30 best restaurants in Charlotte, right now
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L'Ostrica in Montford. Photo: McKenzie Rankin/Axios
Anonymous Michelin Guide Inspectors have been touring restaurants across the Southern region over the last year. So have we — at least in Charlotte.
Why it matters: Our annual Best Restaurants list celebrates Charlotte's greatest dining establishments, from comforting hole-in-the-wall mainstays to trendy newcomers.
- Charlotte's dining scene is ambitious. The city is still seeking its first James Beard award but is also now setting its sights on a Michelin star.
Our methodology: We dined at every establishment on this list more than once, and we always pay our way.
- Restaurants must be open for at least a year to be considered. They must also be locally owned (no chains allowed) and located in the city of Charlotte.
The bottom line: We're not saying every restaurant on this list is Michelin Star-worthy. Some might be; readers and local chefs agree.
- All of these local gems deliver in quality of food, service and vibes, with quality of food being the most important barometer.
No. 1: L'Ostrica
An approachable tasting menu restaurant that welcomes culinary thrill-seekers and picky eaters alike. Owners Cat Carter and chef Eric Ferguson opened L'Ostrica in 2023, and it has since risen through Charlotte's restaurant rankings for its high-class service, evolving menu and welcoming atmosphere.
Why we love it: With its seasonal tasting menu, craft cocktail program and chef's market, L'Ostrica is the kind of place you can go to for a quick drink, fancy night out, or lunch to go.
Dig in: For $110 per person, try the five-course tasting menu, or $175 for 10 courses. Each dish is crafted with seasonal ingredients and features a range of global culinary influences, including Italian, Korean, Japanese and French.
Pro tip: For a more casual dining experience, sit at the bar and order à la carte. Dishes range from a $5 focaccia and olive oil to a $75 caviar service.
- Check out the Chef's Market, located inside the restaurant, for fresh salads, pasta, dips, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages to go.
Stop by: 4701 Park Road in the Montford area.
No. 2: Yunta
This Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant has top-tier service and a big-city atmosphere. If your friends are visiting from out of town, especially if they're from abroad, this is a must-visit. Reservations are necessary.
Why we love it: It's just so cool. And, more importantly, consistent. It's no wonder that reservations are still hard to get three years after it opened.
Dig in: The menu is divided into 10 categories, ranging from bites ($6-$15) and ceviche ($16-$38) to maki rolls ($16-$19) and "The Wok" ($16-$27). Don't leave without trying the tiger's milk ceviche ($22).
Pro tip: For a more relaxed dinner, consider making a weekday reservation. On weekends, a live DJ sets the tone for a more lively night.
Stop by: 2201 South Blvd. in South End.
No. 3: Albertine
This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant is a shift from other favorites by Joe and Katy Kindred, such as Hello, Sailor, Milkbread and Kindred.
Why we love it: The dining experience is elegant and cosmopolitan. It's the kind of place you take someone you want to impress.
Dig in: The seasonal menu features unique Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a Southern twist. Start with a dip from the Meze section, like the whipped feta ($7), share an appetizer ($14-$32), or pasta dish ($29-$37), and make room for something from the grill, like the hanger steak frites ($46).
Pro tip: Albertine offers free three-hour validation parking in the Duke Energy Plaza Building.
Stop by: 525 S Tryon St. in Uptown
No. 4: Customshop
This sophisticated yet laid-back restaurant has been a staple in Elizabeth for nearly 20 years.
Why we love it: Whether you're dressed to the nines or keeping it relaxed, it's the kind of spot that suits any occasion, with a menu that offers something for everyone.
Dig in: The seasonal menu relies on ingredients from local farms. But the burrata and flan are mainstays for a reason, and you can't go wrong with a comforting pasta dish.
Stop by: 1601 Elizabeth Ave.
What we're watching: Chef-owner Andres Kaifer is designing the menu for the upcoming LoSo restaurant Henrietta's. He and Customshop co-owner Alex Bridges are also opening a wine bar in Dilworth called Emmy Lou's.
No. 5: Restaurant Constance
Owner-chef Sam Diminich opened this restaurant a mile from where he was once experiencing homelessness and named it after his daughter.
Why we love it: "With only 36 seats, the intimate design feels like you're dining among friends or part of something special," Axios' McKenzie Rankin writes.
