Things to Do

Just Opened in Charlotte – August 2025

From a coffee shop and candy store to a cool throwback bar, Charlotte’s newly opened businesses in August are worth a visit.

by Allie Papajohn Aug 21, 2025

Eat & Drink

Bossy Beulah’s

Neighborhood: Montford

Park Road Shopping Center is now home to a new Bossy Beulah’s, a fried chicken sandwich favorite started right here in Charlotte. This expansion comes with the debut of new menu items: Aunt Flossie’s Flat Top Burger, a proper smashburger, and The Grilled Beaut, a grilled chicken sandwich. 

Cool Idiot Coffee

Neighborhood: South End

A mobile cart serving espresso-based drinks is now permanently stationed in HopFly Brewing. On the menu, you’ll find coffee concoctions plus lemonade, matcha and retail bags of beans. The cart is in its soft opening phase and will celebrate a grand opening in September.

ESO Artisanal Pasta

Neighborhood: Optimist Park

Married duo and chefs AJ Sankofa and Kristina Gambarian once ran ESO Artisanal Pasta from a food truck and have even made appearances on Food Network. Now, they’re serving house-made pasta and focaccia bread from a stall inside Optimist Hall. Gluten-free pasta and bread are available, too!

Mother’s Comfort Food & Cocktails

Neighborhood: Montford

There’s truly something for everyone at this new restaurant at Park Road Shopping Center. The menu features over 100 items with dishes like flatbreads and chili cheese tots to sandwiches and an all-day breakfast menu. Specials are offered daily, including a “kids 12 and under eat free” offer on Thursdays.

Life is Sweet

Neighborhood: Camp North End

Let your sweet tooth run wild at this candy shop located at Camp North End. From old-fashioned candies to artisan chocolates, there’s no shortage of treat-yourself moments here. Owner Tracy Gunn has two other locations in the region with two more on the way.

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co.

Neighborhood: University City

Another Yemeni coffee concept has entered the Charlotte area thanks to Qamaria. Get your caffeine fix with Yemeni coffee or hot tea and enjoy a treat by way of pastries, cakes and traditional desserts. 

Retro Bar

Neighborhood: Uptown

Retro Bar is a concept celebrating music of the ‘80s, ‘90s and 2000s. Dance the night away to your favorite nostalgic tunes while sipping on classic or specialty cocktails. Watch your favorite throwback music videos on screens in the bar, too.

Things to Do

Hardy Boys Records

Neighborhood: South End

This local vinyl shop now has a second home with a new location on Camden Road. If you’re an avid vinyl fan or just starting your collection, head here to browse the shelves and stock up on new or vintage records.

KIKI

Neighborhood: Camp North End

This local jewelry brand has been popping up all over the city for years. Now, you’ll find KIKI in a permanent home selling waterproof and hypoallergenic pieces at Camp North End. Stock up on hoops, huggies, bracelets and rings next time you need some extra sparkle.

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.