Well, this is only my 2nd post, but given that you are in my city and my mom (IWIWT) has already responded, I thought I'd throw you some ideas...
You are a little north of the city if in the University area. It sort of has a life of its own, though so that is good. With UNC-Charlotte there, you will have plenty to do, including tons of restaurants and shopping around there.
If you want a more local flavor, I'd drive into Charlotte (maybe 10 min away if you take N. Tryon St). Downtown, there are plenty of great restaurants -someone else mentioned Rock Bottom, I believe, and it is definitely good and in the center of a lot of things going on. Other places to try downtown (or uptown as Charlotteans call it) - Zink, Luce (incredible Italian, though kind of pricey), RiRa is an excellent Irish pub with that type food.
If you want to venture out around town, there are plenty of places -- really depends on what kind of food you're looking for. One of my new favorites is this place called Mac's Speed Shop. It's sort of a yuppie biker bar, but the food is great -- BBQ and fabulous mac&cheese!
If you need more ideas, send me a PM, I guess. I can probably come up with options for any kind of food... as I tend to eat out on a regular basis!!!
Enjoy your stay! Oh, and if you're looking for nightlife - I do know some guys playing at a bar uptown tonight, actually -- it's called Connolly's, and actually above Phil's Deli that someone else recommended. I think they start around 9p. And yes, RENT starts on Friday night, if you are looking for that.
Welcome bb02! I heart your mom! 