Dig in: Because of the nature of the farm-to-table restaurant, the menu changes often. On a recent visit, we tried the red wine braised beef short ribs ($45), cashew hummus bowl ($18) and a chocolate miso tart ($15).
Pro tip: Due to the limited space and high demand, your reservation is limited to 90 minutes.
Stop by: 2200 Thrift Road in West Charlotte.
No. 6: Counter-
An interactive fine-dining experience by James Beard Award finalist chef Sam Hart.
Why we love it: Dining at Counter- is a full-sensory experience. As chefs craft each course in the open kitchen, you're not just watching — you're listening, too, as Hart shares stories ranging from Carolina agriculture to hip-hop history. Think of this experience like purchasing tickets to a performance.
Dig in: Its menu is constantly evolving with new themes, such as the Titanic, Drive-Thru and Here & Now.
Pro tip: The whole experience lasts about three hours.
- Prepaid reservations range from $100 to $225 for a 7- to 14-course meal.
Stop by: 2001 W Morehead St. in west Charlotte.
What we're watching: Hart is behind two highly anticipated restaurants: Spaghett, an Italian restaurant in a historic Uptown home, will open July 11. Maneki, a robatayaki food stand, will open at the Alley at Latta Arcade in Uptown later this year.
No. 7: Bird Pizzeria
Some of the best pizza in the country, per the New York Times (and us). This year, Barstool Sports' CEO Dave Portnoy stopped by and gave it a "One Bite" score of 7.8 and called it his "favorite pizza" in Charlotte.
Why we love it: Despite recent accolades, Bird started as a literal hole-in-the-wall. Its dining room opened last year with a bigger menu, but you can still order from the takeout window.
Dig in: Bird specializes in what owner Kerrel Thompson describes as gourmet East Coast-style pizza.
Pro tip: Bird is open Wednesday-Sunday. Space is limited and reservations are necessary.
- Plan ahead for takeout and order at least a day in advance, then head over to Substrate next door to enjoy your 14" pie with a glass of wine.
Stop by: 510 E. 15th St. in Optimist Park
No. 8: Stagioni
Modern take on classic Italian dishes by chef-owner Bruce Moffett, of Good Food on Montford and Barrington's.
Why we love it: Dining at Stagioni is like stepping into an Italian villa. It's always packed with a crowd that ranges from business owners making deals to soccer moms on a girls' night out. Whether it's your first date or anniversary, this spot will impress.
Dig in: Consider ordering a pasta dish and pizza to share. You'll be given a pair of pizza scissors to cut your pie — it's fun.
Stop by: 715 Providence Road in Myers Park.
No. 9: Supperland
This Southern steakhouse inside a remodeled historic church is the brainchild of local restaurateurs Jeff Tonidandel and Jamie Brown — the duo behind Ever Andalo, Growlers Pourhouse, Reigning Doughnuts and Haberdish.
Why we love it: It's made for special occasions. The service is impeccable, the ambiance is unforgettable and the food is consistently exceptional.
Dig in: Top off your steak ($73-$120) with a poached lobster tail (MP) for a little surf-and-turf action. And you can't go wrong with any of the sides, but we recommend the miso mac and cheese and wood-oven Brussels sprouts.
Pro tip: Below Supperland's cocktail bar is a speakeasy that offers themed tasting menus for about $160 per person.
- Brunch seatings available Saturday and Sunday, 10am-2pm. The brunch buffet is $65 per person, not including tax, tip or drinks.
Stop by: 1212 The Plaza in Plaza Midwood.
What we're watching: Tonidandel and Brown recently opened Leluia Hall in Dilworth, a surf-and-turf restaurant inside another historic church.
No. 10: Menya Daruma
Touted by food lovers and local chefs alike, this noodle counter in Elizabeth offers a taste of superb Japanese cuisine.
Why we love it: It's affordable, delicious and authentic.
Dig in: You'll find Japanese comfort food in the form of handmade noodle dishes like ramen and soba.
Pro tip: Hidden inside Menya is a speakeasy-style Japanese tasting menu restaurant called Kappo En. The tasting menu starts at $185 and includes about 16-18 courses. Reservations are necessary for the 10-seat omakase dinner.
Stop by: 1941 E 7th St.
No. 11: DŌZO
Tucked behind dividers inside a ghost kitchen, you'll find this Japanese-American food counter, which seats up to 12 people. This hidden gem is from the team behind the Katsu Kart Sando Shop food truck.
