With seemingly a new restaurant concept opening around Charlotte every few months, the Queen Citys culinary quotient is most certainly on the rise. New chef driven concepts like Rocco Whalens Fahrenheit, and Tom Condrons, Lumiere continue to raise the ceiling by putting an emphasis on quality ingredients, seasonal menus, and presentation, but equal attention is also being paid to decor and ambiance in an effort to offer guests a full sensory experience. But let us not forget about the epicurean stalwarts of Charlotte that have been carrying the torch and have set the bar for years like Fig Tree and Barringtons. From New American to Italian, Asian Fusion to French, modern to classic, the Queen Citys selection of fine restaurants is better then ever and here are some of the very best.
Georges Brasserie
One of Charlottes best French restaurants, the welcoming ambiance and the blend of traditional and modern cuisine will keep you coming back for more. People watch from their great patio or lounge in the inviting bar area, but dont miss their $15 bottomless mussels on Tuesdays or the ever popular $1 oysters on Fridays.
www.georgesbrasserie.com
5Church
Since its opening in 2012, 5Church has blown the city away. With its eclectic and unique atmosphere and design (they have the entire Art of War hand-painted on the ceiling), to the mouthwatering apps and entrees, it definitely does not disappoint. Be sure to indulge in the 5Church Lamb Burger. A bonus: if you are into celebrity watching, this is the place to be!
www.5church.com
Barringtons Restaurant
The first brainchild of chef extraordinaire Bruce Moffett and tucked away in a quaint space in Foxcroft, youll experience some of the finest American cuisine Charlotte has to offer. Offering local ingredients and seasonal menus, youll never be disappointed at what you get. Enjoy the Cornbread Stuffed Quail while youre there. or a side of the truffle mashed potatoes.
www.barringtonsrestaurant.com
Good Food On Montford
Another creation of Bruce Moffett, Good Food on Montford offers a wide array of small plates and some of the most creative cocktails around. The choices of tapas are amazing and youll probably have a really difficult choosing, but we recommend Pork Carnitas and the PEI Mussels. If youre really feeling adventurous, try the Montford Gin Sour. It has egg white in it.
www.goodfoodonmontford.com
Halcyon
One of Charlottes newest restaurants, Halcyon celebrates everything our great state offers, from locally sourced ingredients to some of our most famous wineries. At the helm is Chef James Stouffer who brings his creativeness to each menu as the seasons change. One great draw is the fact that the restaurant is located in the beautiful Mint Museum Uptown. And, be sure to try the Braised Bison.
www.halcyonflavors.com
Heritage Food & Drink
Being at the forefront of the Farm to Fork movement in the QC, Chef Paul Verica brings his many years of experience and talent to the table. With a menu that changes every Tuesday, youll want to order any and all of it. Make sure you check out the Fried Green Tomatoes with pulled pork and if youre truly a southerner, the jalapeno deviled eggs.
www.heritagefoodanddrink.com
Passion8
Get ready Charlotte for a restaurant with an inviting and romantic atmosphere and food that is delicious. Passion 8s dedication to using locally sourced ingredients and tasty execution, makes it one of Charlottes best kept secrets. With their unique approach to their menu and style of cooking, youre sure to not be disappointed.
www.passion8bistro.com
Fahrenheit
This place has taken the Queen City by storm. Led by the incomparable Chef Rocco Whalen, youll enjoy original and unparalleled cuisine and the best view of the city. Whether you are participating in happy hour or out for an evening with friends, youll find exactly what your taste buds want. Words of wisdom, indulge in the Seared Diver Scallops. They literally melt in your mouth. Yum.
www.chefroccowhalen.com/fahrenheit-charlotte
Del Friscos
Located in the heart of Southpark, this steakhouse is one to be reckoned with. Its luxurious and sleek decor and atmosphere only compliment the delectable selection of steaks. Pair the Prime Porterhouse with The Professional Martini or a wine from their in house wine cellar, and you are sure to have a good night. Oh, and the have Happy Hour daily with all Bar Menu items being $8. You cant beat that!
www.delfriscos.com
Lumiere
Sitting in the beautiful neighborhood of Myers Park, Lumiere offers some of Charlottes best modern French Cuisine. With the expertise and knowledge of Chef and Co-owner Tom Condron, their unique menu includes items such as Moroccan Dates stuffed with Chevre and Steamship Short Ribs Bourgogne.
www.lumieremyerspark.com
Fig Tree
Located in Elizabeth, the Fig Tree is one of our citys best French restaurants. Boasting an extensive and impressive wine selection with entrees to match, this quaint historic home is the perfect location for a romantic evening. Relax on the porch while enjoying the veal chop with shrimp and potatoes. You wont be disappointed.
www.charlottefigtree.com
Customshop
Another great restuarant supporting the local farm-to-fork movement, Customshops handcrafted cuisine boasts one of the Queen Citys best menus and their atmosphere and ambiance is beautiful and romantic. Offering a different menu weekly, the creativeness and uniqueness of Chef Trey Wilson is bountiful. With the seafood being delivered daily and the pastas being made in house, youll be sure to have one of the freshest meals around. The ricotta gnocchi is pretty amazing.
www.customshopfood.com
Aria Tuscan Grill
Located in Charlottes First Ward neighborhood, this gem offers some of the best Italian cuisine in the Queen City. Join them for lunch on Sundays for Chef Franks pasta tasting or pop in for their bar bites at only $5 each! Enjoy a predominately Italian wine list or indulge in some Limoncello, theres no way you can go wrong with this place!
www.ariacharlotte.com
