Charlotte, North Carolina, is not just a city of bustling business and Southern charm, it’s also a place where the culinary scene is thriving with creativity. I love food and appreciates innovative dining experiences, I’ve spent a considerable amount of time exploring the city’s unique and imaginative restaurants. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Charlotte offers a diverse range of eateries that push the boundaries of flavor and presentation.
In this guide, I’ll share my personal experiences at five of the most creative restaurants in Charlotte. From inventive twists on Southern classics to global flavors and visually stunning dishes, these restaurants are sure to impress anyone with a taste for something different.
1. Kindred
Location: 131 Main St, Davidson, NC 28036 (just a short drive from Charlotte)
Starting off with a bang, Kindred in Davidson, just a short drive north from Charlotte, is one of the most creatively inspired restaurants in the area. The ambiance alone is enough to take your breath away. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a chic, yet cozy interior that combines modern elegance with rustic charm. The standout feature here, in my opinion, is the restaurant’s commitment to taking familiar dishes and presenting them in exciting, new ways.
Must-Try Dish:
The “Lobster Roll” is a must-try here. I wasn’t expecting much when I first ordered it, but I was absolutely blown away by how beautifully the lobster was prepared—succulent and perfectly seasoned. What made it stand out, though, was the citrus aioli and chive oil that brought out a delightful freshness in every bite. Another dish that had me hooked was the Ricotta Gnocchi, which was perfectly fluffy with a flavorful, creamy sauce.
Price Range:
Expect to pay around $25–$45 per person for a three-course meal. It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the experience, especially with the creative flavors and artful presentation, justifies the cost.
How to Book and Maximize Savings:
Kindred is very popular, so reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. I booked my table through OpenTable, which offers a seamless reservation process and often provides access to special promotions. For discounts or deals, I also recommend checking Groupon or Restaurant Week events, which can sometimes include special pricing for a full meal experience.
2. The Cellar at Duckworth’s
Location: 330 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202
If you’re a fan of craft beer and innovative comfort food, The Cellar at Duckworth’s is a hidden gem located beneath the vibrant Duckworth’s Kitchen & Taphouse in uptown Charlotte. What makes The Cellar stand out is its commitment to both craft cocktails and a unique, sophisticated take on American cuisine. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, with dim lighting and exposed brick walls adding to the charm.
Must-Try Dish:
You can’t visit The Cellar without trying their “Brisket Tacos”. These aren’t your typical tacos; the brisket is smoked to perfection, paired with a tangy, spicy slaw, and wrapped in a soft, freshly made tortilla. I also recommend their Shrimp & Grits—creamy, rich, and with just the right amount of heat from the Cajun spices. The Fried Green Tomatoes here are another must-try appetizer, served with a smoky aioli that I couldn’t get enough of.
Price Range:
For a satisfying meal with drinks, expect to pay around $30–$50 per person, depending on what you order. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the creativity behind the dishes.
How to Book and Maximize Savings:
The Cellar is relatively small and cozy, so it can get packed, especially on weekends. I recommend booking a table in advance via OpenTable. You can also check Yelp for any special deals or happy hour offers, which are great for enjoying some of their delicious cocktails at a more affordable price.
3. Uptown Yolk
Location: 222 S Church St, Charlotte, NC 28202
If you’re in Charlotte and you’re craving a fresh, modern twist on brunch, Uptown Yolk is the place to be. As a huge brunch lover, I’ve visited Uptown Yolk multiple times, and I always leave impressed by their creative takes on classic breakfast dishes. From the whimsical decor to the inventive menu, this is not your average brunch spot.
Must-Try Dish:
The “Yolk Benny” is by far my favorite dish here. It’s a modern take on eggs benedict with a perfectly poached egg sitting atop a bed of crispy hashbrowns instead of the usual English muffin. The hollandaise sauce is rich and creamy, making every bite utterly indulgent. Another personal favorite is the Churro Waffles, which combine the sweetness of churros with the crispy texture of waffles—definitely not your typical breakfast fare!
