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Eat your way through Charlotte’s diverse food halls

From Southern cuisine to international favorites, Charlotte’s food scene is smothered and covered with tasty eats within eight food halls across the city.

A two-story dining area with round lights, displaying names of tenants.

The warm interior of The Alley is all thanks to the skylight, providing a view of Charlotte’s highrises.

Photo by CLTtoday

Charlotte’s food halls are packed with global flavors, community vibes, and local talent under one roof. From Spanish-inspired croquettas to sushi burritos, there’s a dish to satisfy any craving.

Let’s dig into these eight locally driven halls — all located within a 45-minute drive of the Queen City.

Optimist Hall | 1115 N. Brevard St. | Diners will find 20+ food stalls, craft cocktails, beer, and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating at this revitalized textile mill-turned-food emporium. We love the pork + chives dumplings from The Dumpling Lady.

Monarch Market | One Independence Center | Use the walk-up window to order from Kick’s Deli + hang at the outdoor cocktail bar or covered patio. Inside, you’ll find 11 vendors, five event spaces, and two additional bars.

A food hall with three rectangular communal tables and food stalls lining the back wall.

Dining at The Market at 7th Street’s communal tables, you never know who you’ll meet over lunch.

Photo by CLTtoday

The Market at 7th Street | 224 E. 7th St. | This dining hall serves as a nonprofit incubator for emerging chefs, restaurateurs, and artisans.

Urban District Market | 2315 N. Davidson St. | UDM boasts 10 food stalls and a large market, indoor and outdoor seating, a play area for children inside, greenway access, and free parking.

The Alley at Latta Arcade | 320 S. Tryon St. | Boasting views of Uptown’s skyscrapers, this historic landmark was renovated to become a community hub in the heart of Uptown. Keep your eyes peeled — Manaki, Jean’s Cold Drinks, and La Bonbonniere Bakery are expected to open this year.

A cup of boba tea next to dumplings, a bao bun, and other Asian food items.

Try various vendors when visiting Alley 51 — it’s the right way to go.

Photo by CLTtoday

Alley 51 | 10500 Centrum Pkwy., Pineville | Located within Super G Mart, this expansive food court serves an eclectic mix of street foods from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

The Power House | 378 Technology Center Way, Rock Hill, SC | This former 1929 electric factory is now a one-stop shop for food, drinks, events, and apartments.

Gibson Mill Market | 305 McGill Ave. NW, Ste. 200 | Beyond its various dining options, visitors can sip from two craft breweries + visit a classic car showroom and shop from The Depot Antique Mall.

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