Eat & Drink

Just Opened in Charlotte – July 2026

From Greek food and Nordic cuisine to dairy-free ice cream and hot, fresh bagels, the newly opened concepts in Charlotte are worth exploring.

by Allie Papajohn Jul 31, 2026

Eat & Drink

flora

Neighborhood: South End

This new American concept from the Hamptons has made its way down the East Coast to Charlotte. On the menu, you’ll find dishes like pickled deviled eggs, wild mushroom risotto, a lobster roll and soba noodles. The restaurant is currently open daily for lunch and dinner, and a weekend brunch menu will debut soon. 

Harriet’s Hamburgers

Area: Davidson

The fifth location for this popular local burger joint is now open just up the road in Davidson. The menu is simple: choose from the two signature burgers and feel free to add on fries or cheese curds. Don’t forget one of the delicious Henry’s Monster Cookies!

Ilios Crafted Greek

Area: Davidson

Davidson is now also home to a new Ilios Crafted Greek location, making that five total for the fast-casual Greek concept. Build a plate to your liking with items like rotisserie chicken, lamb gyro, grape leaves, salad and much more. Or perhaps you’ll try it all wrapped up in a pita.

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

Area: South Charlotte

Have a little fun with your sushi order at this conveyor belt concept. Sushi rolls and nigiri rotate throughout the room for you to grab as you wish, while other dishes may be delivered by a robot server. If you crush at least 15 plates, you’ll get a little prize. 

Maman

Neighborhood: Eastover

The city's third Maman is now open, joining its other locations in Plaza Midwood and South End. Inside the adorable blue and white building, you'll find signature pastries, breakfast and lunch menus and coffee drinks galore. Need to stay a while? The cafe boasts plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. 

Olivelli Deli

Neighborhood: NoDa

The latest concept from the Tonidandel-Brown Restaurant Group offers breakfast and lunch/dinner sandwiches made on benne seed rolls. Early favorites include the Jam On, Turkey and Oli Italiano paired with chips, olives or house-made giardiniera. The soft serve ice cream in a cup or cone is also a must.

PopUp Bagels

Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood

Get ready to “grip, rip and dip” these tasty bagels! Plaza Midwood is now home to the city’s second PopUp Bagels location. This creative concept is known for their hot, freshly made bagels and dippable, seasonal schmear and butter options. 

Seemingly Overzealous

Area: Davidson

Another growing concept has joined the newly opened businesses in Davidson. At this shop, you’ll enjoy scoops of gluten-, egg- and dairy-free ice cream as well as cookie ice cream sandwiches, ice cream cakes and pints to take home. Find other locations in Plaza Midwood, Dilworth and at Camp North End.

Sweet July Café

Neighborhood: Uptown

Ayesha Curry has opened a California- and Caribbean-inspired café at The Ritz-Carlton hotel. The menu features pastries, pita sandwiches, seasonal salads and a lineup of coffee drinks, matcha and smoothies. Steph and Ayesha Curry plan to open two more concepts in the hotel soon.

The Belly of the Whale

Neighborhood: Cotswold

Expect seafood from the North Carolina coast at this new restaurant in Cotswold. Dishes may include raw oysters, salted fish croquettes and ceviche, but the menu is subject to change daily. Dinner is served every evening; reservations are encouraged but not required. 

Vivienne

Neighborhood: NoDa

Once only a pop-up, Vivienne is now open five days a week inside Free Range Brewing. The Scandinavian menu includes a Danish-style hot dog, fish and chips and a Swedish potato hash. Pair a dish with a drink from the brewery for the perfect evening. 

Allie Papajohn

Since 2014, Allie has shared her favorite eats and drinks in the Queen City on her Instagram page, EatDrinkCLT. She enjoys acting as a resource for those looking for restaurant recommendations, tried-and-true spots, and new places to visit.