3 Best Restaurants in Charlotte, North Carolina

Mert's Heart and Soul

$$ | Uptown Fodor's choice

Business executives and bohemians alike make their way to Mert's, an old-school gem that hides out under one of the city's many nondescript office buildings. Owners James and Reneé Bezzelle serve large portions of soul food and Lowcountry and Gullah staples, like fried chicken with greens, mac and cheese, and red beans and rice. Buckwheat and sweet-potato pancakes draw a weekend brunch crowd.

214 N. College St., Charlotte, NC, 28202, USA
704-342–4222
Known For
  • classic soul food
  • pancakes for brunch
  • famous Soul Rolls: egg roll wraps filled with black-eyed peas, rice, chicken, and collard greens
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Credit cards accepted

Optimist Hall

$ | Uptown Fodor's choice
Charlotte's most impressive food hall may be the state's biggest and best, with plenty of exposed brick painted in striking colors, multiple outdoor areas, and stall after stall of fresh-pressed juices, gourmet grilled cheese, ramen bowls, gelato, and craft cocktails.

Supperland

$$$$ | Plaza Midwood Fodor's choice
Built into a former church, this grand, communal space books out far in advance, so reserve a table for their perfect steaks, veggie pot roast, and caviar service. The open kitchen and oversized wood-fired grill frame the high-ceilinged dining room. Prices, flavors, and presentation are fine dining, but the atmosphere is relaxed and down-to-earth.
1212 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC, 28205, USA
704-817--7514
Known For
  • absinthe menu
  • a perfect 16-ounce rib eye
  • cool touches like church pew seating and a bar in an outbuilding
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon.

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