‘The Phat is back’: Phat Burrito reopens in new Charlotte space with same flavors
A beloved local restaurant that closed years ago is finally back in Charlotte.
Phat Burrito, a Southwestern restaurant that originally opened in 1998, closed the doors of its iconic yellow and blue building in 2017. But it’s officially reopening in a new space on Wednesday, Aug. 9.
“My hope is that guests feel like they are stepping in the same Phat Burrito they know and love in a new location,” Michael Cox, the new owner, told CharlotteFive about the new space.
Despite a new building, Cox and the Phat Burrito team plan to bring back some of the same menu items, made with the same recipes, that many locals loved.
Similar to the original restaurant, there will be build-your-own burritos, tacos, salads and quesadillas on the menu, along with other sides like guacamole, queso and salsa.
In addition to the food, several other elements pay homage to the original space, including the same logo design and iconic checkered floor. Plus, there’s art depicting the original building, along with a newly painted mural by Jay Crider that is similar to one from the former restaurant.
“To me, what’s important about Charlotte is that there are places like Phat Burrito that you can only eat here,” Cox said. “What’s important is keeping the uniqueness of these restaurants.”
Before the new restaurant officially opened to the public, Cox said the former owner, Stephen Justice, also got a taste of the return of Phat Burrito: His was the first official burrito order at the new space.
“You can’t walk in here and say it’s not the same Phat Burrito,” Cox explained.
In the first few days of opening, the new restaurant will only be open for dine-in service, while eventually rolling out takeout and delivery services.
Phat Burrito
Location: 3543 Dewitt Lane, Charlotte, NC 28217
Cuisine: American, Southwestern
Instagram: @phatburrito_
This story was originally published August 8, 2023 at 12:59 PM.
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