Long-awaited openings, Michelin recognition, a brand new snack shack, crafted cocktails, sushi rolls, $25 girl dinner, the return of an Uptown pub, wagyu cheeseburgers, and of course – scoop you need for your Thanksgiving plate. Buckle up girls, this is a long one.
Michelin Stars
The Michelin Guide to the American South is out, and Charlotte has a couple of spots recognized. The ratings just launched for restaurants Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Atlanta (pre-existing), and you can see them all here.
- Counter- [ @counterclt ] was given both a coveted Michelin Star and a Green Star (awarded for being at the forefront of sustainable gastronomy). Congrats to Chef Sam Hart and his entire team! Reservations are already booked through December 🙂
- Lang Van received a Bib Gourmand rating (recognizes restaurants that offer delicious food at a reasonable price).
- Local mixologist Colleen Hughes (@supper.land and more) received a Michelin Exceptional Cocktails Award.
New & Now Open
PopUp Bagels, Ballantyne
In case you missed it, the highly anticipated PopUp bagels has officially “popped up” in the Ballantyne Bowl. Aside from a long line, bagel lovers can expect weekly rotating schmears alongside classic, hot-out-of-the-oven bagels.
Szechuan Mansion Hotpot, Arboretum
A new cook-your-own dining experience has opened in Charlotte, bringing authentic Szechuan along with it. From spicy broths to flavorful spices, Szechuan Mansion is the QC’s newest authentic hot pot experience.
Yugenn, South End
Yugenn’s sisterly sushi concept has arrived in South End, brought to us by the sisters behind the Sake Express brand. Sushi lovers can expect traditional rolls, contemporary Japanese dishes, and a full bar. The vibey Japanese restaurant serves up $20 cocktails and $30 Red Dragon sushi rolls.
Oaklore Bar & Bottle Shop, South End
South End’s newest bar and bottle shop is open! If you’re looking for crafted cocktails with unique flavors – look no further.
Poppycox, Optimist Hall
Founded by a Charlotte native, this family venture food truck turned brick and mortar is serving up Nashville hot chicken “sandos”, tenders, and crazy fries. High quality ingredients, comeback sauce, and varying spice levels all can be found in Optimist Hall’s newest addition.
Leroy’s Snack Shack, Plaza Midwood
Meet Leroy’s Snack Shack: Resident Culture’s new on-site food truck, serving up comfort food alongside RC beverages. Crispy chicken sandwiches, smash burgers, and smoked wings are just a few menu highlights from this yummy new food truck.
Provided Coffee, NoDa
Provided Coffee has opened their newest coffee shop, complete with all the cozy vibes perfect for your next latte. Located at 3100 N Davidson, with plenty of seating and a full coffee menu.
Valhalla Pub, Uptown – Reopened
After intense renovations, Valhalla Pub has reopened, with a 2000 sq. ft. expansion coming along with it. Despite the pub’s updates, you can still expect rotating craft brews, American fare, and artisan cocktails.
NADC Burger, Latta Arcade
NADC or “Not A Damn Chance” Burger, has officially opened in Latta Arcade. Wagyu beef, American cheese, secret sauce, onion, and pickles are the staples of the ONLY burger on their menu – so you won’t have a hard time deciding what to order.
Two Scoops Creamery, NoDa – November 8
Two Scoops is about to open ANOTHER location to serve up their delicious, homemade ice cream scoops. New location is located at 3123 N Davidson St 102 and will open this Saturday, November 8.
Sip & Cinder, Waxhaw – November 12
Sip & Cinder is bringing a cocktail-forward barbecue concept to the surrounding Charlotte area, setting up shop in Waxhaw, NC. The restaurant will focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and upscale dining.
Closed or Closing
- Bar-B-Q King, West Charlotte – Closed November 1
- Big Ben Pub, Elizabeth – Closed November 2
- Blaze Pizza, South End – Closed November 4
Foodie Events & News To Know
Veterans Day Specials at the Waterman & Sea Level – Veterans will receive a choice of 6 free house oysters on the half shell or a cup of clam chowder. Dine-in only.
Veterans Day Specials at Ace No. 3 – Veterans will receive a free shake (classic or favorite flavors). Boozy shakes are not included. Dine-in only.
MAC’s Speed Shop Vets Eat Free on Veterans Day – a complimentary (DINE IN ONLY) meal, available all day at Mac’s locations across the Carolinas (excluding Raleigh, which is closed that day).
Robert Foley Special Five-Course Wine Dinner at NAPA STONECREST — November 5 | 6 PM
Decanted just for you, Napa at Stonecrest is hosting a Robert Foley Wine Dinner, complete with a delicious menu and all the wine to pair it with.
Sonoma & Support at Napa on Providence — November 13 | 6 PM
Napa on Providence is hosting an unforgettable evening of fine Sonoma County wines, curated pairings, and meaningful impact. Presented by Regions Bank, this intimate wine dinner blends the richness of Sonoma’s vineyards with a commitment to supporting Thompson’s mission of strengthening children and families. Savor each course, raise a glass, and be part of a night where purpose and community come together.
Girl Dinner at Nuvole
Nuvole is doing what we all wish we had done sooner: Girl Dinner. On Thursdays only, enjoy Caesar Salad + French Fries + Espresso Martini, all for $25.
Renaissance Patisserie Expansion, South Park
Renaissance Patisserie is expanding. By the end of the year there will be plenty more seating in a brand new dining room and more kitchen space to keep up with the demand. Take-away items, desserts, croissants, danishes, and coffee will still be available.
