenty of tables still open and were seated quickly. Went the shareable route and ordered dumplings, crab ragoon, Brussels and calamari. I personally tied the calamari and Brussels as 1st place and then crab ragoon buns 2nd. Wasn't a fan of the dumplings as the wrappers aren't my favorite style. I would think they're more shumai style. Also ordered a cocktail and it was perfect if you like a sour drink. Boyfriend has agreed that this is his favorite clt date night spot. And servers and waitress Kylie were great- thanks for the dessert recommendation! read more

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After waiting for Para to settle into South End, I've finally given it a try and have come back multiple times now. I love the ambiance and really enjoy the small plates. And the drinks?! GIMME a cheers. The fun dishes and tasty drinks keep me coming back. After waiting for @paraclt to settle into South End, I've finally given it a try and have come back multiple times now. I love the ambiance and really enjoy the small plates. And the drinks?! GIMME a cheers If these are on the menu, you MUST order them: - Cheesesteak -- onion purée, pickled mushroom, chive, and perfectly cooked wagyu on top of a perfectly toasted slice of bread - Crab Rangoon -- fried steam bun, miso ginger sauce, pickled vegetables - Milk Bread PB&J -- peanut butter, Foie Gras, and berry jam - Lobster Shooter with a chunk of Maine lobster. $1 of this shooter is donated to @its4thekids Foundation! If you recognize a lot of servers here, that's because they came over from The Stanley after it closed. The chef at Para, Alex Verica, is the son of Paul Verica (best known to Charlotteans as the James Beard recognized creator of The Stanley restaurant, which used to be in Elizabeth). read more

PARA - Foi Gras PB&J sliders - Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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James and Anastasia were amazing! Food and drinks were great and the music was cool. They made my brothers birthday dinner a good time!

I came on a Friday night and really enjoyed the ambiance here. The restaurant is dimly lit, aesthetically pleasing, and had a fun playlist on. It is a great size as well, not too big and and has additional outdoor seating, which appeared to be heated. Perfect night out restaurant for a cool atmosphere and dinner/drinks. We were gifted a complimentary dish, which was nice as well. I really enjoyed the crab rangoon. The restaurant is in Southend, so as expected, you should plan to either valet, park in a garage, or search for parking. read more

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All I can say is wow! I am so glad we decided to have brunch here on our drive through Charlotte. It definitely has club vibes during the day on the weekend but we got in early before the untz started. The decor in this place is top notch. Wonderful atmosphere and really cool design palette. Their cuisine is a mix of everything and seems to have no specific parameters. For example, I got the Pork Belly Grits and my girls friend got Crab Bao Buns. Both were really good but could not have been more different. They also both came with home fries, which were good but, again eclectic. My girlfriend also got a Summertime Sadness cocktail that was very spicy. The drink menu seemed inventive and interesting for a brunch spot. This one, however, was very spicy. Come here for dinner or brunch! It is definitely upscale. Would probably make a great date spot. read more

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The place is pretty . but our sever Anastasia. was nice but than my cousin was late making it to dinner . but I order a drink had an appetizer, so I wasn't just sitting there drinking water . my other friend joined she also ordered a drink & small plate as well. we been there almost an hour. the sever came over & said we have to be up by 11pm, I looked at my friend like " wow" who knew there was a time limit on sitting and getting dinner on top of that there was hookah available , and we like hookah so we know we would have been there a few hours , my cousin flew in from Dallas; I drove from Durham, we didn't see each other so we wanted to sit eat , drink, have conversation! until she came over saying we have to be done by 11pm. and it was only 930.! which was very rude , because I work in hospitality & you just don't go to a table & say you have to be done by 11pm , because we have reservations! like ab not ! we are paying customers! we should be able to sit there til closing time ! but they lost out on making money & now this bad review ! I would never go back! and I wanted to try the food ! but I guess that won't ever happen ! so thank you Anastasia ! read more

