Looking for the best dining experience in Queen City, we have you covered! We have rounded up 15 best restaurants in Charlotte that not only offer scrumptious food but also ‘the experience!
Read on, move your feet, and get a treat!
People disappoint but perfect food never does! However, choosing a not-so-good option can make the whole experience miserable because the taste and the atmosphere should be worth its price tag.
No matter where you are in Charlotte, one thing that you are not far from is experiencing a delectable meal. From lavish dinner, healthy foods, and mouth-watering brunches, to flavorful and sparkling drinks, Charlotte has a lot to offer that elevate the entire experience in the city.
There are plentiful options in Queen City eateries which makes it tough for outsiders and even for the locals to pick the best.
Do not worry anymore. We will introduce you to some of the best restaurants in Charlotte, North Carolina that offer the finest bites.
Let’s get rolling!
Table of Contents
15 Best Restaurants in Charlotte that are Diner’s Choice Winners
Charlotte is one of the happening places in the state of North Carolina. This queen city attracts more than 50,000 tourists and visitors every now and then. Other than sightseeing and amazing places to visit in the city, Charlotte is quite famous for its countless eating options. This city will truly exceed your expectations when it comes to serving the finest delicacies. If you are on the hunt for the finest spots to eat and enjoy the lavish atmosphere, all the restaurants on our list are worth trying.
The following is the list of best restaurants in Charlotte that offer the finest ambiance, delectable food, and great overall experience.
Customshop
1601 Elizabeth Ave, Charlotte,
NC 28204, USA
Contact Number: +1 704-333-3396
Customshop is one of the best restaurants in Charlotte which is rich in menu and quite popular for its scrumptious meals. The best part is, each week they change the food menu not only highlighting the seasonality of foods but also the beauty of the state’s own produced special items and seafood. The menu of seasonal cocktails is a blend of originality and creativity.
You can beat the summer heat with the flavorful drinks they offer on their menu.
Their wine menu is a combination of old staples and new producers. Whether it’s a Valentine’s Day celebration, a family gathering, or a post-work quick drink grab with colleagues, Customshop has something special for everyone.
Best things about the place
Weekly change of menu according to the availability of local farms ingredients. This restaurant has a flavorful menu and has something for every kind of foodie. The ambiance is great and the servers are attentive and knowledgeable.
Must-order dishes
Burrata, Pasta, Brioche Bread Pudding, Cheerwine Glaze, and Blue Crab Ravioli.
| Average cost | $10 to $16 |
| Parking space | The parking space is located along the Lynx Gold Line Trolley which is behind the restaurant, and across the street. |
| Operational hours | Tues-Thurs- 5 pm to 10 pm, Fri-Sat- 5 pm to midnight, Sun & Mon- closed. |
| Services options | Dine-in, takeaways, and no delivery |
Yunta
2201 South Blvd Ste 130, Charlotte,
NC 28203, USA
Contact no: +1 980-495-2253
Yunta is another best dining options in the Queen City that offers great vibes and scrumptious meals. Whether you are on a date night or looking for a family gathering, Yunta is one place that suits every occasion’s needs. This place’s vibes vary from weekdays to weekends. If you want to chill, consider booking a weekday table. Whereas, if you are someone who likes club-kinda vibes, visit here on the weekends to enjoy the restaurant DJ with food.
The ambiance of this inn is quite charming, you can have the best romantic dinner date night with your special one at Yunta. The options in beverages, beer, wine, and cocktails are plenty. We are sure that once you visit this place, Yunta will become one of your favorite restaurants in Charlotte.
Best things about the place:
This place offers a menu that is inspired by several cuisines across the globe. Yunta (Yoon-ta) is a Japanese and Peruvian restaurant where you can enjoy shareable menu plates. The servers are attentive and knowledgeable.
Must-order dishes:
Yunta Ceviche, Pulpo Anticuchero, Tiger’s Milk Ceviche, and Lomo Saltado.
| Average cost | $6 to $27. |
| Parking space | They have their own garage parking, if it gets full you can find many nearby options for parking including Hawkins Street Garage and Atherton Garage2000 S Boulevard. |
| Operational hours | Tues-Thurs- 5 pm to 10 pm, Fri-Sat- 12 am to 11 pm, Sunday- 12 to 10 pm, and Mon-closed. |
| Services options | Dine-in, takeaways, and delivery. |
Leah & Louise
301 Camp Rd, Charlotte,
NC 28206, USA
Contact no: +1 980-309-0690
Leah & Louise is another one of the best restaurants in Charlotte that should not be missed in the city. This restaurant is run and owned by a husband and wife duo, chef Greg Collier and Subrina Collier. The food menu is inspired by Mississippi River Valley Foodways. They also keep changing the menu according to the availability of products and seasonality. Enjoying delectable food with your special one is the perfect date idea for summer lovers.