Charlotte Coffee Club November Events
From monthly coffee club to marathon cheering to street cleaning, community and coffee come together to make an impact across the QC. Click here to view the full event list.
State of Confusion and STIR Return with November Charity Month
Proud to announce the return of their annual November Charity Month, once again benefiting the Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF). For the third consecutive year, both restaurants will donate a portion of proceeds from all food and drink sales throughout November to support ISF’s mission of improving treatment options and outcomes for children with rare pediatric cancers.
New Menu Item at Sea Level NC
Sea Level NC supports local nonprofits through its ‘Rising Tide’ initiative. For every featured cocktail purchased, $2 is donated to the featured nonprofit. Theirr November Rising Tide Cocktail, “Sesame Situation,” is made with Woodinville Bourbon, Amaro Averna, Dimpomático Reserva Rum, smoked paprika pineapple demerara, sesame oil, and pea tendril. Sales will support Blumenthal Bridges, a Blumenthal Arts initiative, which provides grants to community groups, schools, and individuals to remove financial barriers and ensure access to the arts.
HIRING NEWS!!
Sea Level NC is looking for experienced Line Cooks and dishwashers. Apply here!
Ace No. 3 is Hiring – Ace No. 3 is hiring a Catering & Events Coordinator with at least 3 years of catering or event coordination experience. Here’s a link with more details and to apply.
Thanksgiving Dinners, Goodies, & More
Thanksgiving at Napa & Gobble To Go
Whether you want to enjoy a $60 Dine In Prix Fixe Thanksgiving Dinner or get all the goodies to go, Napa’s got you covered. The three course meal menu includes butternut squash bisque, rosemary and citrus roasted turkey, spiced sweet potato casserole, and caramel apple cheesecake. Or – order a feast for 4 to-go and enjoy a Napa spread from your own dining room. Order online here.
Sunflour Baking Company Thanksgiving Menu
It’s never too early for pie – From pumpkin muffins to apple pie, Sunflour has a variety of fall-inspired Thanksgiving goods on this year’s menu.
Mac’s Speed Shop “Give ’Em the Bird” Thanksgiving Smoked Turkey Pre-Orders
- New Love Birds bundle for two ($75)
- Family bundles serving up to 12 ($135–$250)
- A la carte options including brisket, ribs, banana pudding and more
- Hot & ready pickup available for an extra $10
- Early-order digital gift card incentives for bundles placed by Nov. 17
- Christmas Brisket Pre-Orders launch Nov. 28
Thanksgiving Parade at Caroline’s Oyster Bar
On Wednesday, November 26, join Caroline’s Oyster Bar before, during, or after the Novant Thanksgiving Parade in Uptown Charlotte for a Turkey Roast on their heated patio, featuring Grilled Turkey served on Coastal Thanksgiving Plates. Each plate includes a complimentary Overboard Coastal Cocoa, complete with whipped cream and a variety of toppings.
Thoughtful Baking Co. Thanksgiving Pie Orders
Thoughtful Baking Co. is offering a selection of scratch-made pies crafted from Carolina-grown ingredients and baked with the same care that has made the company a farmers’ market favorite. Whether you’re hosting Friendsgiving or gathering family around the table, these pies are designed to bring comfort and connection to your holiday season. With both vegan and GF options, this pie menu appeals to all. You can view their packages and pre-order here.
Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen Thanksgiving Pre-Order Menu
Enjoy a hassle-free holiday feast courtesy of Chef Alyssa, including herb-roasted turkey, savory stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, and a selection of seasonal pies. For more information about the Thanksgiving pre-order menu or to place an order, click here.
Final Scoops – More Charlotte Restaurants & Eateries Coming Soon
Emmy Lou’s, Dilworth – Late November
A cozy wine bar is headed to Dilworth (hopefully this month), with a thoughtfully curated wine list and all the vibes.
Panko, NoDa – Late November
After a long awaited arrival, Panko is set to open this month in NoDa. The Peruvian fusion restaurant is a much wanted addition to the QC food scene.
Laurel Park, SouthPark – November, Official Opening Date Coming Soon
Exciting news – SouthPark is gaining a new restaurant! Opening in the former Village Tavern space, Laurel Park is blending the old with the new with a fresh New-American cuisine while still honoring the previous tavern’s legacy. Menu highlights will include everything from a French Toast Bake to Fried Green Tomato Caprese, where you can expect lunch and dinner served daily, with brunch on the weekends.
Sharigato, Optimist Park
Meet Sharigato: Charlotte’s First Hand Roll Bar. The restaurant will offer made-to-order hand rolls, premium seafood, vegetarian rolls, and sushi-on-the-go takeout options. Set to open this fall, the Optimist Park eatery is arriving soon.
Dozo, Dilworth – Late Fall
DĹŚZO Japanese American Kitchen is leaving its Wesley Heights to open its own full-service restaurant and bar. The new East Boulevard location – formerly Fern, Flavors from the Garden space – will feature all your favorite menu items plus new additions, lunch and dinner service, and a full bar program with an extensive sake list and Japanese whiskeys.
Improper Pig, Plaza Midwood – Late Fall
Set to open late this fall, the Improper Pig is bringing more than just a new location to their brand… they’re bringing new flavors, a new vibe, and a new home base to Plaza Midwood. The saucy smokehouse joint so many of us love is rebranding with a new twist: American BBQ with a side of Asian flair. More info to come.
