Exploring Charlotte’s Culinary Delights

One of the fastest growing cities in the United States, Charlotte has developed a vast array of dining options. Reflecting its diverse population (nearly 20 percent were born outside the country), the flavors of the world have come to the Queen City.

The brewery scene has also exploded in recent years, bringing more options for beer lovers to the eclectic neighborhoods in and around Charlotte. With enough dining and drinking options available, here are some of the favorites from this dynamic food landscape.

Uptown

Mariposa

Mariposa is a luxury dining location in Uptown Charlotte, where executive chef Jonathan Moore offers an impressive menu inspired by small mezze plates of the eastern and southern Mediterranean. This establishment also features inventive cocktails, and be sure to leave room for the delightful Burnt Basque Cheesecake dessert.

La Belle Helene

For a taste of France in Charlotte, visit La Belle Helene. This brasserie features opulent surroundings and a menu filled with traditional French dishes, including crispy porchetta sandwiches, chilled Maine lobster, and Duck A l’Orange.

Blue Blaze Brewing

If you’re in the mood for a refreshing brew, take a scenic 1.5-mile walk along the Stewart Creek Greenway, which begins at Bank of America Stadium and leads to Blue Blaze Brewing. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this taproom serves a variety of locally sourced beers, including the Blue Blaze Altbier and Black Blaze Milk Stout, along with seasonal specialties.

Mert’s Heart and Soul

Savor Southern-inspired comfort food at Mert’s Heart and Soul. Famous for its Soul Roll— a fried wrap filled with veggies and fried chicken— this restaurant has also caught the attention of two U.S. Presidents, who have dined here.

The Market at 7th Street

Located adjacent to a light rail stop, the Market at 7th Street connects community entrepreneurs in Uptown. This food hall offers various walk-up food options, including pizza, raw bars, momos, cupcakes, and waffles, ensuring a diverse culinary experience.

South End

South End offers an expansive selection of dining and drinking venues featuring global cuisines and numerous breweries, all within easy walking distance.

Futo Buta

Considered to have some of the best ramen in Charlotte, Futo Buta is situated along the Rail Trail with year-round patio dining. This popular spot is perfect for enjoying the Buta Bowl, made with chicken and dashi broth, pecan smoked pork belly, and duck confit.

Copper

Located in a historic South End bungalow, Copper deftly combines traditional Indian cuisine with modern twists. Recommended dishes include the potli samosa, filled with savory vegetables and served with a hot-sweet-sour chutney, and the chicken mirchi-malai topped with roasted onion-cashew sauce.

Olde Mecklenburg Brewery

The original pioneer of the Charlotte beer scene, Olde Mecklenburg Brewery showcases the Bavarian “Reinheitsgebot” (Purity Order) with every brew served in a Bierhalle and Biergarten, reflecting its commitment to traditional brewing practices.

Sycamore Brewing

On a weekend afternoon, Sycamore Brewing is a lively spot featuring live music, food trucks, and pop-up markets along the adjacent Rail Trail. Visitors can enjoy a variety of beers, such as the Mountain Candy IPA and Special Brownies Chocolate Stout.

NoDa

NoDa, short for North Davidson Street, is the original artsy capital of Charlotte, boasting a robust selection of dining and drinking venues just a couple of light rail stops from Uptown.

Goodyear House

At the Goodyear House, located in a beautifully restored mill home from the 1900s, chef Chris Coleman—winner of the Food Network’s Chopped—creates exquisitely prepared, locally sourced dishes. The smoked cashew mac is a must-try.

Oh My Soul

Featuring a full plant-based vegan menu, Oh My Soul reflects the owners’ South African heritage through unique dishes. The Gatsby sandwich, available in spicy ‘Durbanite’ or ‘Capetonian’ styles, provides a delightful experience. The spacious courtyard offers a calming atmosphere away from the bustling North Davidson Street.

Optimist Hall

Optimist Hall delivers an array of international food options, featuring various vendors showcasing delights from empañadas to eastern Mediterranean specialties, all enjoyed in relaxed indoor and courtyard settings.

NoDa Brewing

A mainstay of the Charlotte brewery scene, NoDa Brewing is known for its extensive range of year-round and seasonal beers, highlighted by “Hop Drop N’ Roll,” an award-winning IPA that has delighted many craft beer enthusiasts.

Birdsong Brewing

Birdsong Brewing offers a unique beer selection, renowned for its Jalapeño Pale Ale—definitely a flavor to experience. Enjoy a pint in a friendly atmosphere and consider timing your visit for their small-batch THURSty THURSday events.

Plaza Midwood

Located on the east side of Charlotte, Plaza Midwood is celebrated for its casual bars, distinctive shops, restaurants, and local breweries. Its popularity soared when Mick Jagger’s 2021 visit to the Thirsty Beaver pub gained viral attention.

Legion Brewing

Legion Brewing has been integral to the Plaza Midwood scene since 2015, offering a wide selection of beers and an extensive food menu, making it a popular gathering place.

Resident Culture

Beloved by local beer enthusiasts, Resident Culture features brews infused with neighborhood flair. The weekly Food Truck Friday from mid-March to mid-November provides excellent food and live music alongside their hop-forward beers.

Celebrating Charlotte Food

Charlotte Restaurant Week, “The Queen’s Feast,” occurs twice a year, highlighting the best dining experiences in the area. For ten days in January and July, various restaurants showcase three-course prix-fixe menus.

A Taste of Charlotte (usually the last weekend of September) allows visitors to sample favorite dishes from over 20 local restaurants in one vibrant location at Uptown’s Truist Field, home of the Charlotte Knights.

Explore Charlotte’s Culinary Scene: Unique Flavors and Craft Beers

Exploring Charlotte’s Culinary Delights