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Lost Worlds Brewing is expanding to Charlotte this winter. It’ll be the second location for the Cornelius brewery. The brewery will take over part of the space previously occupied by West Elm, which closed a few years ago after operating at the shopping center since 2008.

Why it matters: This will be the midtown neighborhood’s first brewery, adding to the more than 40 breweries in Charlotte.

What to expect: Similar to its original taproom at 19700-D One Norman Blvd., near Lake Norman, Lost Worlds Charlotte will serve craft beer in an archaeology-inspired setting.

• Its 4,000-square-foot taproom will be adorned with archeological artifacts.
• They’ll serve craft beer, cocktails, wine, cider and seltzer.
• In step with its exploration theme, the brewery will overlook the Sugar Creek Greenway.

“With this location, we’re able to provide an oasis for travelers along the Sugar Creek Greenway, which also serves as an on-ramp for hiking, cycling and run clubs,” the founder of Lost Worlds, Dave Hamme, said in a press release.

Go deeper: Archaeology-inspired Lost Worlds Brewing now open in Lake Norman area

Zoom out: In 2020, the Metropolitan and the land surrounding it was acquired by Northwood, which also owns and is overhauling Ballantyne. Northwood is in the midst of a major makeover at the shopping center that includes aesthetic enhancements (like new signage) and adding new tenants. A few prominent tenants to close at the Metropolitan in recent years include Vivace and Hickory Tavern.

Details: Lost Worlds Charlotte will be located at 1100 Metropolitan Ave., next to Removery, Clean your Dirty Face, European Wax Center and Teriyaki Madness. Once it opens, the brewery will host events like beer-pairing dinners, book signings, running and cycling club events, holiday celebrations, trips to important archaeological sites and beer education classes.