The Best Restaurants Near Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Charlotte, NC
Whether you’re flying in or flying out, eating before you get to an airport–and have to deal with choosing between a Quizno’s and a Quizno’s–is always a good idea. Charlotte, NC has the perfect mix of any kind of cuisine you might be craving. Restaurants near Charlotte Douglas International Airport can expose you to some of its culinary charms, even if you’re on your way out of the city. Here’s a list of some of our favorite restaurants around Charlotte Douglas International Airport you should check out!
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Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
5501 Josh Birmingham Pkwy Concourse C, Charlotte, NC 28208
(704) 359-4467
Particularly ideal when you’re faced with a long (and perhaps unexpected layover), Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is located inside of the airport. You’ll find it conveniently in Concourse C, complete with TVs on all of the walls playing the game of the day. The burgers are insane, which they take as a compliment. The Carolina Burger is their signature with fried green tomatoes and topped with pimento cheese. The portions of everything are large, so sit and relax while you wait for your flight.
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Miguel’s Mexican and American Restaurant
4252 Business Center Dr, Charlotte, NC 28214
(704) 393-3890
Miguel’s is a casual restaurant offering a mix of American and Mexican food. You’ll find tacos and burgers, both with a wide array of flavors to choose from. One of the real reasons to visit is for the margaritas, which are large and delicious. The location doesn’t look like much from the road, but as soon as you walk in, you’ll be greeted with smiling faces. Sit down, get a plate of cheesy nachos, and enjoy every bite until it’s time to leave for your flight.
Link & Pin New Bern
155 New Bern St, Charlotte, NC 28203
(980) 939-1188
Link & Pin has a lively atmosphere with a refined New American menu. You’ll find that they are open for lunch and dinner with late hours. A Saturday and Sunday brunch can also be a breath of fresh air on the weekends. The restaurant is more of a gastropub, which provides international influence in everything that they prepare. Artisanal cheeses are a great way to get started, and the steaks are truly incredible. Don’t forget to check out some of their unique cocktails, too.
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Renaldo’s Culinary Experience
1540 West Blvd Suite #107, Charlotte, NC 28208
(980) 938-5693
Renaldo’s is located just a few miles away from CLT in the City West Commons. The food is simple but delicious, which is why it has become a popular hangout. They’re closed on Sundays, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Gourmet pizza is one of the reasons to visit, with toppings such as chicken curry and blackened salmon. Burgers and seafood are also abundant, and you’ll want to try the truffle butter lobster grilled cheese for a meal you’ll never forget.
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Pinky’s Westside Grill
1600 W Morehead St, Charlotte, NC 28208
(704) 332-0402
Pinky’s Westside Grill has gotten a lot more popular after a visit from Chef Guy Fieri for his Food Network show. The local chain offers quintessential American food such as burgers and hot dogs, with the occasional taco thrown in for good measure. The sports bar atmosphere allows you to catch up on a local game, but you can also enjoy the weather on their patio. The late-night menu is perfect for all of your late-night flights.
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Nellie’s Southern Kitchen
36 N Main St, Belmont, NC 28012
(704) 396-7169
Old-fashioned southern cooking is why people love visiting Nellie’s Southern Kitchen. The industrial-chic setting will have you feeling relaxed, especially with a cocktail in hand. They have an extensive beer menu and a rooftop bar for you to visit when the weather is nice. The food is locally sourced and includes everything from chicken and dumplins to shrimp and grits. When you’re running late for a flight, you can call ahead and pick up in their drive-thru, too.
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Carolina Family Restaurant
4600 Wilkinson Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28208
(704) 394-9249
Carolina’s brick façade has become a landmark for people who know a thing or two about good food. The old-school American restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch, but they’re closed on Sundays. You’ll enjoy a diner-style atmosphere where the menus are on the table when you walk in. Treat yourself to one of their generous breakfast platters or check out their lunch specials that vary by day of the week. Fried flounder and smoked sausage are some of the town’s favorites.
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Nana Morrison’s Soul Food
2908 Oak Lake Blvd Suite #106, Charlotte, NC 28208
(704) 357-3700
Don’t let the strip-mall location fool you. Nana Morrison’s Soul Food has a delicious menu with hearty servings that will fill you for hours. Everything about the place is casual, including the Styrofoam plates that the food is served on. The menu is mounted to the wall when you enter, allowing you to choose the meat and sides you want. There are daily specials, such as meatloaf and bourbon chicken. Make sure you save room for the banana pudding or the sweet potato pie.
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