South End is no stranger to reinvention. What was once a patchwork of warehouses and rail lines has evolved into one of Charlotte’s most creative, food-forward neighborhoods. It’s no surprise that it’s where B-Side Hospitality Group, a hospitality collective helping define the next era of dining in Charlotte, decided to call home.
Founded on values of craft, story and care, B-Side isn’t busy chasing trends. “We are striving to deliver a world-class experience in cozy, laid-back environments,” says B-Side Group Partner Ankoor Patel, “and once guests are in the door, we follow through with flavorful, responsibly sourced and technically sound food and beverage.”
B-Side Hospitality Debut Concept: VINYL
That balance first came to life at VINYL, B-Side’s debut concept. Inspired by analog nostalgia and neighborhood charm, VINYL has become a go-to for elevated comfort food and musically inspired cocktails. “VINYL is rooted in music, neighborhood energy and approachable hospitality,” says Patel. “It’s a place where people feel instantly at home.”
From the start, storytelling has been central to B-Side’s ethos. Whether through a tracklist or a mezcal cocktail, each project is built with purpose. “We draw inspiration from diverse influences,” B-Side Group Beverage Director Henry Schmulling says. “A song, a season, a memory—it all feeds into the guest experience.”
Mi Cariño Coming This Fall
Now, B-Side Group is setting the stage for something bolder. Opening this fall in South End, The Story of Mi Cariño is a cinematic, emotionally charged gastro-cantina. Led by Executive Chef Hector González-Mora, the concept draws from Latin flavors and personal heritage, anchored by an agave-focused bar and immersive design. “A chef like Hector merely needs to be allowed to cook from his heart and with his head,” says B-Side Group Culinary Director Vince Giancarlo. “…For a chef as talented as Hector, you step back, let them cook and enjoy the tastings.”
If VINYL is cozy and kinetic, Mi Cariño is refined and transportive. “Together, they represent the full range of what we strive to create—spaces that are thoughtful, vibrant and always evolving,” says Schmulling. The beverage menu, in particular, reflects this philosophy. “It’s never just about flavor,” he adds. “Every drink should enhance the mood, the moment and the story we’re telling.”
B-Side Hospitality Stands Out
As Charlotte’s food and drink scene grows more competitive, B-Side Group stands out not through flash, but through intentionality. “We’re not here to flip ideas,” Schmulling says. “We’re here to build lasting, community-focused institutions.” Giancarlo agrees: “Ten years from now, we want people to still be talking about what we have created. No flashes in the pan—just long-burning fires.”
In a city finding its culinary voice, B-Side Group isn’t just adding to the volume—they’re composing something timeless.
Photos courtesy of NiceDay | @vinylclt @micarinoclt
