The Top Restaurants in Charlotte, NC
When British settlers named North Carolina’s most populous City in honor of Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the queen consort of King George III, they had little idea “The Queen City” would be such an apt nickname. Fast forward, and the city has world class dining and accommodations, a striking skyline and is the home of major brands like Bank of America, Lowe’s, Honeywell and Truist.
When folks think North Carolina, they think of incredible BBQ, of course! Charlotte is right in the thick of North Carolina BBQ culture, with dozens of mouthwatering options, including Bill Spoon’s BBQ, which has been serving incredible pulled pork sandwiches and whole hog since 1963.
Or maybe when folks think of Carolina, they think of Southern Staples, like Chicken Fried Steak, Deviled Eggs and Fried Green Tomatoes. Places like Nana Morrison’s Soul Food, the Metro Diner and more have these essential dishes of the South, ready for your next visit to Charlotte. Or maybe you’re in the mood for Midwood smokehouse, which is considered by many to be the best in the area? As our writer says, every bit of BBQ on the menu “is a crispy, smoky, well-cooked tasty dish that leaves you wanting more.” There’s so much to love about Charlotte, but it doesn’t stop at southern food, this city has so much more.
With a thriving microbrewery scene, including Wooden Robot, Devil’s Logic and more, we write about our favorite breweries around the city. Other blogs you can check out include dining guides to some of our favorite neighborhoods in the city like NoDa, Southend, and Uptown. Charlotte has such an evolving food scene, so check out this page to find out what our favorite restaurants in Charlotte, NC are!
1. Village Tavern
4201 Congress St #190, Charlotte, NC 28209, United States
(704) 552 9983
Village Tavern is a highly recognized spot for great outdoor dining in Charlotte. The restaurant started in 1984 and they set out to make the best food at affordable rates. They have upheld their principles today with great customer service and fresh food. Start off with some cocktails from the bar for a good time. Some of their menu options include prime rib, butcher steak, Cobb salad, or Tavern nachos. There are also gluten-free items on the menu so everyone will be able to find something to enjoy. Their complimentary bread is great so make sure you try some. This is a great spot to come hang out and enjoy some good food with good company.
2. Horace’s Hot Fried Chicken
327 S. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28202
Do you like your chicken HOT? Then you’ve come to the right place. The fried chicken at this restaurant is not only hot, but fried extra crispy as well. That’s the secret to why people love the chicken here so much. Keep in mind this spot is now delivery or pick up only, so you can always make a pit stop here after work and pick up some delicious fried chicken for the fam.
3. Good Wurst Company
3001 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205, United States
(980) 613-8226
Good Wurst Company only opened in 2020, but they are already known to have some of the best bagels in Charlotte. It has quickly become a favorite spot for the local community. They offer several Montreal-style bagels, some of which are garlic, poppy, cinnamon raisin, and sesame seed. Everything here is made fresh everyday with quality ingredients. They offer a walk-up window, dine-in, and delivery so it’s never too hard to get a delicious bagel. Get the egg, sausage, and cheese on an everything bagel if you want a filling and tasty breakfast.
4. The Goodyear House
3032 N Davidson St, Charlotte, NC 28205
(704) 910-0132
The Goodyear House is a NoDa staple, and for good reason! This spot offers good vibes all around from fun music, delicious cocktails, awesome outdoor seating, and a literal sign that reads, “good vibes.” They serve everyone from vegans to meat lovers and everything is so fresh. Start off with an app like the vegan smoked cashew mac, which is absolutely packed with flavor, or their shaken fry bag. The french fries come in a brown bag with flavor options of garlic-herb parm, sea salt and malt vinegar, or togarashi. You throw your toppings into the bag and shake, shake, shake! Fun and delicious. As for entrees, try the red devil chicken sandwich or the goopy burger. Go ahead and make a reservation now and treat yourself to this memorable spot.