I really wanted to love this restaurant but our experience fell short in almost every way. Upon our arrival we checked into the host stand (reservation for 3) and when I asked for both menus so we could choose additional items, I was told I had to choose either the full menu, or restaurant week menu(the entire table has to participate in one or the other). After having to reiterate twice and assuring her we wanted to all be involved in Queens Feast AND order more from the main menu, she finally gave us both menus and sat us. Waters were brought over and I ordered a Pinot Noir and two apps from the main menu. Once more, stopped in my tracks by the server who says I have to choose one menu or the other. I said we already spoke to someone and it would be fine to order additional items so long as all three of us were participating in the $45 prix fixe option. She repeats herself AGAIN and after I insisted she went back to ask THE SAME PERSON WE ASKED IN THE FIRST PLACE...clearly I became a bit frustrated. We have lived in Charlotte for over 15 years, frequent this event and have worked in the Charlotte restaurant and service industry for a decade and I don't understand why this would even be an issue because we're spending more and excited to try a new place! Both menus are available. We're already spending $45/person x 3ppl -- why can't we eat more food why I'm here? Server returns to repeat AGAIN as if they're doing us the favor "they(didn't specify who gave her direction and a decision--was it a manager, a lead server?) said you could order more as long as everyone at the table chooses the restaurant week menu too." Wonderful, now that we had that settled we FINALLY put our order in and I went ahead and canceled the Short Rib Dumplings, hoping it would lessen the time before any food was brought to the table. It just seems as if there was no communication amongst the staff and definitely no communication to the patrons coming in to dine. We all chose the following(an app, entree, and dessert): Main menu: * Lobster Toast - $18 [dry chopped up lobster on burnt toast and caviar...can we talk about this serving size?....it was a disappointment...we couldn't taste anything beyond the burnt milk bread and I could say the aioli was nonexistent in ours.] Appetizer: * "Crab Rangoons" (2) - [these were still cold and the filling absorbed into the bun so it just tasted like fried sweet bread,the sauce on the side was DELICIOUS however, and it came with 2 pieces - not sure why it's called "Crab Rangoon"....it doesn't resemble one at all. I tasted no crab/cream cheese...why fry a steam bun when it adds no crisp? So many questions... * Burrata (1) - [halved cherry tomatoes on a plate with half a small portion of burrata - can't really mess this one up but it could have definitely used a dressing or balsamic to give it flavor--definitely could make this at home for a fraction of the price, order something else] Entree: * Ravioli (1) - [3 or 4 small ravioli in a watered down sauce--we found this flavorless and definitely not enough to be considered an entree] * 8oz Eye of Rib Eye (2) - [over salted steak(although our temperatures were cooked perfectly) and inconsistent cuts and plating across multiple plates, carrots were so salty we couldn't eat them, the sesame eggplant purée was unpleasant in texture/flavor/color, and luckily our tiny tiny piece of bok choy was barely sautéed and added so we were able to eat a vegetable on the plate.] Dessert: * Japanese Castella (1) - [essentially a small slice of white cake - the best of the three options] * Fernet Kakigori (1) * Watermelon Kakigori (1) [these last two desserts are just shaved ice and flavored syrups with some nuts...doesn't taste anything like traditional Kakigori as there wasn't enough flavoring on any of ours. I'm just disappointed that flavorless shaved ice is being served during a $45-3 course meal] I have never had an experience like this at a restaurant. Waters weren't filled because our server was never around. I made eye contact with other servers and none came over to check on us--was there any leadership there at all? We were itching for just ONE PERSON to make the experience memorable or pleasant but service, food, and overall experience was not what we were expecting for a family dinner on a Monday night. I could understand if it was busier because of the weekend or Queen's Feast but I fear it's just lack of attentiveness. Last but not least -- terrible experience and no warning with a SURPRISE 20% auto gratuity for LARGE PARTY.....we had 3 people at our table and just went ahead and signed the check, we couldn't get out of there quick enough. Sad this visit ended the way it did and we most likely won't be returning. read more

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Celebrated my birthday here - the consensus from about 15 people was at the food was mid overall. It's cute on the inside, pretty small. I would go back for cocktails and maybe appetizers, but personally wouldn't make this a date spot or anything read more

