A members-only restaurant at Charlotte Motor Speedway overlooks the track. Kristen Wile/UP

Last summer, I wrote a story for the Charlotte Business Journal about the general manager of The Speedway Club. The restaurant is a members-only establishment at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and as someone who has both worked at NASCAR and covers restaurants in Charlotte, I was embarrassed to say I didn’t know it existed before the assignment.

The club overlooks the frontstretch of the speedway, and has the vibe of a classic steakhouse. Wood detailing and formally dressed servers make the space feel exclusive, which it is — an annual membership has a $2,500 initiation fee. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and tiered seating make for a stunning view of the track below. Memberships at The Club are popular among people who often entertain for business, and are looking for something unique to share with clients where they receive privacy and personalized service. For restaurant week, however, The Speedway Club opens to the public.

The menu is what you’d anticipate for a restaurant that serves mostly businesspeople, with entrées including several cuts of steak and seared salmon — dishes that are served with the consistency of a national steakhouse. However, you’ll also find more playful options, as well, such as fried cheese curds and chicken and waffles made with mini waffles. Dinner ends with a visit from the dessert cart.

The Queen’s Feast experience gives the rest of us a chance to check out the restaurant. The menu includes three courses for $35, starting with a salad or appetizer and followed by entrée options of prime rib, chicken Francaise, shrimp fra diavolo, or blackened salmon. The third course, a selection from the dessert tray, can be substituted for a glass of wine or old-fashioned.

One of the best parts of dining at The Speedway Club is watching the action on the track while you dine, but there is nothing currently scheduled to take place on the track during Queen’s Feast — which runs Friday, Jan. 17 through the following weekend — though you may see some test rides or practices taking place.

Reservations can be made by calling 704-455-3216. See other restaurants taking part in Queen’s Feast here. —Kristen Wile