Cool little dive next to a Food Lion of all places (of course). The Comet Grill is Charlotte's "upscale" version of the Double Door Inn: good music, good menu (I gotta say their Steakhouse Salad with blue cheese dressing is a killer repeat), good mix of people, and no cover.
What to expect: crowded, band plays on the floor by the door (please tip on your way out), lively, $ reasonable, neighborhood feel, funky (without the odors), fun but not outta control. Other than trying to get a seat, what's not to like?