Came in on a Wednesday night and really enjoyed my time here! We had early reservations and they filled up quickly so I highly suggest making them! The Good: as we all know, the aesthetics are a vibe. I don't have IG so if not for this review, my pics would be wasted. Gorgeous place, food, drinks - all of it. Service was great for the most part, too! We ordered 7 out of their 16 menu items and really enjoyed everything. Our favs were the Cheesesteak, Crab Rangoon, Short Rib Dumplings, and Ravioli. Loved the flavors and high-quality ingredients. The Meh: it took a while for our server to greet us (we came early before the rush) but once they did, they were consistently on it. Liked the Tuna Tartare but it was probably my least favorite of the 7. Might be good to add some toasted bread of some kind as the tartare was by itself. Same with the Burrata. The Bad: as some have mentioned, these are SMALL, Maybe-I-Shouldn't- Share plates. Usually I'm not deterred by the concept of tapas and small plates since I don't eat huge amounts but, we kept ordering more because we were still so hungry! $200 later, we finally felt satisfied in the belly but not so much the wallet. Definitely more than I was expecting to spend. While the food is delicious and quite obviously uses high-quality ingredients, I do feel it's a bit overpriced. If the prices came down a bit on both the food and cocktails (those range from $15-$17), I'd be there often. All in all, a great place with a great vibe. Don't come starving like we did or be prepared to fork out $$$. Will definitely be back for light drinks and a couple of dishes but not as my main dinner. read more

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PROS: - Staff was amazing - Music was AWESOME! - Loved the patio seating - Parking was easy and accessible - The lamb chops were good (tried my friend's) CONS: - I was NOT a fan of the menu (selections) - The food was not filling (yes I understand this is a small plates establishment but it was overpriced and not worth it - AT ALL!) - I ordered the chip & dip (overpriced onion dip) and the crab Rangoon sliders (they were cool - ended up ordering two servings because the chip and dip was a joke) I would come back for the drinks and the music only...*shrugs* read more

PARA - Crab Rangoon - Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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Great food and atmosphere, the drinks are great and the food is delicious. The place is a small but sitting at bar is great too read more

Good was great.. ate too much of the appetizer and had very little room for entree! Service was awesome. Skye was observant without being obtrusive. Seating was comfortable, decor cozy and a little eclectic Music was varied and not too loud. Will definitely go again. read more

Really cute little spot! 1st time here and I'm enjoying the outdoor portion. They have hookah which is great. This is a great girl night or date night. The inside is so pretty! Velvet seating and very dark but sexy lighting. I got a Cesar salad and the spicy rigatoni. I'm not drinking right now but they gave me a strawberry "margarita" will be back again! read more

This was by far the worst experience I've ever had in Charlotte at any restaurant in the history of me living here. On 3/8/2025 I took a first date here at 11:15 PM. When we arrived we were informed of what we already knew which was that the restaurant closed at 12:30 and the Kitchen closed at 12 and that hookah was no longer available. All of which we were fine with. The hostess informed us of this as if we were an inconvenience, which I get it's annoying when people show up near close but we intended to leave before close. Our waitress had the same demeanor and was clearly ready to leave for the night, which I again understand, but again were quick to order. We ordered calamari, a 6 oz filet with lobster tail and frites, and then lamb chops with steak frites and Brussels. The food was pretty good. No complaints but the presentation was wildly bad. But again the food tasted good. The food came out 11:45. This is where things got ridiculous. We initially ordered our drinks at around 11:20 which were a double Johnny Walker Black on the rocks and a craft drink from the drink list. When I tried to order a new drink at 12:03 am for my date I was informed we couldn't get drinks because the kitchen was closed. So we spent around 200 dollars and then were denied drinks because the kitchen was closed. If we had been informed that the bar closed at 12 when the kitchen closed then we would have ordered before 12. When I politely asked the manager who was a male whose name I was not informed of he denied us as well. So yeah we spent 200 dollars on a dinner and then were denied drinks because the kitchen closed. The most entertaining part was this manager went to a table of women next to us and allowed them to order a round of drinks. The entire experience was insane. The most unbelievably disgusting part was when I overheard the manager from a distance say a racial slur about my incredibly kind Latina date who was from Mexico. I'll refrain from repeating it as it was honestly traumatizing for her. She left in tears with me while the staff stood in the corner doing nothing. I honestly felt like I was in a nightmare. I don't really understand how people can be so disrespectful and hurtful. Needless to say I won't be retuning. Dine here at your own risk. read more