Leah & Louise gained much spotlight in the New York Times and Esquire. Apart from featuring in magazines and news headlines, this restaurant offers some of the most scrumptious food in Charlotte. The cost of appetizers ranges from $7 to $16, main courses are priced between $23 to $32, and desserts price falls between $3 to $13.
Best things about the place
The food is served promptly and hot. The servers are kind and attentive. The ambiance is lovely and the vibes are vibrant.
Must-order dishes
Leah Cabbage, Smoked Sausage, Lick-the-plate-it’s-that-good Pork Neck Bisque Base, and Slow-roasted Cabbage Dish with Pepper Honey.
| Average cost | $7 to $32 |
| Parking space | It has a good amount of parking space with a weatherproof surface. |
| Operational hours | Wed-Thurs- 5 pm to 8 pm, Fri to Sat–5 pm to 10 pm, Sun, Mon, & Tues– closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, curbside pickup, and delivery. |
Counter
2001 W Morehead St D, Charlotte,
NC 28208, USA
Contact no: +1 980-292-2090
Counter is one of the best restaurants in Charlotte that offers the finest food menu in the city. The owner of this restaurant Sam Hart was nominated by James Beard for the best chef in the Southeast. And we agree why this restaurant always gains much spotlight. From a range of flavors in drinks to an ever-changing food menu, Counter has got everything that matches every kind of foodie’s taste buds.
This restaurant works on reservations and offers a tasting menu. This means you can expect to eat up to 10-14 courses. The meal menu keeps changing every quarter along with the restaurant decor, theme, and playlist. This place offers a unique historical experience along with a fine food and wine range. If you are looking for one great food experience on a date night in Charlotte, this restaurant should not be missed on your visit.
Best things about the place
Their menu is blended with story, art, music, and top-notch international cuisine. They offer a range of options in beverages, food, and drinks. The industrial chic decor, wine pairings, and tasting menu meals give a mesmerizing experience to the visitors.
Must-order dishes
Cinema meal, Bangarang, Yakimono, and CWY.
| Average cost | $235 for a 14-course meal and $175 for a 10-course meal excluding tax and tip. Wine pairings are priced between $85 to $235. |
| Parking space | There is plenty of parking space available which is combined and shared with sister Inns Legion and Biblio. |
| Operational hours | Tues- 6:30 pm to 9 pm, Wed-Fri– 5:45 pm to 11 pm, Sat– 5 pm to 10 pm, Sun-Mon– Closed. |
| Service options | Only dine-in, no takeaway, and no delivery. |
Supperland
1212 The Plaza, Charlotte,
NC 28205, USA
Contact no: +1 704-817-7514
Supperland is another best restaurant in Charlotte that offers a great food menu and flavorful beverages. This restaurant is owned and operated by husband and wife duo and business partners Jamie Brown and Jeff Tonidandel. They also own Reigning Doughnuts, Growlers Powerhouse, and Haberdish. These spouses transformed a 69-year-old former church into a restaurant and cocktail bar in Plaza Midwood.
This restaurant is quite popular in the city, so it can be tough to get reservations, especially on weekends. They charge you a reservation fee for each seat. They have a range of food menus, you can try out their recently started service ‘brunch buffet. These are majorly part of their weekend menu and will cost you $65 per person.
Best things about the place
The cocktail menu is loaded with a range of options. The atmosphere is aesthetically pleasing. The staff is friendly and attentive. Food is scrumptious and served hot and prompt.
Must-order dishes
Bone Marrow Broccoli, Lobster Tail, Prime Ribeye, Sausage Gravy croquettes, Miso Mac and cheese,
| Average Cost | $6 to $500. |
| Parking space: | Parking availability is limited, consider taking a cab. |
| Operational hours | Tues- Wed- 5 pm to 11 pm, Fri– 5 pm to 1 am, Sat- 11 am to 1 am, Sun- 11 am to 10 pm, Mon- Closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, and no delivery |
Kindred
131 N Main St, Davidson,
NC 28036, United States
Contact no: +1 980-231-5000
Located in Davidson, North Carolina, Kindred is another best dining option in Charlotte that attracts ample visitors every now and then. This gorgeous small-plate restaurant in Charlotte offers a calming atmosphere and a range of scrumptious food selections. Owned and run by Joe and Katy Kindred, this place has received a lot of recognition from Bon Appétit. Kindred chef Joe has bagged the semi-finalist spot in the James Beard three times in a row.
