I went to one of Huntersville’s newest restaurants. Here’s what I got for $25

When my colleague, Heidi Finley, told me about Harvest Artisan Cafe in Huntersville, I knew I had to try it.

“I literally crave it constantly,” a woman in a local Facebook group said about the eatery.

The restaurant at 14212 Statesville Rd. has a cozy, inviting feel, but more than that, it serves fresh, locally sourced food with a real heart.

Harvest Artisan Cafe’s website says it uses “fresh, locally sourced ingredients” and that “you’ll taste the difference.”

And that statement certainly rings true.

When Executive Chef Ralph Patrick Fernandez emerged from the kitchen and asked me if I was enjoying my meal, I could barely get the words out to say “yes” because I was stuffing my face.

Though it’s a small space, the restaurants atmosphere is inviting. As you approach the counter, to your left you’ll see Fernandez whipping up one of the restaurant’s appetizing dishes as Top 40 hits play from the speakers.

And with just a few tables to prevent overcrowding, it’s the perfect spot for a quick lunch break to wind down during a work day.

Here’s what you need to know about Harvest Artisan Cafe.

What’s on the Harvest Artisan Cafe menu?

The Harvest Artisan Cafe menu includes fresh, made-to-order smoothies, acai bowls, salads, toasts, paninis, wraps, and an extensive selection of coffees and teas.

Menu prices range from $4.95 for soups to $14.95 for acai bowls. Add-ons for smoothies, such as peanut butter, honey, and chia seeds, range from $1-$2.50, and salad add-ons, like sliced avocado and smoked salmon, range from $2-$4.50.

Here’s everything I got for roughly $23 (before tax and tip):

• Thai crunch salad made with harvest greens, cabbage, shredded carrots, pineapple, sesame ginger soy dressing, toasted almonds, fried wonton strips and sesame seeds ($10.95)

• Golden Hour smoothie made with mango, pineapple, golden milk blend, raw blue agave and almond milk ($11.99)

I stopped by during lunch on the Thursday before the Fourth of July, and it wasn’t crowded, presumably because the restaurant had recently opened or because of the upcoming holiday. However, the menu was tempting enough to clear my schedule for the entire day.

The “crunch” included in the name of the salad I got was appropriate, since you could definitely taste how fresh all the ingredients were. And with it being nearly 100 degrees outside, the smoothie was the perfect drink to wash it down.

And the best part? Everything was reasonably priced, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, and I still came in under $25. I already know I’ll be back soon, hopefully with more time (and money) to sample one of the acai bowls and soups.

What else Harvest Artisan Cafe has to offer

The restaurant accepts cash and card payments, and customers are encouraged to sign up for its rewards program.

After signing up, customers can earn points each time they order online or in-store, according to the restaurant’s website. Points can be redeemed for exclusive discounts, free items, and special perks.

When is Harvest Artisan Cafe open?

• Location: 14212 Statesville Rd B5, Huntersville, NC 28078
• Menu: harvestartisancafe.com/menu
• Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
• Cuisine: American
• Instagram: @harvest_artisan_cafe

Evan Moore

The Charlotte Observer

Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.