The Imperial is an Uptown Charlotte must stop. Whether you are in the mood for a pre dinner cocktail or late night lounge atmosphere, this venue can offer both. Live jazz Thursday through Saturday starting at 9pm is one of many reasons the Imperial offers a more intimate bar/lounge setting than a lot of other Uptown locations.
Their cocktails start at $12, but are well thought out and elaborately delivered. Each craft cocktail is made with multiple ingredients and have a presentation you want to tell other about. I watched the bartender name their signature cocktail which included a citrus infused ice sphere and after the ingredients were mixed, the blow torch came out, wood chipped were set on fire, and smoke was used to create entertainment in a glass. Definitely worth the $12.
The actual venue isn't too large but they do own the rooftop patio which was recently redone. The rooftop sits on the corner of an intersection so the views are nice. There is bar on the roof that was not in service when I visited.
There are a number of meters, surface lots and decks with good rates for after hours nearby.