Looking for the next new restaurant hitting the Queen City’s food scene? Check out these buzzy places to eat and drink in Charlotte — plus, what’s coming soon. Keep tabs on this list to stay ahead of the culinary curve. And don’t forget to bookmark it.
July Openings
Spaghett, 224 W. 10th St. | Italian
Savor fresh craft pastas — like bucatini or gnocchi — and cocktails within Charlotte’s historic Young Morrison House.
Milkshake Factory, 100 W. 3rd St., Ste. A | Ice cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with thick milkshakes with made-from-scratch ice cream and chocolates. Pro tip: All the milkshakes can be made dairy-free.
McHale’s Irish Pub, 3112 N. Davidson St. | Irish pub
Lovers of this returning pub can expect eight beers on tap, Irish whiskeys, and a mix of American and Irish cuisine like shepherd’s pie and fish and chips.
Surefire Market, Camp North End | Burgers
Diners can expect indoor and outdoor seating + an elevated, yet cozy atmosphere.
Toppers Pizza, 3061 N. Sharon Amity Rd. | Pizza
Pizza lovers can get their fill of made-to-order pies, garlic knots, “Topperstix,” and custard at the chain’s third Charlotte location.
Henrietta’s, 117 Southside Dr. | Italian
The restaurant from the team behind Rally features a menu designed by Customshop’s Andres Kaifer — expect to order carpaccio, burrata, ribeye, and pastas.
Jeff’s Bagel Run, 2130 Ayrsley Town Blvd., Ste. A | Bagels
The bagel shop serves up 15+ varieties of bagels, spreads, and coffee.
June openings
Harper’s Cafe, 9101 Pineville-Matthews Rd., Ste. I, Pineville | American
No need to miss the former Harper’s Restaurant in SouthPark — this new iteration of the longstanding restaurant serves breakfast and lunch, offering favorites like chicken supremes and Betty’s pimento cheese.
Oh My Ganache, 270 Camp Rd., Ste. 103 | Dessert
Satisfy your sweet tooth at this build-your-own cheesecake bar with house-crafted drinks.
Super Chix, 4223 Providence Rd., Ste. A | Chicken
There’s something gratifying about a fried chicken sandwich, sweet tea, and frozen custard.
The People’s Market, 2820 Selwyn Ave. | American
Sit inside or on the patio while ordering favorites like coffees, pastries, sandwiches, pizzas, plus wine and beer.
Yafo Kitchen, 15105 John J. Delaney Dr., Ste. J | Mediterranean
Marking its fourth location in the Queen City, order classic menu items like shawarma, homemade hummus, falafel, kabobs, and chicken plates.
Seemingly Overzealous, 224 East. Blvd. | Dessert
This popular ice cream shop churns out egg-, dairy-, and gluten-free flavors, plus waffle chips and cones — perfect for a hot summer day.
Painted Rooster, 1601 Central Ave. | American
Sample buckets of chicken, salads, and drinks. The restaurant claims to have the best ranch in Charlotte... we’ll let you be the judge.
Sammy Hagar’s Beach Bar & Grill, Concourse D at CLT Douglas International Airport | American
Sip refreshing mango margaritas while enjoying quesadillas, burgers, and rocking music between flights.
Mooyah Burgers, Fries, and Shakes, 210 E. Trade St. | Burgers
Savor made-to-order Angus beef burgers, hand-cut fries, handcrafted ice cream shakes, and vegetarian options from this Texas-based chain.
Cara’s Cookie Company, Camp North End | Cookies
This family-run cookie catering business serves half-pound cookies in a baker’s dozen, cookie push pops, edible cookie dough, and cookie decorating kits.
Tyber Creek Pub, 1501 S. Mint St. | Pub
Open seven days a week, the newly reopened Charlotte staple has a fish and chips truck on site + salads, charcuterie, flatbreads, and more.
Did we miss a restaurant that opened in June? Let us know.