Southern Living stated Kindred as one of the best restaurants in Charlotte, North Carolina in the year 2018. Joe, the chef keeps innovating the menu with his skills and every dish on the list is so scrumptious and tempting. If you want to get surprised by the bartender with a cocktail, order for ‘Barkeep’s Choice.
Best things about the place
The servers are attentive and the ambiance is charming. Wide range of choices in food and beverages. The menu is a blend of creativity and delectability which keeps changing frequently according to the availability of products and seasonality.
Must-order dishes
Calabrian chile oil, Squid Ink Pasta, Crispy oysters with dill yogurt, and Wagyu Beef Tartare.
| Average cost | $18 to $35 |
| Parking space | Free street parking space in front of the restaurant. |
| Operational hours | Tues-Sat – 5 pm to 10 pm, Sun-Mon- Closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, and no delivery |
Ever Analdo
3116 N Davidson St, Charlotte,
NC 28205, United States
Contact no: +1 704-910-6543
Ever Analdo is one of the best restaurants in Charlotte that serves flavorful Italian food and drinks to its visitors. Whether you want to chill and have dinner on the weekend or looking for a calming vibe during weekdays, Ever Analdo is one place that will exceed your expectations. Their pasta is quite popular among their visitors, so whenever you visit this place, give it a try.
The option of Italian wine is quite extensive. This restaurant offers a delicious range of Italian food in a colorful setting. The ambiance of this place is out of the ordinary. Sitting there would feel like you are in a scene from the best Hollywood movies. From ambiance, food, and drinks to service, this restaurant level is top-notch in everything.
Best things about the place
The seating is comfortable and spacious. Food especially homemade grilled octopus and burrata is delightful. The servers are very friendly and attentive and they help customers with the food and drink menu. They serve the best Italian in Charlotte at this place. Wide range of choices in Italian wines at affordable prices.
Must-order dishes
Burrata, Calabrian Chili Pappardelle, Fried Artichokes, Focaccia, Cannoli, and Mushroom Tortellini.
| Average cost | $7 to $52. The cost of the reservation on weekdays is $2 per seat and on weekends it is $3. |
| Parking space | Parking option is limited, consider taking a cab. |
| Operational hours | Tues-Thurs- 5 pm to 10 pm, Fri-Sat- 5 pm to 11 pm, Sun- 5 pm to 10 pm, Mon- closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, and no delivery. |
El Puro
5033 South Blvd, Charlotte,
NC 28217, USA
Contact no: +1 980-219-8339
El Puro is a popular Cuban restaurant in Charlotte that takes back its visitors to pre-revolutionary Cuba in the 1950s. They offer free salsa lessons and live music on Wednesdays, so expect more footfall during this day. El Puro is one of the best restaurants in Charlotte that gets an ample number of customers throughout the week.
Whether you want to celebrate a birthday party or plan a family gathering, El Puro is among the nice restaurants in Charlotte NC. With extensive choices in food and drinks, this restaurant is a popular choice among the locals and tourists as well. We are sure that once you visit this restaurant, you will definitely go there again to grab drinks and dine whenever you are in Queen City.
Best things about the place
The food and drinks are amazingly delicious. Service is quick and the servers are very kind and friendly. Live music and free salsa classes. One of the best brunch menus in the city.
Must-order dishes
Empanadas, Tres Leches Pancakes, Caramelized Onions, and Fried Pork Shoulder.
| Average cost | $4 to $48. |
| Parking space | Plentiful space for parking |
| Operational hours | Tues-Thurs- 11 am to 10 pm, Fri-Sat- 11 am to Midnight, Sun- 11 am to 10 pm, Mon- closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, curbside pickup, and delivery. |
Good Food on Montford
1701 Montford Dr, Charlotte,
NC 28209, USA
Contact no: +1 704-525-0881
Run by an award-winning chef Bruce Moffett, Good Food on Montford is one of the best restaurants in Charlotte that is worth a visit. The menu of this restaurant keeps changing according to the seasonality. This place is small and cozy with soft lighting and exposed brick walls. The decor is simply elegant and the food is extraordinary.
James Beard Foundation considers this restaurant one of the finest eateries in Queen City that offers excellent food choices, flavorful drinks, and impeccable service to their visitors. This place has a modernistic touch but a comfortable setting that pleases all kinds of visitors.
Best things about the place
The ingredients used in preparing the food are completely organic which makes every dish more delicious. The atmosphere is lively, with scrumptious small plates, and prompt service. Wine, beer, and dessert choices are good.
