A popular Plaza Midwood bar has closed. What happened — and what’s next

Lorem Ipsum, a popular listening bar in Plaza Midwood, has officially closed.

Owner Justin Hazelton confirmed the news Wednesday, July 15, in a farewell message shared on Instagram. The pop-up concept operated inside The Refuge hotel on Central Avenue for more than two years.

In 2025, Esquire named it one of America’s Top 15 spots to grab a drink, CharlotteFive previously reported.

“Because of all of you, Lorem grew into something far greater than a cocktail bar,” Hazelton wrote. “Over the next few weeks, I’d like to look back, celebrate the story we wrote together, and take my time showing you what we built.”

CharlotteFive reached out to Hazelton for more information Thursday and was awaiting a response.

The bar’s residency at the boutique hotel was cut short, ending a month earlier than expected, Unpretentious Palate first reported. Hazelton pointed to HVAC issues that made operations especially tough as dangerous heat hit Charlotte.

“We were going to shut it down before August,” he told the outlet. “But some HVAC issues hit at the same time as the heat wave. It forced us to stop business a little earlier than anticipated.”

So, what’s next?

Hazelton told WCNC that he plans to launch a new concept called “And/Or Cafe.” The “innovative bar” featuring coffee and cocktails will open nearby, just off Central Avenue, the outlet reported.

According to Unpretentious Palate, a radio venture featuring live music and DJ sets is also in the works.

Hazelton was flooded with kind words and well wishes after sharing news of Lorem Ipsum’s closure. Locals expressed their excitement as Hazelton gears up for his next venture:

This is a developing story and will be updated.

Location: 1101 Central Ave Unit B, Charlotte, NC 28204 (inside Refuge hotel)

Cuisine: Listening bar

Instagram: @loremipsum.bar