Best Restaurants in Charlotte (2025)

A seasonal tasting menu leads the show, backed by a chef’s market and a relaxed bar menu. It topped Axios Charlotte’s 2025 best restaurants list for its refined cooking and neighborhood feel.

An immersive, story-driven tasting menu that changes quarterly, pairing food with music and art. The chef-led team has drawn James Beard attention and keeps reservations tight for a reason.

Set in a renovated mid-century church, this Southern steakhouse riffs on potluck nostalgia with wood-fired meats, standout sides, and a serious bar program—including a reservations-only speakeasy experience downstairs.

A Charlotte classic in the 1913 Lucas House, known for polished service, deep wine lists, and signature dishes like the peppercorn-crusted elk chop. Celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025.

NoDa’s Italian charmer from local owners focuses on housemade pastas, burrata, and an all-Italian wine list. It’s been praised by local and regional outlets for heartfelt, consistent cooking.

A chef-driven stalwart for seasonal, local-leaning plates—handmade pastas, crudos, and thoughtful mains—regularly positioned near the top of editorial roundups for Charlotte dining.

The tiny Optimist Park sensation earned national praise from The New York Times and expanded with a small dining room. Expect caramelized-crust pies, seasonal toppings, and reservations for dine-in.

An East Charlotte institution where owner Dan Nguyen guides you through an expansive Vietnamese menu. Regularly cited by local critics for hospitality and soul-soothing pho, bun, and bánh xèo.

Pitmaster Lewis Donald smokes over hickory, pecan, and peach wood at this no-frills spot near Uptown. Editors and barbecue writers praise the brisket, chopped pork, and sides like collards and mac.

Uptown’s landmark for Lowcountry and Gullah-inspired plates—shrimp and grits, fried chicken, famous Soul Rolls—featured on Food Network and beloved by touring artists and locals alike.

In a restored mill house, chef Chris Coleman turns regional ingredients into feel-good plates—from marinated shrimp to the city-famous Goopy Burger—earning repeat nods from local magazines and guides.

Cash-only burgers and chili dogs from a tiny brick stand since 1973. Still open weekdays, still affordable, and still a rite of passage before or after exploring NoDa.