Price Range:
Brunch here typically costs around $15–$25 per person, which is very reasonable considering the quality and portion sizes.
How to Book and Maximize Savings:
While Uptown Yolk doesn’t require reservations for brunch, weekends can get busy, so I suggest arriving early, especially on Saturdays and Sundays. If you’re looking for a deal, check out Groupon for breakfast specials, or Yelp to find any ongoing promotions. They also have daily specials, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their social media.
4. Supperland
Location: 1212 Pecan Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205
Supperland is one of those places that really captures the spirit of Charlotte: a blend of nostalgia and modernity with a focus on Southern comfort food. This creatively designed space offers an elevated dining experience in an old church, with vibrant, eclectic decor and an atmosphere that’s both elegant and laid-back. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a trendsetting restaurant in a big city.
Must-Try Dish:
The Fried Chicken at Supperland is legendary—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. Paired with their creamy macaroni and cheese and a side of collard greens, this is comfort food elevated to a whole new level. Another standout dish is the Brisket & Biscuits, which is a perfect marriage of smoky, tender brisket and buttery, flaky biscuits that melt in your mouth.
Price Range:
Expect to spend around $30–$50 per person for a meal with a drink. The food is on the pricier side, but the high quality of ingredients and inventive dishes make it well worth the splurge.
How to Book and Maximize Savings:
Supperland can be quite busy, especially on weekends, so reservations are highly recommended. I always use Resy to book my table, which is the most convenient platform for securing a spot here. For discounts, check out Restaurant Week events or special promotions on Instagram, as Supperland often shares limited-time offers on their social media.
5. Amélie’s French Bakery & Café
Location: 2424 N Davidson St, Charlotte, NC 28205
If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back but still filled with creative flavors, Amélie’s French Bakery & Café is a must-visit. This charming French bakery brings a little Parisian flair to Charlotte, with its whimsical decor, delicious pastries, and inventive takes on French classics. Whether you’re here for a quick coffee or a leisurely brunch, the vibe at Amélie’s is always welcoming.
Must-Try Dish:
The Croque Monsieur here is one of the best I’ve had—rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. Paired with their tomato basil soup, it’s a match made in heaven. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with the Salted Caramel Brownie—moist, decadent, and just the right amount of sweetness. Amélie’s is also known for their colorful macarons, which make for a fun, whimsical treat.
Price Range:
Expect to pay about $15–$25 per person for a light meal or dessert with coffee. It’s an affordable option, especially given the quality of the food.
How to Book and Maximize Savings:
Amélie’s is a walk-in café, but it can get busy, particularly on weekends. I recommend checking out their online menu beforehand to know exactly what you want. If you’re looking to save a little money, consider visiting during their happy hour, when they offer discounts on select drinks and pastries.
Where to Book and Find Discounts
To make the most of your culinary adventures in Charlotte, I recommend using these platforms to book reservations and find discounts:
- OpenTable: Ideal for booking reservations at popular restaurants like Kindred, Supperland, and others.
- Yelp: A great resource for reading reviews and finding hidden gems. They also often feature special offers and discounts.
- Resy: Excellent for booking at high-demand restaurants like Supperland, where reservations are essential.
- Groupon: A go-to for finding deals on meals, drinks, and sometimes even cooking classes or special events at your favorite Charlotte eateries.
- Tripadvisor: Use it for reviews, restaurant rankings, and to find helpful advice from fellow foodies on the best dishes to order.
Charlotte is a city brimming with creativity, and its restaurant scene reflects that energy in a deliciously innovative way. Whether you’re in the mood for Southern classics with a modern twist, inventive takes on French cuisine, or a casual yet upscale dining experience, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. By booking through platforms like OpenTable, Yelp, and Resy, you can ensure that you’ll get the best possible experience without the stress of waiting for a table. Bon appétit!