Why we love it: "This spot is a (delicious) reminder that Japanese cuisine goes far beyond sushi," Axios McKenzie Rankin writes.
Dig in: The menu, rooted in Japanese comfort food staples like crab fried rice and okonomiyaki (a savory cabbage pancake with pork belly), is playfully fused with American flavors — like the Hot Honey Chicken Karaage, served with a Japanese-style ranch.
- The okonomiyaki ($21) and crab fried rice ($25) are two large, shareable dishes that also make for good leftovers.
Pro tip: DŌZO is primarily a takeout spot due to its limited space. But it's worth stopping by for a sit-down meal during lunch or dinner.
Stop by: 2200 Thrift Road inside City Kitch in west Charlotte.
No. 12: Chapter 6
Mediterranean restaurant with shareable plates located right off the light rail.
Why we love it: It's a can't-miss spot for large groups that enjoy sharing and aren't afraid to try new dishes.
Dig in: Chapter 6's menu features cuisine from six different regions in the western Mediterranean, including Spain, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, France, and Italy. Expect pasta, fresh seafood and seasonal produce.
Pro tip: Chapter 6 is in the heart of South End, so take a stroll down the light rail before or after dinner.
Stop by: 2151 Hawkins St.
No. 13: Calle Sol
Café and cevicheria by local restaurateur Frank Scibelli, of Mama Ricotta's, Midwood Smokehouse, and Paco's Tacos & Tequila, among others.
Why we love it: It's consistent and inexpensive, with large portions and great vibes.
Dig in: There's a variety of Latin flavors, from traditional Cuban dishes to Peruvian ceviche. We recommend the Cuban fried rice ($16).
Pro tip: Calle Sol's cafeteria menu is a great bang for your buck. For $11, you get one entrée and two sides. It's available at the Plaza Midwood location from 11am-3pm on weekdays.
Stop by: 1205 Thomas Ave. in Plaza Midwood and 3100 Apex Dr. in SouthPark.
No. 14: El Puro Cuban Restaurant
Cuban restaurant by the family behind Havana Carolina in Concord.
Why we love it: Owned by a family of Cuban immigrants, El Puro transports you back to pre-revolutionary 1950s Cuba. They have live music and regularly host salsa lessons.
Dig in: Expect modern takes on typical Cuban cuisine. The ropa vieja, for example, is made with shredded brisket, creole sauce and congrí rice.
Pro tip: Visit during one of its "Havana Affair" themed nights, where you'll find live music, freshly rolled cigars, dominoes, and a whole roast pork "en caja China."
Stop by: 5033 South Blvd. in Madison Park.
No. 15: Omakase experience by Prime Fish
Chef-owner Robin Anthony has built a culinary empire across the city, showcasing Japanese delicacies — from a gourmet market and bottle shop to Omakase experiences, including Yakitori tastings.
Why we love it: The restaurant seats only six people, creating an intimate dining experience with plenty of one-on-one time with chef Anthony, who prepares everything in front of you.
- Plus, you'll get to try rare delicacies imported weekly from Japan, from rare Bafun Uni to Yubari King Muskmelon.
Dig in: A 10-course lunch menu at the Omakase Experience in Providence Park is available for reservation only for $150 per person.
- Dinner reservations for the 16-course menu start at $300 per person.
Pro tip: Visit the original Prime Fish location in Ballantyne for equally fresh ingredients in a more casual setting.
Stop by: 2907 Providence Road in Providence Park.
No. 16: New Zealand Cafe
Some of the freshest sushi in town is served at this inviting restaurant located in a shopping center off Sardis Road.
Why we love it: "If you order enough when you dine as a group, you can enjoy your rolls from a large sushi boat," Axios' Alexis Clinton writes.
Dig in: The extensive menu ranges from classic sashimi and nigiri to ornate, artfully crafted sushi boats and bento boxes.
Stop by: 1717 Sardis Road N. in Sardis Woods.
Go deeper: 20 best sushi restaurants in Charlotte
No. 17: Ever Andalo
Upscale Italian restaurant with a romantic setting by local restaurateurs Jeff Tonidandel and Jamie Brown.
Why we love it: The creative pasta dishes and large selection of Italian wines.
Dig in: The menu showcases a blend of Northern Italian traditions with a twist, using fresh ingredients and thoughtful pairings.
