Just Opened in Charlotte – February 2024
The air may be cold, but these openings are hot. Add these spots to your must-visit list when you come to Charlotte.
by Allie Papajohn Feb 21, 2024
Eat & Drink
Dank Burrito
Area: Rock Hill, S.C.
Fill up on anything-but-basic burritos, tacos and bowls at this fast-casual concept. The menu features all sorts of creative builds, like Honey Truffle Buffalo Shrimp, Soy Ginger Pork and Cajun Fried Catch of the Day, available in your entree of choice. Don’t forget a side of chips and queso.
Hippin’ Hops Brewery
Neighborhood: Uptown
Say hello to Charlotte’s first Black-owned distillery, offering gin, rum, vodka and moonshine plus house-brewed beers, too. The Atlanta-based concept now has a home in the Queen City, on Brooklyn Village Avenue in Uptown. Expect rotating DJs for live music and food trucks for snacks.
Just Chicken
Neighborhood: Uptown
Inside Monarch Market, you’ll find a new stall offering exactly what it says – just chicken. However, you can enjoy that crispy fried chicken in a variety of ways. Try it on a salad, loaded fries, sandwich or as an entrée with a side of fries and scratch-made sauce for dipping.
Little Mama’s
Area: South Charlotte
Fans of Little Mama’s in SouthPark can now get a taste in South Charlotte, too. The menu at the second location remains mostly the same, with the addition of pizza (like sister concept, Mama Ricotta’s). The space has ample seating including a sunroom and a mezzanine, which will soon be used for private events.
Mano Bella Bistro & Market
Neighborhood: SouthPark
You may have treated yourself to a meal from Mano Bella at the Uptown pasta bar inside The Market at 7th Street. Now, you can visit a new Italian bistro for counter service with an expanded menu, featuring antipasti, salads, paninis and, of course, pasta, in SouthPark. Guests are also encouraged to shop around the in-restaurant market, which offers dried pasta, sauces, house-made cheese and various take-and-bake dishes.
Moo & Brew
Area: Matthews, N.C.
After years of success in Plaza Midwood, the owners of Moo & Brew have opened a second location in Matthews. Stop by for an array of sandwich and burger choices, including a build-your-own option. Fans also love the Large Marge: the signature Bloody Mary served with an array of edible items on top, including an angus slider, and a Highlife shorty on the side.
Mike’s Vegan Grill
Neighborhood: University City
Ready to indulge but want to skip the meat? This new, 100% vegan restaurant offers everything you’d want without any animal protein. Think plant-based burgers, loaded fries, hot dogs, cheesesteaks, quesadillas and even “chicken” tenders.
PIE.ZAA
Neighborhood: South End
Late-night eaters, rejoice! There’s now another spot open after midnight. This Asheville-based concept serves New York-style pizza by the slice. If you’re feeling really hungry, or you’re sharing with friends, grab a whole 28-inch pie.
Prime Fish Cellar
Neighborhood: Cotswold
Chef Robin Anthony has opened another concept in his growing food group, just on the heels of his Indonesian restaurant, Nusa. The newest is a premium bottle and gourmet foods shop offering wine, sake, caviar, chocolates and an array of special ingredients. You’ll find Prime Fish Cellar just across the parking lot from sister concept, Omakase by Prime Fish.
The Reggae Lounge
Area: North Charlotte
Husband-and-wife team, Elvado and Lytondra Laing, opened a fully Caribbean lounge featuring Afrobeats and reggae music by rotating special guest DJs. The bar offers an array of tropical cocktails made with rum, and food can be purchased from on-site food trucks.
The Rose Honky Tonk
Neighborhood: South End
Break out your cowboy boots for this honky-tonk bar, offering line dancing classes, country music karaoke, trivia and plenty of opportunities to dance the night away. The 21-and-over bar features a food menu of favorites like wings and nachos, plus a few signature cocktails, wine and beer. Your drink may even be served in a boot-shaped glass.
Taco Boy
Neighborhood: Lower South End
Taco Boy has expanded its growing footprint in the Carolinas, allowing more diners to enjoy the tacos, quesadillas and small plates. The restaurant is located at the Station at LoSo complex and offers lots of indoor and outdoor seating. Wash your food down with a margarita or tequila flight.
