As a seasoned traveler, one of the aspects I enjoy most about exploring new cities is diving into the local food scene. Charlotte, North Carolina, known as the Queen City, surprised me with its vibrant culinary offerings. From Southern comfort food to innovative farm-to-table dishes, Charlotte’s restaurant scene is a testament to its rich culture and growing status as a foodie destination. In this blog, I’ll share my personal experience dining at some of the city’s must-visit restaurants. These spots not only left me with unforgettable meals but also offered a true taste of Charlotte’s diverse culinary landscape.
1. The King’s Kitchen: A Southern Gem with a Heart
My culinary journey in Charlotte began with a visit to The King’s Kitchen, a downtown institution known for its soul-warming Southern cuisine and social mission. This restaurant stands out not just for its food but also for its commitment to giving back to the community. All profits from The King’s Kitchen go towards feeding those in need and supporting job-training programs.
From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm Southern hospitality. The interior had a cozy, rustic charm that made me feel right at home. I started my meal with the fried green tomatoes, a Southern classic that The King’s Kitchen has perfected. The tomatoes were crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a tangy remoulade sauce that added just the right amount of zing.
For the main course, I couldn’t resist ordering the fried chicken, another staple of Southern cuisine. The chicken was perfectly cooked—crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside. It was served with creamy mashed potatoes and collard greens, both of which were seasoned to perfection. The meal was hearty and comforting, exactly what I was hoping for in a Southern dining experience.
I highly recommend making a reservation, especially during peak hours. I booked my table through OpenTable, which was quick and convenient.
2. Haberdish: A Mill Town Favorite with a Modern Twist
Located in Charlotte’s NoDa (North Davidson) neighborhood, Haberdish is a modern Southern kitchen that quickly became one of my favorite spots in the city. NoDa is known for its artsy vibe, and Haberdish fits right in with its stylish, vintage-inspired decor and creative takes on Southern classics.
The first thing that caught my eye on the menu was the skillet cornbread, which came highly recommended by the staff. Served piping hot in a cast-iron skillet, the cornbread was golden brown with a slightly crispy edge, while the inside remained soft and moist. It was accompanied by a dollop of honey butter that melted beautifully over the warm bread, adding a touch of sweetness that was simply irresistible.
For the main course, I opted for the chicken and waffles, a dish that Haberdish is famous for. The fried chicken was incredibly flavorful, with a perfectly seasoned crust that had just the right amount of crunch. The waffles were light and fluffy, serving as the perfect base for the chicken. Drizzled with maple syrup, this dish was the ultimate combination of sweet and savory.
Haberdish also offers a great selection of craft cocktails. I tried the “Gin and Jam,” a refreshing concoction made with gin, house-made jam, lemon juice, and soda. It was the perfect complement to my meal.
Given its popularity, Haberdish can get quite busy, so I recommend booking a table in advance. You can easily make a reservation through Resy.
3. Good Food on Montford: Small Plates, Big Flavors
Next on my list was Good Food on Montford, a cozy yet trendy spot known for its tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. The restaurant’s focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavor combinations has earned it a loyal following among Charlotte’s foodies.
The menu at Good Food on Montford is ever-changing, reflecting the freshest seasonal ingredients. I started with the beef tartare, which was beautifully presented and seasoned to perfection. The dish was served with house-made potato chips that added a delightful crunch to each bite.
Another standout dish was the pork belly steamed buns. The pork belly was tender and succulent, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The steamed buns were soft and pillowy, making for a satisfying bite that left me craving more.
One of the unique aspects of dining at Good Food on Montford is the chance to try a variety of dishes without feeling overly stuffed. The small plates are perfect for sharing, allowing you to sample a wide range of flavors and textures.
Reservations are highly recommended, as the restaurant is small and fills up quickly. I made my reservation through OpenTable, which also allowed me to check the menu in advance and plan my meal accordingly.
4. Stagioni: A Taste of Italy in Charlotte
For a change of pace, I decided to indulge in some Italian cuisine at Stagioni, a charming restaurant located in the Myers Park neighborhood. Stagioni, which means “seasons” in Italian, lives up to its name by offering a menu that highlights the best seasonal ingredients.
