Provincetowne - Charlotte, NC

Built in the 1980s on unincorporated land between Charlotte and Matthews, Provincetowne began as a small secluded neighborhood set amongst pastures and wooden lands. The neighborhood has since been annexed in Charlotte and thrives as one of south Charlotte’s most desirable housing markets. Although much of the pastureland that once surrounded the neighborhood has since been developed, Provincetowne still features mature trees and native greenery, meticulously maintained by residents. The Homeowners Association sponsors many events throughout the year, including semi-annual community garage sales and outreach events designed to welcome new residents and help neighbors in need.

While unique local restaurants exist throughout Provincetowne, the central restaurant district operates at the Blakeney Shopping Center.

131 Main creates gourmet versions of classic American dishes. Their baby back ribs and roast beef sandwiches never disappoint, while their classic cheeseburger outshines those served at similar local restaurants. With a casual but calm atmosphere, 131 Main provides a setting suited to anything from business lunches to romantic dinners. The Dinner for Two option provides an affordable way to enjoy a bottle of wine and a four-course meal for two, with several dishes only offered through this dining package.

18 Asian & Sushi Bar serves an extensive sushi bar and a selection of authentic Asian dishes. The California Roll and Spicy Lover Roll prove consistent favorites, while the shrimp tempura and beef-fried rice provide palatable options for diners who don’t care for sushi. The restaurant’s signature lychee mojito completes any meal. With a calming décor and affordable prices, 18 Asian creates an atmosphere welcoming to all guests.

For authentic Greek cuisine, head to Gréco Fresh Grille. This family-owned restaurant creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere that quickly turns first-time diners into regular customers. Start with a hummus platter before dining on a traditional gyro or a vegetarian pita, and be sure to save room for a dessert of homemade baklava. With a menu of fresh traditional Mediterranean ingredients, Gréco Fresh Grille brings a healthy dining option to Provincetowne.

DB’s Tavern has quickly established itself as Provincetowne’s premier sports bar. A newly established pub opened by the family who founded Charlotte’s award-winning Picasso’s Sports Cafe, DB’s Tavern brings the same casual environment and quality food and drink to Provincetowne, but with an expanded menu. Featuring drink specials throughout the week and live music on Friday nights, DB’s creates the perfect environment to relax at the end of the day.

With few bike lanes and low walkability, Provincetowne is a car-dependent neighborhood, with parking readily available in residential and commercial areas.

Limited buses operate near Provincetowne, with two routes providing service to downtown Charlotte. Uber operates in the area in addition to traditional taxi services.

Commuters can access Downtown Charlotte via I-485 to I-77 or can avoid the interstate by taking NC-16. Either route takes approximately 36 minutes, although commuters should allow more time during rush hour traffic.

The Blakeney Shopping Center maintains Provincetowne’s largest park. With a playground, a splash pad and expansive open green space, The Park at Blakeney draws kids of all ages throughout the year. The annual Halloween Boo Bash gives kids the chance to paint a pumpkin and treat-or-trick at local shops, while Christmas brings carriage rides and photos with Santa. In the summer, plan to bring a picnic dinner to the outdoor concert series.

Northwest of Provincetowne lies the Big Rock Nature Preserve. Named for the large granite extrusions found throughout the 22-acre park, the preserve fascinates geology enthusiasts. With an unusually low number of invasive species, Big Rock provides a glimpse into the Piedmont Plateau’s native flora and fauna. Classified as a Historic Landmark by the Charlotte Historic Landmarks Commission, visitors may also see archaeological evidence of Native American tribes living in the area 7,000 years ago.

Cost of living in Provincetowne runs 15.7 percent higher than the Charlotte average, with housing costs being the largest contributing factor. A typical Province apartment rents for $1146 per month, compared to the average Charlotte price of $868.

Travelling by bus one-way to or from downtown Charlotte costs $3, or commuters can purchase a monthly unlimited pass for $121. Gas prices run 1 percent higher than the national average.

Local taverns regularly run $3 specials on craft beers.

Provincetowne’s center of commerce lies at the Blakeney Shopping Center. Featuring both unique local boutiques and big box stores, the center provides for all residents’ shopping needs.

For home furnishings and seasonal décor, check out Casual Elegance. Specializing in fine furnishings and custom floral designs, as well as lamps and wall décor, Casual Elegance is a wonderful resource for customers looking to design and furnish their homes, either on their own or with the assistance of the staff interior designer. Also featuring small items including Vera Bradley bags and Swan Creek candles, this boutique offers gifts for all occasions, complete with free gift wrapping.

For all your kitchen and dining room needs, visit Le Cookery USA. An authorized dealer of brands such as Viking, Swiss Diamond, and Vietri, this locally-owned shop stocks the highest-quality culinary products in Charlotte. With everything from clever kitchen gadgets like citrus sprayers and electric corkscrews to elegant linens and flatware, Le Cookery caters to every connoisseur.

Harris Teeter serves as the area’s primary grocer, while The Butcher’s Market offers everything from chicken to exotic meats, and Dean & DeLuca sells gourmet gifts. While no farmers markets operate in the neighborhood, Provincetown residents can reach the Matthews Community Farmers Market and the Providence Produce Market via I-485. Both markets are located approximately 10 miles and 20 minutes away.