Barrister's at The Esquire Hotel Gastonia

168 W Main Ave, Gastonia, NC 28052, United States

+1 980-888-1508

$$$ Restaurant

(267 Reviews)

About Barrister's at The Esquire Hotel Gastonia

Located in the heart of downtown Gastonia, Barrister's at The Esquire Hotel is a hidden gem that masterfully blends exquisite culinary artistry with a captivating atmosphere. This delightful restaurant offers an inviting mix of Southern inspiration and contemporary flair, making it the perfect destination for food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

As you step inside, you'll be embraced by a warm, romantic ambiance, accentuated by low lighting and tasteful decor. Whether you choose to dine in the elegant interior or enjoy the fresh air on the charming patio or stunning rooftop, every seat provides a unique view of the vibrant surroundings. Guests rave about the welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by attentive, friendly service that makes each visit memorable.

Barrister's menu showcases a range of delectable dishes, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. Delight in the savory chicken fried chicken, which offers a crispy exterior paired with juicy, tender meat, or savor the soul-warming shrimp and grits—a true Southern classic that's sure to leave a lasting impression. For those looking to indulge in lively flavors, the Cajun pasta bursts with spices and fresh ingredients, representing a perfect harmony of taste and sensation.

Don’t forget to explore their impressive drink menu, featuring refreshing drinks like the Sycamore Super Quench Citrus Wheat for $7, or relax with a classic Mich Ultra at just $5. The fully stocked bar, tended by talented bartenders, is sure to provide the perfect pairing for your meal, whether you're sipping on a Founders Porter or a delightful alcoholic cider from Blake's.

What truly sets Barrister's apart is the dedication to delivering an unforgettable dining experience. Diners like Marcia Woods-Weisman and Laura Long Vijil have highlighted how their meals not only met but exceeded expectations, with every course from the bread and butter plate to desserts like ginger ale sorbet leaving them 'blown out of the water.' With a knack for making each occasion special, it's no wonder guests return time and again.

In summary, Barrister's at The Esquire Hotel is not just a place to eat; it's a culinary experience that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the heart. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual night out, you'll find that this restaurant truly delivers on every front—making it a must-visit when in Gastonia.

Features

Accessibility

Has wheelchair-accessible car park

Has wheelchair-accessible entrance

Has wheelchair-accessible seating

Has wheelchair-accessible toilet

Does not have assistive hearing loop

Service options

Has outdoor seating

Offers kerbside pickup

Has no-contact delivery

Offers delivery

Offers takeaway

Serves dine-in

Highlights

Has fast service

Has great beer selection

Serves great cocktails

Serves great coffee

Serves great dessert

Has great tea selection

Has great wine list

Popular for

Popular for breakfast

Popular for lunch

Popular for dinner

Good for solo dining

Offerings

Serves alcohol

Serves beer

Serves cocktails

Serves coffee

Serves comfort food

Serves healthy options

Serves organic dishes

Serves small plates

Serves spirits

Serves vegetarian dishes

Serves wine

Dining options

Serves breakfast

Serves lunch

Serves dinner

Has catering

Serves dessert

Has seating

Amenities

Has bar on site

Has gender-neutral toilets

Has toilet

Has Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi

Atmosphere

Casual

Cosy

Trendy

Upmarket

Crowd

Good for groups

Popular with tourists

Planning

Accepts reservations

Payments

Accepts credit cards

Accepts debit cards

Accepts NFC mobile payments

Credit cards

Children

Good for kids

High chairs available

Has kids' menu

Parking

Free of charge street parking

Free parking lot

Photo Gallery

Location & Map

Openings Hours

Monday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Thursday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

5:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

Guest Reviews

267 Reviews

Caronda Miller

22 Sep 2025

Wonderful dining location in Gastonia. Very romantic. With low lighting. Outside dining area was nice as well. Fully stock bar with a talented bartender, excellent service thank you tony

Jocelyn Gray

06 Sep 2025

Dined here about a month or so ago for my cousins birthday. We had a great time! We enjoyed our drinks and our food. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. Beautiful dining area and there’s also a patio and rooftop as well.

Marcia Woods-Weisman

02 Sep 2025

Barristers is a diamond in the rough. A beautiful tasteful and unique atmosphere with food to match. We were traveling and looking for a special meal with local flare and we were blown out of the water. Everything was 10 out of 10 from our bread and butter plate to our entrees (chicken fried chicken, shrimp and grits and Cajun pasta) to the ginger ale sorbet. We left town satisfied and looking forward to having another chance to eat here again!

Rina Norwood Design

31 Aug 2025

My husband and I took a trip to downtown Gastonia to celebrate a special occasion and made a point to try the restaurant. We did not leave disappointed but left fully satisfied. The July special menu consisted of four course curated meal with a mix of land and sea. From presentation to the most important, taste, the whole experience was satisfying. I must say our server added to the welcoming atmosphere. When you visit, get over the bland lobby entry way, however you want to call it and come to Barrister to taste the culinary art of fine dining.

Laura Long Vijil

06 Aug 2025

We dined on the patio yesterday evening with a lovely lady by the name of Kayla H. She made the experience go from a 10, to a 100! She was AMAZING! She was very knowledgeable of the menu, and gave some very lovely recommendations of what to try. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent! The atmosphere on the patio was very pleasant!

Tracy Bitsue

22 Jul 2025

Beautiful old historic bank turned restaurant. We loved the food and the atmosphere but the highlight was the service. Taylor was an outstanding waiter. The dairy free piña colada pudding was the bomb! Thank you for making our anniversary a good one to remember.

Sheri S

11 Jul 2025

We tried this restaurant because it was Queens Feast and it was a place we hadn’t tried before. I didn’t love the main dish options but we gave it a try anyway. I am so glad we did! The food was delicious and the portions were generous. Our server Charlie was attentive but not obtrusive. The restaurant was cool and they have a nice outdoor space as well as a rooftop to hangout on with gorgeous views.

Justice Erdel

08 Jul 2025

Charming, lovely, quiet atmosphere. Came for appetizers and drinks!! The Blackened Chicken Dip and Crispy Brussels were the star of the appetizers. Would definitely recommend for a date night. Photos: -Food: Crispy Brussels, Blacked Chicken Dip (beside Brussels), Brie Appetizer -Patio Seating Area