May openings
Leluia Hall, 1829 Cleveland Ave. | Surf and turf
The highly-anticipated restaurant by Jeff Tonidandel and Jamie Brown serves steak and seafood, plus features a raw bar, wine cellar, and a cocktail bar. Take a look at CLTtoday’s taste of the new restaurant’s menu.
Juice Box, 2020 Beatties Ford Rd. | Juice
Known for all-natural juices and smoothies, the brand new shop offers juices, smoothies, salads, and oxygen therapy.
Al-Basha Halal Grill, 1730 Abbey Pl. | Mediterranean
Order mouth-watering favorites like hummus and falafel, char-grilled chicken, lamb shanks, and shawarma.
Fontana di Vino, 4905 Ashley Park Ln., | Italian
Guests will find a menu packed with Italian staples like spaghetti pomodoro, butternut squash ravioli, plus a curated wine list and mozzarella bar.
The Pub at Uptown, 500 West Trade St., Ste. 104 | Pub
The site formerly know as The Pub At Gateway dishes an upgraded menu, premium cocktails, and an expanded bourbon list. Pro tip: Try the Ultimate Burger Wrap.
Whataburger, 3415 E. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia | Burgers
Savor breakfast biscuits, hamburgers, and milkshakes from this Texas chain.
Soma Bistro, 2015 E. Arbors Dr., Ste. 270 | Indian Fusion
Get your fill of curry, biryani, samosas, dosa, and Indo-Chinese fusion bowls.
April openings
The Imperial Treasure, 14815 Ballantyne Village Wy. Ste. 250 | Chinese
Savor a long menu of dim sum, roast duck, and flavorful stir-fry.
Anatolia Cafe & Cuisine, 1520 Overland Park Ln., Ste. 107 | Mediterranean
Your stomach will thank you after ordering Turkish flatbread, kebabs, and coffee at this cozy cafe.
Sorellina Pasta Co., 2341 The Plaza | Italian
Order a plate of fresh pasta using local and imported specialty meats, cheeses, and olive oil from Italy.
Paco’s Tacos and Tequila, 1328 Broadcloth St., Ste. 102, Fort Mill, SC | Tacos
Your senses will be aflame when surrounded by wood-fired grilled fajitas, cheesy enchiladas, and house-made flour tortillas + over 130 varieties of tequila — becoming one of the largest selections in the Carolinas.
Burton’s Grill & Bar, 8908 Lindholm Dr., Ste. A | American
Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, salad, or fresh seafood, this restaurant has something for everyone.
Mezzo Market, 2212 The Plaza | Mediterranean
Enjoy lunch or dinner at the market, with pizza, tapas, and craft cocktails — then pick up frozen meals and dried pastas to take home.
Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, 9904 Sandy Rock Place, Ste. F | Fast-casual
Craving lobster rolls? Look no further than this restaurant serving five kinds of rolls + mac and cheese, lobster bisque, and salads.
Sushi Taku, 1300 South Blvd. | Sushi
This restaurant boasts a full, all-you-can-eat lunch and dinner menu featuring nigiri, shrimp lollipops, and signature rolls.
Did we miss a restaurant that opened in April? Let us know.
March openings
Kaya Gastrolounge, 102 Davis St., Belmont | Tapas
Savor a small-plates-style menu, inspired by Caribbean, African, and French cuisines.
Bar One Lounge, 222 S. Church St. | Elevated American | Reservations
Visit this upscale lounge in Uptown serving cocktails, wine, small bites, and live entertainment.
Hilltop Coffee, 10227 Mallard Creek Rd. | Coffee
Start your day with your favorite coffee, flavored syrup, and fresh pastries.
Mazi, 1300 South Blvd. | Mediterranean | Reservations
Come hungry to South End’s new dish, serving small plates paired with fine spirits.
