Not sure where in NC you are but the hipsters in Charlotte can't even spell irony and they certainly aren't drinking PBR as a form of irony.

I would second Sazerac. Went on a Sunday night during the last week of October and had a good time. I don't recall a beer list but they have great cocktails and a nice wine and bubbly selection.

I'd have to disagree and say skip both the dish and nova's bakery. The Dish is certainly an open can and dump sort of place. Nova's actually brings a big majority of their stuff in from other places. I'd check out the Liberty, focus on local foods, good beer, and some new twists on southern food.

Things I'm making this year:
Panettone w/ homemade candied citrus
BBQ Sauce
Bavarian Hot Honey Mustard
Yeti Mustard (beer mustard)
Garlic and Rosemary Dipping oil
Cheese Straws
Trio of Citrus Sugars
Spiced Nuts

This year the cookie list includes:
Chocolate Chippers
Cranberry Lemon Bars
Oatmeal Lace Cookies
Speculaas
Chocolate and Vanilla Pinwheel Cookies in Espresso Sugar

Amelie's in NODA does sell them. Not sure if they've started yet but I believe last yr you did have to pre-order.