Starts Restaurant & Bar

Last weekend I attended the sold-out grand opening of Stats sports bar and restaurant in the University area. The ambience is quite appealing, with large-screen televisions, a white, baby grand piano and flooring that resembles a football field and basketball court.

I always enjoy a great brunch, and the vanilla waffles and fried chicken were absolutely delicious. The steak and omelet dish also looked tasty and will definitely be on my list for my next visit.

This swanky, new venue is also family friendly. Thumbs up for something new in the University area with plenty of free parking and good food.

Also, this is Charlotte Black Restaurant Week, and Qcitymetro has a listing of all participating restaurants. I attended a preview event earlier in the week at the Harvey B. Gantt Center.

To my delight and surprise I found Its Poppin, which sells gourmet popcorn. Make sure to check them out and sample the fried chicken popcorn. It was unbelievable!

Check out my weekend picks.

FRIDAY

Arsenio Hall ~ This star of television, movies and stand-up will be in Charlotte Friday and Saturday at the Comedy Zone. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $35 for gold circle seats. Location: 900 North Carolina Music Factory Boulevard. More info.

SATURDAY

Fall Free for All ~ Hart Witzen Gallery opens its doors to the public for a diverse and inclusive visual art exhibit featuring recent works of studio artists and regional artists Cost: Free. Location: 136 E. 36th St. Time: 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. More info.

SUNDAY

Import Expo ~ This amazing car show features some amazing and never-before-seen automobiles. Location: Charlotte Convention Center (501 S. College St.) Time: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. More info.

Toni Baker-Tyson is an entertainment columnist for Qcitymetro.com. She enjoys being a social butterfly out on the town, loves live music, the arts, and foreign films. Her passion is volunteering with the...