Kannapolis beer and BBQ joint to permanently close. Here’s the last chance to visit

Towel City Tavern, a “beer, bourbon and BBQ” joint in Kannapolis, is closing its doors early next week.

Management shared the news late Monday, Sept. 21 in a farewell message posted on social media. The restaurant will serve its last meals on Sunday, Sept. 27, ending a two-year run in the city’s downtown district.

“Towel City has been a gathering place for big moments, and plenty of ordinary ones, too,” owners wrote. “Celebrations and community events. Nights out after a ballgame with friends. Families around the table.”

“Somewhere along the way, many familiar faces became friends.”

A reason for the closure wasn’t made public. CharlotteFive reached out to Towel City Tavern for more information on Tuesday, Sept. 22 but didn’t immediately hear back.

Towel City Tavern debuted in summer 2024, serving up classic barbecue alongside Cabarrus Brewing Co. craft beers. The menu features “fall-off-the bone” ribs, smoked brisket and smothered pork chops.

There are also wings, burgers and seafood options, plus a few salads, per an online menu. Beyond draft beers, customers can sip wine, cocktails, mocktails and zero-proof beverages.

In their farewell, owners highlighted the “incredible rebirth” of downtown Kannapolis. A years-long effort to revitalize the area has led to millions in residential, commercial and economic growth for the area, The Charlotte Observer previously reported.

That includes the launch of 40 new businesses and restaurants in recent years, plus the addition of Atrium Health Ballpark. Towel City Tavern is situated nearby — so close that customers can catch a Kannapolis Cannon Ballers game from the restaurant’s rooftop.

With a little less than a week until closing, management invited the community to “help us go out with a bang.”

“We’d love to see you one more time,” they wrote.

News of restaurant’s impending closure prompted an outpouring of farewells and well wishes online:

This is a developing story and will be updated. Desiree Mathurin contributed reporting.

Location: 126 West Ave, Kannapolis, NC 28081

Cuisine: American

Instagram: @towelcitytavern