Charlotte is now the rising city, not only in population but also in culinary options, from Southern-inspired comfort food to upscale international cuisine – the Queen City has them all. Here’s our guide to the top 25 best restaurants in Charlotte, catering to all tastes, budgets, and dining preferences.
Table of Contents
1. Kindred
Located in Davidson, just outside Charlotte
- Known for: Homemade milk bread and seasonally inspired dishes
- Vibe: Chic, with a warm and inviting ambiance
2. The Fig Tree Restaurant
- Known for: Upscale American cuisine with French and Italian influences
- Vibe: Romantic, set in a historic Craftsman bungalow
3. Good Food on Montford
- Known for: Small plates with international flavors
- Vibe: Lively atmosphere, ideal for sharing and trying multiple dishes
4. Haberdish
- Known for: Southern comfort food and craft cocktails
- Vibe: Casual, with a nostalgic Southern touch
5. Barrington’s
- Known for: New American cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients
- Vibe: Cozy and intimate, perfect for a romantic dinner
6. Leah & Louise
- Known for: Modern Southern-inspired dishes
- Vibe: Stylish with a soulful twist, paying homage to Memphis roots
7. Haymaker
- Known for: Farm-to-table dishes inspired by Southern cuisine
- Vibe: Rustic yet sophisticated, with views of Romare Bearden Park
8. Bardo
- Known for: Contemporary small plates and creative presentations
- Vibe: Minimalistic and modern, perfect for adventurous foodies
9. Soul Gastrolounge
- Known for: Sushi, tapas, and inventive cocktails
- Vibe: Hip and lively, with rooftop views
10. Noble Smoke
- Known for: Authentic Southern barbecue
- Vibe: Casual, with a retro-industrial design
11. Lang Van
- Known for: Vietnamese favorites like pho and vermicelli bowls
- Vibe: Cozy, family-friendly, and unpretentious
12. Mizu
- Known for: Japanese-inspired coastal cuisine
- Vibe: Sleek, with an airy atmosphere and rooftop views
13. Futo Buta
- Known for: Ramen and Japanese-inspired small plates
- Vibe: Casual, with an edgy vibe along the light rail
14. Steak 48
- Known for: Prime steaks and seafood in a luxury setting
- Vibe: Upscale, ideal for a special night out
15. Optimist Hall
- Known for: Eclectic food stalls and eateries
- Vibe: Vibrant and social, with options for every taste
16. The Crunkleton
- Known for: Creative cocktails and upscale bar food
- Vibe: Speakeasy-style, with a nostalgic flair
17. Lincoln Street Kitchen & Cocktails
- Known for: Seasonal small plates and craft cocktails
- Vibe: Laid-back yet refined
18. Fin & Fino
- Known for: Fresh seafood and an expansive oyster selection
- Vibe: Coastal-inspired, with a touch of luxury
19. Sea Level NC
- Known for: Farm-to-table seafood and sustainable practices
- Vibe: Modern, with a welcoming atmosphere
20. Peppervine
- Known for: Artfully plated American cuisine with international influences
- Vibe: Sophisticated yet approachable, with an art-centric décor
21. Supreme Taco Truck
- Known for: Authentic Mexican tacos and street food
- Vibe: Casual and family-friendly, with fast service
22. 300 East
- Known for: Comfort food classics with a twist
- Vibe: Cozy and inviting, with a homey feel in a restored building
23. Las Margaritas
- Known for: Bold Mexican dishes and margaritas
- Vibe: Festive and relaxed
24. The Asbury
- Known for: Modern Southern cuisine in a historic setting
- Vibe: Casual elegance, with a focus on local ingredients
25. Stagioni
- Known for: Italian-inspired seasonal cuisine
- Vibe: Elegant, with a charming and romantic ambiance
Each of these restaurants embodies the lively culture and creativity found best restaurants in Charlotte and its culinary environment. From fine dining to casual eateries, Charlotte has many that bring flavors from all parts of the world with deep Southern roots. This list is one any local or visitor will remember dining in the Queen City.