Everest Bistro, 2910 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Rd., Ste. A-B | Indian
Savor the flavors of India and Nepal by sampling Samosas, Chana Masala, and Hot Garlic Momo.
Yassou Greek, 1039 Providence Rd. | Greek
Family recipes inspired this gem — order specialty items like tzatziki, saganaki, moussaka, and lamb burgers.
Ilios Crafted Greek, 4000 Monroe Rd., Ste. 120 | Greek
Visit Ilios’ fourth Charlotte location for salads, Chicken Souvla, Spinach and Feta Pie, and Baklava.
Blinders Sports Lounge, 225 W. Tremont Ave. | Sports lounge
Prepare to watch your favorite team on the massive Jumbotron-like screen while ordering flatbreads, sliders, and craft cocktails. Cheer on your team.
Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar, SouthPark Mall | Seafood
Split your shopping time with savoring coconut shrimp, salads, tacos, burgers, or picture-perfect cocktails. Check out the space.
Legends Ice Cream & Churros, 5708 Sharon Amity Rd. | Dessert
Satisfy your sweet tooth with towering ice cream treats, churros, and agua frescas.
La Lima Sangucheria, 131 E. Park Ave. | Peruvian
Savor sandwiches with bread imported from Spain, salads, bowls, and empanadas from this fast-casual Peruvian spot.
Clark’s Snack Bar, 3001 Central Ave. | Fast-casual
From the kitchen behind the favorites at The Good Wurst, order a fresh-made sausage, burger, or Montreal-style bagel any day of the week.
Did we miss a restaurant that opened in March? Let us know.
February openings
Wheatberry Bakeshop, 1425 Winnifred St., Ste. 105 | Bakery
Savor fresh cakes, bread, and pastries from this small, European-style bakery.
Coffee Republic, 500 W. Trade St. | Coffee
Take a break from your work day to grab coffee, pastries, or tea at this shop — just one block away from Truist Field.
Papi Ricko Latin Kitchen and Lounge, 1226 Central Ave. | Latin-Asian fusion
This colorful spot in Plaza Midwood serves a full menu of tacos, burgers, and cocktails, plus live music and dancing.
Knowledge Perk Coffee Co., The Alley at Latta Arcade | Coffee
Visit this small-batch shop inside The Alley, serving hot and cold coffees and teas.
Waterbean Coffee, 423 E. 36 St. |Coffee
Sip on pour over coffees, French press, espresso, macarons, and ice cream.
Pizzeria Sapienza, 2212 Park Rd. | Pizza
Feast on mouthwatering garlic bread, wings, subs, and pizza (by the slice or a whole pie).
Vavela Cafe, 40 E. McCullough Dr. | Coffee
This new Turkish coffee shop offers fresh espresso and filtered coffees + paninis, cake, croissants, and Turkish Delights.
Nazo’s Mediterranean Bowls & Salads, 8318 Pineville-Matthews Rd., Ste. 710 | Mediterranean
Order generously-portioned bowls and salads with a Turkish flair.
North Italia, Birkdale Village | Italian | Reservations
Feast on fresh pastas, pizzas, and more at the newest location of this Italian-inspired eatery.
Did we miss a restaurant that opened in February? Let us know.
January openings
Finale Pizza, 15025 Lancaster Hwy. | Pizza
Savor New York-style pizza and fresh pasta with authentic Italian cheese and ingredients.
Rada, 2820 Selwyn Ave., Ste. 180 | European
Guests at this Myers Park restaurant can savor tapas, wine, and shareable plates with European flare.
Qahwah House, 1318 Pecan Ave., Ste. 101 | Coffee
This coffee shop serves fresh pastries and coffee sourced directly from Yemen. Pro tip: Order a Sabaya with honey on top and your taste buds will thank you.
Tacos 4 Life Dilworth, 1716 Kenilworth Ave., Ste. 150 | Tacos
Enjoy items like fried chicken, blackened mahi-mahi, or Hawaiian shrimp tacos + for every meal purchased, a meal is donated to a child in need. Feast your eyes.