- Save room for dessert and share the cannoli.
Pro tip: Street parking is limited; we recommend Uber or Lyft.
Stop by: 3116 N. Davidson St. in NoDa.
No. 18: The Fig Tree
White tablecloth, fine dining staple inside a renovated 1913 Craftsman-style bungalow.
Why we love it: Husband-and-wife duo Greg and Sara Zanitsch opened The Fig Tree in 2005 after restoring the historic Lucas House in Elizabeth.
- "The Fig Tree exudes a special occasion, whether that's a wedding anniversary, celebrating an engagement, or a kindergarten graduation," Axios' Ashley Mahoney writes.
Dig in: The elk chop ($58) has been on the menu for roughly 15 years.
- The wine selection is as thick as a bible and has by-the-bottle and glass options.
Pro tip: Expect to spend three figures on dinner for two.
Stop by: 1601 E 7th St.
No. 19: Barrington's
A high-end new American restaurant that helped establish Charlotte's culinary scene.
Why we love it: "Barrington's works for a range of occasions: dinner with grandparents, a date night, or a dinner with friends. The atmosphere is polished but not flashy — it's clear the focus is on the food rather than looking like the trendiest spot in town. The service is attentive, but not rushed," Axios' McKenzie Rankin writes.
Dig in: The Springer Mountain Farms chicken ($35) has been on the menu for more than 20 years — "for a reason," our server pointed out.
Pro tip: The featured four-course dinner comes with your choice of an appetizer, pasta, entree and dessert for $115 per person.
Stop by: 7822 Fairview Road in SouthPark.
No. 20: Fin & Fino
Seafood, small plates and a fun cocktail program by local restaurateur Jon Dressler, of The Porter's House, Dressler's and Chapter 6, among others.
Why we love it: You'll find some of the best seafood in Charlotte here.
Dig in: Splurge on "The Treatment" for $70. It's a chef-driven tour of the entire menu, and $5 goes to charity.
Pro tip: Guests who visit Fin & Fino on Mondays can receive a free dozen oysters if they surrender their cell phones.
Stop by: 135 Levine Avenue of the Arts in Uptown and 8630 Lindholm Dr. in Huntersville.
No. 21: Sun's Kitchen
Sun's is a ghost kitchen success story owned by Brian Sun and wife Mandy Kuang, who leads the authentic Chinese kitchen as head chef.
Why we love it: "They serve authentic Chinese dishes from different regions, not Americanized Chinese food," Axios' Alexis Clinton writes.
Dig in: Expect classic Chinese dishes from Beijing in the north to Sichuan in the Southwest, with an emphasis on street food and homestyle recipes.
Pro tip: If you're craving American Chinese food like sesame chicken, then this won't satisfy what you're looking for.
Stop by: 3216 South Blvd, in Lower South End.
No. 22: Beef N' Bottle
One of Charlotte's oldest institutions that has never wavered from what it's best at: making damn good steak.
Why we love it: "It's the type of place that doesn't need — and probably doesn't care — to be on this list. 65 years standing, and it's still packed on a Friday night," Axios' Alex Sands writes.
Dig in: We recently ordered the filet mignon, grilled shrimp, steak fries and a salad with house-made ranch for $63.
Pro tip: Wine is half off on Mondays.
Stop by: 4538 South Blvd. in Collingwood.
No. 23: Lang Van
Beloved Vietnamese restaurant that treats every customer like family.
Why we love it: This popular family-run restaurant has been serving the Charlotte community since 1990. It's consistent, inexpensive and the portions are massive.
Dig in: "If it's your first time having pho, they'll guide you to the pho dac biet, a huge bowl of beef soup with rice noodles," Axios' Emma Way writes.
Pro tip: Each summer, the restaurant closes down for about a month so the family can go on vacation. It'll close July 1-29, 2025.
Stop by: 3019 Shamrock Dr. in Shannon Park.
No. 24: Tacos El Nevado
If you're looking for authentic Mexican food in Charlotte, this is it.
Why we love it: "It's home to some of the best street tacos and quesadillas we've had in Charlotte," Axios' McKenzie Rankin writes.
Dig in: Try the Choriqueso (queso dip with chorizo, $7.25) and the chicken quesadilla ($9.99). Tacos are about $3 each.
Stop by: 4640 South Blvd. in Collingwood and 4715 Central Ave. in Windsor Park.
