Charlotte is constantly growing, and it can be overwhelming to decide which new restaurants are worth trying. Whether you are looking for a date night idea or just want to grab a drink with friends, here are all the best recently opened new restaurants in Charlotte.
Tequilas Tacos & Bar
Tequilas Tacos & Bar is the newest and one of the best places to get authentic Mexican cuisine in the university area. Its modest exterior hides an inside filled with vibrant, unique decor. Their staff is friendly and matches the energy of the restaurant. There’s also a wide variety of creative drinks including nine different flavors of frozen margaritas. Come here for good food and a good time.
Kabab 2 Go
The creators of Kabab 2 Go aren’t amateurs. After decades of perfecting their authentic Mediterranean dishes and several successful restaurants in Lebanon, they decided to take their talents to America and, more specifically, to South End. As its name suggests, it’s an excellent place for a quick lunch, but you should definitely try dinner platters too.
Vaulted Oak Brewing
Located just south of Elizabeth, Echo Hills has been in need of a brewery for some time. The recently-opened Vaulted Oak Brewing has filled that void and has filled it well. The owners, two UNC Charlotte alumni, have transformed the once-bank into a modern microbrewery, and it has quickly become a community staple. Come during the weekend to see how their in-house brews pair with local food trucks.
Sosu
Located on the edge of Commonwealth Park, Sosu proves that, sometimes, traditions are meant to be broken. Both the restaurant’s dishes and interior design take inspiration from modern elements like anime, manga and hip-hop. Even with its youthful spirit, Sosu’s menu items are still faithful in the ways that matter. Everything from their ramen to their ninja-star-shaped dumplings is deliciously made with traditional ingredients. It’s a perfect spot for a casual date night.
Prime Fish
Prime Fish, a raw sushi and sake bar, has brought authentic but elevated Asian cuisine to the Ballantyne area. The chef of the restaurant, Robin Anthony, has put a creative spin on traditional dishes and has a perfect sake pairing for each one of them. The restaurant itself is small which brings another layer of intimacy and purposefulness to the overall experience.
Babe & Butcher
Located in Camp North End, Babe & Butcher is a tailored and charming charcuterie experience. Like an elevated Chipotle, pick out all your favorite ingredients and then let them expertly place it for you. Alternatively, you can order one of their pre-designed boards on their website, and pick it up for your next party. They also cater larger events. Bring one of their boards to any event, and you will be the center of attention.
La Belle Helene
Named after a 19th-century French opera, La Belle Helene reflects the themes of divinity and romance of its namesake. From the modern Parisian architecture and authentic French cuisine, the new owners have brought fresh life to the establishment. For a truly remarkable date, explore the nearby Mint Museum then take a short walk here for dinner.
The Golden Owl
The Golden Owl brought a much-needed upscale option to the university area. Located in the brand-new Marriott on UNC Charlotte’s campus, it offers an elegant dining experience that simultaneously doesn’t take itself too seriously. The restaurant serves updated Southern dishes and wood-fired pizzas that add to its causal-formal atmosphere. There’s also a fantastic variety of local craft beers and signature cocktails like the aptly named “Reed’s Gold Rush” and “Owl’s Brew.”
