14 Hottest Restaurants in Charlotte, February 2025

"New-kid-on-the-block Substrate is a neighborhood enoteca that adds stunning vermouths, amari, and natural wine to Optimist Park. While there’s no food menu, there is a whole shelf dedicated specifically to notorious hot girl foods —  tinned fish and cured meats —  to be perched atop saltines on the house. By day, the inside is lovely, with the sun casting flirty shadows on the oodles of natural wine bottles, but visitors will want to sip their amber and pink-hued drinks outside on the balcony or patio. Because it’s a small house with a front yard (and a parking lot), it really feels like someone’s yard party. By night, it’s moody with generous specials and a backdrop of something funky on aux, vinyl, or even live. The thrifty art on the walls and a sign that pokes a little fun at “natty wine” culture show this place's lighthearted, self-aware personality." - Kayleigh Ruller