Food and Drink

5 spots in Charlotte to embrace your inner local

Stories by Charlotte Observer journalists, with AI summarization

The curated articles share a focus on embracing local experiences through dining in Charlotte, highlighting the city's evolving culinary scene. Popular themes include trying local dishes, exploring new restaurants, and diving into Charlotte's food culture. The espresso martini trend highlights a revival of '90s-style cocktails, blending nostalgia with modern tastes.

Rada, a new restaurant, brings small plates and a wine program, offering a contemporary twist to neighborhood dining. Meanwhile, Burtons Grill & Bar expands its presence with a focus on made-from-scratch meals and allergy-friendly options, aiming to cater to diverse dietary needs. These establishments emphasize the importance of community and innovation in Charlotte's dining landscape.

Rada is the brainchild of young restaurateur, Eloy Roy, formerly of Oggi and The Lights.

NO. 1: NEW RESTAURANT RADA QUIETLY OPENS IN FORMER LITTLE SPOON SPACE, WITH ACCLAIMED NYC CHEF

The Charlotte restaurant’s new executive chef Chef Callan Buckles worked at Claud, Momofuku, The Four Horsemen, and Lodi — an impressive lineup with recognition in New York Times, the Michelin Guide, Eater, Bon Appetit and more. | Published January 3, 2025 | Read Full Story by Kayleigh Ruller

The National Restaurant Association predicts ’90s-style cocktails like espresso martinis and apple-tinis will have a strong presence in 2025. Pictured is a dessert cocktail from speakeasy Dot Dot Dot. By Ashley Brown/@ashrbrown

NO. 2: TRENDS COME AND GO, BUT THE ESPRESSO MARTINI IS FOREVER: TOP 10 CHARLOTTE FOOD TRENDS IN 2025

When it comes to predicting national food trends locally: One size does not fit all. Here’s what Charlotte restaurateurs have to say. | Published January 8, 2025 | Read Full Story by Samantha Husted

Burtons Grill & Bar will seat 152 diners inside and 93 outside at its location opening soon near Lake Norman.

NO. 3: POPULAR EAST COAST INDOOR-OUTDOOR RESTAURANT CHAIN OPENS IN LAKE NORMAN-AREA LOCATION SOON

The made-from-scratch menu includes appetizers, salads, sandwiches, burgers, seafood and prime steaks, plus gluten-free, allergy-friendly options. | Published March 26, 2025 | Read Full Story by Joe Marusak

The Diamond Restaurant’s Gyros Platter has lamb, lettuce, tomato, onions, cucumbers, feta cheese, olives beets, tzatziki and pita bread. Side of collards. By Alex Cason

NO. 4: 15 SPOTS WASN’T ENOUGH — NEWCOMERS NEED TO TRY THESE CHARLOTTE RESTAURANTS, TOO

From Greek diners to soul food, here are 27 more restaurants that you’d recommend to new Charlotteans for a taste of the Queen City. | Published June 4, 2025 | Read Full Story by Heidi Finley

A pancake platter and a Blood Mary at Another Broken Egg Cafe. By Courtesy file photo

NO. 5: 3 NEW EATERIES SET TO OPEN IN CONCORD’S CHRISTENBURY VILLAGE. WHAT TO EXPECT

The restaurants are set to open by early next year. | Published June 23, 2025 | Read Full Story by Evan Moore

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.