4 Best Restaurants in Charlotte, North Carolina

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We've compiled the best of the best in Charlotte - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Optimist Hall

$ | Uptown Fodor's Choice

Charlotte's most impressive food hall is the state's biggest and best, with plenty of exposed brick painted in striking colors, multiple outdoor areas, and stall after stall of fresh-pressed juices, gourmet grilled cheese, ramen bowls, gelato, and craft cocktails.

300 East

$$ | Dilworth

Operated out of an old home in pleasant Dilworth, this comfortable little spot offers an always-changing menu blending Southern and Californian styles in its meat and fish dishes, pizza, salads, and pastas. Always available items include Chesapeake-style crab cakes and the Usual, a chicken salad sandwich that has been a local favorite for years. This is the kind of place where longtime regulars have their names engraved on the back of barstools.

300 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC, 28203, USA
704-332–6507
Known For
  • Desserts by one of the best pastry chefs in North Carolina
  • Historic building with inviting patio seating
  • Creative cocktail list
Restaurant Details
Reservations essential

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Amelie's

$ | North Davidson
Croissant breakfast sandwiches, gourmet coffee drinks, and tasty pastries make this a go-to for quality bites in the morning (or whenever the urge for a French treat arises, until 10 at night). There are four locations across Charlotte.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Haymaker

$$$ | Uptown
With a spacious bar and an open and inviting multilevel dining room overlooking Romare Bearden Park, Haymaker is focused on showcasing the bounty of the Piedmont and Appalachia regions with locally inspired, seasonal farm-to-table cuisine. The ever-changing menu features both small and large plates perfect for sharing. Staples include house-made pickles, heirloom cornmeal hush puppies, and a chili-rubbed local pork shoulder served with Carolina Gold rice. Wash it all down with a craft cocktail or an old-fashioned glass of sweet tea. Brunch is a hit on the weekends.
225 S. Poplar St., Charlotte, NC, 28202, USA
704-626–6116
Known For
  • Locally inspired, farm-fresh cuisine
  • Weekend brunch
  • Inviting dining room and outdoor patio overlooking a park

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