5. Fiamma Ristorante
2418 Park Rd, Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 333-3062
Fiamma is a family owned and run Italian restaurant so you just know they put their heart into everything that they do. Just about everything on the menu is made in house. They’ll start you off with some bread and a pesto dipping sauce that is just magnificent. For your appetizer, try an order of piatto di burrata or the fiocchetti, or both! The fiocchetti will just melt in your mouth, same with the burrata. Before bringing out your entree, they serve a complimentary sherbet to cleanse your pallet. It really is the little things that make for a wonderful dining experience. For dinner, there are several different pasta options with protein like chicken, shrimp, and Italian sausage. Their gnocchi is simply out of this world. If you’re able to save some room for dessert, try the tortina al fiamma, a warm baked chocolate cake with powdered sugar, fresh berries, and other goodies!
6. Cafe Monte French Bakery and Bistro
6700 Fairview Rd #108, Charlotte, NC 28210
(704) 552-1116
Bonjour! This little French bistro is a delightful brunch spot. When you walk in, on your right you will see the dessert counter that is so hard to pass, along with the bar where the bartenders are whipping up all kinds of delicious cocktails, lattes, and more. All of the little touches in this restaurant really give you the feel of a French bistro, from the furniture to the decor on the walls. The menu has tons of options which is a blessing and a curse because you are going to want to try everything! Start off with some of their hot beignets or the brie en croute. For the main course, they have soup and salad options, tons of hot and cold sandwiches, quiche, eggs pretty much any way you can imagine them, crepes, and so much more. While you’re digesting sip on a delicious cappuccino or café au lait.
7. Harriet’s Hamburgers
1115 N Brevard St Optimist Hall Stall #6, Charlotte, NC 28206,
(704) 582-4411
Harriet’s is a must go if you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger. They are known for their cheese-stuffed hamburgers made by placing cheese between two patties and sealing it to make one large, juicy patty. The resulting burger has a clear distinction from the traditional cheeseburger based on texture and taste. To add flavor to their burger, Harriet’s uses a buttery Brioche bun, topped with in-house pickles, ribbon red onions, and their signature sauce. All this for $8.95? You just can’t beat it!
8. Fahrenheit
222 S Caldwell St 21st Floor, Charlotte, NC 28202, United States
(980) 237-6718
This trendy rooftop bar and restaurant is known for its magical view of the Queen City. Located in downtown Charlotte on the 21st floor of Hyatt Place, Fahrenheit offers a mighty views and great bites. The stylish rooftop terrace and indoor restaurant is equipped with a seasonal herb garden, cozy fire pits, and stylish dining tables and lounge sofas. Enjoy either a Sunday rooftop brunch or dinner or an inventive American cuisine up at the roof of the Hyatt Place. Fahrenheit also offers a great selection of crafted local beers, an extensive wine list, and special cocktails.
9. Wooden Robot Brewery
1440 S Tryon St UNIT 110, Charlotte, NC 28203
(980) 819-7875
Wooden Robot Brewery is right across the street from NoDa Brewing Company, so you can visit both in one day! They offer daily tours with tastings included, just make sure to check their website for more information. Their tap room is open Thursday through Sunday where you can get pints, growlers to go, bottles and kegs. Wooden Robot Brewery is known for their beers that have a twist, like their Farmer’s Daughter witbier which uses fresh cucumbers. They also have a crowler machine where you can fill up 32 oz cans from any of the taps! In addition, they offer bottle releases every other Thursday, so be sure to check out their Facebook page for more information. Wooden Robot Brewery is perfect for anyone who wants to try unique, local beers!
10. Sea Level
129 East 5th St | Charlotte, NC 28202
(704)-412-2616
Sea Level is rated as one of the most romantic seafood eateries in Charlotte because of its warm and lovely ambiance and delicious meals. They offer a combination of seafood and American cuisine accompanied by a cocktail bar. Among the more popular options are fried oyster tacos, lobster roll, sea level oysters, corn fritters, and the Lionfish. They are well-known for their dedication to procuring wild seafood and you’ll be able to taste the difference. This spot is a must the next time you’re in the mood for a nice seafood dinner.
