Updated 3/2012. Yes Service is not their strong point; but there food is excellent. I have never had a bad meal there and I go on a regular basis. Again if it is just two of you sit at the bar. You get good service at the bar and it is more relaxing for two to sit and drink and indulge in wonderful food while perched on a bar stool. All I can say is for those who had a bad experience with service give them and yourself another chance by taking a seat at a bar stool and treating yourself to some of the best food in Charlotte.
Barrington's has one of the best kitchens in Charlotte. On my first visit the food was excellent but the service was horrible (a big group sucked up all the wait staff). I waited several years before giving it another try. The service now was OK and the food was wonderful. You need reservations as it is kind of small. If no reservations are available you might think about eating at the bar. This is not as elegant as a table but the food is just as excellent and the drinks are very reasonable ($9 for a healthy pour of Johnny Walker Black).
Their mussels are the best. It has become one of my favorite places for dinner