Whiskey River: Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s signature bar -- and home away from home

Whiskey River has become one of the most popular bars in the Queen City due to its prime location at the EpiCentre in Uptown Charlotte and the fact that it is owned by one of the most popular NASCAR drivers ever.

Dale Earnhardt Jr., who lives just a few miles north of Charlotte in Kannapolis, opened the bar in 2008 as a place that he could hang out. He chose the colors, the name, the theme and several of the drinks. His influence hits you as soon as you walk in the door, and “Junior” himself can be found at the establishment many nights during the off-season.

The EpiCentre, which has nearly a dozen bars and restaurants, along with a movie theater and bowling alley, has quickly become the heart of Uptown for people visiting Charlotte. Whiskey River has helped this area quickly rise to the top of the nightlife section of Charlotte, as the bar regularly features live music, scantily clad girls and high-powered drinks.

Many of the mixed drinks feature the energy beverage Amp, which is Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s main sponsor for his “Cup Car.” Bartenders at Whiskey River designed the drinks with some “Junior” influence, and many come in a mason jar. Popular drinks include the potent Orange Whip, a Southern Slammer or a Whiskey River Sweet Tea.

The most popular part of Whiskey River has to be the mechanical bull. General Manger Jimmy Freiberg claims that the bull sees more than 1,000 riders each weekend.

Whiskey River will roll out a full menu featuring burgers and “Killer Wings” in the summer of 2010 and charge a $7 cover on most nights.

HelloMetro Tip: Whiskey River has a dress code that includes no work boots, no athletic gear, no sleeveless shirts for men, no excessively baggy clothing and a requirement that hats be worn forward.

Bar EpiCentre Mechanical Bull Whiskey River