Celebrate Asian American Love in the Queen City
In this continuation of our "Charlotte Love Notes" series, we're sharing love stories from the Asian American and Pacific Islander community and spotlighting the AAPI-owned businesses and cultural experiences that help shape Charlotte’s identity. We hope their stories inspire you to explore, connect and show love to a community that adds richness, resilience and creativity to the heart of our city.
Niketa & Manish Mittal
Niketa & Manish's Love Notes
EXPERIENCE
The Festival of India
Charlotte comes alive with color, culture and community at the Festival of India. Enjoy mesmerizing performances, authentic eats and rich traditions — so beloved, it happens twice a year. Come for the culture, stay for the connection.
DISCOVER
Desi District
Find Indian street food with a twist at Desi District, a market and eatery in Pineville. Order fusion fare like a samosa chat taco, butter chicken tikka burger, rabdi tres leches and more at this unique culinary destination. While the menu is innovative, it still captures the authentic flavors and essence of South Asian cuisine.
EAT
Taipei South
A local favorite, Taipei South offers big flavors that don’t break the bank. Find classic Chinese dishes like sweet and sour chicken, filling vegetable lo mein and fan-favorite crab rangoon. Build your own platter complete with a protein, vegetable and sauce of your choice, so you can get your fill without emptying your wallet.
Jenny & Josh Villapando
Jenny & Joshua's Love Notes
SHOP
Alley 51
Situated within the Super G Mart in Pineville, Alley 51 is a global food hall serving a mix of Asian street foods. Embark on a gastronomic adventure, ordering authentic eats from stalls representing China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam. The 25,000-square-foot space also includes a full-service bar, kids’ play area, Japanese-style arcade and Korean convenience store.
EAT
Open Rice
The phrase “open rice” invites diners to enjoy a meal with loved ones, and both Charlotte-area locations offer the perfect setting to get a taste of Hong Kong heritage. Open Rice specializes in Cantonese-style Chinese dishes, such as traditional roasted duck, Cantonese-style barbecue, beef chow fun and daily dim sum at the Midtown location.
DRINK
Assorted Table Wine & Shop
Josh Villapando showcases his passion for wine at this shop, located at Uptown’s The Market at 7th Street. Browse and sample a selection of eclectic wines from across the world, along with sake, beer, art prints and other collectables. Order a pour to pair with a meal from one of the food hall’s other vendors or buy a bottle to savor later.