Para is off to a strong start but could use some fine tuning to their menu and flavors to achieve the necessary balance. What we ordered for a group of 4 (and it felt like enough food) - lobster shooter: tasty, good piece of lobster meat - crab rangoon: not as much crab as there should be but really good overall - tempura: the mushrooms were tasty but none of us liked the weird broccoli slaw - short rib dumplings: very yummy and I loved the chewiness of the dough - tuna tartare: strange blend of flavors and bad consistency to the tuna. Could only describe as mushy. Also weird that it just came out on its own without anything to accompany it with. - wagyu: excellent, worth the price and definitely the standout for me. Loved the different parts of this dish and the meat was cooked perfectly. - lamb chops: good but not spectacular. Also only came with 3 chops and the collared greens were most of the plate. The zero proof cocktail selection was appreciated though my jasmine garden fell a little flat. Their dessert of shaved ice didn't really call to us so we skipped. Love that their bathrooms are inclusive and even provide tampons. Nice touch. Ambiance overall was nice but a little louder than I expected. read more

We went to Para for a girls night. We had a reservation so we were seated right when we arrived. We were lucky to find a spot in the parking lot next to the restaurant. Usually parking on a Friday night in this area is very hard to find. I'm really surprised by how flavorful the food is. The food was delicious; however, I probably wouldn't go out of my way to come back because the portion is very small and the menu is also small. I'm also not a fan of the atmosphere, it was a little too loud to have a conversation. One thing to note is the "Ahi Tuna" Crudo doesn't have Tuna. It's vegetarian, so the watermelon is supposed to be Tuna. read more

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this establishment was very unprofessional. my first time there I was attempting to order a drink and food and was complety ignored by the bartenders. To add insult to injury once I ordered my drinks the bartender forgot about me and started serving the other end of the bar. When I informed their manager he didn't care or bother to fix the situation. Then they had the nerve to charge My tab a Gratuity which I made them remove. A bartender named Joel that was not even working the bar that night ended up giving my party a complimentary drink and apologized. He was the only thing that made the night pleasant. Hats off to him for his professionalism. Will never frequent this place again.....well maybe to see Joel because he was so nice. he told me he works on Tuesdays so I may just go to see him. The nerve of this place making money off Foundational Black American patrons and our music and received such horrible service. read more

I lucked up and scored a last minute reservation at PARA and am so glad I did! It's a tapas still restaurant with plenty of food and drink options. Everything we ordered was DELICIOUS! There wasn't one bad item. Lots of unique flavors and fun spins on classic items. Lobster shooters were super creamy. Crab rangoons were different than your average in that they're more like donuts filled with crab - also delicious. The sashimi came with jalapeños and shaved ice, which was a fire & ice combo. For me, the stars of the show were the short rib dumplings and the lamb chops. If you don't have a reservation, be prepared for extended wait times. The first time I tried to come we were quoted a 2 hour wait time and even after 2 hours, we still weren't able to be seated. So get a res in advance!! read more

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I could really sum this review up by saying "I LOVE everything about Para & will be a regular here." Great parking--which is unheard of in South End. Excellent playlist--loud enough to grab your attention, but low enough that you can speak to your companion without shouting. Beautiful decor & lovely lighting to make any outing feel intimate. One of the best menus I've encountered in Charlotte, with a lovely aerated lobster bisque impressive enough to convert someone who normally passes on this dish. Everything I ate was flawlessly delicious--and I sampled quite a bit: lobster bisque (an enticing cup of rich, decadent, creamy, WHIPPED & perfectly spiced goodness), lamb chops, foie gras, & sashimi. All of this amazing-ness + impeccable service? Thanks Para! read more

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If you haven't been to PARA what are you waiting on?! I went for a little solo outing and they did not disappoint! They have valet parking at the restaurant and the ambiance is amazing. I started with the lobster shooter and a Berry Nice, which were both delicious! The short rib dumplings are a MUST HAVE and I finished off the evening with the Wagyu beef large plate (and berry nice, lol). The staff provided optimum service! I will definitely be back! read more

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Ah, I wanted to fall in love with PARA. But, PARA leaves just a bit to be desired with their food selections. I'm a huge fan of a great tapas restaurant. Who doesn't love the option of a little this and a little that for your palate? Where PARA lacks in cuisine it makes up for it in atmosphere. The patio is spacious and well-situated for people watching and taking in a bit of sun. After nightfall, the patio transitions into the space with the ambience for a great date. Albeit it small and quaint, great attention was given to the aesthetic of PARA. Their bathroom has me on a hunt for the stunning wallpaper for my own space. Our waitress was very knowledgeable. I loved the second version of my Mez Me with That cocktail, as the first was far too spicy. The food was good, but quite overpriced for the portion size and quality level. I am all for great culinary presentation but it must match flavor and quality...this is where PARA falls flat. read more

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