Must-order dishes
Larry’s pork belly buns, the scallops, Carnitas, Steamed Bun and Pork Carnitas, fava bean spread, pasta with housemade fennel sausage, and the red curry mussels.
| Average cost | $12 to $50. Large paellas for 4 to 6 people cost between $38-$62. |
| Parking space | Nearby street parking is plenty. |
| Operational hours | Mon-Sat- 5 pm to10 pm, Sun- closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, curbside pickup, and no delivery. |
Stagioni
715 Providence Rd, Charlotte,
NC 28207, United States
Contact no: +1 704-372-8110
Stagioni is one of the best restaurants in Charlotte which is an incredible choice for couple date nights. The setting is dimly lit with arches and overhead string lights along with modern exteriors. They offer extensive choices of food and drinks on their menu. This restaurant has an open kitchen with a charming ambiance which is perfect for a romantic birthday.
Stagioni comes in the top 10 restaurants in Charlotte NC as the chef has twisted classic Italian dishes that taste heavenly. The Pizza Scissors are quite popular among the visitors. At this place, you can taste the best pizza in Charlotte. The dining experience in this restaurant will feel like you are sitting in an Italian villa. Stagioni is one of those places in Charlotte that you would want to visit again and again whenever in the city.
Best things about the place
Cozy Italian interiors with red accents and beautiful exteriors along with an open kitchen. Pizzas and pasta are very scrumptious. The food and drink menu is creative and flavorful. The servers are kind and attentive. They have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options as well.
Must-order dishes
Bruschetta, Cavatelli Pasta with Smoked Chicken Sausage, Leeks, and Broccolini, the Berries & cream dessert, and Pizza.
| Average Cost | $16 to $38 |
| Parking space | Small parking lot. |
| Operational hours | Mon- 5 pm to 9:30 pm, Tues- Sat- 5 pm to 10 pm, Sun- closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, and no delivery. |
Flour Shop
530 A Brandywine Rd, Charlotte,
NC 28209, USA
Contact no: +1 980-299-3754
Flour Shop is one of the top restaurants in Charlotte that offers great flavors and impeccable service to their customers. However, to avoid disappointment, you need to make the reservations beforehand as the restaurant receives a lot of footfall throughout the week. The vibes of this place are very charming and positive. The service is excellent and prompt.
The menu of this restaurant keeps changing based on the season and available products. They offer Amazing food made with fresh and organic ingredients. The refreshing range of summer cocktails should not be missed. This restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Charlotte. Many people prefer celebrating birthday parties and anniversaries here. Flour Shop surely offers an engaging and unforgettable dining experience to its customers.
Best things about the place
They use local organic products in preparing their food. Waiters will keenly explain each and every dish and drink on the menu to their customers. The service is prompt and the food is scrumptious. The ambiance of the restaurant is charming. You can watch cooks preparing food in the open kitchen.
Must-order dishes
Squid ink pasta, Bolognese, Carpaccio, Spinach Dumpling, Pappadelle with Bolognese, and Crème Fraiche Ravioli with Lobster.
| Average cost | $5 to $32 |
| Parking space | Plenty of parking space in the backside of the Park Road shopping center. |
| Operational hours | Mon-Sat- 5 pm to 10 pm, Sun- 5 pm to 9 pm. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, and no delivery. |
Fin & Fino
135 Levine Avenue of the Arts #100,
Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
Contact no: +1 704-800-5680
Fin & Fino is another popular restaurant in Charlotte that offers 12 types of oysters on the raw bar menu. This restaurant serves the best seafood in Charlotte. This place is quite full throughout the week as they provide a festive dining experience to their visitors. If you are planning to share your plate with your partner, you won’t be able to as the food served here is so scrumptious. So consider ordering individual small plates.
Other than oysters, mussels, and shrimp, there are many other food choices available in Fin & Fino. If you are up for an adventurous meal opt for ‘The Treatment, it is an entire menu tour led by the chef which costs you $70 ($65 for the meal and $5 for the charity).
Best things about the place
The quality of seafood and cocktails are amazing. The servers are kind, knowledgeable, and friendly. The ambiance is casual, fresh, and clean.