El Veneno, Monarch Market | Tacos
Why wait for this food truck favorite when you can visit their food stall at Uptown’s dining hub?
Que Fresa Taqueria + Bar, 530 S. College St. | Tacos
The spot’s second location is located in Uptown + serves loaded taquitos, birria rolls, street tacos, bowls, and cocktails. Check out opening day.
Babaloo Coffee Club, 1425 Winnifred St., Ste. 117 | Coffee
A cozy coffee shop serving empanadas, freddo cap, and matcha.
The Wafflery, 1020 E. 10th St., Ste. 3 | Breakfast
After three months of unexpected closures, the breakfast hub serving large waffles, grits, and biscuits is welcoming diners with brunch hours.
Dogwood: A Southern Table, 601 S. College St., Ste. 1829 | Elevated Southern
This highly anticipated restaurant by Jon Dressler serves Southern classics like Duck & Dumplings, Baked Pimento Cheese, and a Tomahawk Pork Chop.
Did we miss a restaurant that opened in January? Let us know.
Coming soon
Mama’s Comfort Food & Cocktails, 4271 Park Rd. | Comfort food | Projected opening: June 2025
The California-based restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including fried chicken, homemade meatloaf, and mac and cheese.
ESO Artisanal Pasta, Optimist Hall | Italian | Projected opening: Aug. 8
The food stall will offer handmade pastas, in addition to arancini (fried risotto balls), meatballs, and Sicilian fried chicken, using ingredients imported from Italy.
Soul Gastrolounge, 4110 Raleigh Ave. | Tapas
The new iteration of this beloved Plaza Midwood spot will be found in NoDA, serving their famous pork belly tacos, small bites, cocktails, live music, and a tattoo lounge coming soon.
Ace No. 3, 101 S. Tryon St., Ste. 120 | Burgers | Projected opening: September 2025
This will be the burger joint’s fourth location and first new restaurant since 2021.
Sala, 715 Providence Rd. | Wine and small bites | Projected opening: Spring or Summer 2025
This new neighborhood wine bar will offer a small snack program featuring marinated olives, stuffed piquillo peppers, cured meats and cheeses, plus spreads like cauliflower purée and hummus.
PopUp Bagels, 14020 Stream Way, Ste. 113 | Bagels | Projected opening: Summer 2025
The viral, top-ranked New York-style bagel restaurant plans to serve its “Grip, Rip and Dip bagels,” and signature cream cheeses.
Dilworth Neighborhood Grille, Baxter Village, Fort Mill | American | Projected opening: August 2025
Diners can expect menu favorites like burgers, tacos, and pizza.
King of Fire, 117 N. Main St. Clover, SC | Pizza | Projected opening: Summer 2025
Savor award-winning pizzas, salad, and more from this new fine-dining destination.
Brunches, Oakhurst Commons| Brunch | Projected opening: Summer 2025
This Wilmington, NC-staple serves up mimosa flights and favorites like Chicken and Waffles.
Bennie’s Coffee House, 1431 Elizabeth Ave. | Projected opening: September 2025
Prepare to order fresh coffees, lattes, and lunch at this new spot near Central Piedmont Community College.
The Scoop N Scootery Charlotte, 2135 Thrift Rd., Ste. 103 Ice cream | Projected opening: August 2025
Satisfy your sweet tooth by ordering ice cream, sundaes, frozen yogurt, and more at this late-night spot.
Sharigato, 420 E. 22nd St. | Sushi | Projected opening: Fall 2025
Guests will be able to watch chefs and robots craft made-to-order hand rolls.
South Block, Ballantyne + Plaza Midwood | Smoothie bowls | Projected openings: Fall 2025
The award-winning shop serves made-to-order smoothies, acai bowls, toasts, and cold-pressed juices.
Still hungry for more? Dig deeper through our food news.