No. 25: Curry Gate
Curry Gate's fast-growing footprint in Charlotte has turned locals into lovers of Indian and Nepali cuisine across its locations on Graham Street, South Boulevard, Monarch Market and Matthews.
Why we love it: You can control your spice levels on a scale from 1-10 when you order.
Dig in: Everything is done well at Curry Gate, from the butter garlic naan ($4) to the tikka masala ($17) to our favorite, the samosa chaat ($14). Mouth on fire? Order a mango lassi ($5).
Stop by: Curry Gate 2 at 5516 South Blvd. has stellar dine-in service, as does its new Matthews location at 1240 Matthews-Mint Hill Road.
- For easy takeout, order from the original Curry Gate at 630 W. 24th St. or Monarch Market (101 N Tryon St.) in Uptown.
No. 26: Mama Ricotta's
Established for over 30 years, this Italian-American restaurant boasts a devoted following.
Why we love it: It's as consistent as your nonna's cooking.
Dig in: The Penne alla vodka ($20/$35) is one of the restaurant's most popular dishes, according to owner Frank Scibelli. It also has a reputation for inducing labor and is also referred to as "the inducer," as Charlotte magazine's Taylor Bowler recently wrote.
Pro tip: For a different experience but a similar menu, consider Little Mama's in SouthPark or Rea Farms.
Stop by: 601 South Kings Dr. in Midtown.
No. 27: Noble Smoke
Take your pick of Texas or Carolina barbecue at this family-friendly spot by Jim Noble, the restaurateur behind Rooster's and Bossy Beulah's.
Why we love it: It's the best BBQ joint in town, plus, good ol' Southern hospitality radiates from its servers.
Dig in: Order a bunch of meats and sides to share with the table. You can't go wrong with the beef brisket and the pulled BBQ chicken, available in quarter-, half- and one-pound quantities.
Pro tip: Stop by on Fridays and Saturdays during warmer months for live music on the patio.
Stop by: 2216 Freedom Dr. in Enderly Park and a food stall in Optimist Hall.
No. 28: Sea Grille
This white-tablecloth restaurant in Queen City Quarter, formerly the Epicentre, is a nice treat while on a night out in Uptown.
Why we love it: It's another fancy-night-out option in Uptown with internationally inspired dishes like the "Pasta Alla Routa" ($106), which is served tableside out of a wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Dig in: "You'll find an extensive, globally inspired menu — featuring it all from seafood and charcuterie towers to sashimi and sushi rolls to shareable surf and turf entrees — that'll leave all diners impressed with both the flavor and presentation," Axios' Alex Sands writes.
Stop by: 210 E Trade St. in Uptown.
No. 29: Spice
Late-night restaurant with a lounge feel.
Why we love it: It's a great pre- or post-game spot for Uptown events like basketball games or concerts.
Dig in: Expect international flavors in the form of small plates, like sushi ($16-$22), Korean chicken wings ($18), spicy chicken satay and sliced ribeye ($42).
Pro tip: The restaurant validates parking, but the garage can be difficult to exit. We recommend Uber or Lyft.
Stop by: 515 N Ellis Lane on the lower level of The Ellis apartment building.
No. 30: Crunkleton
Thanks to a new state law, the Crunkleton, which originally opened as a private club in 2019, is now officially considered a restaurant, landing it a spot on this list for the very first time.
Why we love it: The 1957 Hospitality Group, behind nearby and equally popular restaurants Rosemont and Puerta, excels in two things: cocktails and vibes.
Dig in: "Crunkleton's burger is one of the best in Charlotte. "A Really Good Burger" ($18) is the classic, but spring for the Wagyu Burger ($32) if you're feeling a little fancy," Axios' Katie Peralta Soloff writes.
Pro tip: Whiskey lovers should ask for a taste of their vintage bottles dating back to the 50s.
- The Tomahawk Steak ($180), featuring 42 ounces of bone-in ribeye, is a crowd favorite. It's half off on Tuesdays.
Stop by: 1957 E. 7th St. in Elizabeth
Flashback: Best restaurants from 2024 and 2023.
- Plus, go back through the archives of Charlotte's best new restaurants from 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017 and 2016. Our 2025 Best New Restaurants guide will be released in December.
Go deeper: Here's a list of the most anticipated restaurants and bars we're keeping an eye on.