So many good restaurants have opened in the last year and this list is our best new restaurants in Charlotte for 2022 plus some great ones that are about to open!
The Growing Charlotte Food Scene
Now, despite all of the hardship for the food and beverage industry over the last two years, Charlotte’s food scene has pushed through and even blossomed. We did lose some beloved spots but gained quite a bit of true culinary gems.
Amazing restaurants opened in the face of hardship: VANA launched a tasty and creative menu in South End, Milkbread found a permanent location for their scrumptious donuts in Davidson (and in Plaza), our friends over at Waterman expanded bringing briny deliciousness to Cornelius, and The Jimmy opened its doors in Myers Park to serve up unreal Italian (try the octopus…seriously). This culinary trend seems to just be starting and the momentum for the city’s food scene only looks be strengthening over the remaining six months of 2022.
Here are the best new restaurants in Charlotte we are very excited about. Some have recently opened in the Queen City while others are scheduled to open in the near future. Be sure to support them all by checking out their websites and following them on social media.
The Best New Restaurants In Charlotte Now Open
Bottiwalla – Optimist Hall
An Indian street food concept from James Beard-nominated chef Meherwan Irani of Asheville’s Chai Pani.
HopFly – South End
HopFly Brewing Co. offers great beers in their large, open space brewery with large patio space.
Para
Super colorful, creative dishes from the talented Alex Verica in the heart of South End.
Mizu
A great date spot with beautiful food that also incorporates Japanese Robata grills for an active dining experience.
Harry’s Grille & Tavern
The Charlotte staple opens up another location in Quail Corners. The American gastropub is the perfect lunch destination!
El Puro
Absolutely delicious Cuban food, a beautiful patio featuring a booth made out of a classic car like you’d find in Havana, wonderful cocktails from the classic to the creative, and a vibrant music scene…what a joy this restaurant is.
Ever Andalo – NoDa
An upscale Italian concept in the spot that used to house Crepe Cellar – and from the same owners, too.
Condado
Specialty tacos in the heart of South End, yes please. The vibrant restaurant serves up flavorful and creative tacos and boozy margs.
YUNTA – South End
YUNTA offers diners Nikkei cuisine with a fusion of Peruvian and Japanese ingredients.
Benny Ferrovia’s – South End
A quick service pizzeria serving 28” whole pies and 14” slices.
Babe Cave – Enderly Park
A new gathering spot for women, with Instagram-ready photo backdrops, small plates and brunch at Good Life at Enderly Park.
La Capital MX – South End
Tacos, enchiladas, and seafood plates in a family-friendly setting.
Gilde Brewery – South EndFor a truly German experience, head over to this Charlotte brewery offering traditional beers and food!
Bar a Vins – NoDa
NoDa has a new spot for wine enthusiasts. This shop and eatery is lovely place to sip on a cold glass of champagene and taste some treats like delicious caviar.
Halal Street Food – MoRA Point
Dine in or takeout establishment serving authentic and delicious Halal dishes.
Sweet Crunch Waffles – The Market at 7th St
Liege waffles for breakfast, lunch, or a late night snack. Toppings range from fresh fruit to sweets or savory bacon.
Early Girl Eatery – South End
Known for its breakfast dishes, gluten free and vegan options.
Coming Soon – New Restaurants About To Open In Charlotte
The Abyss – Camp North End
A modern speakeasy from Bayhaven Restaurant Group.
The Penguin – Dilworth
Entrepreneur Martin Sprock is bringing back the beloved Penguin Drive-In brand — just in a new home.
Bagel Boys – Waverly Place
A variety of gluten free bagels, sweet and savory spreads, sandwiches and baked goods.
Chez Marie – SouthPark
French pastries, desserts, and an espresso bar.
Weathered Soul Brewing Co. – South End
A Texas-based concept that started ‘Black is Beautiful beer.’
VANA – Cornelius
VANA LKN will be located on Main Street in Cornelius, in the former Lean Music space at Heritage Plaza. It will have an outdoor bar and patio.
Salted Melon Market & Eatery – South End
A health-focused market with fast-casual dining.
Uptown Yolk – South End
Greg Collier brings his restaurant concept back and we’re here for it. This version of Uptown Yolk will be located in the popular South End.
Be sure to stay tuned for more additions to our New Restaurants in Charlotte list and if we missed any be sure to let us know on Instagram!