Just Opened in Charlotte – July 2025
It’s been a month of new beginnings for several Charlotte favorites. Get the scoop below.
by Allie Papajohn Jul 29, 2025
Eat & Drink
Cara’s Cookie Company
Neighborhood: Camp North End
This cookie company, started in honor of the family’s late daughter, now has a little home in the Mount District of Camp North End. The cookie spot offers half-pound cookies in a variety of flavors, plus other fun treats like edible cookie dough. You can also find them at the flagship location in Concord.
Fenwick’s
Neighborhood: Myers Park
After an emotional closing in April 2025, this decades-old restaurant is now open under new ownership. Upon visiting, guests will find the same comforting menu of breakfast items, sandwiches and delicious desserts. Cheers to a fresh start!
McHale’s Irish Pub
Neighborhood: NoDa
Originally operated in Fort Mill, South Carolina, from 1997 to 2014, this Irish pub is making a comeback, now in the NoDa neighborhood. The owner has transformed the space to pay homage to his Irish roots, and the menu fits the bill, too. Enjoy decadent fare such as fish and chips, spice bags, seafood and a Reuben sandwich — and of course, a pint or two.
Spaghett
Neighborhood: Uptown
Chef-owner Sam Hart has a new venture in town, this time specializing in handmade pasta. Well-known mixologist Amanda Britton is behind the bar, crafting drinks like the “Spaghett,” which is made with Aperol, lemon juice and a Miller High Life. The restaurant calls a 1900 historical house its home and has three dining rooms, each with its own vibe.
Surefire Market
Neighborhood: Camp North End
From Rock Hill restaurant to food truck to Camp North End tenant, this “modern bodega” offers smash burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. The retail side of the market, located in the Mount District, features local business brands. If you’re around late night on the weekend, take note: Surefire is open until 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
The Bar at Optimist Hall
Neighborhood: Optimist Park
The bar space inside Optimist Hall is now operating as The Bar at Optimist Hall. Guests can purchase cocktails, wine, beer or nonalcoholic drinks from the bar and roam the food hall and grounds. Early favorites include the frozen options, like the Espresso Martini and Miami Vice.
Tyber Creek Pub
Neighborhood: South End
When this beloved bar closed in March 2024, the owners promised it would re-open — and that time has come. Find the new version of Tyber Creek Pub on South Mint Street, serving Irish pub food and plenty of beer. The opening is currently only in phase one with more construction coming soon.
Things to Do
J. Crew
Neighborhood: SouthPark
Ready for a shopping spree? The new J. Crew is now open at Phillips Place after closing at the mall in 2024. The 6,760-square-foot store, situated across the courtyard from Ralph Lauren, offers men’s, women’s and children’s apparel.
X-Golf
Neighborhood: Wesley Heights
Enjoy a little golf without the summer heat at this new indoor golf simulator. This family-friendly complex offers a full food and drink menu in addition to multiple virtual course options and mini games. Book a tee time on the website or explore the private rental options.