The ambiance at Stagioni is warm and inviting, with a rustic yet elegant decor that transports you straight to Italy. I started my meal with the burrata, a creamy Italian cheese served with roasted tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The simplicity of the ingredients allowed the flavors to shine, making it a perfect appetizer to whet my appetite.
For the main course, I couldn’t resist the house-made pasta. I chose the pappardelle, which was served with a rich, slow-cooked lamb ragu. The pasta was cooked to perfection—al dente, with just the right amount of bite—and the ragu was bursting with flavor. It was one of those dishes that you can’t help but savor slowly, enjoying each and every bite.
I ended my meal with the tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert that Stagioni does exceptionally well. It was light, airy, and not too sweet, with just the right amount of coffee flavor.
Stagioni is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, so I recommend making a reservation in advance. I booked my table through OpenTable, which made the process quick and easy.
5. Price’s Chicken Coop: No-Frills, All Flavor
No trip to Charlotte would be complete without a visit to Price’s Chicken Coop, a local institution that has been serving up some of the best fried chicken in the city for decades. Located in the South End neighborhood, Price’s is the epitome of no-frills dining—there’s no seating inside, just a counter where you place your order and a few benches outside where you can enjoy your meal.
Despite the lack of ambiance, the food at Price’s Chicken Coop more than makes up for it. The fried chicken is the star of the show, and it’s easy to see why this place has such a loyal following. The chicken is fried to perfection, with a crispy, golden-brown crust that gives way to tender, juicy meat inside. It’s seasoned just right, with a flavor that’s both savory and satisfying.
The sides at Price’s are equally impressive. I opted for the hush puppies, which were crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and the coleslaw, which provided a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried chicken. The sweet tea, a Southern staple, was the perfect accompaniment to my meal.
Price’s Chicken Coop is a cash-only establishment, so be sure to bring some bills with you. It’s a popular spot, so expect to wait in line, but trust me, it’s worth it. This is true Southern comfort food at its best.
6. The Asbury: A Modern Take on Southern Cuisine
Last but certainly not least on my Charlotte culinary tour was The Asbury, a restaurant that puts a modern twist on classic Southern dishes. Located in The Dunhill Hotel in Uptown Charlotte, The Asbury is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the evolution of Southern cuisine.
The atmosphere at The Asbury is both elegant and relaxed, making it the perfect place for a leisurely brunch or dinner. I visited for brunch and was immediately impressed by the creativity and presentation of the dishes.
I started with the deviled eggs, a Southern staple that The Asbury elevates with the addition of crispy country ham and pickled okra. The eggs were creamy and flavorful, with the ham adding a nice salty crunch. It was a great way to kick off the meal.
For my main course, I chose the shrimp and grits, a dish that’s synonymous with Southern cooking. The Asbury’s version features plump, juicy shrimp served over creamy grits, with a flavorful tomato broth and andouille sausage adding depth to the dish. It was rich and satisfying, with a perfect balance of flavors.
The service at The Asbury was exceptional, with friendly and knowledgeable staff who were happy to make recommendations and answer any questions I had about the menu. I made my reservation through OpenTable, which I highly recommend, especially for weekend brunch.
Charlotte’s food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re in the mood for classic Southern comfort food, innovative small plates, or a taste of Italy, Charlotte has something to offer every palate. Each of the restaurants I visited left me with a deeper appreciation for the city’s culinary offerings and a desire to return and explore even more.
When planning your trip to Charlotte, I highly recommend using reservation platforms like OpenTable and Resy to secure your spots at these popular dining destinations. Not only do these platforms make it easy to book a table, but they also allow you to explore menus and read reviews to find the perfect dining experience for your visit.
As I reflect on my time in Charlotte, I’m grateful for the opportunity to taste my way through this wonderful city. Each meal was a journey in itself, offering a glimpse into the flavors and traditions that make Charlotte such a special place. If you’re a food lover like me, Charlotte should definitely be on your list of must-visit cities. Happy dining!
