30 Best Restaurants in Charlotte North Carolina

Charlotte, North Carolina, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and rapidly growing culinary scene. With a blend of Southern charm and modern innovation, Charlotte offers a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to all tastes and preferences. From upscale eateries to cozy diners, the city’s restaurant scene is both dynamic and exciting. This article explores the 30 best restaurants in Charlotte, highlighting their unique offerings and what makes them stand out in this bustling city.

1. The Fig Tree Restaurant

Located in a charming historic bungalow, The Fig Tree Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a focus on French and Italian cuisine. Known for its exceptional service and romantic ambiance, the menu features dishes like veal osso buco and duck breast, paired with an extensive wine list.

2. Kindred

Situated in nearby Davidson, Kindred has garnered national acclaim for its innovative New American cuisine. The restaurant, run by Chef Joe Kindred, emphasizes local ingredients and creative dishes like milk bread and squid ink conchiglie.

3. Stagioni

Stagioni, housed in a beautiful Myers Park mansion, offers a sophisticated Italian dining experience. With a menu that changes seasonally, diners can enjoy house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh seafood in an elegant setting.

4. Good Food on Montford

Good Food on Montford is a trendy spot known for its tapas-style small plates and craft cocktails. The restaurant’s ever-changing menu includes dishes like pork belly tacos and Korean short ribs, perfect for sharing with friends.

5. Barrington’s

Barrington’s is an intimate bistro in the South Park area, offering upscale American cuisine with a Southern twist. Chef Bruce Moffett’s menu features classics like seared scallops and rack of lamb, complemented by a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

6. Futo Buta

Futo Buta is a popular ramen shop in South End, known for its flavorful broths and fresh ingredients. The restaurant’s lively atmosphere and creative ramen variations, like the spicy miso and tonkotsu, make it a favorite among locals.

7. The Stanley

Located in Elizabeth, The Stanley offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on sustainability. Chef Paul Verica’s menu features inventive dishes like smoked trout dip and roasted pork belly, highlighting seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients.

8. Haymaker

Haymaker, situated in Uptown Charlotte, brings a taste of the Southern Appalachian region to the city. The restaurant’s menu includes dishes like country ham hushpuppies and Carolina trout, served in a rustic yet modern setting.

9. Soul Gastrolounge

Soul Gastrolounge is a vibrant spot in the Plaza Midwood neighborhood, known for its eclectic menu and lively bar scene. The restaurant offers a range of creative small plates, including sushi tacos and lamb lollipops, perfect for a night out.

10. Heirloom

Heirloom, located in the Coulwood area, is dedicated to using only local ingredients, with a menu that changes daily. Chef Clark Barlowe’s commitment to sustainability and creativity shines through in dishes like rabbit roulade and beet tartare.

11. Customshop

Customshop is a contemporary American restaurant in Elizabeth, offering a menu that blends classic and modern flavors. Known for its house-made pasta and fresh seafood, the restaurant provides a refined dining experience with a relaxed vibe.

12. Supperland

Housed in a former church in Plaza Midwood, Supperland is a unique dining destination offering upscale Southern cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features dishes like smoked brisket and shrimp and grits, served in a beautifully restored setting.

13. The Asbury

The Asbury, located in the historic Dunhill Hotel, offers modern Southern cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. The menu includes dishes like fried chicken skins and pimento cheese fritters, showcasing the rich flavors of the region.

14. Lang Van

Lang Van is a beloved Vietnamese restaurant in east Charlotte, known for its warm hospitality and authentic dishes. The extensive menu features classics like pho and banh xeo, making it a go-to spot for delicious Vietnamese cuisine.

15. Haberdish

Haberdish, located in the NoDa (North Davidson) neighborhood, offers a modern take on Southern comfort food. The menu includes fried chicken, hushpuppies, and a variety of craft cocktails, all served in a stylish, rustic setting.

16. Bardo

Bardo is a sleek, modern restaurant in the South End, offering an innovative tasting menu that changes frequently. Chef Mike Noll’s creative dishes, such as foie gras with green apple and black garlic, provide a unique and memorable dining experience.

17. Peppervine

Peppervine, located in South Park, offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on artfully presented dishes. The menu includes items like venison tartare and roasted duck breast, paired with an extensive wine list and stunning decor.

18. Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen

Rooster’s Wood-Fired Kitchen, with locations in Uptown and South Park, is known for its hearty, wood-fired dishes. The menu features rotisserie chicken, smoked meats, and a variety of sides, all cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.

19. Leah & Louise

Leah & Louise is a modern juke joint in Camp North End, offering Southern-inspired dishes with a contemporary twist. Chef Greg Collier’s menu includes items like River Chips (fried chicken skins) and Mud Island Catfish, set in a vibrant, music-filled environment.

20. Noble Smoke

Noble Smoke, located in the FreeMoreWest neighborhood, is a barbecue haven known for its smoked meats and classic sides. The restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and commitment to traditional barbecue techniques make it a must-visit for barbecue lovers.

21. Mizu

Mizu, located in the South Park area, offers a modern take on Japanese cuisine. The menu features sushi, sashimi, and robata-grilled dishes, all made with the freshest ingredients and served in a sleek, contemporary setting.

22. Zio Casual Italian

Zio Casual Italian, located in the Dilworth neighborhood, offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a menu full of Italian classics. From wood-fired pizzas to house-made pastas, Zio delivers authentic Italian flavors in a relaxed setting.

23. Fin & Fino

Fin & Fino, situated in Uptown, is a seafood-centric restaurant known for its fresh oysters and creative small plates. The menu includes items like crab cakes and scallop ceviche, paired with an impressive selection of wines and cocktails.

24. Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, located in Plaza Midwood, offers a fun and creative breakfast and brunch experience. The menu features a variety of pancakes, benedicts, and breakfast tacos, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

25. The Dumpling Lady

The Dumpling Lady, originally a popular food truck, now has a permanent location in Optimist Hall. The menu features handmade dumplings, noodles, and other Sichuan specialties, offering a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine.

26. O-Ku

O-Ku, located in the South End, offers a contemporary Japanese dining experience with a focus on sushi and sashimi. The menu includes creative rolls and fresh seafood, served in a stylish and modern atmosphere.

27. Amélie’s French Bakery & Café

Amélie’s French Bakery & Café, with multiple locations in Charlotte, is a beloved spot for pastries, coffee, and light meals. The whimsical decor and delicious offerings, such as croissants and macarons, make it a favorite among locals and visitors.

28. Fahrenheit

Fahrenheit, located on the 21st floor of the Hyatt Place Hotel, offers stunning views of the Charlotte skyline along with a menu of modern American cuisine. The restaurant features dishes like duck confit and truffle mac and cheese, perfect for a special night out.

29. Optimist Hall

Optimist Hall is a food hall located in a renovated textile mill, featuring a variety of food vendors and cuisines. From tacos and burgers to sushi and vegan options, Optimist Hall offers something for everyone in a vibrant, communal setting.

30. Bonterra Dining & Wine Room

Bonterra Dining & Wine Room, housed in a historic church, offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on Southern cuisine and an extensive wine list. The menu includes dishes like shrimp and grits and braised short ribs, set in a stunning, elegant atmosphere.

Conclusion

Charlotte, North Carolina, is a city that offers a rich and diverse culinary scene. From innovative fine dining to cozy neighborhood spots, the 30 best restaurants in Charlotte showcase the city’s dynamic food culture and commitment to quality and creativity. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these dining destinations provide a taste of what makes Charlotte a true culinary gem.