Must-order dishes
Scallops, Seafood Boil, Grilled Oysters, The Treatment, Call of the Clam, and Tower of Power.
| Average cost | $8 to $30 and $1000 to $3400 for parties serving 50 Guests. |
| Parking space | No space for parking, consider taking a cab. |
| Operational hours | Mon-Thurs- 11:30 am to 9 pm, Fri-Sat- 5 pm to 10 pm, Sun- closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, curbside pickup, and delivery. |
Lang Van
3019 Shamrock Dr, Charlotte,
NC 28215, USA
Contact no: +1 704-531-9525
Lang Van is one of the top restaurants in Charlotte NC. This restaurant offers extensive options for Vietnamese dishes. The range of appetizers is scrumptious and the atmosphere is very calming. This place receives a lot of footfall throughout the week. Their menu contains more than 130 items, each one is a blend of creativity and delectability.
This place feels very festive and Christmassy all the time, thanks to ever-hanging twinkling lights. You can plan to celebrate and spend time with your loved ones on Xmas day and wish them a merry Christmas. Weekends are quite busy, so try coming as early as possible to avoid disappointment and enjoy the scrumptious food in the lighted setting.
Best things about the place
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available. The ambiance is very festive and calming. The staff is very friendly and attentive. The service is prompt. The food is outstanding and worth trying.
Must-order dishes
Spring rolls, Crispy Quail, Pho Dac Biet, Curry-yellow Pancake Filled with Shrimp, and Bo Bia Jicama roll.
| Average cost | $25 per person |
| Parking space | Plenty of parking space for visitors |
| Operational hours | Sun & Tues-Thurs- 11 am to 10 pm, Sun- 11 am to 11 pm. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, and no delivery. |
Alexanders Micheal’s
401 W 9th St, Charlotte,
NC 28202, USA
Contact no: +1 704-332-6789
Alexander Micheal’s is one of the fun restaurants in Charlotte that comforts its customers with a charming atmosphere, hearty dishes, and impeccable service. Even after 4 decades, this restaurant is still people’s favorite. This place receives ample footfall throughout the week, especially during weekends.
This restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Charlotte which is influenced by European pubs where you taste all the favorite American dishes under one roof. This classic bar makes its visitors sit there and enjoy food and drinks for hours. There is something unique about this restaurant that even without any fancy setting, this place makes you wanna visit there for a long.
Best things about the place
The ambiance of this restaurant is very delightful and comforting. The menu is filled with savory dishes. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. The service is very prompt. This restaurant is one of the best lunch spots in Charlotte.
Must-order dishe
Stroganoff, shallots and sour cream sauce, mushrooms, and rotini pasta with red wine.
| Average cost | $30 to $50 |
| Parking space | First come first parking, consider taking a cab |
| Operational hours | Tues-Sat- 11 am to 10 pm, Sun-Mon- closed. |
| Service options | Dine-in, takeaway, and no delivery. |
The Fig Tree
1601 E 7th St, Charlotte,
NC 28204, USA
Contact no: +1 704-332-3322
The Fig Tree is another popular restaurant in Queen City. This restaurant has been owned and run by Greg and Sara Zanitsch (husband and wife duo) since 2005. The ambiance and the setting are so beautiful that you can click beautiful pictures at this place and gain more followers on Instagram.
This restaurant offers expertly executed business dinners as well as romantic evenings. The Fig Tree doesn’t much focus on the latest trends as they still serve their long-standing and popular signature dish ‘the Elk Chop’. This dish has been on their menu for more than 15 years. Most of their customers commended this restaurant for its impeccable service.
Best things about the place
Their menu is fully influenced by French. The servers will walk you through the menu and the listed wines, you can ask them anything and pick one that matches your taste and mood. The ambiance is delightful. Seasonal cuisine is influenced by France and Italy.
Must-order dishes
Sea Bass (GF), Elk Chop, Veal Chop, Bacon-braised Red Cabbage, Whole Grain Mustard Demi-glace, Fried Oysters, and Lobster Tail.
| Average cost | $15 to $66 |
| Parking space | The Restaurant has its parking lot along with additional parking on Louise Avenue. |
| Operational hours | Mon-Fri- 5:30 pm to 10 pm, Sat- 5 pm to 10 pm, Sun- 5 pm to 9 pm |
| Service options | Dine-in, curbside pickup, and no delivery. |
Wrapping Up on the Best Restaurants in Charlotte
There is no shortage of dining and drinking options in the city of Charlotte. However, for an outsider picking the right one that aligns with the spending is quite challenging.
We hope this article helped you in finding the best restaurants in Charlotte. All the listed inns are popular, serve the best food in Charlotte, offer a delightful ambiance, and provide impeccable service. Whether you want to try one or multiple, the experience would be amazing in every sense.
In a city that is full of the finest eating places, we have dug out the gems of Charlotte that tourists and even the locals should try out at least once!
