Fancy Restaurants Worth the Splurge In Charlotte, North Carolina
There is certainly no lack of fancy restaurants to explore in Charlotte when you’re in search of an elegant night out. If you have a date and are looking for the perfect spot, you have come to the right place. These are also nice places you can eat and drink with friends if you want something a little more elevated than the typical bar scene. We have put together a list of ten beautiful restaurants that are worth spending a little extra moola in Charlotte.
Leah & Louise
301 Camp Rd, Charlotte, NC 28206
(980) 309-0690
Leah and Louise, a black-owned business, interprets classics southern dishes in a refined and phenomenal way, thanks to James Beard-nominated Chef Greg Collier and business partner and wife Subrina. The menu changes frequently, based on seasonally driven ingredients as well as inspiration, but there are a few fixtures on the menu. The River Chips are chicken skins, somehow both crispy and melt-in-your-mouth tender, topped with a flavorful “granch” dressing. The On My Way Home dish is mussels with a truly unique sauce, made of lemon, butter, smoked wine, and Worcestershire sauce, and of course, served with their cornmeal brioche. The rest of the menu varies frequently, so go in with an open mind and be prepared to be blown away by the small plates and entrees alike.
photo credit: usarestaurants.info
Supperland
1212 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC 28205, United States
(704) 817-7514
Supperland extends through two old church buildings. It’s a Southern style steakhouse with an intimate bar. The establishment features a private wine room in the basement, a champagne nook, and a wide outdoor patio with plenty of tables. Whenever you visit, it’s always a great time, whether you are a foodie or love to sample new and creative cocktails. Some of the dishes on the menu include roasted oysters and mushroom risotto–delicious and decadent dishes that are totally worth the splurge.
photo credit: businessyab.com
Kindred
131 N Main St, Davidson, NC 28036, United States
(980) 231-5000
This is an award-winning restaurant from the power couple Katy and Joe Kindred. Their pasta and milk bread get a lot of love from their fans. They have a seasonal menu with some delicious ingredient-driven dishes. You will probably have something new on the menu each time you visit. The farm-to-table approach they take here keeps people coming back. Check their opening hours and make a reservation for lunch or dinner.
photo credit: vrconcierge.com
McNinch House
511 N Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 332-6159
Unforgettable ambiance and food are what McNinch House offers. It’s the only four-diamond restaurant in the city. As you can imagine, their service, food, and environment are nothing you have experienced before. It’s the go-to spot when you want to make birthdays, anniversaries, and other events memorable. There is a five-course dining experience and exquisite chef’s testing experience. Lobster roll, tuna tartare, filet mignon, and sautéed shrimp are just some of the delicious items on the menu.
photo credit: usarestaurants.info
Bernandin’s
435 S Tryon St Ste 100, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States
(704) 332-3188
Bernandin’s is a contemporary, upscale restaurant with an excellent dining experience. They are known for their elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and sophisticated cuisines. They have specialized in lamb, veal, seafood, and beef. They have two private dining rooms for any occasion. The extensive wine list is also an adventure. They play soothing music that will make your time there that much more memorable.
photo credit: usarestaurants.info
Fin and Fino
135 Levine Avenue lf the Arts #100, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States
(704) 800-5680
Fin and Fino is an established restaurant in North Carolina. Their shellfish and fish are delivered fresh daily. If you want fresh oysters, this should be at the top of your list. Seasonal ingredients inspire their menu making everything always fresh and always tasty. The wine is individually selected based on its quality by the staff. At Fin and Fino they pay close attention to detail and will make you feel like family from the moment you arrive.
photo credit: businessyab.com
The Fig Tree
1601 E 17th St, NC 28204, United States
(704) 332-3322
The Fig Tree is part of the city’s upscale dining scene. It opened its doors in 2005 and has been serving locals great food and service ever since. Their seasonal Italian and French menu is paired with an award-winning wine list. Lunch is always great here, but dinner is more of an experience because you will get to enjoy the nice lighting and the vibrant dining room. The main dishes include pan-roasted Scottish salmon, sea scallops, and lamb loin.
photo credit: businessyab.com
The Porter’s House
7417 Waverly Walk Ave, Charlotte, NC 28277, United States
(704) 930-7878
The Porter’s House is open for dinner from Monday to Sunday. They pay homage to timeless traditions of quality. It was among the most anticipated restaurants, and since it opened, they have never lost its edge. Find a table and make a reservation for a large group or a couple of people. The humble elegance of the restaurant is inviting. You will also enjoy the flavorful menu items like sautéed chicken, pan-roasted salmon, and pan-seared scallops.
photo credit: usarestaurants.info
Dressler’s
1100 Metropolitan Ave #125, NC 28204, United States
(704) 909-6295
Dressler’s offers upscale steak and new American fare. They have a couple of locations that provide memorable evening experiences. They have been around for over ten years; they have a large fan base with nothing but praise to give. The private dining spaces are for the nights you want to treat yourself. Go over the menu and show up with a hungry stomach; you will be happy you came here.
photo credit: charlotte.axios.com
La Belle Helene
300 S Tryon St Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States
(980) 209-0941
You are in for a treat every time you visit this fancy restaurant. They serve French classics with modern twists. They have a perfectly decorated, warm, and inviting dining space. You will experience French culture in the hands of the best chefs. The main entrees on the menu here include steak frites, roasted pork, and braised short ribs.
Dinner scenes from Fahrenheit Charlotte and the Jeff Gordon Wine dinner. Photographed at Fahrenheit Restaurant in Charlotte , NC on May 14th 2014. Photographs by Peter Taylor.
Fahrenheit
222 S Caldwell St 21st Floor, NC 28202, United States
(980) 237-6718
When you dine at Fahrenheit, get ready for a great night at an amazing restaurant! Dress to impress because if you come here, odds are it’s a special occasion. The main menu features excellent food like pizza, pork chops, and crispy whole fish. They have amazing sides, salads, and dessert as well. Their wine list is impressive along with all of their other cocktail options. They have a separate brunch menu with some of the best breakfast classics. Between elevated views of the Queen City and delicious food, you are bound to have a great time here.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink around Charlotte, check out our city page.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on July 1, 2022 and last updated on January 12, 2023. Please refer to restaurant websites and social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
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