Hidden Gem Restaurants in Charlotte

One of the great markers of an international city is the accessibility to diverse cuisine, and Charlotte has fast become a favorite for foodies. Here are some dining gems that allow you to globe trot without having to pack a bag.

3^rd & Fernwood

Neighborhood: Midtown

The latest creation from Charlotte’s tastemakers Greg and Subrina Collier, 3^rd & Fernwood is a friendly neighborhood restaurant with Southern fare – from reimagined classics such as three-cheese baked mac, braised collards and hambone grits to new finds such as plantain pudding. Expect freshly sourced, seasonal ingredients prepared by a James Beard Foundation-nominated chef.

Freshwaters Restaurant

Neighborhood: Uptown

Freshwaters bursts with Southern hospitality and New Orleans flair. Enjoy live music as you savor the handmade salmon cakes, étouffée, jambalaya and candied yams. Satisfy your sweet tooth with bread pudding, peach cobbler or a slice of sweet potato pie.

King of Spicy

Area: East Charlotte

Don’t worry about breaking the budget at King of Spicy Nepali and Indian restaurant. Sample delicious South Asian cuisine on the east side of Charlotte. From their best-selling momo dumpling and chana masala to samosas and biryani chicken, give King of Spicy a try for lunch or dinner.

Malaya Kitchen

Area: South Charlotte

If you’re looking for authentic Malaysian food then Malaya Kitchen is the place for you. With a range of options for meat lovers, seafood lovers, vegetarians and vegans, there is something for everyone. Get spicy with the chili chicken and end on a sugary note with sweet mango rice with coconut sauce.

Nile Ethiopian Restaurant & Grocery

Area: East Charlotte

Thinking of giving Ethiopian cuisine a try? Visit Nile Ethiopian Restaurant & Grocery in East Charlotte. Nile offers a variety of vegan and non-vegan options on their menu, served on or with injera – an Ethiopian flatbread. Patrons can even try their favorite recipes at home with purchases from the adjoining grocery store.

Quidley’s Delight

Neighborhood: University City

Transport yourself to Jamaica at Quidley’s Delight, with traditional favorites like brown stew and jerk chicken paired with a bit of Southern goodness in deliciously seasoned collard greens. Whether you prefer escovitch whole snapper or a savory curry chicken roti, Quidley’s Delight has something for everyone craving a taste of the Caribbean.

Sol’Delish

Neighborhood: University City

Sol’Delish offers indoor and outdoor dining for brunch, lunch or dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for American, soul food or your favorite seafood entrees, you’ll find satisfaction and exceptional ambience to match. Top off your meal with your favorite adult beverage from the full service bar.

Taste Of Soul Plant-Based and Vegan Cuisine

Neighborhood: Wesley Heights

Taste of Soul offers mouth-watering vegan and plant-based delights for every palate from a kitchen in The City Kitch. Whether it’s soul food, American, barbecue, Caribbean, Chinese or Mexican cuisine, patrons can expect first-class service and finger-licking meals that taste good and are good for you.

Wrapway

Neighborhood: University City

If you’re looking for Turkish flavors in Charlotte, try Wrapway off of Route 49 in University City. Enjoy freshly made pita wraps, chicken and rice bowls, or the mouthwatering grain burger wrap for non-meat lovers. Mediterranean spices fill each bite. Chase your meal with baklava.