Just Opened in Charlotte – December 2025
Happy holiday season! From breakfast spots to new concepts filling old spaces, December has been an exciting month of Charlotte openings.
by Allie Papajohn Jan 05, 2026
Eat & Drink
Coco Express
Neighborhood: Lower South End
This local Mexican restaurant from Mint Hill has added a third location to its portfolio, offering express-style service of the expansive menu. Get your fill of enchiladas, nachos, fajitas and more to-go or choose to stay and dine in. You can find Coco Mexican Restaurant in South Charlote, too.
Comal Taco Co.
Neighborhood: Optimist Park
Well-known local chef Andres Kaifer has crafted the menu at this new stall inside Optimist Hall. Comal is keeping it simple but flavorful with options like tacos, nachos, “cheese crisps” and house-made churros. Don’t forget a Mexican Coke or Jarritos to pair.
Emmy Lou’s
Neighborhood: Dilworth
Alex Bridges and chef Andres Kaifer have opened a wine bar in Dilworth. Inside, you’ll find cozy bar seating, a communal table, a menu of small plates, and wines by the glass and bottle. Guests are encouraged to peruse the retail selection as well.
Laurel Park
Neighborhood: SouthPark
Laurel Park offers “new American cuisine” through dishes like firecracker shrimp, fresh pasta, braised short rib and crab cakes. The menu is rounded out with house-made bread and desserts and a full beverage menu.
Masija Beer & Bites
Area: South Charlotte
Masija brands itself as a “sojubang” or a cozy Korean pub. The restaurant specializes in beer and soju offerings plus dishes like galbi, fried calamari, sizzling corn cheese and fried pork dumplings.
Mother of Dragons
Area: East Charlotte
Get your caffeine fix while playing games with friends and family at this new “gaming café.” Choose from around 50 games, from classics like Monopoly and Scrabble to more advanced options like Settlers of Catan or Abyss. This shop also offers a coffee omakase experience on select days, by reservation only.
Stylus Soundlounge
Neighborhood: NoDa
The new bar next to Soul Gastrolounge (and from the same owners) features drinks by Bob Peters and tunes from Andy Kastanas’ record collection. In addition, the bar will host curators of vinyl records so they can share their own musical collections. Find the ongoing schedule on the website.
Suffolk Punch Brewing
Area: Huntersville
After many construction and permitting delays, the third Suffolk Punch Brewing is officially open in Huntersville’s shopping district, Birkdale Village. Guests can enjoy the Charlotte brews at the bar, on the rooftop or out on the patio.
The OG Asian Eatery + KTV
Area: Pineville
This sushi spot is celebrating its opening with reservation-only seating to start. On the menu, you’ll find hot pot, dim sum and sushi, and The OG Asian Eatery offers private karaoke television rooms to book.
The Wafflery
Area: West Charlotte
Enjoy decadent breakfast delights from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily at the second location of this popular local spot. Fan favorites include the chicken and red velvet waffle, fried shrimp and grits bowl and the chicken biscuit. A third location is in the works now.
Wakey Wakey
Area: East Charlotte
…eggs and bakey! This new brunch spot offers breakfast and lunch favorites, from pancakes and French toast to burgers and chicken tenders. Take your pick and indulge in the comfort of this classic menu. Don’t forget the mimosa carafe!
Things to Do
ZARA
Neighborhood: SouthPark
This popular Spanish department store now has a home inside SouthPark Mall. The two-story retailer is home to options for men, women and kids, including jackets, pants, shirts, shoes and accessories.
